Saving the spider monkeys: one tree at a time

Greetings families and friends!

Today we woke up early at 4:30am for our first day of our CAP project. We took the bus to Tonosí, our planting site for the day! On the bus ride we had breakfast sandwiches to go and witnessed the sky change from a waning crescent to a beautiful sunrise. At 7:30 we met Sandra, Caesar, and their team who showed us how to properly plant each tree sapling. Together we worked throughout the morning planting over 60 types of native tree species surpassing our goal of 1,000 trees, planting a total of 1,050 tree saplings on a local farmer’s land! By planting these trees, we hope to help reconnect the rainforest corridors, prevent mountain mudslides, and bring the water back to the creek. The experience was incredibly valuable towards each and everyone of us. Not only did we gain a deeper insight into local Panamanian farmer struggles, but we also gained a deeper appreciation for nature. As we planted tree saplings we took time to enjoy the natural scenery and observe the beautiful local wildlife including dragonflies and butterflies as well as fire ants walking along logs carrying little leaves. Sandra and her team inspired us to continue our efforts of environmental action back at home and further inspired those already interested in pursing careers in environmental protection.

Another highlight of our day was having more free time to further get to know our fellow Global Glimpsers. After returning from Tonosí, we all jumped into the pool for a refreshing break. Some chatted by the edge of the pool, dipping their feet in, other played volleyball, and some even learned how to swim! Later in the afternoon, we split up into little groups and explored Las Tablas on our own, visiting local shops to purchase souvenirs and ice cream.

Everyone was incredibly motivated today and gave their best effort. By the end of our planting, we were still full of energy for another hour of planting. On the ride home we continued to enjoy Panamanian scenery and sung nostalgic songs. We are all super excited for tomorrow, a second day of our CAP project!!

Here are some notes from us to our families:

Hi mommy and dad!
I am having so much fun getting to know everyone on this trip and experience Panama on my own. The environment here is warm but bearable and all the locals we’ve gotten to meet so far are super welcoming ☀️ It’s really cool to hear about their stories and passions; You would really enjoy listening to them. I can’t wait to see what the rest of this trip has in store for me! I miss you both and wish you were here because I know you guys would enjoy the nature this city has to offer. I am super excited to come home and share about all my adventures throughout this trip. I love you both, see you soon! 💗
P.S: mommy, everyone is loving your comments….they’re even reading all your dot dot dots…🌝

With love, Lauren

Hola Mama and Papa! Hola Daniella!
I’m currently sitting in a hammock writing to you from Las Tablas. This trip has been absolutely amazing so far. I have made tons of new friends, tried traditional Panamanian food, and experienced the local culture. One of our PCs, Paco has even been teaching me some new photography skills. I’ll show them to you when I get home! Love you!

-Bella

Hey Mama and Baba!
I am having such an amazing time here in Panama and am feeling so grateful that you guys allowed me to have this experience. Every single person in this group (including the leaders) have been so kind which has made it super easy to connect with others. You guys would love the land we were reforesting on today, it reminded me of a place we would go camping together in. The being the Lider Del Día and planting was so rewarding, and we finally got to use the pool! I hope you all are doing well and that Charlie is keeping Chicken and Goose company while I’m away. All this to say I’m learning a lot and loving my time in this beautiful (but extremely hot) country!

Lots of love from Panama,

Lucy

.