This time next week, we'll probably be hiking across an old lava flow in the shadow (and earshot) of Arenal, so time to check the status:
Here is last week's entry from the Smithsonian's volcano pages:
6 May-12 May 2009
OVSICORI-UNA reported that during April activity originating from Arenal's Crater C consisted of gas emissions, sporadic Strombolian eruptions, and occasional avalanches that traveled down the SW, S, and N flanks. Acid rain and small amounts of ejected pyroclastic material affected the NE and SE flanks. Small avalanches of volcanic material traveled down several ravines. Crater D showed only fumarolic activity.
My arduous task today was to post a blog about my thoughts as I prepare to return to Costa Rica in a few days. While assuring Dr. Brown of my great competence as a field assistant, I apparently can only figure out how to "comment" on preexisting posts and have no idea how to submit my own. Who knew that blogging could be so mysterious?
My thoughts? In class this morning as we went over the details of our reforestation project for the students, Dr. Brown pulled up a panoramic photograph of one of the points at which I collected bird data last year. Having spent 10 minutes a day simply sitting at this particular point counting birds, I was not surprised that I recognized specific trees and plants. It will be interesting to note how each bird-point has changed over a year's time. I was surprised that the picture conjured up more complex memories of smells you can almost taste, the chatter and sounds of colorful tropical animals and shockingly large insects, and the clammy feel of humidityunder my ever-present poncho. I am excited!
Also, I am currently resolving to find my poncho. As much as I despise sporting the garbage bag look for the extent to which I dislike the feel of Turkish baths, I would not want to be attacked by tropical rainstorms without it. We are practicing low-impact living, but in some cases it is best to keep a plastic barrier between oneself and nature.
I've moved Katheryn's comment to an entry, as intended.