Costa Rica started it all. It was my first adult trip/adventure outside the US. (As a kid I took a church trip to Mexico for 5 days building houses.)

I saw rain forests, I listened to new music, I swam with dolphins, and I spoke a new language… almost. I came to appreciate the hospitality and friendly nature of the people. I loved everything about it.

One day, just outside of Arenal, I was told about a waterfall that was within walking distance of the town. About 2 miles away. I set out alone and found myself hiking down a dirt road, only a few humble homes scattered beside it. In the distance I recognized the small form of a child running after something in the grass. As I got closer I noticed it was a bird. I took out my camera, and took 3 photos. Why? I was using film, and I was dangerously close to firing blanks with this particular roll. Thankfully, the bird jumped on her shoulder and started playing with her hair. In that split second I captured it all. A girl, her bird, her home, and her country. One shot. Perfection.