Camping in paradise

Hola!
This week has been great. I started my Evolution class, which I find to be really interesting. I want to delve deeper into this subject since we only have time to skim the surface, but I think that I will be able to do so with further coursework or research.

For a class trip on Friday, we went back to La Galapaguera and to Puerto Chino, a fantastic beach. La Galapaguera was much more fun this time since it wasn't raining and more tortoises were out. We actually received the rated R tour, seeing a tortoise smackdown over some vegetation and a little botched attempt at mating.

Then the pristine beach! That was absolutely fabulous. We went swimming and just laid out on the beach, which was pretty satisfying. The only downside was that I lost my watch in the ocean when we were trying to body surf.

We went out on Friday, and then returned to Puerto Chino on Saturday afternoon after going through a little red tape from the park to camp out there without a guide. We went out pretty far snorkeling, and had to fight quite a few waves, but it was ultimately worth it when I got within 2 feet of a turtle, saw a huge school of big fish, and about 10 Galapagos sharks. They were pretty small, but really interesting to observe.

That night we stayed and camped on the beach. The bugs were out and the tents uncomfortable, but I really liked waking up to the sound of the ocean in such a naturally beautiful place. I'm working on my tan as well, coming slowly but surely.

We took an exam on Monday which I think went pretty well. Now we're talking more about the genetics of evolution. It is a lot to absorb, and we don't go into much depth, but I'm still enjoying the class.

I am so excited about my family coming next week!! They are flying in next Saturday, and afterwards we are going island hopping, which should be a blast. Also, on Friday, we are making it out to Kicker Rock, Punta Pitt, and Isla de los Lobos (Island of the Sea Lions.) That should be a great time, and hopefully i can see some Hammerheads.

Things also seem to be coming into place for the summer, so right now, I'm feeling pretty good

Adios!
Julie

Finally posted some pictures!!!!!!!!!!View from the windmills I wrote about
Puerto Chino
I don't know if the whole thing showed up. Ithink I can hear Marvin Gaye in the background.
All eating... who could have known about the fight to come?
baby tortoise!