Day Numero CInco:

Today we were given the opportunity to arise bright and early and make a journey over to a bird sanctuary to see the unique birds that rise with the sun. Although it was an early morning (5:45 EEEKKKK! So early I know), it was definitely worth it. Who knew so many different species of birds lived in the world, let alone in Ecuador! After we sat and observed all the birds for a few hours, we headed back to where we have called home here in Mindo, just in time for breakfast. After breakfast we had a session with Massimo about his work and everything he's done, which was very inspirational. After our little lesson time, we headed back to the bird sanctuary for another couple of hours of bird watching for those who didn't wake up at the crack of dawn. I would just like to say that after observing hummingbirds for four or five hours in a span of seven hours made me realize they are incredible animals. With their wings beating at thousands of beats per minute, capturing that still shot was difficult, but worth the wait. Capturing one good photo per hundred has taught me patience (which to those of you reading who know me well, this is something I lack frequently) and to be observant.

A pretty, pretty hummingbird I managed to capture.

 We decided to say hasta luego to the birds and went for lunch. In the afternoon we were released into the town of Mindo and had a few hours to capture the essence of what Mindo truly means. Walking the streets with nothing but my camera, partners, and a sense of adventure, I finally felt like I was on assignment for National Geographic. The leaders rewarded us after our adventures throughout Mindo with CHOCOLATE! We observed as chocolate went from the cocoa fruit to chocolate fondue, and even helped with the purpose. After gorging ourselves full of chocolate we then headed to dinner. Dinner was an adventure in of itself. Haley and I got a little bit into our fish and might have gone slightly overboard with them. The eyes, tails, and fins all became a new delicacy. Yes, I did in fact eat all three of those and might I add they were all quite delicious. By the time we made it back to Hotel Bambu we were drained of energy and decided to call it a night. Off to bed and ready for a new day and a new adventure in Ecuador!