For the past few days I have tried about ten times to post the computer or the internet keeps kicking it out lets see if it works this time.

First This week has been simply trying to run the office with out the plasmas correctly installed and our system not fixed yet. Although I have called and called to get someone to do it no no has. Things here are very difficult to get accomplished you wait and wait for someone to show they don't know or never ever show and its normal. Everyone who lives here knows the drill, but the Americans have the worst time with it.


Doing what I do is difficult the challanges to accomplish completing someones home or condos are huge. But I manage to get things done thought all the challanges. simple things are the worst challange. I decided from two days ago that from this point forward I will tell the clients all the details on how things get done, the issues I deal with and not hide a thing so they can understand and be a bit more patient with me. Because really its not all about Me! its about the people I hire to do the work.

Lost orders, never showing up, bad work redoing things over and over. but yet I manage to produce beautiful settings for these people.

The past few weeks have been hard, the frustration with Tony, the dealing with issues, and the pain I felt came directly from USA AMERICANS. The things they do and say are so harsh sometimes. Yes I realize I am one but honestly I want to be a better reflection of someone From USA and not a bad reflection. I need to work on my faults as well but some of these people who come here are just so use to having everything RIGHT NOW and not happy with much. This is tough to deal with most times but I manage to find something to make me happy.

For example the Toucans who came to visit the other day right outside my window. They were so cool sitting on the brances twisting their heads to stare, tweaking there beaks to look at me. In the early morning hours when the birds are singing and I sit and admire the beauty that surrounds me I realize how lucky I am, Although I do not have much, a small apartment not many material things. I am happy that I am here and enjoying the pleasures of this different life.

The stress I been feeeling has to leave I wanted that part of my life to end in the USA when I left it but it is true some things Follow you and become a part of your life that you can not change. I want to change that! and with Gods help I will.. I want to be less stressed and enjoy simple things.

Like the view from my front window here. At this moment I am looking out the front of the store where I see a beautiful view of the mountain filled with lush foilage jungle trees and plants. topped with Clear blue skies that are dabbled with puffy white clouds that surround the base of the mountain like a blanket. The clouds nestle them selfs around like a mist a jungle mist around the mountain sides. Its so beautiful! Then when you look out the front door you see a cross a big white cross. When I first saw this I almost cried knowing that this was a sign saying that God was here to help me and support me and be a constant strenght to me.

You can not see this Cross from any of the other locations the way you can see it from mine. ITS RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE DOOR like an Icon.
Don't get me Wrong I am not a holy roller, or anything like that. I do belive in God and he is a part of my life. Everyday I thank god for what I have and for his guidance. I ask for his help with my Sons and there families. AND I KNOW that with out that Faith I would not have made it through some of the most difficult trials I have had presented to me in my life. YEP there still happening but I am strong and I know that It will be good and some day the struggle will be gone.

For example yesterday. Clint could not function he was ill again. I continued early in the morning to work I mean early. I was at a clients house at 7 am, with help to repair some problem in here home. LAter I went to the hardware store then on to picking Clint up and more work. When a client walked in and Asked about ST REGIS, I offered to take them to the site. We went and when I saw the site I was in AWE!! wow just when I think I have seen the most beautiful place, once again I see another one!

Sitting on the top of mountain, Vistas for miles and miles... three sixy views of Oceans and beaches, Jungle, birds and beautiful flowers. I stood as the people talked to the sales rep, and watched them go into there own little dream. While I was in mine. I saw myself sitting in my living room on the top of the mountain. Looking at views from all sides. lots of windows in the house with a pool out front so you can cool off while gazing into the horizon at the endless sea. I saw my garden and a dog.. it was heaven even if it was for only a moment. I noticed that the people too were thinking hard about themselves on this mountain. Wow who woulnd't want to be up there living. ST REGIS Is going to be spectacular! it already is and nothing is built.

Being a part of that in a very small way is also a cool thought for me.. to be able to see it built before and after will I am sure amaze me.


I know that eventually I will be on the mountain with the pool and the kids will come and visit there mama. This is my dream... in mylife I ask for very little.. With faith and more hard work this will come too.


When I returned from St Regis site I was happy with life once again. the challanges lately have made me sad, angry bitter and upset. But that small hour in time made me realize why I came to Costa Rica, and made me understand that there is a greater power out there.. one that needs to be respected, and know that I am a part of that power.

Christmas day a different Christmas

After the past few days, the issues with Tony, the jobs being stressed because of the holidays, A well deserved day of rest and recuperation was needed. Clint and I decided to go to Manuel Antonio for the day to spend a very different Christmas alone on the beach. We got up pretty early , packed watermelon, strawberries, champagne, and other goodies like salami and stuff and took off early down the road south of Jaco. We had a nice enjoyable ride, saw the pretty country side and then stopped in Quepos at this great restaurant called the Anaconda. It over looked all the Manuel Antonio, sitting in the top of the jungle with a breath taking view straight down of the beaches. We had dark rich Costa Rican Coffee, with a touch of Cream, some fresh squeezed orange juice from local oranges that was so creamy. I ordered Granola and there home made banana bread and Fresh home made yogurt. Clint had french Toast. We both just savored every minute of this peace full rest full, morning on the mountain.

Then we drove round the curves, to the beach and parked right in front. All the vendors were putting out there wears for Tourist to buy. We walked past and took a look but neither one of us bought a thing. We then walked down the beach toward the park and tried to see if we could sneak in but it was closed today. The park has incredible beaches that are so clean and white sand, but we didn't get in so we just went back got all our things, Champagne, fruits and salami and walked to some sand chairs close to the water.

It wasn't long till a young man came up to us and asked for 5 thousand colones to rent the chairs. We really didn't want to pay that but everyone else was and I guess it was worth the money since we had a nice umbrella and two comfy chairs to lay in the sun.

We played all the day in the water and laid in the hot sun. We drank our champagne,and looked into the cool aqua blue water and both of us were overwhelmed of the idea that it was Christmas day and we were laying in the sun in a tropical place. It was so different and so nice. Relaxing and As i said earlier well deserved.

We left the beach only after me seeing Ed, a new friend that lives in Herradura near my store, and another friend of mine from Jaco and an aquaintance as well.

We sat on the curb of the street on the beach for a little and watched people then we both decided it was time to eat. So traveling up the road, into the thick lush surroundings we ended up at the Airplane restuarant, It is the one that is made out of an old Cargo plane. It sits on the edge of a cliff, the Jungle is thick below and the veiw is incredible. overlooking all of the sea in Manuel Antonio... The blogger will not let me post photos tonight but I promise that tomorrow i will try to put all the photos on. It was a hot day, we both got very sunburned, Clint was happy he needs the sun bad,,, for his skin. For me it was ok, Sun or no sun is alright but I like the the feel of it and rather be in it than be freezing in Vancouver!

Then we drove back, well there was a bridge just outside of Quepos, and it had a piece of the bridge out, and wouldn't you know it we went in it. The car was tilting on Two wheels we had no traction, We had to have a guy with a jeep pull it out of the whole... it was scary.. but we managed to get out with only a broken mud flat and a portion of the fendor, where the screw was bolted to the flap. It was raining and you could not see the wholes in the bridge.. I was sad but I am happy that we had only that issue and not more. Clint was good he drove the rest of the way home, going over small bridges that were one lane with wood that was loose.. and well he was having fun honestly!

Merry Christmas!

Christmas is coming and it doesn't even feel like it here!

Its nearing the holiday and I have no feelings of Christmas at all. We have been so dang busy that I am spinning like a top here. We finally finished the Macaw project well the five Condos they gave me to do. IT WAS STUNNING If I say so my self! We used browns tans and creams, some whites. All the furnishings accept accessories were designed by me, and manufactured here in Costa Rica. I am trying to use only local people and not import any products at all, there fore supporting the country and their local talented artisans, and craftsman's. It was a tough week, things coming in wrong, late and no installation on the 15 plasmas I had to buy. Along with DVDs Cd's clocks and Stereos.

Tony thought he could do it him self, we had a huge fight about this. He just doesn't get the drift of huge projects or design. I kept telling him we need installers, but he insisted that he could do it, which he did but it took two days and the people were coming while he was doing it. I was not a happy girl. We had lots of issues as jobs go but we manage to do all the holiday decorating including making hand made wreaths decorate a 10 foot tree, poinsettias, and dress and design 5 custom condos with everything included, I mean everything!

It was a whirlwind, filled with stress, and heat and sweat, and nervousness, but we did it and it was fabulous. The opening night was a huge success, I did all the flowers for the tables , buffet, and bar on top of that! Wow but it was cool. lots of people showed up, the candles were burning around the pool, and all over the grounds, Music was playing and then the Mariachis showed up! later after dinner and drinks the fireworks went off on the beach to Christen the whole event! We felt like such super stars.. it was the coolest ever!
The following day was our open house, so once again I had all that prep work to do, food, and flowers, and get the store ready for the grand opening. We had a DJ, and lots of tables and chairs out front. Candles in bags, and candles in Martini glasses. Tropical flowers everywhere. The food was pretty good too. I had a full bar, and we had about 50 guests show up.

This is the reason I have had no time to write or do anything for that matter, not even clean my house wash clothes nothing. Now with Tony and Clint staying there it seems ever so small. I need to move. I really want my space, Tony needs to get a place of his own, Clint and I can hang for a while till he gets sick o me or me o him!

The office is looking good, we have exclusive art from Bill Tortorici, very famous artist who has sold to some very distinguished people, and Rock stars. I have about four extraordinary pieces in the store now. VERY EXPENSIVE PIECES, they are all available now though us. We actually have an exclusive with him as well as ST REGIS RESORT. So I guess were doing ok here?

I have no plans for Christmas at all, I don't really feel it either. Clint mentioned something about us going to the beach and drinking a bottle of Champagne and hanging out. Then I got the Idea that it would be fun to go to Manuel Antonio for the Christmas day, where the beach is rather white and the water is crystal. The ride to Manuel is really pretty so that should be an interesting ride as well.

I don't know I think it may be fun? different, but I do miss my kids and Wish them a MERRY CHRISTMAS and Pray that they are safe and well. Jordan lost his job, after almost three years of working for this little Italian food and pizza place. I know he was very depressed since it happened right before Christmas, but I told him he could tear down the lodge and I would give him all the money, and if he did Sharp he would earn that money too. I have to help him who will? I know how tough life can be, he needs to use wisdom in his life maybe things will change? The first thing I would suggest is to Move out of Woodland Washington, nothing much happening there as far as jobs. But for some reason they like it.

Clint seems to be enjoying life here but he has experienced an aw full lot of stress though the shop and the Macaw project. Now its settling down. Were doing two houses left in LA FLOR and then I do not know? I got a call from Ramada to do there landscape design for the sales office here, I met the president of the group he was interesting, and handsome! god it was everything in me to not just burst out and ask him if he was married. But I kept it professional, then I asked for the huge project to do the resort design for the grounds. Funny thing is, the archetect that did our mall, Did Macaw as well and when he found out I was the one who did the MaCAW he pranced right over here to introduce me to himself, compliment me and tell me he has many projects that he knows I will be the perfect fit for. So he invited me after the first of the year to come to San Jose and talk about other possible projects with there company. Come to find out He too is involved with Ramada. So who knows? Destiny? for Marianna to come to COSTA RICA? or insanity? hmm do I have to think about that?!!! People thought I was nuts, and I am sure some of them still do, HA but honestly I know what is happening here, and I am very happy that I listened to my heart and that little still voice inside of me.. FOLLOW YOUR HEART is what I say to others Follow your heart.

Costa Rica is different, very frustrating in the manor of business, but If I can just get through this, and learn how to work it, I just may be ok. I have great photos, and as soon As Jonathan my new computer tech and photographer for our work comes I will have him post now all the terrrifc photos of the past weeks.

Catching up!

It has been so busy every since I got back from the USA, Clint and I have been enjoying each others company. Clint is so loving Costa Rica, I wonder if Tony feels strange, he doesn't say but I think he might feel a little uncomfortable around us at times. We spent the last week, working on the office, getting it done so we can open its almost here maybe another day or so!! its looking so nice and very professional.

We had to Go to San Jose to shop for Holiday decor for Macaw, because the owner asked us to decorate it for the holiday opening, so on Sat we rode into San Jose and stopped several places on the way to pick up plants and poinsettias.

It was a nice trip, we also went to the Zoo there in La Garita, where we saw all sorts of birds and animals that exist in Costa Rica. The planting was so perfect, the jungle encroached upon the whole zoo making it so magical and almost dream like. The foliage's and different textures combined with floral, and animals was such a beautiful thing to see. The climate there is really nice a bit humid but yet cool and fresh. It was so nice to take a couple of hours of rest and pleasure to rebuild my spirits and refresh my mind, considering all the stress of the past couple of weeks. No time for me at all, so this was a nice little bit of paradise to enjoy for the moment.

We also went to the orchid farm there in Atenas, it was small but very many varieties were available. I purchased a few things for the office. We really enjoyed that stop as well.

Orchids are some of my most favorite flowers, amongst Lily's and gardenias. The orchid is such a complicated yet simple plant. There are thousands of varieties here in Costa Rica, and many that originated here. I have actually seen many in the wild that are incredible.

I especially love the red or purple orchids the best or the varieties that are so different and strange with curly petals or unusual colors added to them.

After those stops, we continued to Alluejuela to search for holiday decor, then on to San jose To find more decor. We finally finished about 7:00 when we dropped off Tony and went on home to Jaco.

The following night Clint and I went out to the Monkey bar and danced till midnight, but they closed early because of an election for the weekend of officials . So all the places that served liquor was closed for the weekend. It sure was evident, there were hardly any people in the town of Jaco and the streets were clean and quiet. We swam and had a nice warm Sunday afternoon then finished with going to the Store to put the tree up and decorate the store, then to Rosies to people watch later.

The begining of this week was hectic again, as Macaw is about to finish and we are expecting all the custom furniture that I designed for the five units we are doing now. Clint and I finished more decor in office and talked to a new friend who just bought a furniture store close to me. He is an American and we plan on joining forces websites, and products.. so we can be stronger. Hes a nice guy his name is Ed, totally shaved head big brown eyes, funny additude... pretty nice person so far! I hope it works out with him it would be nice to have a close connection for furniture.

Tomorrow is Tony's birthday, I need to figure out something to do for him and wish him well. Maybe Juan Carlos and I will do something nice for him. Tonight while while Tony and the furniture makers, filled the condos with the new furniture Clint and I went to a new soda close to the office and mall, its all outdoors clean and the food is great. I had garlic mahi mahi with fresh sauteed veggies and beet salad. Clint had beet salad, rice and beans chicken and sea food soup. My dinner cost me $3.00 dollars Clints was $6.00, we both were so full. Then we returned to the showroom to find the granite guy was fixing the bar in the showroom. Juan Carlos was on the phone and Tony was still in Jaco. I decided to internet and try to catch up with the days I have missed bloggin. Maybe now in the next few days after Macaw I can settle down and get into a routine about my life again...

Hot and sunny

The Macaw Project








It is Hot and Sunny, and Clint and I are enjoying the weather here, rather than being in the States where it is so cold and rainy and I heard snowy.
Tony is trying his best to adjust to having a gay man in the house. Yes Tony is still here??? He promised to move but has not yet. Its has been a little uncomfortable for him and Clint. Not for me, I know them both and well its a strange situation. Never in my years have I lived with Two men now and not be involved or have them be my sons or family.

Its a strange situation, I like it but I don't. If you know what I mean.

It is as if I am being Protected now, but really they do not protect me. Tony is more of a protector than Clint is, yet Clint is more concerned about me and shows it.

The Store is coming along beautiful, I am going to take photos as soon as it is all done. Its very different than anything I have ever done. Modern sleek and a little quirky.
I am worried now about the presentation end the most important part since the guy I hired half the time doesn't respond or show up like he says. Maybe Tomorrow I call another guy I know and see if he can help. Here it is a challenge to get things done in a timely fashion. You have to be on people day and night more than I ever dreamed. But its getting done little by little and I hope that Inch by inch success comes in a huge way.

Also tomorrow I look at a house that is for sale, I may just take and use it for a time then rent the thing out when I decided to buy a better house and or Build one. But its coming soon I feel it.

The days are flying right now, Macaw is due soon and many of my clients in LA FLOR are about to show up as well and we have not got all the products, Nor has La Flor finished the houses.

I am going to take Half the day off tomorrow to do some things just for myself, look at that house, and maybe get my hair done, if there is time. Other than that, life is good, I am trying to stay focused, and not let the situations that are edging its way into my life to tear me down. People do not understand that some times there selfishness causes pain to other people this is something I am dealing with right now, with a certain person, this person does not know I know what is happening, so being discreet about it and not showing my emotions about the behavior is really becoming harder. I just need to stay focused!!!


Yesterday we went into San Jose Clint Tony and I, we stopped at a couple of places, the sign guy and reviewed my sign then to Atenas to an Orchid farm and I bought some Orchids for the store. IT was fun and so pretty we spent about an hour there just looking and talking to the owner. I selected some very old Orchids to hang in the front window on wood. I hope they live along time too.
Then we carried on to mondolo, he is the artist that created my chandeliers, in the showroom there pretty cool, it was a bit expensive but there really different, and well I kinda like them! We talked to them about a project that possibly we could be involved with in six different countries Wow if this happens I do not know what I will do!! it was cool to discuss the new project in all these Caribbean countries . I have such cool connections now. This project is huge a theme park the pirates of the Caribbean, houses that are skulls, three levels and the total experince dating back to the time of booty winches and pirates.

So now if this goes through we will have about five projects to work on not all at once but in time. ST REGIS<>

Getting back to Costa Rica

Arriving back in Costa Rica was a challenge, first in the flight coming there was a mix up with the Tickets, I purchased two tickets one for Clint and one for myself, Clint is my old friend and long time employee from the USA, He had me make the purchase for him on line. When we got in the line to check in the had made one first class and one economy, so we decided to split the first class in two legs. He did the first part I did the second. When we got to Houston, the weather was bad, the plane had a little delay in arriving. We laid over for almost four hours, which was ok but not great. In boarding the plane it was completely full, so the loading took a long time. Then they found out something was wrong with the plane, we sat on the tarmac for two hours. Until finally they decided to pull everyone off and all the luggage and reload to another plane. The weather was also bad in Costa Rica it was raining and lots of turbulence. So our delay became almost four hours. It was the worst longest flight I ever had .. I was exhausted by the time we arrived

Tony had waited for us for hours there in the Airport, I felt so bad when he told me. I had no way to call him.
We had no problems bringing back all the computers, the dvds, the equipment for the new Showroom in trunks, They never questioned me or even looked. It was great, and everything is working well and looks Awesome! So I was happy about that.
The following day we did allot of things concerning business, in fact Clint went to the beach while we did things, he swam and had a great time. We ate good food and had nice conversations. He got introduced to a few people and well already he is loving it here in Costa Rica. I knew he would! its different here but its such a nice change from the Cold weather and dreary atmosphere in Portland. Good timing I heard because it snowed and it has been very cold.. I have much to tell, which I will try today to do after we do so many things to catch up with the business and the new location, but I just wanted to say I am back and ready to begin a new adventure Here in COSTA RICA!! we are going to be selling Condos, property and designing many things here... so if anyone is interested please write me, I have photos information and great deals.
Stay tuned to the next adventure of Marianna IN COSTA RICA

USA thinking, and doing, and wondering

This is a view from my new showroom


Being here for the past few days has made me do much thinking, its busy here lots of cars, people running fast and hard to shop for the holidays. It has been cold to me, I feel so uncomfortable with the cold weather, not to complain but just stating how I feel. I am much better in a warmer Climate, I feel alive and energized, and willing to do things. Here I feel so sedate, and lethargic, not willing to do a thing but sleep and eat.
Talk about eating! I had been bad, eating way to much.. I want to try when I return to set my path in a direction of better health.

But I have had some great times while I was here this time. I met up with an old employee, and well she helped on one of the jobs for a day, but by the end she got sick and kinda dropped out on us, but Clint and I managed to get the hotel done on time as usual.

I also spent Thanksgiving day with my best Friend Sharon, the jazzercise instructor, Sharon is a funny lady, I like her so much! We had a nice time at her home, with almost 61 people for dinner. We made over 31 pounds of Turkey, her and I both cooked a turkey, I did the dressing and her sister made some as well. We had a ham, and all the fixins! It was great being with her, my son Jordan, Nancy Jordan's partner, and My grandson Julian, and a house full of Sharon's family.

It was very loud there for a while, I was getting kinda nervous, I told Sharon it felt like we were cooking in a restaurant there for few minutes with the rush of the food getting done, the loud roar of the crowd in the background like hungry lions waiting to eat! It was fun.

Then after dinner, Sharon's Mother in law, her granddaughter and I were all talking about things, the Mother in law is in a wheel chair and has some bitterness in her that she often displays. Well She displayed it to me, and pretty much directed her bitterness right at me. She said something pretty harsh, the whole place just stopped, I sat with wide eyes, and kind of a grin because I was embarrassed. It was not called for but I became the brunt of her bitterness. Sharon Snapped back at her and insisted that she apologize right now, and that she would not allow her to not talk to my friends like that. She repeated that a couple times until Mom apologized to me.. It was something, a hallmark of the evening events.

I had to laugh it was kinda funny actually.
Then Yesterday we had to do Sharp electronics, I decorate the corporate offices, and I am trying to work with them on a deal with my company here in Costa Rica. It went fine, Arya Showed up, My friend from the internet, who came to Costa Rica , we went to Panama together with Tony and Eric. Arya is from Finland, she is a doll of a person, I just love her. We had a nice time at the Sharp, then later we went to lunch and talked about things in Costa Rica, Then she took me to the bank so I could cash checks to pay people. We went shopping after that and talked and talked.
She took me to Clint's so I could change, after we shopped for about two hours,and bought out the TJ MAX. Ayra is a cool lady LOVE HER!! later at Clint's we sorta talked about what was going to happened when I return, with the place, Tony and all the rest.

Then she dropped me off at the Ringside, in Northwest Portland Oregon. Its a nice classy steak restaurant. I met Hap and Clint there for a going away dinner for Clint.
There partners, And Hap is a pretty nice man. Clint and I enjoyed the dinner, and hap talked and lectured me about Clint, making sure I will take good care of him while he is In COSTA RICA, he is so worried about the bugs, and is afraid that Clint is going to catch something from one of them! I laughed but Hey he doesn't know, and well its normal I suppose when you care about someone.
It was a nice night, we had drinks and a full dinner, then we went to his house on the hill and looked at the sites of the city and his beautiful home.

Today I went to Jazz I miss it so bad in Costa Rica, but I had a nice time this morning there, I saw some old friends and met new ones. Sharon was happy I was there I could tell, She tried to get me to put up the Christmas tree but I didn't. I had to go do things today before we leave tomorrow.

I bought a few things, meet Jordan and Julian and Nancy for lunch, then returned to Costco, and checked out a few things I needed.
Tonight I was invited to dinner with Cyndy, her husband and beautiful daughter. It was such a nice gesture, Cyndy had dips and crackers and little banana chips from Honduras, and some nuts from there too, they were yummy, we had a glass of wine, and then sat to a lovely dinner of Salmon with a cream herb sauce, asparagus, bread and mixed veggies, the talk and the company was great, we talked about Honduras, and Costa Rica n what her daughter had done there with helping the communities. It was a very nice time, the dessert was devine.!! apple cranberry,currant pie.
When I drove home I was thanking God, for all my friends and my family that love me so much and how blessed I am to have the wealth of friends that I have... Maybe I don't have a fancy house or all the convienences as most Americans do, but I do have a full bank account of Friends! and That is worth more than money can ever buy.

Being in the USA again

When I flew to the USA the flights were extremely long this time. I got routed to Newark, and that was horrible. The entrance to the USA there was very strick, they just about accused me of doing some sort of illegal travel?

They frisked me several times, went through my whole purse, questioned me like crazy. In other airports such as Houston I do not have that problem, In fact you just breeze through. I suppose its that way because its so close to NEW YORK.

I didn't like that feeling at all. Then the flight to Portland was delayed because of bad storms. Actually it started at Costa Rica, they would not allow me to take a third suitcase that was empty. So I hope that Tony went and picked it up. I left messages with Juan Carlos the Attorney, and with Luis Diego my friend. But I heard that Tony didn't show up on Friday as he told he was going to at the office. I had things set for install on Friday and the Furniture maker was suppose to come and repair the cabinet, and restrain the front reception desk. I have not heard from Tony so I have no idea from him what is going on, but other people have been informing me, and keeping up to date as to what is happening there.


I woke up worried today about the place, its allot of money that I have invested to make something very cool and different for my work. The work is going well, in fact its very busy, so the fact that my assistant and long time friend is flying back with me to help will be a comfort, and assurance that things are going to be OK. Now I have like five employees, so the work load has to increase in order to pay all there salaries. We will do it! Costa Rica has lots of tourism, and I know that our work is good so to keep going should not be a problem.


It is cold here, I feel uncomfortable, and have been wearing lots of clothes trying to keep warm. I been going to my jazzercise! its been fun seeing all the people and getting such a nice welcome from my friends. I miss Jazzercise, I wish we had in Costa Rica, I need to be teaching it actually! But its a difficult situation with that, they rules and by laws and well they are just not as open to the idea of it coming to Costa Rica , I know it would explode there too.


Today I hope to spend with my older son Brandon and my Daughter in Law Sara, my granddaughter Kelsey. They were busy over the weekend , they did not come to see me, or me to see them. I saw Kelsey n Sara at Jazz and we talked a little bit until they left.
I saw Jordan and Nancy n my grand baby Julian yesterday. We spent the other night together having dinner, yesterday part of the day shopping for nothing just looking around and then I treated everyone to lunch at a Chinese buffet.

Julian is most adorable, he is a very pleasant baby. Never really cries much, at all and smiles and laughs all the time. He has the best disposition ever, very mellow and very tranquil. But not unintelligent, he is very smart. We pointed at each other and he touched the tip of my finger then smiled, we both smiled and then he said Gra he showed me my photo the other night when I was holding him and said the same thing, Gra.. I am Nonnie to him, that is what the grand kids called there grandmother growing up, Nonnie. I do not feel like a Nonnie or do I feel l look like one? but I am and I am happy that I have these lovely little lives to be a part of now and then.

They make me smile and remember how simple life should be.


Maybe in the future the boys will figure that coming to visit might be a good idea and a fun trip for all.



Starting tomorrow I do the hotels, I Begin early in the morning opening the storage unit, seeing what the damages are on the Holiday Decor, and figuring out how to repair and make it look as fresh as possible for the 8Th year. Actually I am so bored of this job, and frankly do not look forward to the work at all. The only thing I may look forward to is seeing old Friends, or seeing the new clients in the hotel enjoy the imagination of my handiwork.


I am only here for a week, then I regress to Costa Rica, for a new future in Designing Condos and houses. Complete turn key operations where we supply the client with everything they need for there vacation rental or home. We do the landscape of homes, and also now sell the properties and manage the rentals for the clients should they wish for us to.

It is s full circle operation, I know its going to be good!

Allot of work but good, and with the right people, which I think I have.

Tony as the oversee person, Edwardo the sales of property and Design, Mariann, a new gal from Venezuela who will be running the office reception area, and doing presentations, and maybe working in the design end.
Juan Carlos Ayala, the attorney who takes care of all the legal issues, and helps in sales and office. Me who I will be doing the design, of homes, gardens, condos, and the sales of Condos and homes. Plus ST REGIS RESORT, last but not least, Clint who worked for me here, doing something different than he has ever done. Sales of properties, and some design work. He will only be doing consultations with Americans and Canadians or all the English speaking clients, Until he learns different, and then I will know where he fits. Stanley I hope will be our computer programmer, if not I have to contact another person right away to get them in line as to what the program is, then there is Eric and Arya, they will be helping too, in the finances, and property management. I good size team, Then if that Marketing team that Diasa put together for me goes through, I believe we will be doing well, and maybe who knows open another Virtual showroom in Guancaste. That is the plan for now.

I think at this point, I can now become a citizen of Costa Rica, I have to talk to Jaunca, and find out the real deal but I Think if you invest a certain amount and have more than five employees it qualifies you.


I am not sure how long I will live there, but I know right now I do not want to live in USA . Its a nice country, USA, its clean and pretty and really rich. I never realized how rich a country was until now spending time in one that is not so rich. But people here do not appreciate all that they have, nor are they kind and humble or polite and I was one too. Now I have had a change of heart, I know what it is like to have whatever I needed and not to worry, but to have it and appreciate it is different. I do appreciate my life now, and all that I have which there is not a whole lot, the Store yes the show room yes its allot, and I am so proud and happy to be working there and helping others, and making a difference in the economy of the country.

For those of you who read last year about me helping with a fiesta for the children who have very little, I plan on doing that again this year, I will asking in Costa Rica to the locals if they will donate some money for me to produce this.

I have the plan already with the office of Mohairs, they asked if I was going to be involved again, three other women and I that I have met here that are genuine and kind, the office is one of the battered women

Since I was a battered woman when my kids were small, I know what it is to feel hurt and abused, and to raise children pretty much alone with no help. I want to help at least at the holiday, give of my talents and my money and share with these kids. It was such a blessing last year to do this, and I hope that this year is as much if not more. I have had people who read this say they would contribute, so now is the time, if you want please contact me, at MARIANNA.LOVE@GMAIL.COM, and I will give you banking directions, and send you photos of what were doing for the holiday fiesta, like I did last year. Actually I was asked to speak to the group of the women just recently to inspire them, and show them that you can do good after such a situation.

I do not know the date yet but I will check as soon as I get back, and hopefully be involved again.

Well Its time to get going its about 8:00 am now and Clints still sleeping, I will try today to get this photos posted so all can see the progress of the showroom in Costa Rica and the cool place that Represents Many condos and ST REGIS RESORT!

The days are flying and still not open but good things are happen

The lamps and the tile

Well the days are flying before I go to the USA, I have worked furiously fast to make sure that everything in the showroom is together but it is freaking COSTA RICA and people do what they want here.. The people tell you yes but then when it gets down to it they always say something happened or they had a problem. The procrastination problem is huge and is very frustrating to an American, who is use to fast food and fast solutions and well getting things done. IT just doesn't happen here... I am trying to deal with it, I know that soon it will all get done.


Meetings with this one and that one , checking on things and double checking on things and triple checking on things still doesn't make it happen. But I keep plugging along.
The week was not as Trying as the last. Tony has his head back in shape and I laid of the comments and the idea that well maybe I could form his life a bit.. I figure he is going to be Tony, and if he wants to improve he will, if not I will move on and keep going. We all need improving, and I am seriously trying.

Today is Friday, we were suppose to go into San Jose early but if just didn't happen. Things went rye in the show room so our help was needed. We ended up leaving about one.

We met with a new vendor, he is a metal sculpturer, Wow cool guy Mondolo, he is a interesting looking character, he is going to create a chandelier that I thought of that is all branches in metal with tiny little lights in the ends and with some small leaves, the lamps over the bar are similar but like rain with tiny lights also. He was cool he lived in this open air loft above his work place, the rain was pouring and his two parrots on the balcony were singing. He had examples of this work in his house. I simple set up with a bedroom that you could see and a bar. A real artist. But a good one. I can not wait to see what he creates for me.

Then we went to buy Kelsey's doll I ordered. To look like her and made here in Costa Rica. After we ran to a couple of Nurseries, to get a few more plants for the show room, but by the time we got there they were all closing. There are many in Garrita, but I will stay tonight in this beautiful hotel, own by Italians called the San Marino. Only after a shocking but wonderful meeting. The company that I have designed some homes for, called a meeting tonight in San Jose. this was part of the reason for going the other was Tony had to get home after being with me for Two weeks working. We had the meeting and to my surprise, it was bout helping me and Diasa form a great marketing team to produce my virtual showroom that I am putting together. They believe in me and hired this professional team! I am so grateful! I can not believe this is true but it is and now I have a full fledged design team and company.

The officina

The begining stages of the showroom








Its been a like the old days when I use to work hours on end to make deadlines, to get product finished to set up for events, although the pressures of the work is not at all the same. The officina has been a challange but it is coming together finnally after three almost four weeks of work. I have to say the challanges are not only the office, but with Tony as well. We are working through things, but it has changed for me as far as how I feel about him. I know he is busy with this idea, but he has slacked off on many things around here, and I have too. Just too busy to do anything at all. We had some differences this past two weeks and there are very good reason's for them. Now I just feel more removed from him than I used to be. I hope that soon he moves out and get's his own place to live. So I have more respect, and know less about his life.

The Macaw project is coming along and so are the four other projects. THe two mansions are at a stand still but as soon as I get this place finished, I will be pounding on there doors, to begin the work in those houses as well.

The view from the officina is really cool, it looks over the mountains across from the beach. I see lots of birds, and beautiful trees, clouds hover over the mountains daily this time of year. The Rain has it's habit of failing nearly everyday about the same time. Around four in the afternoon, but its nice actually it cools things down a little. I think that its going to be a great location and I hope that we do well with this Idea of A virtual show room.

Right now, the walls are all painted, I finished the indoor garden with the fountain, and the bathroom walls are up. The hanging lamps in the ceiling are in and the air conditioning.

Tomorrow the floor goes in, then the bar, and the sandblasted glass walls with bamboo on the sides etched into them. All the over head inset lights are in. By Friday I should have the plasmas, but if I don't I will try to do it by Tuesday, because I leave on Thursday for the USA.

The furniture in the show room is very nice, I chose red leather l shaped entertainment seating, with a huge red tuffed ottoman, the tables are actually attached to the table with cool two toned wood. the other seating is darker wood with a striped yellow, tan and beige fabric these chairs are cool. I had one of my furniture makers, make a coffee table from a photo that Terry Clark sent me. The reception desk is huge with black granite on the top, with custom made bar stools. In the back behind the sand blasted windows is my desk, Tony's desk and Juan Carlos the attorneys desk. Along with a conference table. that is all custom made.

It Is going to be very cool. The bath room has a sink that I chose from another artisan, it is v shaped from the floor it has halleconias, and leaves painted on the base, with the sink set into it, the sink has all the frogs of Costa Rica painted into the sink. the faucet itself is chrome but very modern with a pull that looks like a sculpted piece of metal.

I will be there for two weeks doing other work then returing to the new office to begin a brand new sort of life here. I sure hope that things are ok while I am gone.

I thought I had four accounts to do in the states but I found out today that another company took the job.. frankly I am not sad a bit. I am doing well here, and I really do not enjoy decorting all the places for Christmas Like I use to. That sorta means I have some free time to just visit and maybe enjoy myself a bit too.

For one thing I do not look forward to the cold, My blood now is so thin that even here when it changes and gets a bit cooler I feel chilled. Right now I have a cold and I don't understand how but I have been working hard and sweating like crazy.. but no gym so my physical condition is not that great.

I have new friends now, I knew Luis deigo but now were friends, also Freddy, grady and Gringo, there there three guys that are working for me in the officina. Stanley the one with his hand on the wall, is now my computer programer. He will be doing all the Videos for the show room and help program the on running flat screen in the front window that runs tweny four hours a day showing the projects, also bits and pieces of the products. Then there is Jaun Carlos he is the new attorney in the office and I making good freinds with him, also these past two weeks I lost a friend, she doesn't realize it yet. It was my hair dresser.. and well lets just say she did something that could hurt many people, including my work.

Aside from that I am moving forward, and findning many new people... I met a nice guy the other night. I was totally dirty from the store sweating and digging in the dirt. I had paint from head to toe and he still thought I was cute. He ended up calling and we went out for the evening. Travis is his name. We had a very nice time. He told me he was going to Quepos for a day or two.. So I emailed him today saying thanks. I hope to see you again

TODAY another issue

Oh my god, if I get through this with out wanting to just die it will be a miracle.

It was going well, today I got up pretty early Tony was sleeping when I arose, Its such a strange situation to have him here living under my roof rent free, food free, and sleeping here and not be involved with this man. It is a working relationship, but I know allot about him and it poses the situation to be extremely difficult, and becoming more and more, although I appreciate all he does and how he controls, it sometimes becomes over board with Control. He is a great guy, no doubt, it's as I said in earlier post's this past week things are strange, and I feel deceived, by some of the statements that has been said.

I went to the Gym worked out pretty good, then came home to find him showering, I was waiting to get ready because I had to meet Jaunca our Attorney who will be working in the office, at the office to discuss the corporation, the licences, and my Phone lines and power lines.

Tony and I met him, no one was at the place working, OH boy here we go again, Tony was a bit set aside I do not know why?? We left things were fine, I asked him about an invoice, but didn't understand him totally about it, we went round and round.. I was trying to tell him to give me the amount for only the invoice he was speaking of. It is the COMMUNICATION THING NOW BAD.. I have to take Spanish lessons I know once I do all will be different.
He got angry but didn't tell him, went to the bank and waited for thirty or more minutes, I was so frustrated with the system here, you have to wait in one area to get read out of your deposits and can not get cash there, its very confusing.
When we left I bitched about the system, I guess that really mad Tony angry, he almost crashed the car and got so scared I was screaming. He said he wasn't his fault But I saw it all... it was horrible the feeling. I guess no one ever screamed at him WELL I DID!! AND IT WAS DESERVED. IN A FEW MINUTES
he was telling me that he didn't like my character, and that he was quiting. I told him do not be silly apologize, I was shaking and my heart was pounding hard. From the scare of the car nearly crashing. He didn't in fact he got more upset,then Jaunca pulled up and we talked he told me to Calm down, I was so frustrated with the communication and the way Tony said he was done. The heat, just everything, no eating... it was stress full blown. Then I decided to go with Jaunca, Jaun carlos, and told Tony to go to Monge to get prices on appliances. He didn't want to but he did and Jaun and I went to get licenses, phones and power.

We ate and talked and I explained to Jaun the whole situation, he was very concerned about me, I was shocked I said really are you just saying this to placate me, or are you really sincere in your thoughts, he said he was very sincere and he was shocked at how strong I was. He was impressed with my ability to continue regardless of the bad situations I have faced. He also told me that Education is the key to success, that people with like education have less problems in communication. I felt strange but I listened and learned allot in just a few minutes with him.

He is a good person also, I am lucky to Have Tony and Jaun. I just Hope that things work it self out here.
I spent the rest of the day with Juan. then we met up with Tony. The day was short for me it felt horrible earlier. But now things are fine Tony is still doing paper work and I am laying in bed with the TV On and typing away... hope tomorrow brings better days.

Monday Oct 30

The blogger dash board changes from week to week sometimes the SPELL CHECK WORKS AND SOMETIMES THE FONT BOARD IS NOT WORKING AND SOMETIMES this stupid thing print twice or three times??? its a quandry but I still keep bloggin.

I did not sleep good last night had bad dreams about Tony, I guess he is on my mind because of things that have happened. I woke up early and had coffee, got dressed for the gym and left the house pretty early. I got there at 7:30 worked out pretty good, then came back to shower and prepare for the day. Returned emails and calls came in, then Ivan the drapery guy came by to meet me for the Macaw project. Tony was in in San Jose with a truck picking up products that I had paid for a couple of weeks ago. Ivan is so nice, and so cute. He always has a smile on his face and is so kind and gentle. Just love him... wish I was a bit younger!! we get along very well too. His boss was with him this time and he is getting better with me. Kidding and now joking and carrying on.

I heard from Tony about ten times today, but nothing really was said. I have some talking to do to him. I know he thinks everything is ok but honestly I have allot of questions, I think it may be best to just carry on let him do what he does, and see how this thing rides out. I think the stress of the office and all the different project, the language barrier has causes strain between him and I. When the dust settles here, I am sure things will get better.
I had a huge truck load of furniture today that he over saw, help Minor the truck driver that I use find all the locations and loaded all the furniture with him. When they showed up Orlando was with him I was shocked to see him. I asked why he was with but I really didn't get an answer.

Tony Looked tired, in fact he went to bed at 9:30, so I suppose he was really tired.

My day consisted of banking twice, driving back and forth to the office three times, meeting with the furniture vendor, meeting with drapery people, meeting with the window sign people, and dealing with the three brothers working in the office.

I actually ate sushi for lunch, from the Auto merchado. It was pretty good, I am tired of rice and beans at the moment, this is what the staple of food is here. Tony eats a ton of it, frankly I am sick of it!! I wanted something different and felt good to be different today. I dressed really cute the hair was good the makeup was good and I felt very pretty and sexy today. I got lots of complements. It was nice.

I hope that tomorrow goes well with Tony and I, I am feeling very strange with him since this last week. It was nice today not as hot, In fact this evening was pleasant.

I can not sleep the problems of the past few days are present in my mind and the lies, deception of people are lying on my head, keeping me from sleeping and feeling good, that is why I went over board today in looking and trying to feel sexy and good...

Miss my kids I know that came out of no where???

Todays Thoughts,

I would love to write, all about my weekend, which I must admit this week has posed some interesting situations with the office, Tony, Me, David and his Brothers separation, this is the factory that manufactures most of the furniture, and now they said That This factory is my factory. That the work they produce is soley for me. The Contractor Jimmy who never showed up to complete his work only after he got a nice sum of money. To conclude, I am trying my best to not be angry, to be kind, to Try to trust and to do well unto others regardless of the LIES, DECETE, and the Mal intentions that people have.

Lots of Huge decisions this week and lots of mistakes this week from the above mentioned people ME INCLUDED OF COURSE!...

As we grow older, some of us do learn. Alot of us repeat the same mistakes over and over and over... I am seriously trying to convert my ways and make my life better Here in Costa Rica, I will say that his week has been a trial of all trials. Being an emotial beign as most of us are, (some more than others.) Especially women, I have a sixth sense on many situations, and some times forsee things far before they happen.

Trusting people has been a difficult area in my life, because of all the deception, that men in my life have posed upon me, so bare with me, I am not going to do any men bashing but all of the sitations with this week dealth with men.

The mind is powerfull, I see it more and more each day with myself, I am able to see where things are hidden. I am able to know where to find product for my work with out calls by taping in to something I can not identify. I Know sitations now for my most part before they happen. I can sometimes know exactly what a person is going to say before they say it. And I know what they think. Constantly, this happens with me and now I am learning that other people can be very suave in using Mind control towards others. I know that minipulation is touchy subject and that it is used in mind control and marketing.

But when your miniupulated and finally realize that you are, the brain goes into defense mode. I have been defensive, many times in my life, this is a side of me I hate. I also have lied in my life about things when I was much younger. Lots of people lie I try now to not and now I hate it when people lie to me or use that to control my mind. I absolutely know when people are lying. I caught many this week in lies it was hurtfull, and so disapointing, that people use this form of minupulation in order to make you think they like you, or for you believe that they are good when in fact they are not.

I heard a lie just now that someone said about me, that I was a lesbian, now no offense to lesbians. I love them I have had many friends that are... BUT I AM NOT A LESBIAN, In fact I LOVE MEN EVEN THOUGH THEY DO HORRIBLE THINGS TO MOST WOMEN. This lie was used to minipulate someone close to me, to disway him and minipulate him in a situation that was and can be very seriously harmfull to his future.

Most of the time we are not very reasonable creatures, some of us are not even aware of our emotional reactions in our everyday decisions, in results. These decisions cause us pain, upset,and problems or in reverse can cause happiness and joy and success.

I am learning alot about minuplation, Some of us allow others to do this to us with out regret, and some us get angry at the power of there brain. I want to learn more about this area... and then become intuned to those who tend to use others to help themselves. I want to learn how to become better person. Then try to show others how they can be better, NOT THAT I AM BETTER OR GOOD BY ANY MEANS but I have it in my heart to teach others.
I want to be good and kind and giving and help others always. If this is my only purpose in life, and not a material gain for me, then this is what I will do. I feel good when I give, I feel good when I make others laugh and I feel good with I lend a hand to someone who is not so fortunate. Although I have not had much help myself from others, with the exception of my parents who helped me tremendously, and handfull of friends, and I have had some in my life really lend to me. NOT MONEY

The results of bad situations, in my experience, always brings someone or something good around the corner. To dwell on the bad or to have someone make you feel bad constantly is the results of minipulation.

I have had that much in my life... I want this changed.


Decisions:

Men make decisions faster than women, impluse is an emotional reaction. But Womens impluses are to me greater than most men.

Our Desicions, are a direct reflection of our past lives, and our future. The results of our descisions can be great or difficult. The choices we make in life are easy, yes?

My mother told me one time. Marianna... you either do or you don't.. Its either yes or no... someone asks you do something, you say YES OR you SAY NO... I believe in Gray areas, but I know for a fact that it really is Yes or no, its just hard to say No sometimes or its hard to say yes.


Where am I going with this? Well I saw my own decisions this week falter because I hestiated. I saw my decisions cause anger in me because of rushing and not wieghing things out, implusively... I saw the decisions of Tony in the business this week cause success, and progress. And I saw a descision that caused harm, threatening his future, pain and sorrow and anger.

I really want to think about My decisions, and help others THINK ABOUT THERES!

I saw the decisions of David and his brother splitting, cause sorrow and inspiration, and renewed strenght to both Davids Brother, and now me... He said to me some very powerfull things, which inturn minipulated my mind from sadness and fear, to hope and inspiration... in knowing that with out the pain of bad situations caused by other peoples decisions the joy of life is not possible. You have to experience loss or pain in other to "disfuita the vida" is what he said.. meaning ENJOY THE LIFE.. We have to know when to let things go, and let people go, or children go... in order to love more and continue growing in our own life. Its possible that I may let some things, and people go...

As much as I hate it, I have to...

Having Confidence in someone, for most people is difficult, the trustworthy person, do they still exsist? I swear I am trust worthy, I do not lie to my friends, Nor my family. I do not steal money or rob my clients, I am not decetfull to others for my personal gain.. Nor say I love you and really hate you.. or dislike you.. I am honest to the point that yes it is sometimes harmfull this is an area I need help in. But honesty is hard to come by, Why lie? Tell the truth, with someone like me... I find out before you tell the lie... and well It could hurt you. ASK JORDAN MY SON!! he used to get so mad that I always knew his lies...

The lie is powerfull and it is a form or minipulation.


Soap box statements! heavy on my mind.. about how people seduce others to do what they want and lie about it.

BE REAL!

Electrical from Hell

Well today was a total experience in Building in Costa Rica, Wow what a mess... I got up around 6 and began my day dealing with one supplier, then ate and then to El lllagar to get some plastic for the pond area in the office. That was about a hour trip, getting the plastic is not just walk in and fine it. Its make a factura, then walk across the hot street to the other bodega and then find the plastic and have some guy cut it then walk to the caja and have another person look at the factura,then take the product to the front and have just another person stamp the factura then pay.

After that ordeal we went to the office where began dealing with the huge pile of rocks that were dropped by Tony and another guy in the middle of the office, In the mean time Freddy the electrican/ do it all man, was punching huge wakos in the walls, and ruining all the sheet rock that the mall constructed, now I have to pay to repair the walls, because they have no other way to run the lines.

If CADE SAW THIS HE WOULD CRAP HIS PANTS... its the most ridiculous way in the world to run electrical that I ever saw. Then Trying to explain to Tony and this guy that there are other ways to do this, was nearly impossible. I finally just had to laugh thinking if they only knew, and how in the world could I explain how. Its ridiculous and most annoying but in some sense funny.
But I hope that it all gets fixed living in that space day in and day out with all the mistakes will drive me nuts... But Hey pura vida aye?

The day was spent running around gather things, checking bank accounts, paying for delivery's and really not doing much as far as work goes.



I went to see Rosie and had nice conversations with several people I have not seen in a long time. Carlos the Cable guy who's hooking me up with cable for the office, and Internet. Then I met this police officer with Rosie's boyfriend and well he was nice he called later to Rosie and told her he was interested in me... but we will see on that. But that was a nice jesture, maybe I will look into the interest.

Tomorrow I hope to finish the garden in the store, and then Sat is spent in San Jose, dropping Tony off later, then driving back alone. I don't know what the weekend will bring , but you can bet after today Im going to have a good time

Nothing New really just striving to get the office going

Nothing New, just striving to get this office open, Got news from St Regis about a 5 thousand dollar deposit totally refundable and more.. I have to get on the ball and start advertising it so we can sell these Condos, and houses for this project.

The land is all cleared ready for the infrastructure, getting it set to begin the sales. Its set in a rounded clearing with levels so that everyone that buys the property has a great three sixty view of the mountains and the sea, set right at the beach. WOW REALLY SOMETHING!

The office is not going so well, Jimmy didn't show up again and so today I threaten to kick his balls off! No just kidding but I really wanted too. I ended up telling him that if he didn't show today that I was getting someone else, AND GUESS WHAT I DID!

The sign hunt for the place is a challenge, the windows are a challenge and now the electrical is a challenge, ITS JUST A CHALLENGE ok? but I am still pushing forward and hoping that it will all come together.
Were working on projects, and more has come, Nothing said about the Disco tec yet.

God that would be so stinking cool! I have always wanted to do something with a Disco Tec! Big levels lights galore, cat walks, video screens showing all the people dancing... more...

I did go to the gym today, Man I am not doing well with the work outs lately, I need to go I do not want to be a fatty, but its difficult, and I miss my jazzercise, I can not understand why they do not have it here? Music is very important to the total world, and so it health. I Miss is so bad. The kick boxing just doesn't do it for me.

Tony and I are working late, trying to put folders together for all the projects, the communication is better because I have told a couple of people who speak WAY better Spanish than I do, AS TO what the situation is and they have explained, except for Luis today . I told him to tell Tony something and he said YEAH AND SHE HAS A LOT OF MONEY! He thought I didn't know I socked him so hard he laughed and, we all laughed. So hopefully soon things will be better on that end.

I haven't seen my cute Italian guy I met the other day, was thinking about him today, but No I didn't see him...

We have new neighbors again now with Dog, and the bottom neighbor have dog also. Just hope I don't track Dog in my house! I got up this morning and one was sitting on my porch, a female pit bull she seems timid but ya nevah know.

Tomorrow we build the pond in the office, when I get the computer to except the photos and reduce them I will show what were doing. I have someone to look at this computer and once again get it straigthened out. It just wont reduce.

Jimmy Never showed up today

Ok, Jimmy Never showed up today, he made excuses that he had car problems. The walls are not finished in the store, and he has not finished the bathroom. I was not a happy girl today. Then the floors showed up, I thought for sure the guy understood I said include the morter, the size for the cracks between the tiles and the sand for the cracks. Well he didn't he charged me for the tiles only, and then when they went to deliver I was at another job site, and Tony called saying bring the money! I said what money for whom? he said the truck wont leave the tiles unless you pay it all, well I had paid a huge amount, previously and the balance was like an eight of the total , logical, but insane that you have to have cash all the time.

Ok I had to drive from the mountain, to the location, talk to Tony who is now acting like he doesn't understand me, go to the tile store talk to the guy, then the bank cause he only takes cash. Then back to the tile store, then to the location only to find out that they delievered the Tiles only and nothing that I asked for.
Thats another day and a probably ten more trips.

But my day started with the electrician calling at 7:00 for me to meet him at the supply house to get all the electrial needs. That took four hours, and then Tony showed up with his suitcase in hand and well, took over.

We did paper work at the house for an hour, then went to location to drop off all the electrial supplies, meet the guy again, and from there is where the rest began.
Later I had a meeting with David for furniture, for my place and many others. His brother offered me to use their discount at Sur Paint. So that was a plus for the day.

While I was at the tile store, I met this guy that I sorta met last night at Davids, He was a really cute guy Italian from Jersey. He is opening a patio and garden store? Hmmm maybe I can help! or be of help? or he helps me! I rather just date him... Hes really cute and I like his smile.
But I don't think he thought a thing about me, he is probably married like all the other men I meet. But it is a nice thought!

It has been Raining allot, the days are warm, but not hot, the nights are humid and cooler. The rain is pouring, the Thunder is very loud. It cracks so hard that it shakes things. It sometimes scares me honestly.

Tomorrow another trip to San Jose to finalize some of the products for the Macaw project.

Today we got a call to design a disco Tech, so I hope that goes through... Ask Tony about it Tomorrow.

I heard from my oldest son, not much but at least he wrote a few lines.

Miss them, I will be in Portland for a few days in Novemeber. So I am sure I will see my sons at least a couple of times before I return here.

Didn't eat much today, but I am not working out like I should no time at all, I worked tonight untill ten, and started at 7:00 as I said earlier..

Its been busy, Tony and I are running fast and working on things and not getting paid yet. It is as if were working for nothing but I know that all these jobs are soon to be depositing.

I have done nothing fun or exciting, in fact its been very stressfull. The New location is coming along but Jimmy my contractor is giving me a strange feeling.

Tonight he totally took advantage of me and Tony did nothing, Not only did he get paid but he ate and drank and left me to pay the bill. At this moment I am very mad.. I feel like these people think I have dollars signs on my forehead!!!

I was so busy all day trying to accomplish anything but still after many phone calls, huge communication gaps, I do not have a sign, nor windows done, nor windows inside or anything I have been trying to accomplish for two weeks now.
Living in Costa Rica is a challange, there are I will admitt many advantages to living here and the beauty of the country is astounding, but the dealing with Ticos and the additudes are very difficult for Americans. Things just do not get done here... Can you tell im upset?

I have had a hell of week, and right now im so mad at my contractor I could strangle him.
Jimmy comes off as this nice guy but he has underlying tones about him and I know better. This is it, the men here think that American women are full of money, and they are stupid on top of it.... but I got news for them. I swear if I do not get answers in a few days I will knock some heads off. They have no idea what to do with strong women.

I am trying to be kind and trying to be patient but with this language barrier I want to scream!!!!

Then there is Tony who works like a dog and he helps me in every way he can, but I have noticed in the past weeks that he trys to be in total control, and honestly that is not good. He needs to consult with me and after all I am the boss.
Sorry just bitching and moaning right now it is hard to be a women when you have all this machismo around you.

Can you tell its been a rough week?

Things in business is good we have more contacts than I can believe but some of the situations that I have to deal with and can not explain, or discuss is really getting to me.
Maybe next week it will be better?

On a ligther note, I have not gone or seen the beach in more than two weeks , and I live less than a half block away. This is bad, I am sad that I have not had time to do much at all.
Also I wanted last week to go and do something fun but that never happened either.

I sure hope that the next few weeks are better before I leave for the USA, I have to deal with a very stressfull situation there with Setting up hotels and big businesses for the holidays and it is very hard work, there fore I hope that something comes together here, and that I at least enjoy life before I leave.

Living in Costa Rica

Living in Costa Rica is definitely different, everyday poses for something unexpected.
Its a holiday today, I got up early and cleaned up all the water that was leaking from both faucets in the apartment, it was all over the floor. I watered the plants and headed to the gym. I saw Jill there she is the new neighbor but is leaving now to go back to the USA, The apartment next door is now empty again. Wish Arya and Eric would move back in there! I did not know that Jill was moving, she got freaked out the other night by our weird neighbor, from who knows where, when he had a fit one night slamming and breaking and banging around. Its the same one that yelled one day at me for no reason.
I never told her a word about this, but When Eric and Arya lived here he burst into a fit and yelled like hell at me sitting on the porch, He told me he didn't like me and I have never talk to the man, I yelled back well I don't like you either! laughing... but he didn't think it was funny.
Jill was so freaked that she decided to just move. I need to move too, the price is so high and now I am going to be working in Herradura as well as Jaco and other places but the Virtual store is in Herradura in the lighthouse mall. Its located one block from the beach, in a first class building next to the LOS SUENOS Marriott's.

So I guess I am going to have to look fast.

When Jill was done at the Gym she stopped by and we talked about Saturday night and the fun we both had.
Then she asked for a favor for me to go and speak to her tenants and collect the rent for her??? Ok I said I will try, she wanted Tony to do it but he was not back from San Jose. I called Tony and asked where he was he said Jaco? I said ok where? he hesitated... but said no worries I will be at the house in a few minutes. I thought this was strange but didn't question it as he usually catches the bus.
We waited and waited and actually sat out front in the car but he did not come.

We drove and I acted as if I know Spanish and told the woman in the little house on the beach that I would be collecting the money on the fifth of the month.

Tony then called said he was at the house, ok I thought...
Then when we returned we discussed business did a couple of calls, then he said that his wife and his daughter were here at the beach...

Oh I thought, well you should have stayed with them? he said No were working right? I said yeah but if your family is here why didn't you just tell me and stay with them?
I found out later he slipped and said they were at LA FLOR, hmmm? now hes taking his family to our jobs and letting them use the facilities?
I asked how that was possible and he said Luis said it was ok. I don't know that didn't hit me right. For some reason the whole thing wasn't cool to me.
But I didn't say a word to him.

We continued with the day, we picked up Juan Carlos out attorney that is joining the office, went and previewed the floor I picked out and then discussed the prices, after to the new location and no work was being done, OF COURSE IT WAS A HOLIDAY, every other week is a holiday here....

LIVING IN COSTA RICA:

We then drove to the mountain again to see these stones that I asked about earlier in the week, this man called this morning on my phone and said he would sell some to us. So Tony I and Juan drove back to see. It was a farce.
We passed Elena's place, she saw us and we had to stop, she invited us to sit for a moment, we had a beer. Then Drove back to Drop off Juan, his girlfriend was near La Flor at another hotel, sick he said.

Tony and I were to meet the computer programmer for the screens, we ate a little something at Chaucaoco, a good place on the corner of the Costa Nera. Then talked about the situation of the family at LA FLOR.

LATER, returned to the location to discuss the computer system, the DVD system sound system and the flat screens. It is going to be a cinch for him to do! YEAH! well while we were there the construction crew showed up and put up all the walls in less than an hour! wow I was shocked and happy I have thought since I moved here that living in Costa Rica was different alright and you need to be patient, but this was cool. I hope that the rest of it goes this way.

Soon I am going to explain the basis of the business, but its a new idea and I Want to get open completely before I reveal everything.

We left with our smiles on and met with a gal in town who created a neat sign on a building, I asked her who did it and it was her so I said meet me tomorrow at my place I have an idea! so tomorrow should be interesting, not only with her but with my installation at the mansion on the hill our first attempt to do something in his home.
The rest of the day is meetings, and hopefully collecting money.

We need Stones for a garden so Possibly Tony can go and search for those while I am busy with people.



Aside from work I want to do something good for me, I Really wish I would meet someone, to share things with and be a partner too. Although Tony is a great man, I love him for who he is, and how he is, and does many things for me and we do many things together. Even though from the beginning it was different, now were on a working level. I still feel a void.

It is I will admit wonderful to have him here, he is a great companion. It is still not a full fledged relationship. I will not knock what we have, its great! But I need a partner!

I have been alone for so long and its growing so tiring not having that one person that is you know THE ONE.

Here in Costa Rica, many women live where their man is working or living some where else and some with someone else yet bringing home the money. Actually its kind of a good thing when you think about it for some of us.
(I rather have him home,) but here they live like that and its ok? The woman has her freedom, lives in a nice home, has a visit now and then from the hubby, or who knows? I am sure other things go on too... but one way or the other its a different life. Its like I said in a previous blog, Its strange situation for me to understand.

Guess the traditional standards do not apply here.

So you good looking men, no stuffy no grouches no slouches apply!

I had a talk with Terry and old Employee last night, funny how I am still close with many of my ex employees, and how they still say they love me!
It was fun talking to him he is at High point dealing with all the new design products that are coming out for the upcoming year! I am jealous.. wish I was there. I told him that if things go as well as they are now , by this time next year I will meet him there and figure out how to get containers of products shipped here. We will see... its possible. Anything is Possible! I want to be the best I want to provide the best for people that use me... so I guess I have to try to drive and make it happen.