This is probably what smelled so bad, Cabbage and potatos, the green your looking at is small bananas, the island is filled with plantations of bananas cocos, and plantains. The small red of course is tomatoes. There are no chemicals used on the islands.

Fishing harbor, the small pongas, and old boats is all you see there. Nothing is modern and nothing is new. This loading dock is where almost everything comes in, and goes out. This was where I took a small ponga to the next island...

See all the eggs, its normal in latin countries to have no refrigeration of eggs, I have eaten eggs this way now for some years never a problem. Look how they sell the product, butter right on the counter not refrigerated.

Balls of string, colorful, Reminding me of a Christmas decoration. Can you see all the products in the background, people bargining for the items they need. I was enjoying seeing the interaction and bartering. I AM A VERY GOOD BARTERER... I love doing that. So I really took attention on how they manage to bring prices down to get their bargins!

I don't know if you can see but the floors are dirt, the place is stacked to the cieling with products. Most of the small Pulperias are similar. Some do not allow you to enter, only a window and you tell the people what you want and they give it to you. Like a counter window with everything behind. Maybe its because poverty is so high that people steal, so its preventitive. I like all the things hanging in the ceiling.

This is how all the markets are on the island, they are rustic, dirt floors, walls of thin wood, and slashed tin roofs. Light shinning through the only source of light used. The food is not refrigerated, some of it rotting the smell does hit you in your face, Although I became adjusted to it in minutes. The whole store was filled with people buying there early morning fruits, vegetables, and various product needed for living. I realized it was very third world when I saw how they sold meat. At first I didn't know what I was looking at.

I saw a small structure on the roadside, the road is only one car wide. People are walking on the side's and in the road. The structures are located right at the side of the road. It had roof, it was all open, something like a patio cover, with dirt floor. One side had a small window for those who purchase to wait while they cut the portion of meat that you desire. The meat was hanging from big hooks, I didn't take a photo because I almost had a weak stomach looking at it. Filled with flies, the huge chunks of flesh hanging roughly butchered in the hot sun of the day. The guys cutting and selling were barefooted and half clothed. I actually saw one of my taxi drivers selling one day. I stopped and talked but couldn't look at the meat. I know this goes on in other countries but I have never experienced it in real life close up. I was shocked and figured I WASN'T ABOUT TO EAT ANY MEAT ON THE ISLAND AT ALL!!!! it wasn't nessesary anyway. It was shocking to say the least to me. The taxi driver found it funny that I couldn't believe he was a taxi driver/ butcher!
The Yucca root, which is delicious, it is boiled and then fried. It has a great texture. Infact its better for you than a potato, has more fiber, and the taste is really good. I am addicted to it.

Cows by the roadside, near the beach. This is the black river that ends at Marthas. It went through the whole island. The road is just where I am standing to take the photo. The river and the sea meets again there to the left. Poor Cows! soon to be in the shack on the roadside.

This is the windward side, I found a huge beach called long bay. As you can see has waves. the water is clear clear clear. The beach is fairly clean more garbage is on this side. The waste from ships and garbage fleets is really evident there. It is such ashame that the world feels its ok to dump anything and everything in the sea. Time for people to wake up, I saw it and I know it stills goes on. Makes one sad really. But I saw things marked USA

This also is the Windward side but with no rocks, it is very undeveloped, hardly any homes or structures. Really pure, but I noticed again in the bay more garbage. The peacefull sound of the waves makes you over look the waist to the north of this beach. Beyond the bay was clean. I stopped here had a bocadillo, a beer and relaxed thought about things.

This is just a house I like near the banana plantation. It seemed better than most structures,actually had windows and was modern. But for the most part the rest were simplistic.

More tomorrow!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

When walking into town through a little barrio first, then some curves. Seeing a small stand that sold sliced watermellon, and peeled Oranges with sprials on the white skin, I looked to the left and saw a swamp in the middle of the town. This must be the continuance of the black water river. It was really interesting to see this in central of town. The weather right now there is cool, its warm yes but breezy and at night so refreshing. It was a good change for me. The whole town is very primative as I said. I have many examples to explain so keep reading in the next few days

The black rive is the river you see on the far left edge the house is the end of the beach.

Shells I found, along with huge conch shells, star fish and much more. I brought home a sack of shells and objects to display in my house. I made a fish here from the coco, shells and coral I found along the beach.

Me getting a pedicure by one of the maids, it was two hours long and felt great!! cost me all of $7.00 Dos Iguanas in the afternoon sun

Click on this photo and see the old rustic structure, Marthas is on the left of this, this property contains the mountain behind and is owned by the orignal people who settled there. The whole Island is multi lingual. Patua, Miskito, Spanish, English.

The pepas off the balcony of Marthas

Here is a strange natural odity, this is a black water river and pond. I never in my life saw one although I have heard about black waters. This is not contamination or pollution, it is tannins in the water made from the leaves of the mangrove and other highly colorfull plants around and along this river, as the plants disenegrate, and break down in the water the water turns black, it didn't contain any odor or matter ontop. It was cooler than the ocean water of course but as it flowed into the sea it stained all the surrounding rocks and sand. The sand was very clean and pretty white. So around this it became darker. The River was filled with Tarpin, and turtles, many birds and many small fish but you would only see a small ripple now and then and the turtles would just blend in from the dark color of the water.

Behind Marthas

The Grounds at Marthas

The sidewalk leading to th beach from Marthas

These are the small ranchos infront of Marthas

One of the ports there are two docks this one is the main one, another is strickly for fishing unloading and for the fish processing plant

I suppose you are wondering why I have not blogged much. It was because I left at 6 am one morning to go the Corn Islands in Nicaragua. I had done some reading about it, I found out it was pretty inexpensive to spend a few days in. Although there is no phone lines or internet in any of the small hotels, or the bed and breakfast. There was one location with internet but most days were closed. So I was unable to call anyone or email or internet. Here is what happened. I spent many days working on two condos here in Jaco, I ate or drank something the Sunday before and got some sort of virus in my digestive track. I was very sick for more than a week. It was strange how I felt, from bad diareaha, to vomiting, to hard strange feelings in my stomach and horrible acid reflux. So when I left I went to San Jose for a test, then when on my way to Nicaragua. I found out it was just a virus and took some acid medications and ate very light. Which was fine I couldn't eat anyway.

I left at 6:00 am to begin my journey. I had to leave for my Visa. It was much less expensive to go there, than to try to fly to USA for Christmas to be with my children. Although I would have enjoyed seeing them. Christmas was quiet and relaxed. But thoughts of my family were heavy on my mind. I was hoping I would have emails from them but I didn't. I had such a nice time, it was so inexpensive to do.

The bus was cheap from Costa Rica to the border. When we arrive to the border I didn't have to to disembark the bus they collected our passports in a bag had them mass stamped, we paid a small fee, then they returned them and we went on. Granada being the first stop. It is a colorful small pueblo, old world Spain. The Colonial Spanish Architecture was evident in every little street, and structure we passed. It was quite charming really. I found it clean and colorfull. City plazas, with statues, very different from Costa Rica.

I have to say I was impressed with Nicaragua, thinking and hearing all the bad I have heard about it giving it such a bad reputation, made me skeptical about going but I needed to leave , so I chose The Corns, it was close and cheap. I went, and pleasantly found out other wise. There was not from what I could see, any miltary uprising, or unrest. It was quiet on the roadsides. But you did see the three party flags about certain pueblos. The red, for the Eyes open liberals, the Santanistas, red and black, and the green for the conservatives. But no problems and no armed men any where.

The bus ride ended in Managua, where I got out and took the craziest Taxi you can imagine. The driver had no teeth, maybe one or two? He was short chubby and very grubby. The Taxi had a broken front windsheild, side window and the trunk flew up whenever we hit a bump or stopped. The shocks were completely gone so it scraped occassionally. I don't know if he had brakes because he was sounding his alarm at every intersection, because he had no horn. This was a ride of lifetime, I was laughing at times then I was also wondering if we would make it across some intersections because of the condition of this jolopee.

He took me on a goose chase of course! and I told him I knew he was doing it but he continued. I ended up at the air termial where I tried to book a flight which was only $130.00 dollars both ways to the Corns. They were full. You couldn't contact them on the net,nor could you call them. Nor could I book it here from an agent, you have to go inperson. I felt confident I would get a space they had one more flight durning the day so I took the chance and asked if I could get on the list. I also asked if I could just buy the ticket and wait? They don't use a computer system for the airline it is called La Costena, so she hand wrote my reservation, a I paid. Funny fifteen minutes later she walked up to me and said I had a space. So I put myself and my bag on the scale and got ready to board.

The plane only seats about fifteen passagers, but there was only 12 too much luggage and weight. It took a little more than a hour to get there.

Landing on a airstrip that was narrow and in the middle of a field. With Jungle all about it. The whole Island is pretty behind the times. It has only one road that just recently got paved. It goes in a circle around the the edge of the Island. There are small arterial roads but are not paved and cars cannot really pass. So walking after parking is what you have to do. I took a taxi immediately around to see what is available and to kinda get a look at the place before dark. It was shocking in some parts the poverty is so low. I felt sad in a way but happy to be there to enjoy this beautiful place.

That night I stayed at a place called Sunrise it was on the windward side of the Island hardly any beach mostly rocks. Still breaktakingly beautiful crystal clear waters, and cool breezes. This was a small private own like most there hotel/ hostel. Not very much at all per night. I moved the following day because there was no beach and nothing much around. I felt like I would like it better on the smooth beach side.

I found this place called Marthas, it was a bed and breakfast right near the end of the Island. It was owned by two ex Pats, of ex pats. They were ex patriats of The Corn. When the revolution broke out some 20 or more years ago, they left the Island because of milatary forces that are next to there Property. They were told to evacuate until the unrest was settled, They moved to USA. They are Miskito, a type of Indian that is orginal to the Island. They lived in Miami for many years and spoke perfect English as many of the Islanders do. They are black and color and resemlbe indians/negos. Very interesting looking. The place was small quaint, only ten rooms, with there main living area below all the rooms. They built a balcony on top so the guest could sit privately and enjoy the breeze and view. It was nice up there I loved hearing the rain and listening to the waves right below me about 500 feet. It ran about 30 per night including breakfast. Which Martha her self cooked, with fresh baked daily Coco bread. Made with the liquid of the coconut. SO YUMMY!!! in the day they had a chef who cooked anything you wanted. I ate so much fish, lobster, shrimp till I couldn't eat any more. It was very inexpensive the most I paid for Lobster was 8 dollars. Drinks only $1.00 at some places more others. beer was cheap I liked the Victoria frost. They have one called Tona that was goohey all swear its the best. For me I like the frost. I love the fresh pina coladas made with pineapple there and fresh coco. I drank daily pepa, that is coconut off the tree, after the cut the meat with a piece of the shell and you eat it with a fork or the shell. Its flesh is very gummy bear like. Chewy a little but not hard and tough like the ones you have in USA. Its soft very soft and so delicious. It is very healthy for you too.

There is so much for me to write about, And I hopefully can do it in three or so days. I have lots of photos too. I plan on posting as much as I can inbetween working on finishing the Condos I contracted,But other than this things are very good for me at the moment. I am remaining positive and very happy. I miss people, family but I am content inside. Now back to Corn adventure. Watch tomorrow for more!

Busy week

Friday I was painting and working on one of the three condos my new client has. This one was in Vista Mar, the other two are in Vista Las Palmas. They decided this one needed a little pick up and I volunteer to paint and change pictures and simple rearrange. While I was finishing up two young men came in, the owner had seen them down stairs by the pool and invited them up for a drink. They were talking I could hear they were here on leave from Iraq, on R and R for 60 days. They are infantry, front line. There job is Killing and doing very difficult work for the US Military. My client invited them as well as I out for a nice dinner and drinks on the town. So about 6 of us got ready and all went to a great place for dinner, Los Amigos, then to Saca goma, then to about three other places. Making it a 3:00 am night. I was exhausted, they were still going. I came home went right to bed. The last three days I have not felt good. I must have eaten something bad, or maybe my stomach is just not right but I don't feel great. Well Sat, I worked with them some after cleaning my whole place in the morning. I came back to rest and just sleep on the sofa for the night. Then yesterday was my Sunday that I go to the beach now with Orfa and her daughter. We have been doing this for about four or five weeks. Yesterday was strange, after we all got settled in the sand. Some drunken Nica came and laid right across the front of us , and would not leave. We kept yelling telling him to go, he would not. Finally a beautiful Black man that was laying across the way, could see what was happening. He came confronted this guy but he refused to leave. He then began taking off his pants and then his underwear. We were all so upset, he wouldn't go.. finally the black man said if you don't leave I am calling the police. So he did. the Police came and physically picked him up and threw him in the back of the pickup of the police truck. He was yelling at us that we were bad for calling the police. He cussed and yelled called us names. THANK GOD FOR THAT MAN!! because none of us had a phone. And we had moved to another area on the beach and he followed us.
So after this we all relaxed, slept for about 30 minutes, and then went to Orfas for fresh pineapple drinks she made in the blender.
I walked home and rested, I just didn't feel well. I wrapped presents to send away and slept alot.
Now today I have to meet with the painter, pick out paint, talk with the drapery man, meet in the condo and discuss my ideas, then go and buy all the lamps and mirrors for the restaruant that I Have not finished. So I have a busy week, I am waiting for the container of furniture from USA to arrive for this client so I can place and arrange it all, it is suppose to be here tomorrow but I don't think so.. its holiday and I know how it goes here everything shuts down as of today. I have not told the client, I want to wait and see what really happens. After this on Weds we are going to San Jose to buy accesories for the condos, and I hope a couple of things for my place too!
At the end of the week I am leaving for Nicaragua, I must leave for my visa. I will return after Christmas. Other than this, its a beautiful day today. Sun is out and its hot but not blazing yet. Birds are singing and I am ready to go and send off the gifts, meet up with the people and begin my day.
I never dreamed I would be back doing this again but I am happy! How long it lasts, doesn't matter to me.. as I said I am not worring about anything any more.
Life is short, enjoy what you can.

Small jobs developing, life is quiet but good

Although the economy in the world is bad, I am experiencing something very good and uplifting. I have really concentrated on not being worried, only I think in what will I do today. The now I guess you might say, i have moments when I think about what I would like to do in the future, but mostly I stay in the present, and reflect occassionally on the past. I don't know if this is helping things but lately things are coming to me in the most pecular way. I mean they just come to me... I have landed with out trying by accident three potiential jobs. I just spoke to someone about what I have done in my past, and it happened. While I was at the hardware store, ( la Ferriteria) someone saw me with Fabric samples for a couple that I am working with on two condos, I was matching paint. He saw that asked If I could help him with some huge cushions for a new restaruant that is opening so possibly I have another little job. I also got an question from the man that owns the gym here about helping reupholster, about 100 bar stools and got that. I an absolutely sure its something I am doing. I was not aware of any of this, it landed in my opportunity lap. just by meeting people and causually talking. I know its because I am at a place in my mind where I really don't worry, not that I have money its just the opposite, I have very little but happy. Unlike my previous life. Where I would make nice sums of money for my work, but pay so much for everything , never being satisfied with things or my life.

Seriously, something has changed in my thinking since Spain. I am calm, I live quiet, I enjoy good things and want a life that is nice with out worry. Worry of how I will make it through the day or week or month. But now??? I have not thought about how, I am just doing it, and to stop worry and doubt has changed the path of my daily life . I wake up most day's very happy, alone but happy. I have my morning enjoyment, watching the birds, the animals. Yesterday for example... I woke up to the sound of some strange bird. I made coffee some little breakfast and immediately went out on the balcony. I sat and relaxed drank my coffee. Soon I heard parrots. When I looked above the tree that is towering over my balcony. I saw tails about two or three. I thought wow they are here!! all of sudden I got up and leaned over the balcony to see them closely. I couldn't believe my eyes.
What a great surprise in the morning! almost 15 red macaws were perched above my head in the tree on our property. They stayed for only a moment, about five minutes and all flew off together. Wow what a powerfull thing to see. They are so large and loud, and in flight they look so strong. Soon there after about fifteen minutes, were four or five toucans. They landed in the tree across the yard. I was shocked... never these two in the same day and in the same moment. Lots of birds were out yesterday. I got my binoculars and watched. It was such a peacefull thing. I was thanking the gods in heaven that I was alive and capable of seeing such a thing. Sometimes people base there lives on what they have, weather they have a partner or material things to make them feel complete. But being complete is a choice you make. What makes you complete? and who is the judge to decide what is it that makes someone complete? Seeing different cultures, has shown me that the ways and rules of the Americas is not always the way it is in other worlds. Honestly living here seeing Americans come and go, watching there behavior.. it is sad sometimes. They have no idea how to appreciate something that makes you smile and realize you are lucky.
I know that things make you happy its true or why would people keep buying, upgrading spending. It does make one happy to accomplish something and be able to reach there material goal. But to accomplish peace in your own life a mental goal, or knowing what it is that makes you satisfied or happy is for me a huge accomplishment.
I suffered in the states of serious depression, Not my whole life only that last four years before leaving. The rain, the cold, the suburbs, where there is no real connection with people.It was a battle when getting up in the morning, I would work out just to keep me from going insane.. I had no real joy about who I was, or just joy to be alive that day. I fought with trying to be happy. Now I believe I have found KEY! The key is NOT TO WORRY<>
I see when you visualize this is how you bring what ever it is you need or want or desire into your life. Every day for the past three months I have thought about where I would go to have my passport validated, Some where close, that was not too expensivc, not the USA too much money and too far. Although for the holidays it would be nice to be with Family, But Not possible.. when thinking about this I found a place not far from here in the Carribean, the price is so cheap its unbelieveable, hotels for only 10 to 50 maximun a night. Air far only 160 round trip. So I set my vision on trying to obtain this before I have a problem with my visa. I talked daily to others, asked questions about if they know and have them been. I made up my mind this is where I would be for Christmas. It was attainable but with the right amount of work. Well Guess what? I am going to Corn Islands For Christmas.
I visualized, and hope for the manifestation! It happened... The song corny as it is in my mind right now. DONT WORRY BE HAPPY!!! if you only realize how this is true.. Everyone knows this song but how many practice it? ( I was one who didn't But now something has changed!)

Weekend fun

Saturday I dawned my Panama hat and black shorts started out at the soda Garribito. This is a soda near my old Apartment, where I lived with the Italian Landlord. Garribito is the district and many business carry that name. This soda is an old establishment in Jaco, it has sort of a buffet if you will, where you go and point or tell them what item you want and they put it on the plate for you. Then at the cash register, you are charged per item. Its fairly cheap and pretty darn good.

I was thinking about Clint while I was in the line, and ordered something he absolultely adored when he was living here. They have a juicy pulled pork in the morning so I had a dab of that along with an egg, two tomatoe slices, with olive oil, toast,& tamarindo drink. The whole thing amounted to $2.00. Keeping it cheap ... I walked from there into town to look for somethings for my grandaughter Kelsey and Grandson Julian for Christmas. I found some nice small gifts that I will send to them soon as I have enough to buy and send. Then I walked to Orfas to see how she was doing after her little Surgery. Later going to the beach for an hour, then coming back and talking with Margret, and Rossie. In the evening I visited a couple of friends, drank some wine. On Sunday I got up fairly early to the See the beach, it was beautiful early in the morning. I came back changed my clothes and ate a little mango, avocado, and one egg, my usual four cups of coffee! then headed out for the day. Orfa and I had agreed to beach it yesterday. She and her daughter and I. Then two other girls came which I had no idea know who they were? We all laid out until Sergeo came, talked in his loud Argentinean voice and kicked sand all over with his friend Marianno. They disturbed our luxurious day in the sun basking like lizzards!

I got up and announced to Orfa I was leaving, it just wasn't peacefull and relaxing with those two horsing around.

HORSING??? Yes Lots of horses!!! After I went to Rossies to see how Margret was and to tell here the topai was today through town.She was excited to see it. As soon as we talked a little it began. It is an anual party of the dancing horses, they ride from all over the country to one point. Have a huge reunion in the end and celebrate with a party of food drink and dancing.

Its not complitcated, its a simple event, but I just love it. Its so amazing to watch the horses dance to the beat of the music, regarless of the music. Its done with taps by the rider. They tap with a whip gently on the neck. Really the person observing does not really see the movement, the attention is on the horse. How I know is that one day going to Puriscal, for my foot when it was all broken up. I saw a man in the middle of the street, in main street down town. Practicing with this incredibly stately horse. I asked the woman who drove me to stop so I could ask and obseve. So this is how I know they teach them with the same music over and over, soon they memorize the steps. some cross over some hop some spin, its beautiful really.

Lots of little children where there in the fiesta, dancing like crazy to the wild hot latin driving music, played buy 7 piece band. Loud strong beats of the congo drums and other various drums. The horns, and guitars and all the rythm instruments. It was a nice way to end a Sunday I thought?

After I walked home in the rain, wearing my friends Cowboy hat, I got a call from Diego, he said he really needed to talk with me now.

I was soaking wet drenched, I changed and waited for him to arrive. He came about 9:30 we talked about his life basically. Very depressed that he is over 30, and alone. I told him look I know its hard if anyone would know its me. I know what is like to be with out a partner, to be completely alone. We talked for a long time, I tried to encourage him to think about what he wants and start to focus on what you want in life. Then work towards that, if you want hat woman in your life, start by belieiving that she is out there for you. Then perceive what she would look like, Or have an idea of what you like. Then rest in that, don't obsess. Believe it will come to you, no matter what it is. It comes, all you have to do it that. I think I got him in a better mood. He is like a son to me, he respects me as if I was his mother. He has cried, and hugged, laughed and joked with me and most times is so happy when I am around him. I give him strenght. He stayed in the guest room last night and rested good. He lives with a large family, not his a family he knows. I am sure there is much confusion, conflict and disorder in the house. He felt so calm here. He told me how peacefull it was in my house and that he felt so good.

So I conforted him and let him rest quite on the sofa till I went to bed. This morning I got up about 8:00 he was already gone to the restuarant. So I made cofee, ate a little was going to wash but I see clouds, rain may be coming again. Down to Ice I go to see if I got my cell phone line, I put an application in when I arrived back some months ago. They gave me a Decemeber date to ask about my line. So I hope I get a cell soon.

Other than this, I need to talk with the owner of the resort about payment, and see what else needs to be done.

Today is a nice day, cool and refeshing, not at all like Christmas.

The berrys of Christmas

The Ti plant here blooms around Christmas time, its unusual and bright. It is the only evidence of Christmas for me. It has not been as warm as normal, in fact it is very pleasant. The weather in the evening is rain and very cool. I am enjoying the weather very much.

I have been busy with a small Resort called Club de Cielo. It is a condo complex with a small restuarant. I went to San jose now twice to buy everything for the restuarant. This week I picked all the paint for the walls and posts, the lamps, and some mirrors. All the plates serving items and cups and glasses. It is modern and stylish, I also put up a nice tree and made serveral wreaths and a very cute glittered twig tree for the office.

I woke up early and walked to the La ferra, its about two miles from my house. This is the Friday Farmers Market. I only bought a few things because of no money. One pineapple, two mangos, one watermelon. The total was about 8 dollars, really high now. I did get another orchid it was cheap . I love flowers especially orchids something that makes me happy and reminds me of my mother.

After the farmers market I walked to the Club, and finished the Christmas decor. Then took a taxi back the house put all my tools away and walked into town to eat a bocca. That is like an appetizer. About all I had the money for today. I walked along the beach , there was a huge surfing contest with a big fiesta being put up for tomorrow and Sunday. Stages, booths, enclosed sand volley ball courts and more. It was interesting to watch them construct. I took a long walk and thanked God I was alive. Walking back the house to rest and shower, watch some TV and get on line.

For three days there has been no interent at my house. I have no idea why? I called the company and tried to get an answer they simply said there was a technical problem and hopefully soon it would be fixed. Finally now in the late afternoon it was on.

Amazing how addicted I am to the internet, being with out it for three days felt strange. I read all the mail answered some. Wrote some and then began this. My neighbor came by, she is so happy. She has a boyfriend from USA she is tica, small framed blonde and he is huge! he pretty much supports her from USA. But to have him here was a big issue for her. I helped her paint the apartment fix it all up and get ready for his arrival. So her visit just now was to comfirm how happy she is that he is here. He has a whole group of guys that he traveled with. I heard them last night in the tour van hooping and hollering and partying it up out there. The took off for the casino, and some clubs. She said they came home at 6:00 am so she was tired going to go take a nap. I told her I have no idea why I am so tired but I needed one too. I plan to lie down and nap too.

Its kinda a grey day nice to nap and soon the sun will go down. I am not going to sunset today. Maybe tomorrow.

Over the Weekend great news!

I sit at my counter in my apartment looking at the internet and enjoying a great cup of strong Coffee drunken Latin Style with sugar and cream.

Finally the sun came out today. All weekend long from Thursday on we had down pours of non stop rains. Cooling down everything. Honestly I don't think I recall the weather here ever being this cool. I had washed my clothes to hang on the line and wouldn't you know I left to go to town walking, half way the the rain began. The clothes have been hanging under the car port since Thursday. It has been super nice here really, I been sleeping like a baby. The Thanksgiving dinner was ok, I was happy to be invited. Although I will admitt a couple of things. One is the Turkey did not taste so great, my Turkey's or my families that cook is devine! this was dry, no flavor. I didn't care I smother it with cranberry, and gravy and ate like a little pig! While waiting alone by the pool. Not a soul around I stared into the surrounding trees that hover over the resort. Seeing toucans and various birds. I thought about my past, the holidays spent with my children. And at times with all the Family. Nice days those were, the smell of the turkey and food in the oven filling the whole house. I love to watch the Parade and snack while waiting for the big dinner at the end of the afternoon. I could see in my head all the memories of this day. When they showed up with the food all done in disposable containers, my whole idea of the holiday was changed. I took over the buffet, no one kne where to put what and or how to cut the Turkey, so I began carving the two Turkeys, the owner of the resort had ordered from Los Suenos.

About 35 people were there mostly girls? strange I was thinking but didn't ask why? The Reason I was invited was because they are wanting me to be the chef of the small intimate restuarant. We drank wine, and I began to feel so full after a second plate! I couldn't believe I ate so much. I had to take a taxi home too dark and rainy to walk.
The following day. Friday only cleaned the house, waited for a call from a man I had met to help him in some ideas for a condo he bought. He never called or came over, he didn't have a local phone so I couldn't contact him to find out when or why? So I just waited cleaned and finally internet was installed!!!
Saturday I had gone to Sunset at Marlecones, now called Ganesha. There was barely any sunset, I sat above looking over the sea two palms in the foreground, rain pouring down. Listening to the greatest Euro trans music. I really am liking this form of music. Its exotic, moving and artisitic. It has really great beats too.. It sends you places, I like the wave's the rain and the sounds mixed together.
Finally the rain took a small break, I walked home on the same street that this place is one down the path by the river. It was dark, all the trees dripping from the fresh rain, the sounds of various frogs croaking and moaning. Erie but nice, then I saw little tiny lites in the distant, nearly next to the ground. I stopped umbrella in hand and just watched. It was lite bugs, there like fireflys but smaller, they put out a pretty strong lamp. I watched as they danced across the field across from my aparment. The horses were grazing in the wet grass, and seem to very happy with the cool evening air.
I came home to shower, change and go out. I was invited by two friends to go to Ganesha again, they had a beach party there. It was really a nice party, the brough all the sand from the beach, filled the floors( not so nice but the ambience was good) cut fresh banana stalks and them attached to all the posts and seemingly growing out of the center of the place. I met people from all over the world. A couple from Switzterland, he was Austrian she was Italian. Blonde like me.. we laughed talked. Then I met a man from Boston, he was so magnatised to me. He wouldn't leave. I didn't mind he was handsome and very sweet. We all enjoyed the company of my other friends, and talk to so many people. From Argentina, Spain, Brazil, Costa Rica, Europe, very few Americans. It was a nice night, I drank a couple of Mechiladas we all talked till 3 am, came home and slept hard.
Then Yesterday is usually my day for the beach, but unfortunately No sun what so ever. So I hung out watched movies, when Raquel showed up. She is something! I don't want to say what i really think about her.. but it is amazing how some people think they are pulling things over your eyes! but you know better.
She ended up showering here, and sleeping in the other room for about two hours.

Reason was too much party the night before, has no place to go, no water in her little Store that she rarely works in.. I allowed it and then later told her, I didn't have money to buy dinner, or make food for her or I, if she did then I would. Instantly she left. But that was not all.
I had like four visitors yesterday it was so nice to have company in my new place. Everyone loves it . All Fell alseep on the leather sofas.. here we go again. Like the last leather sofas I had everyone would fall asleep. Micheal a friend who does Tour fishing, fell dead off the sleep while whe watched the movie, then Tommy the American man came that I am suppose to be helping. He did the same thing, Fell asleep and snored so hard. I went outside everyone sleeping and me hanging out! WOW ok?
Well in the evening I spent the night chatting with Jon my good good friend from USA, we changed my page on My space and added great music, laughed and had a nice time.
Today maybe I will help my neighbor to pick out paint because she loves what I have done and wants my help. OR I may go with Tommy to San Jose to pick out things for him and buy all the Christmas decor for the resort.
Other than that its a beautiful day here in COSTA RICA!

Oh I had great news!! I got a letter from my great niece, Marisa.. she is so beautiful! Nice to hear from Family.

Waiting for photos

I been working on the place, its really coming along. I also was helping a new owner of a hotel and restaurant yesterday in selecting all the items for the new dinning areas. I spent the whole day in San Jose with Diego and Brian. He is the owner of the hotel.
Its located near my first Apartment when I came to Jaco. Actually he remembered me back then he use to eat the Soda Almistad and saw me in the balcony when I was stranded for months with a broken leg. He recalled me sitting with my foot elevated looking down at all the people eating at the busy little soda. Funny the world is small.
I enjoyed my day yesterday although the pay was hardly nothing if that. They want me to chef in the Restuarant, but the pay is so mimimal, and its not air conditioned. Its poolside which would be fun in some cases. But I am not sure yet. I need to make enough to exsist... Although he really does feel good about me. I helped so much yesterday... well not all men but most are not good when it comes to shopping. He had in his mind that we would finish is a couple of hours. But MY GOD ITS FOR A RESTUARANT!! and its not that easy to get around here. PLUS there are few places to buy product. We don't have Target, or Wal mart or any places where you can just go and get cheap items. You have to hunt and you have to be smart about bargining. WHICH I AM!! so I did alot of talking and alot of hunting to find what he wanted.
His chaufer picked me up at 6:30 am, we drove to San Jose to a place called the White house , which was where he spent the night from Flying in from California I believe. We then went to Multi plaza mall for something eat quickly. Breakfast at 9:30 the traffic was horrible hours in that and riding the mountain then finally! Then to the the Alyiss, where we bought things for the location. Pequano mundo, more.. then finally one more Alyiss. I manage to get a few things for myself for the apartment. I white carpet for the black bathroom, flowers, vase, twisted twigs, sheets, and a pretty dress.
Not much money really... After the ride home we had coffee on the mountain top where I love to stop and just enjoyed the view. Not the same Mountain I took Ted and Jimmy this is the one on the way to Jaco. But soon that spectacular view, and ever winding road is about to be done with. I noticed yesterday they are about to finish the Freeway from San Jose to here. Which means instead of taking two and half hours, it will cut it to 45 minutes. Wow this is going to change things here. Honestly I was a little sad to see that, I really have grown to enjoy that ride, its so different everytime I pass I see something new something beautiful. But I think when I am not in hurry to go to San Jose I take that road, coming back the freeway. Sometimes in life I believe we should take time, to see or enjoy. People rush to much, Yes I know what some one may be thinking yeah right! but really what does it hurt for you to stop once in a while and really enjoy something?
Right now I am waiting for a CD of photos that Ted has to send me of the tour. I want badly to post them so others can see how beautiful things are, and what a nice time we had... Who knows maybe someone who is coming here reads this and wants my help! I would be willing to be a guide anytime! So stay in touch.
Happy Thanks Giving to those who live in USA, to my friends in Europe Send a note soon! Canada Hello... and all the others have a great week. Tomorrow I am going to an American Celebration of Thanksgiving, should be interesting, a Tico is cooking the Turkey, not many Turkeys here.. ( I miss cooking Turkeys I did make some really good ones)

Jimmy lives in Canada, but is orginally from Scottland, he is a riot! I just love him.. he and I laughed so hard I was sore.. this is the smallest parrot in Costa Rica. It was a pet of Christians my old friends aunts.. it talks and sings. It ate off my plate.. Jimmy was cracking up over this. Simple things that I know.. I took them to see this mountain top restaurant /bar.. where we ate the pig, boiled plantains in salt water.. and fresh lemon, lime on everything. PARRICCOOOOO

This is in the front of the Argentinean restuarant. It is mostly outdoors, the rain was pouring the sound on the tin roof was amazing, the smell of the fire the food.. music.. all so enchanting. We were right near the beach less than a two hundred yards, but could not see it. We arrived in the dark.. the jungle sits right next to the beach. But the Following day we realized we were right on top of it. Wow it was something.

This may take a few days on the blog to publish because I have so many photos.. but it really doesn't do it justice. To be there smell, see and eat.. experience the roads the tours, the beaches, the mountains. Quads flying all over. motorcycles, cars flying buy dusting everything and every one. Rain that pours and washes everything clean.. the smell after. The animals, flowers.. the sea. All the fish we ate WOW!! whole lobsters.. cheap as heck.

Jimmy and I on the way to Tambor

Ted and Jimmy us at Saca Goma sunset bar in Jaco. These are the guys I toured with. REALLY NICE PEOPLE!

Its been a little busy for me, with fixing things in the apartment, to the tour and trying to get into shape a little. I am the most happy I have been in a long time. In thinking this morning while walking to Deigos. I thought wow, My life was the example of what many people are going through now in the USA a year ago or more. I had such horrible situations, disaster after disaster. Loseing just about everything I had, selling what I did own and taking another adventure for the sake of sanity, and realizing life is very short. Now I am on my way back.. a survivor I am!

Life now is peacefull, I enjoy my days, and try not to be worried about one thing. Seems as if its working. I know that positive thinking has alot to do with it, and the faith that I have. I do this daily, I say something good is coming to me, I thank god each day for whatever I do and have. I have a list I wrote for all the things I am greatful for. Not just material things but things I am gifted with, and now how I have really changed for the good. For example today after I arrived at Diegos he said wow Marianna you look so young.. I have cut my hair since the tour Its long but thinner and better shaped, I am not stressed, and I have a smile on my face almost always. Its easy to be angry, to be disatisfied with things, but I am really making an effort to not be upset, not be worried and not think about a thing except being kind to people and living.

The tour was great, this just fell into my lap. I took this guys to find properties, restuarants, bars, shops, beaches, mountains, Crocks, jungle and more.

We spent a couple days on the peninsula Nycoya. We first went to Tambor, Santa Theresa, Near
Montezuma, and then to Mal Pais, this areas are so rustic and clean. Beautiful! roads are rough you must baha! we four wheeled, first time for Ted, he was so happy and excited. They both had a blast driving rustic dirt roads with rocks and mud. One time he splashed me good with mud, as I sat in the back looking out. It was all over my top, my pants, face and hair. I gave him some digs, but honestly I wasn't mad. It made it fun to teased him though.

We experienced great Argentinean food, steaks cooked right on a fire. The chicken was so delicious we used it as an appetizer. We drank fresh mojitos, and of course mecheladas. The beaches were clean and long. The surf was great to swim in. We spent a couple days on that side then took the ferry back to Jaco. Spent the night and immediately went to Playa Hermosa to find a house to rent. I found a place for them and made the deal and off we went. They were pleased that everything they asked for I was able to produce. We saw the breath taking vistas and views from high mountain tops. Fresh pinapple fields, where I made them stop and have the owner of the farm cut the pineapple right infront of us to eat directly. We experienced a place where they cooked a pig, in hot oil, the ham was so tender and delicous with lime on the side to put all over it. Along with a cold Beer was the perfect afternoon break on our jungle drive. The road to the jungle right now is a bit rough. There are drop offs, sink holes and lots of mud. Its fun though we all enjoyed and laughed so much. They were thinking of making a book of Costa Rica called Watch out for the hole... because we saw so many different types from deep ones in the roads to ones in the mountains. Walking down the street a big hole just holes... funny you had to be there to understand but it is a good i