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

Quads, Trucks Plants grass, Abulances, more... in the Ferry

The Ferry on the tour to Tambor
I didn't know This would happen, but I am sure happy it did, this is not the first time I have helped Tourist with things in Costa Rica. This time was for sure the best I have experienced, I was paid well, and enjoyed practically every moment with these two gentlemen. They agreed to pay me per day as and all expensese included which meant meals, hotel drinks and anything else I wanted. Wow that was something! I was thanking god for them. Through this something else developed. I met some people some time back from Switzerland and we discussed a similar situation with them. They talked about me to a woman in Switzerland who owns a tour company. They have many people wanting to tour Central American, and would prefer someone like me to be the guide. I have not mention this on here, but I guess now its public. I have contacted her a few times and I will be helping her when they arrive in Decemeber. I may have a few more before then. This tour was great. We started in Jaco went to all the surrounding areas, to find properties, rentals, special restuarants, bars, locations of nature, beaches and whatever else I could think of. It was blast they really enjoyed my way, of presenting this to them. We saw animals, parrots, Crocodilles . Please watch tomorrow for more.. I have no time right now to finish I have to run but PURA VIDA as my kids would say.

BEEN ON A TOUR,

I have been working with two men from Canada on a tour with them for about a week now. Guideing them and helping them find Property , rentals, and great adventure tours. I do not have time right now we are off to the Cangreja National Park for two days, I just returned from Mal Pais and Playa Carmen, Santa Theresa, Tambor. ITS EXCITING WHAT HAS HAPPENED!! I have a very long story with Photos and great expereinces to share with everyone. SOMETHING HAPPY AND VERY CHEERFULL to lift all those down trodin spirits, or the oppressed AMERICANS THAT READ THIS. Those Europeans, Spanards, and my Argentinian friends who feel they want to forget their problems for a moment. This Story should take you away for several days in thought and maybe in reality. Should you have the urge after reading my next blog to visit COSTA RICA you must contact me ASAP.

I am living a dream for sure.. and I am really super excited to write this story coming up.
I will return to JACO ON SUNDAY NIGHT I plan on spending hours writting and posting photos.
Have a good weekend! MARIANNA

Breakfast at Diegos

The rain has been consistant in the past few days, only two hours yesterday I enjoyed the beach, but the sun was not hot. The breeze was so nice, lying in the wet sand I dream of how to journey through this life effortlessly, and be satisfied with the way my life is.

I believe that all things have a purpose. The ups and downs are experienced by many people. I am not alone in life especially with the world crisis as it is now. It is how you deal with life really , it's not always up and it's not always down.
When lying there enjoying and dreaming about a new idea, I realized just how greatfull I need to be that I am capable of all things. About the accomplishments in my life, how now I am stress free. If I was to record all the things I have done, it would probably fill many pages.
I am not a talker only, I am a doer.

Life is all about the journey, my journey has not always been smooth, I need a four by four half the time to make it. But some how I creep through and land on top.
I keep trying, throwing in the towel is not a part of my character. With the faith I have and in what I was taught as a child, to believe there is a higher power that helps us daily and to know you have the power to do what you will if you believe, is part of the force that keeps me going.

This is todays feelings but in the evening yesterday I felt down, wondering were this journey was taking me next? although in the morning the dream and plan was clear. When the night fell I was alone, no television no music nothing to read. Just me and the house. I felt so sad... I talked to a friend on the phone and denied an ivitation for drinks and socializing. Simply because I felt I was not good company.. but in waking this morning I made myself stop and remember that I am lucky, and I need to be as I said earlier greatfull that I have what I have and I am where I am.

Perceive what you will from this, for me its really how my life is.
So first thing this morning I made the coffee as usual, went out to the balcony, drank and watched the rain, got dressed.. walked about a mile or more to Diegos. Had breakfast and talked with him. He is really wanting me to the chef of his new restuarant. Its an Italian place brand new.. but I am not sure I want to do it. The salary is very small, the work is the same as it would be for any chef, he wants me to run and control everything. He talked I listened, maybe for a time I will but I rather be writing doing something that is not in a hot situation, especially here. ITS REALLY HOT HERE, Imagine in a kitchen with out air? We need to talk more.. but I enjoyed his company and we always seem to have great talks.
After I walked more to the La ferria, the fruit and vegetable market that is only on Friday.
It is really expensive now compared to when I first came here. One watermellon was four dollars.. when before I would pay $1.50. I didn't buy it, I bought cheaper fruits a pineapple for a dollar, and madrins for 85 cents, some oranges and bananas. Then the rest of my veggies. I also found some shorts that were my perfect size from a friend of mine that sells there. I bought an Orchid plant. And then took a taxi home, walked to the internet. Now the cafe is full of people eating lunch and enjoying delicious coffee.

I had an invitation from Arja my friend from the Blog, I met her and her husband some three years ago from the blog, they were from Portland Oregon, I got them an apartment next to me. We went to Panama together.. and now they have a home in Parrita.
They are wanting to sell it. Its brand new they built it. But Arja says its too big for just the two of them. If anyone is interested I can hook you up with a good price. And send photos. Its near Quepos Costa Rica, which is near Manuel Antonio, the National wild animal part and the most beautiful beach. Anyway she invited me to go and stay with them there for a day or so. Its only a bus ride of 30 minutes from here. So I hope on Monday or Tuesday I do. It will be so nice to visit with them again. We enjoyed each other very much. She and he are Fins from Findland. Interesting people..
Now today I wait for a TV to be delivered, I bought from a wholesaler. So this will be fun for me to watch a little tele. Listen to the the music videos and watch movies. Have not done this since I arrived here.
Well the weekend is coming... many people are now arriving. It feels nice to see people here, before so strange to walk and not see a soul on the streets.

Woke this morning to the sound of seven toucans churping at my bedroom window. The large towering tree behind my room was the resting point for the seven traveling toucans that seem to rest there now for the past week. They are loud which is why I woke up. I walked to the other bedroom, the window is wide open, leaning my head out the window to see how many and to catch a close look at them. I saw a pair of red and white Macaws yelling and flying closely together as they went on there morning flight.
I got up made coffee immediately, then cooked an egg with tomato, toast, in the pan with olive oil and fresh sliced oranges. The oranges here are green on the outside then orange on the inside the flavor is very strong and sweet. I just love sucking on them till there completly dry. I saw outside on the balcony and watched the birds then the rain came. It rained all day today it was such a dreary day. I walked with my umbrella to the hardware store El llagar, to get two new nobs and a new shower head for the shower. Its all messed up so I figured I would fix it. Then I took a long walk to Diegos restuarant. I have not seen him in ages. We had a great talk, I drank a diet coke and he asked me to cook in his new restuarant. Its Italian, so I am going to give it some thought. I am not a professional chef but I am certainly a good if not a great cook. I have done it professionally, but this is a challange working on the line.
The pay is slim, and I know its all night shift, which begins at 3:00 opens at 6:00 and closes at nine, meaning I am done at 10:00. Its not an easy job for sure but I will see what I should do.
Maybe to get it rolling and teach someone all the tips then become the manager would be the best thing for me.Its a new location in a very nice upscaled hotel that is new here.
After that I went to the internet and read mail, checked on the latest for the blog job, still no real assignments. I then went home and made Italian style chicken soup, with fresh tomatos, onions oregano, celantro, carrots, potatos, celery, chicken, and cook tiny shells. I made so much that I gave some to my neighbor. It was delicious, and it was slightly cool today so it was the perfect thing to eat. I rested then came back to Rossy's. Still no TV in the house or Music, a bit boring but soon I hope I can purchase one.
Tomorrow I plan on repairing the bathroom, if its hot go the beach for a while, and maybe see another friend of mine.
But life is being relaxed. I am curious though to see who is the new president? like it matters? because who ever it is, Won't be able to bale out of that mess. Really I am glad I left there some years ago.

Holloween, and the past week

I never expereinced such celebration for Holloween as they do here. In the evening the children go up and down all the businesses in groups. Big groups, and all the businesses give treats, or gifts. Its so cute they have great costumes and all yelling feliz Holloween.

In all the night clubs and restaurants the places are completely decorated, very elaborate some. And half the town has costumes on. I wore my belly dancing attire, but I got great responses. I was in one contest at one place. Got 4th out of hundred, so that was alot of fun. I danced all night till 4:00 am. When I left Rossy was still dancing. I was so tired, no drinking just dancing but so many people stepped on my feet they were absolutely killing me.
Holloween here is really fun they are super into it.

This week I have been working out again feeling better, but god the body is sore. I get early and go to the gym about 7:00 am, then walk home or go to the internet for a couple of hours. I do what I need to then return to the internet to do some work. Other than that I haven't done much. It rains heavy in the afternoon so I spend the time watching the rain sitting on the balcony. In the Evening I go and visit or hang out with friends.

This weekend I hope the sun comes out so I can go the beach, that is the plan tomorrow go to the Miros Mountain for a hike then the later the beach. In the evening I plan on making a nice dinner for myself. Maybe Spagehtti, haven't eaten that since may.

Roadway from my place to town

This is the road I was talking about, I have country yet I am right down town see another new tower?

This is near my apartment

You can see the new tower being built, the mountain is Miros the older man I talked about he owns the whole mountain.

This is where I lay on the beach, the area is called Copa Cabana

The river next to my apartment, you can see how mixed it is lots of rain its rushing pretty hard right now

The view from my bedroom window, in an evening storm if you enlarge you can see the rain forest as the mist covers the mountain sides.

Been working on the internet, getting some good responses. I have had a nice weekend. Relaxed and some fun involved.

I spent last night for the first time in along time with Rossie, we had sodas and chit chatted watched the Transvestes, walk back and forth and laughed alot. I walked home about 12:00 at night its only 5 blocks or more to my place, not far.

It was so cool last night, really nice walking home. We had a late afternoon tropical rain that cooled it down tremendously. So sleeping was easy last night no fan needed.

I am finding I can not sleep with the air conditioning, it makes me sick in the morning. I am now so adjusted to the weather, the climate that I feel much better with only a fan.

We have had some really nice days, Sunny and then in the afternoon rain.

I talked about the mahi mahi I had, well I made Ceviche and wow it is so dang good!

This is how you make it.

Cut Mahi mahi or Marlin in small cubes.

Add red bell pepper diced fine

white onions or yellow onions diced fine

Celantro diced fine

Salt

Lemon juice from real lemons two to three depending on the amount of fish

Orange juice enough to cover the ingredients or

Ginger ale.

Let it sit over night, actually a few hours its ready but the next day is best.

Spoon into a small cup or bowl, use crackers to eat with it and top it with a cut up avocado. I like tortilla chips to eat with it, but not much. Because the ceviche is so good, the chips is only an accompanyment.

It is easy and really good for you.

In the summer with a cold beer wow it really is excellent!

Other than that, I worked on a painting yesterday for about five hours, trying to be peacefull, but the kids were out of school for some reason and the workers on the building were using machines. So it was loud But I did see five Toucans in the morning in the tree above my bedroom window. I always know when they are around. The make a certain churping noise that is very distinct. So I watched them for a few minutes as they flew from one tree to another. There beaks are so huge that its a slow flight so you get a good look at them. This are the small ones with bright green and yellow on the wings, the body is black and of course the bright yellow bill.

Where I live and walk

I have been doing many things in the past few days. We had a awefull lot of rain in the evenings so I go early in the day to try to accomplish what I can walking.
I got the house phone installed early, usually it takes up to two weeks, but they did mine in three days. I pulled some strings, about time I learned how to work the system here. Now they have a new rule, you have to have all incorporation papers, Residency or be married to a tico to get a regular house phone.
You see I had a phone when I first came here took me six months to get it, but the rules were different. So what I did was listen to what they told me, then suggested they look at my previous accounts, The business lines I had there were paid on time, the house account that was always paid on time. Also my electrical and cell phone. I paid much attention to the men that were working the computers and complimented them.. before you knew it they went right around the rules and put a super fast installation form in. Of course it cost me a little but Hey I finally figure out how things work here. Now the cell phone no way of going about that but I have the order in and in Decemeber I will have a phone.
Cable is next, already got it in line and ready to set up, when I get a Television. I don't have anything as I said before in the house so its very quiet. But soon!!! I have a little job doing computer work. Also a new blogging company contacted me last week, I will be doing soon.. a new blog on a net work called http://www.busybeemarketing.com/ its a paid blog on subjects they direct. Mine may start on Weddings and Events, also there is live video blogs. So I will probably doing those too.
I have been putting adds on a page for Personal chef, and other various jobs and I have contracted a couple already. One nice wedding as a coordinator, the other personal chef.
I am applying for Marketing jobs and more but right now the whole world is a mess. The Job market is sad.
I keep my chin up and try and I know something will come to me! I believe it, I am a strong woman with lots of abilities there has to be something I can do to survive. I seem to be doing it even though its not easy.
I walk every day just about through this shady tree laden street, Sometimes it looks so pretty that I wanted to show you and tell what it feels like to have those moments of peace when walking solo on a sorta country road in the middle of the city. It is generally quiet a few bycylers, occasional other walkers, but generally quiet. Hot in the sun and in the shade very cool. The River although its muddy right now does put a little coolness in the air. Its humid and tropical so its not very cool.

I am posting the photos on tomorrows blog because the camera is in my other purse! after I got here I realized that.


Yesterday I was invited to go Marlin fishing here locally. I went ahead and took up the offer. We went early of course around 7:00 am. By that time it was already hot, cloudy but no wind.
The seas were slightly rough at first, I got sick the first leg of the trip. About 40 miles out I felt horrible and of course vomited. I laided on the sofa inside this 60 foot rigger. For some three hours. About the time I heard them slamming fish in the tank I got up and felt so much better. I got to see Flying fish,lots of birds, Manta rays flying out of the water, and only one Marlin. We caught around 13 durado, which is Dolphine, Mahi mahi. They are ugly in the head and face but the bodies are really cool. I bright shade of tourqose blue and bright yellow and green. The put up a great fight! I am so sore today, I am little and its not easy. Of course they had mates that helped so it was easier than going with amatures. They bated, rigged, and helped when I was reeling. The other people they helped also. They were a funny crew. They made us sandwiches, and hamburgers. It was a nice day after all.
I came home with about 45 pounds of Mahi Mahi. So wow is it ever good.
Last night We the group took some to the Colonial here in Jaco and the chefs cooked in three styles. Fresh fish is so delicious. Blackened, Panasado, and Ajillo that is my favorite. That is on the grill slightly with garlic and celantro. Mango salsa on the side. My friend Magali is a bar tender there so this was fun for her too.

I have been painting little by little on my art, and reading. Did some writing on the book still not finished. But working on it, this busy bee blog company said something about possibly working on an Ebook.
So things are turning around. Before you know it I will be up to doing what I have in my mind, which is another business adventure. But not design. Hey I want to say thank you for the complements and comments on my little apartment. I have made more improvements since the photos. But Can you imagine if I had money? what I could do? There are two people I do not have your email but you asked if I would assist you in helping with your place. Please send me your email and we can discuss it or chat about it. I am not expensive so lets talk.

Well off to buy fruits in Herradura a little shack made of palm leaves and old wood, has the best in the areas. I missed the market yesterday because of the fishing trip it was all day till evening. Topped off by a bloody mary at the Hookup in Los Suenos!

Wow, have met quite a few people from USA this week

Although this is rainy season, for some reason this week I have met a few people from USA, they all say the same thing. That it is terrible there, that everyone is stressed, worried about the economy. The life, but on the other hand I have some say, that its a great time to buy up property of those people who are in so much debt and unable to recoup.
I am sure that is the case, but it is sad to hear

In talking with visitors, they seem so burdened with the issues of USA. But I noticed some are here to buy Property. Speaking of Vistors, one of my readers Bobby who helped me come back to Costa Rica is here now. I have not heard from him, but he was to fly in on Sunday. I hope if he reads this he contacts me and let me know what you need and when you will be here in Jaco?

I sure hope that after this Election of yours that things slightly turn around. Realisticly, I know its going to be many years, But a relief from all the bad news would be welcomed here.

As far as weather little rain at night making it very cool and enjoyable. The day like today is beautiful, sunny breezy hot but cool breezes. Right now the sound of latin music is filling the coffee shop, fast pace marenge music making it happy. The palm trees areall sparkling, because of the night rain washing them all clean. I am sitting listening and enjoying the moment. I saw Lucas my Italian friend just now he returned from California. Stopped gave me a kiss and went on his way.

I did exactly what I said I was going to do, I began painting, I have one that is a double canvas that I began. This was something I have wanted to do, but just never got around to doing it. You know you have asperations and desires but put them on the back burner ... I have done that for years so maybe now I am actually fufilling this desire again. I don't know how good I am it really doesn't matter to me its a expression and I have been longing to do.

Well the apartment is coming together slowly, its always about Money! I am doing a little computer work per day but its not much money. I applied today for a blogging job something new its video blogging.

I don't have big plans, I just am enjoying exisiting at the moment, and I am gratefull I have my health. I am also gratefull that I am living somewhere so beautiful.

Now someone in my life that is significant, would be the next step for me. AND I BELIEVE ITS COMING!

I had a pretty good weekend, I went to the beach on Sunday with Orhpa, she is hair dresser our birthdays are two days apart. We get along great.. we enjoyed the sun. Only after the night before I had attended an Aniversary party for Sunami Sushi. It was five thousand Colones, to eat all you want sushi, and one drink, they put a wrist band on people, later a new place opened for an all night disco, it is a new Agentinian restuarant but Sunami is now partners with them so they celebrated the Aniversary and opening in one night. Wow how beautiful it was I was so impressed with the interiors. Water walls and huge banana plants, lights subdued but well done, underlit bar and upper lit bar. The Music was great, the place was full absolutely full. I dance so much my feet hurt for two days after. It was a nice weekend. I saw so many people I know many greeted me with hugs and kisses.

Now this week I expect company but as I said I have not heard from him yet.. So where are you BOBBY?

Been busy , and Rainy season is definitely here

This is road about four blocks from my place. It is full not passable as of my writing now, this was about hour and half ago.

These are lamps I designed when used at night above the bar its very pretty, although I need chairs, I need everything!!!

Amazing, my bathrom is smilar to one I did before I left the states, the glass block I love but its black different for me. I like! it's modern! I made the mirror.

Better shot of the living room the other side is not finished yet. I want an entertainment wall, and Franz, from Nicauragua, is going to build it cost me 18 dollars for the wood and concrete, I want it to look the same texture as the walls. Shells from Punta Leona

My room, not finished yet, the bed cover was something I saved from years of weddings, the drapes are table covers I use to use for weddings and made them into window coverings with only fishing line attached to the old louvered headers, now last night I added crystals I had from before the boys were born.

The chair before I painted it

The canvas is blank and as you can see no drapes the chairs I just changed, they were in the apartment, I painted them dark and found some fabric in a little store, there are no fabric stores here, But I manage miraculously to find this and its matches. Soon I hope I can do more!

My Balcony, that is Jenny from Nicauagua

This is Punta Leona, I picked up lots of shells there the water is warm and the sand is clean

Typical loras, flying everywhere here.

These Avocados are bigger than a cantelope

I have been painting, repairing, scrubbing old paint off the baseboard's and doors. When Ticos Paint they don't remove light switches, or clean up any dropped paint or splatters. It was all over all the wood baseboards everywhere really. So I took a scubber and cleaned for days everyone of the baseboards. I been putting things together, with what I had, and purchased some small items I needed such as glasses, coffee maker some pillows for the bed, which is not mine. I am with out Television or Stereo or radio.. No Internet yet, no phone. So it is a bit lonely and quiet.

Everyday I make a small breakfast, with fresh fruit and sit on the little balcony and watch the River flow by. It has been so peacefull, its very green where I live it is an isolated area in the middle of town. The river passes in back of it and in front of it, there is small bridge that is private for the house to cross so its sort of like a half moat. The workers there are still putting rock on the building so in the morning is a tiny bit nosey. Soon it will be done.

I have been waiting for my drapes I had in the office to be rehemmed, Its funny here they tell you Manana, Manana.. like I have said before you think It means tomorrow in reality that is what the definition is, but really here it means a week, maybe TWO.. I keep going to the place and she keep's saying Manana!!!! its probably all of five dollars to fix them, but its just fustrating. No one can really see in except the one neighbor across the way but I just want them up anyway!

I found out there is a new place now that actually sells art supplies, so I am going to begin painting again. I did in Spain some, water colors, but I gave them to Kathy when I left. I use to paint when I was very young. So this should be interesting again. Mostly for my place is what I am doing now but if I find I am enjoying it I may just do it and maybe try to sell them. I really would like to do rendition's of the tropical trees, leaves, flowers that are everywhere. So this is what I am begining with. I saw an idea with Bamboo in Chocolate and Red, but I already have too much of that color in the living room. But it would be interesting to make to sell to someone.

I have not gone out, maybe once or twice since I have been back,for dancing. I been concentrating on looking for small jobs. I may have a condo I sold for my friend Christina and Joe. They actually have two on the beach very nice completely furnished so this could be a nice commission. I have contacted Los Suenos yesterday but no repsonse yet for Christmas. I have a couple of maybe small consulting jobs. But I am just relaxing and trying not to stress about things.

Now the rainy season has hit, its really a bad storm this week. Rivers are over flowing, streets are all flooded hip high, mountains falling down and trees in the roads and rivers. Crashing into the bridges, even ours. This morning I am sitting looking in the tree tops at some huge birds, when I heard a crashing noise below. I looked at the churning river the color of coffee with milk, Its force is powerfull, shoving huge trees under the small bridge causing it to rip some of the wood off the bridge and bend the metal. The sound was so loud it was shocking! I was wittnessing it all. No one else saw everyone was inside because the rain is so intense. But I sat on the balcony and watched from above. Now the bridge has some small damage which will have to be repaired. It is the only entrance to the apartments.

Then I went once again with a taxi, it is impossible to walk anywhere the rain is so hard, no umbrella either! and I tried to get the drapes. But yet once again Manana!!!
So now I am here at Rossy's the smell of lizano is strong, this is the typical Costa Rican Sause they put on the rice and beans. I like it but sometimes it makes me feel strange the smell..

They called the rice and beans, gallo pinto. Its brown looking like Dirty rice. It is good especially with fried eggs.

I don't eat much of it, I am not a rice eater any more. I rarely eat Pasta, Rice, bread, potatos, but when I do endulge, I eat small portions of it, only once in a great while. Yesterday I ate something called chamote. It was yellow in color and mashed like potatos, I discovered its there sweet potato, its mild and slightly sweet and the texture is really good. I enjoy so much all the different varieties of veggies and fruits. Not to mention the DEVINE COFFEE!!! I drink way to much of that!! but its so dang good.. pure. It comes from here. You have to understand, that Starbucks is one of the biggest exporters from here. They but good beans but burn them in the states, the flavor is so incorrect. Here the same beans are cooked in a process either with sugar or with out, the sugar extracts the acidity in the bean, making the Coffee so delicous and with out all the acid oils. Even the Process with out is really rich and good. Personally I think that Starbucks is extremely over rated. There is not one in this country but they buy an awefull lot of there production of coffee here. well enjoy the photos more to come now that I have the converter.

Ice, Our electric/ phone/ cell phone/ company and Miro

This morning I got up around 8:00 drank coffee at my breakfast, and sat on the balcony watching the birds. Its was warm already at 8:00, my bedroom is mostly glass, so its pretty warm when the sun comes up waking me early.
After I thought I should go to Ice and ask about my house phone, I had previously, so they could reinstall. But of course, you have to have a paid receipt of electricty, and directions to the house. NO ADRESSES so for example, The Direction is, 50 meters,south of the yellow bridge,off the aveneda Pastor Diaz the road entering El Limbo, and across the small personal bridge to the complex. Well I didn't have the correct directions so I have to ask, the owners to write it out and show a copy of the receipt of electricty and maybe they can install a phone. Problem is I think that the owner never paid for a box to be put out front. Meaning that one of the tennants has to pay for that.. So I may not have a phone. The other thing is I applied for a cell phone but I must wait till Decemeber till they have a new line. I asked about internet and it is over $130 per month for high speed. So I guess I just continue at Rossys, kind of inconvienient, I like to get on line at night and hang out. So I just deal with it and keep moving forward.
As I was leaving ICE, Pronoused ESAY. I Saw Miro.
Miro is the man who owns the mountain here in Jaco, he bought it some 20 some odd years ago for like 75 cents a hectora, He is a very rich man, and has contributed all the roads to be paved in Jaco. I mean every one of them. The government has tax money but doesn't do much about road, water or other wise. Miro decided he would take charge and now he has these pavers every where. The roads are really nice. Well he saw me again, he saw me last Sunday walking and stopped and asked me to go to lunch with him. I know who he is but he did not recognize me from the past. I am thinner, and now blond. He showed me all his projects, he is over 8o or more years old, and is constantly busy building projects. Making a board walk here with cars and walkeways and statues, plants. He wants to make a mermaid, and have me pose for it. He is serious. Marianna the Mermaid.. funny because when I was little lived in the pool Day in and day out. I was waterskiing at age 6, I taught Swimming for many years in High school and later on in life. I am a water freak. I use to pretend I was a mermaid. Now all these years later this man wants to make a bronze statue of me as a mermaid, to put here on the beach?
I laughed very hard but he is serious, he said it again today.
Anyway we had lunch last Sunday and I listend to his very interesting life, he is Yugoslavian, had a furniture factory for many years, he fought in the war and was in prison for many years in Yugoslavia. There is more, but If you read back to the begining of my blogs you will see and interesting story about him and the mountain, the restuarant he was building and Eida, this friend of mine. Who I shared my story with and she horned in and took charge of trying to get a piece of the mountain. He did not like me at all, in fact he was rude to me constantly, but something has changed. Now he adores me and is constantly looking for me. He is a genuis, inventor, and buider. Late 80s and has fire in his blood. Actually for his age he looks GREAT, still very handsome. Well it seems were building a nice friendship now. He took me today to see his new castle he is building WOW O WOW THE VIEWS ARE 360 the most incredible in Jaco. all the beaches, mountains the town totally everything it sits on the very top of a jungle mountain and its enormus. I know have the computer chip to take photos once again so look forward to seeing some really cool photos in a few days.
I don't know but he seems to be taking me under his wing, I am carefull I don't say much to him and I don't ask for anything. I just listen to his promises. I am very cautious, I have heard so many people promise and never come through, and of course his past has something to do with how I am responding to him.
He really didn't like me before, but now I hope its going to be a good friendship. He is a strong powerfull man, and I could use some help. Everyone knows Miro, and the Mountain. So it proved to be a very good day. I enjoyed seeing the views from the top of the jungle mountain, WOW no lie its so breathtaking.
Then later I went and found some little things for the apartment. Now I am going to walk home and visit with Magaly. She Is friends with a friend of mine but now we have become friends.

Well lots of people are here at Rossys now its about 4:30 afternoon. First ime in a long time I have seen so many people at once. It have been a beautiful day in Paradise.

I want to thank Lora,

I had a comment today on an older blog, it was from a woman named Lora, I do not know you but I want to say thank you for your words. Its nice that someone actually understands what they are reading here.
Thank you Lora It was a comment on the Blog NOT THERE YET.

Still working on my place. This evening I was sitting on the balcony, I am on a second floor. It over looks a muddy river because its rainy season and very large old trees that are enormous. The philodendrums that cover the base and centers of the trees are absolutely huge. They could cover my whole body. It has nice grounds, one of the workers there is putting natural flat slate rocks on the surface of the building and on all the walkways. I have large plants and two teak Costa Rican style chairs on the small balcony. As I sat I thought about how peacefull I felt, and how quiet my brain was. Not a bit of turmoil, and strife. I took a big breath, and thought if only my children would come and see how it is here. They would like my new place and it would be a fun place for them to come and hang out for a vacation. But I know they will probably not.
One can not possibly afford it the other I am sure could , but has no desire to come and see what I find interesting here.
I have always wanted them to visit and see some of the sites, enjoy the beaches, the quad rides in the jungles, the Canopy zip lines, the rafts, the crock tours, the food, or experience a different culture. My hope is some day they will.

The rest of the week my plan is finish painting and get things in order. One of my readers is coming on the 19th, with a lot of his friends. I want the place somewhat together so they can stay over and enjoy there time here. Its nice to meet the people who follow my blog. I have met quite a few and some have become good friends.

Now, the weather is cool in the evenings, we are having some rainy nights, and cloudy afternoons. The humidity is high at times, but I still enjoy it.
I sure hope I can run into San Jose this week like I planned but it all depends.

Tonight I made some fresh chicken, bought from the street fair on Friday, it is hormone free, was really soft and good, I made fresh beets that are sweet as candy, and a spinach salad. The spinach here is different its not leafy. It's leaves are small and pointed, crunchy, almost sticky but the flavor is similar a bit more pungent.

Well off to walk home, its about half a mile from Rossy's Cafe Del Mar. Its about 9:00 p.m. so soon I will go. I actually have pillows tonight to sleep on and a bed! amazing when you do with out how you appreciate little simple things. Believe me, I appreciate everything, doing with out bare essentials for so long. Just to have a pillow is a blessing to me.

Yippeeeee My Apartment is coming along

You see when you believe you can do something...
You will find it will happen. All you have to do is believe.

I was so believing in coming back here, why? many curious questions as to why. But for the best reason is my peace of mind. I have always in my life had goals, aspirations.. and achievements.

Some simple some complicated, but I manage if I believe hard enough and trust, that things will happen and they happen.
I wanted badly to find a place, low rent, Nice, located close to the beach. Well some how some way I ran across one cheaper than I have ever paid here. In a very nice little area all by itself.

The landlord is Tica, and the husband is Gringo. They have a guy that does everything there, he has installed the three chandeliers that I designed for my old office over my bar, I painted the living room all chocolate brown deep dark, with my red leather sofa I had in my office. It was in the Century 21 office for the past year, they didn't want to pay for it, so I went and got it and put in my new place! it looks great.. I believed so hard that I would have this and now its all coming together. I been doing some computer work, and it is enough now to pay for the place.
The kitchen is a caramel color and tomorrow I paint both the bedrooms. The landlord gave me a discount for all the paint and they are so nice. I am happy after staying in a storage room for almost three weeks was horrible. So this is like heaven, its got to be one of the best places I have had in alot of years.
Yesterday inbetween painting, I ran quickly to the la ferria, bough all sorts of fruits, and veggies, flowers and plants. Its really coming alive!

So if anyone is coming to Costa Rica, please contact me, and lets make a plan to visit, and eat at my place.
Good weekend to all.