Merry Christmas to all and the most brilliant New Year to come!

Feliz Navidad!

Christmas is just around the corner. WOW! We have officially been in Costa Rica for 9 months now, time does fly!

Our sleepy little town is starting to get busy. I have been warned that there will be absolutely no way to drive anywhere from the days before Christmas to after New Year's. Thank goodness we have shoes that are made for walking. I have heard many stories about how it is here during the Holidays, and now we get to experience it first hand. No worries, Pura Vida.

Costa Ricans get an extra pay check in December and the people from San Jose and Central Valley plan their Holiday trips and come to the beach towns. This should all be very interesting!

As far as our plans, well, we are in decompression mode. No Black Friday shopping, no running around buying unnecessary gifts to fill up the space under the Christmas Tree. I did find a small tree, it is about 1.5 feet tall, for $1.00. I brought it home, and the girls decorated it. Spectacular!  They spent about 2 hours or more making popcorn strings and homemade ornaments. So far, that has been the most heartfelt moment watching them create, and enjoying the moment.

We will be celebrating Christmas in July at the cabin in Minnesota. I am so looking forward to that. Making an incredible meal on the grill with all the fixings, family and friends showing up to take a swim, enjoy company, and just being together. So, it is a win win!

2014 was an incredible year for us. So many changes, so many things to let go of that did not serve us. It seemed everything was falling apart, but actually it was coming together. We learned about faith, trust, and true love. Once you take that first step into the unknown, your whole world changes. I am grateful for the lessons learned, the love and friendships that have shown themselves, the moments where there seemed to be absolutely no light or hope. Those are the moments you have to dig deep and know absolutely who you are and where you would like to go. No matter how tough a situation seems to be, there is always something right next to it, a solution, a thought, a kind word, answers.

I am so looking forward to 2015!!! A fresh new start in a country we have fallen in love with. I can say that with certainty from the discussions we have had as a family. Our main goal is to start working on our Cedula so we can obtain residency. Life becomes a bit more simple once the process starts. No more every 90 days you have to leave. It will be great to have the opportunity to chose when we would like to take a mini vacation.

So, saying all of this, we are ready and relaxed. Finally letting ourselves just BE.

Merry Christmas to each and everyone one of you! May all your hopes, dreams and wishes come true for you as 2014 comes to a close and a bright, wonderful new chapter begins in 2015! Expect MIRACLES!

I want to wish you a Merry Christmas from the bottom of my heart!

Please click on the link above!

Pura Vida and so much love! Thanks for sharing our journey with us! We are truly in a state of gratitude!

Finally...our trip to Granada Nicaragua

Buenos Dias!

It has taken me awhile to get this all together for a little insight on our trip to Granada Nicaragua. It was an amazing time and an absolutely beautiful country with so much history. Our guide told us that the men are finally returning after the conflict (war) the country had. The Iran/Contra mess that happened....remember? Well, the country is working on coming back around and living in peace. A ways to go as of yet, but forward movement none the less.

Interesting traveling to another country. I remember in school how we were taught that Nicaragua was such a horrible place with not nice people. The things that we were taught! It was amazing to say the least to be in this environment, even just for 3 short days. The Nico's and Nica's are very proud of their country. The most common question that was asked, "how do you like my country?" Well, the answer is, we fell in love with it.

So far, the lesson we have learned is to be VERY non judgmental about ANYTHING! All the research we did for over a year on the internet to come to Central America.....I am finding out....a lot of crap out there! LOL! Some things are as they are, but most, not so much. And I do not mean that in a negative way! The learning curve has been steep, but worth every second of it, and I would not change it, I am sure my family would agree.

So here are some pictures of our trip to Granada Nicaragua. A special shout out to Avispa's Adventures. Thank you for making it such a memorable experience and guiding us along the way! Much love to you guys! I will also include the link if you are looking for an unforgettable tour anywhere in the region!

Avispa's Adventures

Crossing the border from Costa Rica to Nicaragua

A church in Granada

The Central Church in Granada. 

Another church

The BEST DAMN cup of coffee I ever had! 

Night life in Granada

Ok...the girls are done for the evening

Muy Bonita! 

A park in the center of Granada

Ran across this pic...we must have been goofing off!

The boat is ready for our tour of Lake Nicaragua

One of the many islands on the Lake

Monkey Island

Lake Nicaragua from the village of Rivas right across the border. Two volcanoes in the distance.

The girls sharing a soda

Yes...this is ONE order of food. YUM!!!

Kurt found his home......LOL!



Adios and so much love! More to come! 

Name change and a few other things! Formerly "Minnesota to Costa Rica"

Buenos Diaz!

I changed the title of our blog from Minnesota to Costa Rica to 10 Degrees North. A bit catchy, don't you think? Officially 6 months of living Pura Vida! A mile stone to say the least. The past is the past, and living in the NOW. Such a relief in so many ways.

Wonderful experience occurring every day. We are so blessed. The phrase, "If you do not like where you are, move, you are not a tree" comes to mind. The process of uprooting, letting go of everything that did not serve us, and settling in, what a ride it has been! There have been moments of rough spots, don't get me wrong, but living here gives you a moment to find a solution. And there is ALWAYS a solution.

Finding community, one thing that myself personally was searching for. Wonderful, beautiful people have shown up with open arms. Relationships are being built. Healthy, honest, heartfelt relationships. Everyone has their story, so interesting, for whatever reason they have shown up here. Blessings to each and everyone of them! I am looking forward to the future for all of us.

I guess it was my turn to go to the doctor. Ear infection in BOTH ears. It has lasted 3 weeks. The pain is gone now, and my ruptured ear drums are healing. They still have the feeling of being plugged a bit. I did grab ear plugs at the pharmacy so I can enjoy swimming. Missing that a lot!

Rainy Season is full on! It arrived a few months late, due to El Nino. When it rains, it is a downpour. There could be 6 to 12 inches on the ground in a matter of minutes and usually last about a half hour. It is so green an lush here now. Such a difference from when we arrived. And much cooler.

And the mold monster has appeared. Going to the store today to get charcoal to put in all the nooks and crannies. Windows are wide open, fans on full blast. We left the bitter cold and snow in Minnesota for a tropical climate. Changes need to be made, and procedures need to be adjusted. This too shall pass. A learning experience for sure!

The girls received their first report cards! I am so dang proud of them! Taking them from everything they knew and moving them to a foreign country, with a new language. They are resilient and flourishing. Both of them have straight A's and there teachers gave them very good comments.

Samantha is now officially certified for Open Water! Again, so proud of her! She is soon to be working on her Advance Diving, Rescue Diving Specialty, and then when she is 18 she can become a Master Diver.

Last weekend we went to Granada Nicaragua for 3 days with Avispas Adventures. Amazing time, for sure. Getting pics ready for that Blog. More to come!

Thanks for taking the time and sharing our adventure! Pura Vida and much love to all!

Sam's first Certified Open Water Dive with Rich Coast Diving

Hannah goofing off in the pool

Yes...another post...getting caught up!

Hello again!

I think a bit of depression sunk in for a few weeks after we returned from the States in July. It happens when you live in another country. What did we come here for? Who or what can we be in service to? Lots of questions, and a bit of time to figure it out.

The girls started school again at the end of July and have been going full blast ever since. Immersed in the language and the culture, they are learning something everyday. Some days are better than others, getting lost in the language, but moving forward none the less.

Sam went on her first field trip to the big City of San Jose with her 9th grade class. She was a bit nervous about it since it is over 4 hours away, and her Spanish is a bit broken yet. Her teacher called me and reassured us she would be just fine. They went to a huge Catholic Church, and also a Mosque. And of course the big mall in the city. Sam appeased herself with a strawberry shake from Carl Jr's. LOL!

Been getting out and about, and have met some more wonderful people. We are now working with Patas y Manos (paws and hands) a non profit organization that helps animals and humans. Yesterday, we had a bake sale, and it was very successful. Also, we are walking fostered dogs 3 times a week so far. They are so very grateful and loving.....excited when we show up, and even more excited when we take them to the beach! Some of the dogs have been abandoned, very common here, others have been abused. One of the older dogs we walk (LOVE HER SO MUCH!) had her hip broken by someone kicking her, and also took a machete to her head. She is partially blind, and a bit of a limp, her bark is fading, but her soul SHINES! What an amazing beast.......it is all about gaining trust, with animals and humans alike. Say what you mean, and mean what you say. Actions speak much louder than words.

Hannah is totally in love with the animal rescue also. She takes time and speaks to everyone of the dogs, and they sit quietly until she is done with her conversation. I have not gotten close enough to her to hear what she is saying, but I have the feeling she is being a Mom, and giving them each a good talk! LOL! Her compassion is amazing.

Sam is working very hard on her diving. She has done 4 dives in open water and has gone down 60 feet! Holy Cow! I love when she comes home from dive class at Rich Coast Diving and tells me her stories of what she has seen and experienced. Next weekend will be her big written test....and then she will be certified for Open Water!!! So proud of her! We may need to give her one whole weekend of sleep and food....and nothing else. LOL! That will be her reward for all her hard work. Her dive specialty of choice will be Rescue Diving, and Shark Specialties.

Some very good people have shown up in our lives. Taking us to the best markets, and showing us around outside of our little town of Coco. It has been a great adventure, getting to know the local people, and how REAL commerce works. The exchange of energy and money have been amazing. It is affordable here, you just need to know where and when to go.

No pics this time around.....just a short chat and getting caught up. Labor Day.....maybe I will go fishing for a bit!

Pura Vida!

Happy Labor Day 2014!

Buenos Diaz!

Happy Labor Day Weekend to everyone in the States! I hope you are having fun in the sun, eating good food, and enjoying every moment with family and friends!

It has been a bit since I blogged last, settling in after our trip to the States in July, girls are back at school, and life continues. I wanted to share a very special trip we took at the beginning of August. It was amazing, heartbreaking, and a definite "please put on your bucket list" sort of trip.

The road leading to Ostinal Beach Costa Rica

We went to Ostinal Beach Costa Rica to see the Oliver Ridley Turtles come in to nest. This is what is called an arribadas. It lasts about 3 to 4 days as the turtles come on to the beach to lay their eggs. It took about 2.5 hours to get there from Coco Beach, south. 

The locals sorting turtle eggs

After they are sorted and counted, the eggs are taken to the ocean and washed. This stops the growing of the embryo.

The beach, it look a bit like a killing ground.

The turtles arriving at sunset.

Oliver Ridley Turtle laying eggs.

More girls coming onto the beach.

Looking for the perfect nesting spot.

Sam was none too happy about this situation.

Hannah, walking one of many tired turtles back to the sea.

We arrived before sunset and the turtles were already coming in. Not what I (we) expected. There were so many people on the beach counting turtle eggs, putting them in bags, and then washing them in the ocean. My first thought was to scream STOP!!! What is going on here?

Thank goodness for our guide. She is amazing and very knowledgeable. Amy (our guides name). Turtle eggs are a delicacy for Costa Ricans. They are allowed the first day of nesting to gather eggs and a limited amount. There are government officials everywhere watching and counting. We were told, the first laying of the eggs will not survive, since other turtles will come and dig a nest on top of another nest. And once those eggs touch, they will die. Ok, this is making a bit more sense???

ADIO is the organization that allows Costa Ricans to pick the first eggs that are laid. The money in turn is used to help the turtles. The survival rate of baby turtles has gone from 2% to 9% in the last 10 years. I will take that as an improvement!

There are guards that walk the beach at night, and during the hatching, local women come out and scare away the dogs, vultures, and I am sure humans so the babies can return to the sea.

Another huge adventure and lesson of the culture we have chosen to be in! This is one for sure to put on your bucket list...every range of emotion will be felt. And to see Mother Nature at her best!

Pura Vida!

 http://www.ticotimes.net/2014/08/23/costa-ricas-playa-ostional-a-community-that-lives-for-sea-turtles Please follow this link for the full article!

Another Day in Paradise

Another day in Paradise!

I was walking the girls back an forth today to Marine Biology and Dive Class. On one of our trips back home, I saw this beautiful Tico women, whom I have seen many times with her 3 wheeled bicycle, her bags, and her perfectly pressed frilly apron.  She never shows up with out her perfect apron.

She digs in the garbage cans and dumpsters for aluminum to trade in.

Going back a bit, I have seen her at least 2x's a week since we moved here. I did some research, and found out her story. She has a few children and used to drink heavily. That is not the case now.  She collects cans, ect to support her family now.  Everyday. That is not a lot of money.

I saw her again today on our little road on one of our trips back. I had ONE Colones (equal to $2.00) left after paying for class.  That is it.  I approached her and handed it to her.

She threw up her arms, and in Spanish probably said praise the Lord, God is good!!! Working on that bit.  We looked at each other for a moment, and we grabbed each other and hugged, I mean REALLY hugged. She also gave me a kiss. I stood back with tears in my eyes.  No words, just love.

My plan is now to gather some of the coins we get in change, and when I see her, give them too her. Probably feels like winning the lottery. I just wish so I was in the position to do more. I am working on that.

Lots of words were exchanged in that moment, most of them not understood on the linear level, but the most important thing that was exchanged? Compassion and love for another human being.

There is a reason we show up for each other.

When you have had nothing, you know what it is like. To be able to give something out of what seems like nothing....that is a beautiful thing. Priceless.....

Pura Vida and much love......

Back in Costa Rica

Annexation Day Parade in Costa Rica

Colorful Dancers

Sophia and Sam

I think Hannah may be hot....

Catarata Llanos de Cortes 

Catarata Llanos de Cortes

Back in the land of Pura Vida! Woo Hoo!

Safely back in Playas Del Coco as of July 18th 2014. Our plane trip back. Good Lord! We had a family of 4 sitting right behind us from Dallas to Liberia Guanacaste. Kurt was extremely exhausted, and we were all tired. He tried to sleep, but not with a 10 year old right behind him kicking the seat non stop. And behind the girls and I, well, a 2 year old that did not know how to use his inside voice. He would SCREAM at the top of his lungs at any given time. Well, of course our patience was running very thin. I must have said something a bit too loud. The father said, "well, it is an airplane ride!" Ummmm.....so that is the standard for an airplane ride? Ok then! Grateful for my girls, let me tell you. We arrived at customs at the airport, and the 2 year old took off out of the gated line and started running around and yelling. The guards at the airport were none too happy. It is a different world down here, and minding your P's and Q's are very important. I wish them the best of luck on their vacation!

Then we had to get our baggage checked. Here we go! Of course we were pulled aside once again, they grabbed two of our suitcases and started rummaging through them. The customs agent was asking how much the clothes cost, ect. Kurt was trying to explain to him. I stepped forward and kindly told the gentleman, we have 17 other bags to search to go along with the 2 he had opened. He dropped his head, sighed, and took Kurt's passport and went into the back room. He returned and told us to go and get out of there. Back to my reason of traveling light from now on! LOL! Crisis adverted!

Now we are unpacked once again and digging our feet in. It did feel like coming home, and that is something I needed to know. More information, and all is well right now.

The girls were in the Annexation of Costa Rica Parade with their school! So proud of them for supporting their adopted country! It is sure a cultural learning experience for them, and I hope they carry it with them for the rest of their lives.

OH! One more thing, Kurt and I splurged on fishing poles! You do not need a fishing license to fish of the beach, so we are in! I got up at 4:00 am Saturday morning, made coffee, and got things together. Kurt and I were off to the beach! We fished for about 2.5 hours, Kurt caught 2 Puffer Fish (second most poisonous animal on the planet, the first is the Golden Frog), at least we were not skunked! LOL! This will take some time to learn the patterns, and feeding times of the fish. Such a challenge and we are both up for it!

Sam has started her Master Dive course. Book work first, then training starts this weekend coming up with equipment. I am so very excited for her! Might as well, come on, we are in Costa Rica, and she will be able to take this anywhere in the world she chooses to go. The girls are also going out with Rich Coast Diving and their Marine Biology Class snorkeling on Saturday. I may go with them. OOOO YA! Opportunities abound, and I am so very grateful for everything that shows up and the experience we are having.

We went to the most beautiful water fall yesterday. You see the pictures above? They do not do it justice! We hiked down a very steep and rocky foot path and ended up in a piece of paradise. It was not of this world! We swam across the swimming hole and went behind the waterfall. Kurt had his Go Pro, and a young man asked him if he would record the proposal to his girlfriend! Aww...how sweet! And he did. I sat behind the waterfall for about 1/2 hour, just taking the peace and the energy in. Letting all my worries wash away with the water. Perfect.

Today it rained in Coco. Finally, 2 months into rainy season and we can count on one hand how many times it has rained. It was truly a blessing. Guanacaste is in very deep drought right now because of El Nino. Any excess rain could be sent our way. Much appreciated!

Back to our life in a little town in Costa Rica. One thing I have learned, small town is small town anywhere in the world, if you know what I mean! LOL!

Pura Vida and much love!

Back to Minneapolis/St Paul

Ok...packing up from the cabin and our first stop was at a hotel on Spirit Mountain in Duluth, Mn. It is a glorious wonderful place to stay.

The girls had some of their friends over for one last HURRAH in the pool and pizza. My friend Jen came with her daughter, and we had some time to catch up and talk. Thanks Jen for being present on our trip, it means the world to me and also our friendship!

Off to the Cities! We spent 5 more days there. The girls got to spend quality time with their Grandfather and Aunt. Water Park, Mall of America, and many other things were on the agenda. Let us not forget the China World Buffet! UGH....again...too much food.

Speaking of food, especially wheat, Hannah ended up having the same symptoms she had before we moved to Costa Rica when she ate wheat. Now we all know. She is fine with wheat down here, but not in the States. My conclusion is that it may not be the wheat totally, it is the chemicals that are sprayed on the wheat and that they are genetically modified. I asked, and the answer showed itself. Hannah is much better now and back in her groove.

When we left back in April, it was quite the whirlwind. It was good to go back and tie up loose ends, ask some questions, and see where things sit. Kurt found a lot of answers and healing on our journey up North. The girls got to reconnect with their friends, and I asked them how they felt about it. One comment was made to me from Sam. "If we had not moved away, this magical time would not have happened." I think they all realized that it is in the NOW that counts. Not how many miles away your are. It was good to hear as a Mom. Hopefully planning on some of these girls to come down this winter and show them around a bit. That would be wonderful!

Are people going to show up and visit? It sure sounds good in words. I hope some of them will step out of their comfort zones and stay with us. That is my intent. I have always had an open door policy no matter where I have lived. This should all be very interesting.

We also went shopping. Finding things we could not get in our area of Costa Rica, or that were way too expensive. Many trips made to Savers for clothes, sheets, pillow cases, and dishes. Nothing major, just a few things to make our lives a little more comfortable. OH....my favorite thing? Pillows! Soft fluffy brand new pillows! It is the simple things.......

Another insight of who we showed up for and who showed up for us when we made our trip back. Now we know, and it is in the knowing. We met a quite a bit of resistance from Kurt's family, but again, just more information to carry with us.

I want to thank everyone that helped make this trip possible. You know who you are and we send our gratitude and love to all.....cannot wait until next year!

Travel Light!

It is good to come home to Costa Rica....so very good.......

P.S. Kurt was ready for TSA on our return trip, he wore spandex shorts and a t shirt, and yes, he did get pulled aside! LOL! Thanks for making a bad situation a bit more tolerable with humor!

Our trip to Minnesota July 4th

Hello!

I had to go back to my last post July 4th 2014 to see what I was up to, where I was at, and what was going on. It has been a bit, so here we go!

We flew back to Minnesota July 4th. Ok, never flying on the Holiday again! Right before we left, security got ramped up, and yes, I was pin pointed by TSA. At the Liberia Airport I was pulled aside for a search before I got on the airplane. Patted down, and my carry on was looked through. That was not so bad. Just frustrating because I KNEW I had nothing to hide.

Dallas....to catch our connecting flight. Oh yes, I got pulled aside again. This time, not so nicely. The lady that searched me was not so nice and very aggressive. It did not help that by this time I totally lost it emotionally. Yes, I did. Gone gone gone......$400 prescription glasses scratched, and two of our computer monitors, totally spider webbed and cracked.

Never ever traveling that heavy again......ever! Welcome back to the United States.......

Finally, Minneapolis/St. Paul airport. Could not grab our bags fast enough and get outside. Whew! We made it!

We stayed a few nights in the Cities at my sister in laws and then headed up North. We stayed at Black Bear Casino that night, and visited with family and friends. It was a good meeting point! They had the Northwoods Buffet that night, and oh did we eat! Way too much, but that is how it goes when your intake has been so extremely different. They had everything we were missing! Probably could have lived without it, but it was there. Another lesson learned!

Off to the cabin on Stone Lake in Northern Minnesota! So excited to get there...unpack our gear, and relax! We were very blessed that one of Kurt's friends lent us his Cadillac to drive for the week! Not too bad I must say!

Our healing place. Includes outhouse and everything!

Beautiful Big Stone Lake

So good to be back! I thought I would be all tied up in knots returning to Minnesota, actually, I was not. I felt a relaxed easy feeling. All the past issues had been resolved and I could actually enjoy every moment. Finally! It sure was time and well deserved!

The girls each had two friends up to stay with us for 3 of the days we were at the cabin. What a great bunch of girls, 6 total.  No whining, just giggles and lots of fun! Camping, hiking, fishing, paddle boating, swimming, and of course S mores! It was pure joy listening and watching them all do their own thing. The parents behaved, we were seen and not heard....LOL!

My Ante Susie showed up a few times while we were at the cabin. Wonderful to see her and speak with her. She certainly is my Dear One, and one of the last family members I have.

We got to spend a precious week up there, and I am already planning my next trip North in July of 2015!

OK! Heading back to the Twin Cities! More to come! I will break this up a bit so it is not so long to read.

Love from Costa Rica!

Happy 4th of July!

Hola and Happy 4th of July to all my North American friends!

So today is the day. We fly back to Minnesota for 2 weeks. Whew....we first arrived in Costa Rica on April 8th 2014 and now taking a trip back. Mixed emotions this morning, excited, curious, waking up feeling I will miss my new home. That is a wonderful sign!

We took a trip down to the beach with another family yesterday afternoon. It was so hot here! The ocean was cool and the waves were coming in. I was sitting on the beach as the sun was going down looking at the silhouettes of the children playing in the surf. An overwhelming feeling of peace came over me, and I thought to myself, this is what Pura Vida feels like. What an amazing place to raise our children. Things are not perfect, and we are still learning, but I still feel like I am on an adventure.

I was speaking with my dear friend from Hondorous a day ago and some ideas came about. Only took me a few months to "get it together", though giving myself a break since we planted ourselves in a new country in what seems like a matter of hours. LOL!

I am not going to sugar coat it, the cost of living is more than what we expected. Not crazy high, but on our new budget, it is stretching it a bit tight. Again, there is always a solution.

My friend Mileth knows everything that is growing outside and the seasons. What a wonderful gift she has and I am excited to learn from her. When we return, we are going to start a pantry for both of our families. Cashews, almonds, wild cilantro, lemon balm, mango's, papayas, you get the feel of this. Roasting, blending, preserving with all that nature has to offer. Ding Ding! There is no reason to buy these products and their counterparts at the store! I guess I just needed to ground myself once and for all and start looking outside of myself. They also have an outdoor oven, how wonderful to make some bread!

And then starts the tincture making. This really excites me. To be able to have your own Apothecary at your finger tips. We are also going to make screens for drying herbs.

My intent on this is to expand. Supporting both of our families and doing what we love. Excellent I say!

Time to finish the last of the packing. Riding on the wings of Angels today.

Much love to you all!

Pura Vida!

End of June already???

Wow!

Hard to believe it is the end of June already! Time just seems to flow.....

July 8th, it will be 3 months since our move from Minnesota. It seems so much longer than that, but we have created quite a home for ourselves, and enjoying every moment of our new adventure.

We have decided to take a 2 week trip back North in July. After much discussion, all of us decide that it would be better to go now, than wait until Christmas. The winters the past 3 to 5 years in Minnesota have been almost unbearable. Huge amounts of snow, and cold, cold temps. I think we are going to give ourselves a well deserved break for at least one winter!

There are a few things we need that we cannot find down here, or that are WAY to over priced. Clothes are a big thing on our list since we have lost a bit of weight since we have arrived. A list has been made and checked twice. No NON necessities will be traveling back with us.

The girls also want to meet up with their friends and spend some time. The first week will be spent at the cabin.....canoeing, swimming, fire in the pit, fishing off the dock, and walking in the beautiful nature we used to call home. The next week will be spent in the Twin Cities for some family time.

There are some mixed feelings about this...are we going HOME or back NORTH? My thought is home is where we are...no matter where we land. I am sure there will be a good post once I return to CR. May healing occur during our stay......

My intent is that this will be a healing trip for all of us. Leaving as we did, with everything having gone upside down. Hopefully we can all go back with new eyes and a feeling of adventure. This trip will also show each of us that the world is at our finger tips....anytime we need a break.....we are allowed to go! I told the girls that, Costa Rica is our home base now, and that the world is our Oyster!

Top on our list when we return North:
Savers
A full on Turkey Dinner
Tator Tot Hotdish
Peanut Butter
Pickles

Interesting topic Kurt and I discussed yesterday. Hannah had a horrible gluten intolerance when we were in the States. She was on a wheat free/dairy free diet for a few years. She would get stomach aches, diarrhea, and headaches if she got into anything with process wheat in it. That was a huge task to take on, and my kitchen turned into a laboratory. After awhile with much research, it all became easier.

Her teacher had spoken about this and that she had a friend with the same symptoms. But after going to France, that person could eat all the pastries they wanted. So putting 2 and 2 together, we thought we would give it a shot with Hannah, slowly but surely. We still do not eat a lot of wheat based food, but when we do, she is perfectly fine. No troubles! Saying this, my thought is that is has to do with the chemicals they use when growing the wheat in the States, and of course all of the GMO's that are presented to us. Very interesting, and our trip will prove this beyond a doubt.

Well, time to start packing and getting everything in order once again...hmmm...seems like I did this only a few months ago! LOL! This time is much easier...a few changes of clothes and our toothbrushes!

Pura Vida and take care! Will see you on the other side!

Something was scratching at our window, we opened the blinds and this showed up.


The meaning of Iguana's


Yesterday started with a BANG. Literally, I went to get my coffee at 5:30 am, sat down on my Yoga Ball to start work, and it exploded. Some how I screwed up my knee and my back of course. Waiting for the swelling to subside so I can call Dr. Nick to whip me back into shape.  Feeling a bit down in the chops, I was to the point of feeling my body back to health, walking, swimming, good food....feeling great! Now a set back. So frustrating!.

Info on Astrology right now

Mercury Retrograde is hitting hard right now. Old emotions and thoughts that have not been healed are now coming up to the fore front to be released. Things just do not seem to work, and forward motion in our lives seems to be at a standstill. Being an intuitive and healer, it is still beyond frustrating.

We are planning a trip North in July for a few weeks. The girls want to see their friends, and I am working my butt off on this one so it will all come together. Kurt needs to say good bye, and myself, I just want to sit at the cabin for a week and chill out. I know what I left and who I left, and it is done. I will enjoy myself immensely in the quietness of where I grew up.

I was told by a dear friend of mine to set boundaries before our trip and during our trip. She had mentioned that people would be asking us to stay, and questioning our move to Costa Rica. She had also said that we need to stay the course and remember the higher reasons of our leap of faith. We have landed here for a reason, though they are not quite crystal clear yet.

Maybe it is just our family....but what we are experiencing with the people we had relationships with are totally falling away.  When we make contact and reach out, people are too busy, or seem disinterested. My question is, all the years of friendship, love, support....do they just disintegrate? Out of sight...out of mind? That is what is it feeling like now. It makes me very sad at a heart level, but will push me to once again find OUR family.

This blog post is a great departure from all the adventures I have previously posted. As I said in the beginning, I was going to share every aspect of what is unfolding. No holding back. You could say, learning to let things go, gaining a different perspective, muddling through the confusion, questioning yourself is an adventure all on its own. Perspective baby.....perspective.

The Iguana yesterday showing up was very powerful. I am grateful for every teacher that shows up. Please click on the link to see what the Spiritual meaning of this wonderful animal is about. Taking it all in right now.

Happy Solstice everyone! Take some time out today and breathe....feel the energies of the new season....and just BE in the moment.

Pura Vida!

My first Sour Sop....So good!

The girls made Kurt a proper Tico breakfast on Father's Day

Dragon Fruit and Star Fruit directly from our neighbors yard!

Hannah and her new little sister Sophia! 

Meet Sophia....this was her first day at school....she was beyond excited! 

Buenos Dias!

Another week or so has gone by...whew! Let me take that back...it has not GONE by...everyday has been a new and exciting experience.

Last week Kurt caught one of the 4 viruses that show up during the change of the seasons. We are now going from dry season to rainy season. This one was intestinal and progressed very fast. Vomiting, diarrhea, extreme high fever. It started on a Saturday and I brought him to the doctor Monday morning ASAP. He received a shot to stop the stomach cramping. His digestive system had already started shutting down. The doctor prescribed eating every 20 minutes whether he felt like it or not, and also fresh coconut water, which I purchased 2 on our way home. He also received 5 vials of liquid containing good bugs for his gut and electrolytes to be taken everyday at bedtime. I am still very amazed on how medicine is practiced down here. Taking in every bit of them listening to their patients bodies. Kurt is now back on his feet and back in the game!

Saturday a few of us got together and planted trees over in the community of Hermosa. Not little seedlings, but mature trees ranging from 10 to 14 feet tall. I guess they planted seedlings last year and they were dug up and stolen. The local Clergy came, said prayers for us and the trees. He also blessed the plantings with Holy Water. So good! May they thrive! On the other side of this, I thought it was quite funny that we were planting trees in a jungle setting....but I do understand...the whole country is working on re forestation. Just my crazy mind working over time!

After this, we thought it to be a great idea to stop and have a cold beer or two! So good! As we were having an enjoyable cold beverage, we looked over and 10 Brahma cows of all different sizes were coming towards us on the road heading for the main street that goes through Coco. OK! The cows got about 20 feet away from the road and myself and 2 other people decided to get up and turn them around. They must have escaped from their fences. We spread our arms out and started talking to them.....and they did turn around! There was one that weighed about 2 tons...she was a beauty.....and needed to walk on the sidewalk and not the dirt road....I told her how precious and beautiful she was......they eventually ended up back to their home. And of course...I did not have my camera.

 We are all feeling better....getting Vitamin D, eating to feed our bodies and not just to eat, losing weight, our skin is getting tan, and exercising everyday. Not working out, walking to school and swimming.....this seems to be our home for now.....feeling into it.....

Also working with our school for scholarships for children in need....from my research, most children locally may go only through the 8th grade. There is so much potential in these young ones and those that desire to further their education. Green Life Academy is an international school that both my children attend. Tuition is incredibly reasonable....but a little boost could be used. Here is the link to our Indiegogo site. If you are inspired, please donate. And if you could share, that would also help so much. Looking at growing and bringing community together!

http://indiegogo.com/projects/help-us-give-the-gift-of-education--2/x/7939741

That is all for now! Pics to follow!

Pura Vida!

Jeep getting repaired and synchronicity

Our new friend the Jeep needs a starter...I know! I know! We just got it...but expected some kind of repairs on it since it is 25 years old. Everything needs a bit of help now and then.

I went out to start it yesterday and the all telling WHIRRRR of the starter....my heart sank. UGH! Instantly pissed, I came back into the house.

Facebook....my greatest source of information and help through the local chat rooms. "ISO reliable mechanic in the Coco area." Ok, that was done. Response time, less than 3 minutes...thank you!

I was told to call a mechanic at this certain shop. I did, explained to him what had happened, and he told me to get it there. Ok? Oh yes, we have to get it rolling and pop the clutch like the old days, I remember! We live on a hill, so that should not be so bad. Kurt came out and got ready to push. I thought I would try it one more time...and low and behold! It started! YIPPPEEEEE! So off I went to the mechanic.

I am still finding out where things are and the names of certain places. I kind of live in a state of blissful oblivion, but when I need something it shows up. I headed off in the direction I was told to go. Came around a corner, and there is a mechanics shop. Now remember, I said "a" mechanics shop. I pulled in, not the correct one, but they were coming out the door headed for me....now what? I asked for the mechanic I spoke to on the phone, never heard of him.....oh oh....Andre came out. Ok...might as well roll with it......

I proceeded to tell them what was wrong and what I thought it needed. (Let me point out, I have worked on heavy equipment, motorcycles, and vehicles my whole life) Andre and his mechanics listened to it, looked at it, and agreed.

I had them all laughing by the time I left. I told them..."not too bad for a Gringo Senorita to know what is going on with her vehicle." I have found a sense of humor about what goes on around you and the situations that come up are met with great acceptance....very nice.....

So as long as our friend is in the shop, I asked for a bit more TLC for it....new spark plugs, oil change, fluids checked, ect.....

The BEST part about this??? When I returned home, I had messages on Facebook on whom I was SUPPOSED to bring the Jeep too in the first place, had gotten not so great reviews. The shop I accidentally ended up at.....they are said to be the best in town.....and of course...there are never any accidents.....

Waiting for the call to come and pick it up.....

Pura Vida and have a remarkable weekend!

Our new vehicle and much more!

Hola! And so more adventures in our Costa Rica!

If you check the post below...you will see some pictures of our last few weeks here. Very cool indeed!

We finally have wheels! A 1989 Jeep Laredo....with all the bells and whistles...LOL! Ok...not so much, but I can pretend. It gets to where we need to go! Some of the windows do not work, the AC definitely does not, and it needs a bit of work. But we love it and it is ours. Long life to you my new friend! We still walk around Coco and the girls walk to school everyday with their Dad, and I have finally started feeling good enough to join them a few times a week! Brilliant!

I finally know Emily's Mom's name. Shirley. A bit of asking...and there it was!

For a few days, Hannah had not been feeling well. Sore throat, headache, a bit of a fever, achy. I thought this too shall pass, and she was feeling a bit rundown. Supporting her with food and supplements. Well, then the bloody noses started. Ok...she used to get them from the dry air up north, so, we have dealt with this before. A day and half passed and she had 3 of them total. We were on our way to Comunidad to go to the bank and another one started. There was a pharmacy next to the bank and I took her in. Doctor on call in the house! $50 USD to see him. Lets go!

He was wonderful! He spoke softly and kindly to both of us. And in English, thank God for small favors! It took him about 45 minutes to get Hannah's nose bleed under control. I told him about the symptoms that lead up to this. He said he would do a full physical on her.

He checked her ears, nose, throat, belly, and all of her pulse points in her body. I watched him while he was doing all of this. He had me look in her throat with the light and asked me if I saw the bumps on her throat, I said yes. The Doctor told me that is bacterial. Well in the states, that would have been a throat swab and a negative strep test! I am not a big fan of anti biotics, and he asked me if I knew about the Zithromax, I told him it is a 5 day dose in the states. Oh no he said, that is too much, 3 days would be fine and she would feel better.

The Doctor told me he also FELT she was stressed! WHO TELLS YOU THAT??? I gave him a hug! Oh...he was listening to my daughters body! Fantastic!

Hannah is 100% back to normal now!

We have our vehicle now. The government Retevee needs to be done on it which is the inspection that is done yearly. So, after researching, we are getting a Tico to take it to the inspection site to get it passed and will do repairs later. If we bring it as Gringo's it will not pass....there is still quite a cultural difference to over come here...being a Gringo is not always such a good thing......more on that later.

I have taken the girls to another beach to explore! We must have spent 5 hours there. Snorkeling was amazing, the water was so clear! The first thought that came to my mind is that I was swimming in an aquarium. Pretty sad thought since I had nothing to compare it too! I am excited to do more exploring....there are 11 different climates here in Costa Rica, and I want to be in every one of them!

Sam will start her deep water dive certification this month! I am so proud of her! And hopefully an internship. Both Sam and Hannah are taking extra Marine Biology classes on Saturdays with Rich Coast Diving. Per my research, there are only 6 coastlines the turtles nest on...and one of them is ours! So exciting...this season is coming up soon!

Kurt and  are working on our relationship. It has been 22 years of solid work, and then children. Neither of us would change a thing. Now comes the time of getting to know each other again. This will be a process for sure. Letting go of frustration and past hurts is top on our list.

So...the adventure continues.....

Thanks for reading and being a part of our lives....

Pura Vida and so much love!

And this showed up at our doorstep a few weeks ago. His name is Mayhem, that needs to be a story on its own.

Sam kayaking at Ocotal Beach. Shhh...don't tell her I put her pic up!

The girls at Ocotal Beach

Now this is a big proud boy!

The Divine Feminine! 

And Divnine Masculine!

Our New Wheels! Gotta LOVE it!