Hola! Yes, it is official, one year in Costa Rica!!!! Woo Hoo! Not knowing a damn thing, but having a ton of common sense, and a huge amount of faith, we did it! Crazy learning curve, but that adds to the excitement, let me tell you.
Contrary to popular belief, we did not move to a third world country. Costa Rica is not in that category. We did not come down here to join a cult, or whatever other crazy ideas that were floating around, we came here to have an experience. I would not change a thing. No matter why, when, or how we are here and love the life we are constantly creating.
So, my thought is that I would make a list of some of the things we have learned in our first year being in Costa Rica.
1) Will be able to drive the Baja 500 with no problem and probably win. A two lane road here actually means 4 lane. Passing on the left and right side, no problem. I have driven some pretty sketchy roads up into the mountains. No guardrails, and I am afraid of heights.
2) There is no COLD water here. It is always the same temp as outside. Ice is a valuable commodity.
3) The power is on, the power is off. You can usually hear the transformer explode down the street. No worries, it gets fixed faster than it ever had in Minnesota.
4) It is actually a law to back in where ever you park, facing out. In case of evacuation.
5) Spanish is a tough language to learn, for me anyway. Saying that, a smile and being able to laugh at yourself when you are attempting it will soften anyone's heart. And you usually get what you need.
6) Crock Pots are the most valued possession in my opinion. Save energy and does not heat up the house. Straight from the freezer/refrigerator in the morning. Add what you need, done.
7) There is awake time, no more alarm clocks. We have the monkeys, morning doves, and dogs. Every morning, same time. There is also hungry time, and sleep time. If you get one thing done you have planned in 24 hours, you are certainly ahead of the curve.
8) Greeting someone is very important. The way you greet a person sets the whole tone of your conversation and future relationship.
9) The crime in our area is petty theft. You leave a possession out in view, it will be gone. It is just the way.
10) We have been met with the greatest kindness and love in our new country. The stories and adventures are endless. Anything can be turned into a positive. And people sincerely care about others and make time. Brilliant in my opinion.
I think we are all doing just fine........Pura Vida....sending you all so much love.....off to make some Guatemalan Banana Bread! Here is the recipe!
http://www.food.com/recipe/guatemalan-pan-de-banano-banana-bread-456876
