Over these past few weeks as I have tried to navigate through the land of motherhood, I have come to realize that mom is so much more than a noun. Mom is no longer just a person, place, or thing. I am no longer just a person, I am a mom to the most wonderful baby boy. To him I am everything (and of course his daddy too). I am his comfort, his shelter, his nourishment, his world. With that said, I feel that mom should be more than a noun, it is also a verb. It is the thousands of things that you do and think. Yes we start mommying as soon as we find out we're pregnant. The incessant thoughts of will I be a good mother? To co-sleep or not? The questions are endless. Mommying are those moments of just giving in to cold coffee because for one you don't want to reheat one more time and also the microwave might just wake that sleeping angel. Mommying are those moments in the dead of night when the only sounds to be heard are the snores of the hubby and the sweet soft gulps and sighs of that precious babe. Mommying is the hours of singing, rocking, bouncing, jiggling, shushing to get the little one to sleep. Mommying is crying because we are so overcome with love, afraid of our baby growing up, because the baby is crying, and crying simply because we need to. Mommying is desperately clinging to these precious moments of infancy yet wondering and wishing for the more independent years. Sometimes we feel we are doing a great job mommying, when we see those first smiles or hear those first coos. And there are times we feel like complete failures and have no idea what we are doing.
Motherhood is the most amazing, wonderfully exhausting, emotional roller coaster. It is filled with the highest highs and lowest lows. It is composed of thousands of moments that you wish would slow down and yet others that you wish would speed up. I feel so insanely blessed that I'm allowed to ride this roller coaster and my heart breaks for those who for whatever reason cannot. Being a mother has filled a hole within me that I never even knew existed. It has pushed me in ways I had never thought imaginable and filled me with love that I never knew existed. As always life has proven to me it is in fact truly crazy and gloriously beautiful.
Tuesday, January 12, 2016
Sunday, December 8, 2013
Part of Peru and Bolivia
This post may be 6 months over due but hey better late than never.
After leaving our volunteer experience in Cusco we took the overnight bus to Arequipa. The bus was quite luxurious and the only truly terrifying moment was when one of the bus workers came around with a video tape showing everybody's faces and saying their seat numbers, just in case something were to happen. The hostel we stayed at had a delicious breakfast each morning and we were talked into a tour of 3 volcanoes because we were so "beautiful" we got a great discount. lol. The tour was fun but perhaps a little long and repetitive. For dinner we decided to eat in the plaza at a pre-incan restaurant. The owner of the restaurant was incredibly nice even when we told him we only had 80 Nuevo soles (not really a lot of money) He decided to order our food for us, something that would "fit" our budget. Most of the food was quite good until he brought out seafood stew made with river shrimp. On first contact with my mouth I knew this meal was going to be a struggle. We attempted to eat what we could but claimed to be too full to finish. Walking home that night the river shrimp set in instantly and there was some immediate discomfort. South American tip: Never eat river shrimp.
The next day we left for a tour of Colca Canyon whose claim to fame is the giant condors that soar through the canyon looking for food. It was quite a long drive with some super high altitudes. When we got to the town we went to a hot spring and were finally able to temporarily warm up for a bit. That night we went to show called a Pena and watched traditional dancing. The next day was a bit challenging for me only because I have an intense fear of birds. Now imagine a giant bird whose wingspan is the length of my monkey arms. Had I now been perched upon a rock with plenty of other tourists I might have had a severe panic attack or worse yet, messed myself. Failing to have planned ahead, the battery on my camera died and all we had was Kate's phone to take pictures. After our up close encounter with Condors it was time to head back to Arequipa, then move on to Puno.
In Puno, sources will neither confirm nor deny if we temporarily lost our luggage for a night...I will say I do get a rise out of arguing in Spanish. We stayed at a really great hostel called Quechuas if you are ever in the area. The next day we headed out for a tour or Uros which is an island completely made of reeds. The entire island is floating and solely made of reeds tied together. It was pretty amazing to see and even more amazing to know that if you ever got into it with your neighbor you could simply cut your reeds apart and be done with them. From Uros we headed to Amananti where we had arranged to stay with a host family. I wish I could say they were a bit more friendly but they weren't all that talkative. They did however fix us delicious soup and some insanely rubbery cheese to eat. We hiked to the top of a mountain called Pachatata for an out of this world sunset over Lake Titicaca. That night, our host sister dressed us in traditional clothing and we went to a little fiesta and did some interesting circle dancing. With little time to rest, the next day we left for Taquile Island to check out the town and have a super yummy lunch looking out over Lake Titicaca. Then, back to Puno for more adventures.
Now, having done a bit of research about Americans crossing the border into Bolivia, Kate and I were pretty freaked out trying to make sure we had enough money and all the proper documents. We were literally shaking walking into immigrations office. Within minutes the guards were laughing and joking with us, telling us to come back soon. It truly pays to know Spanish! We made it to the town of Copacabana which is a very small laid back town with tons of artisanal crafts and shady internet. Our first night there we went to a restaurant that had happy hour. We decided to try a cocktail that for the life of me I can't remember the actual name but Kate had somehow confused for Copacabinis. Night we decided to go for a hike to the mirador to watch the sunset. The sunset truly was fantastic and we did manage to get a picture from a man who neither spoke English nor Spanish and I truly tried to evolve my mime skills. I am not sure I have yet mentioned how flipping cold it is in South America during their winter but it was stinking cold. Kate and I went straight mountain goat down the mountain, knowing the sooner we got down the mountain, the sooner we might find some warmth. That night we tried the Bolivian beer Hauri and Pacena to decide which was better. We also ate some pretty delicious Bolivian Nachos.
Copacabana
Sunrise at Copacabana
Then, it was on to La Paz where we walked around a little and checked out some of the crafts. We knew we would be heading back to La Paz before we left so we kept it pretty chill.
Then it was off to Oruro where we stayed in a fabulous hostel with some of the sweetest owners. By this point I had gotten pretty sick coughing, and I am fairly certain with a fever. We went to buy train tickets for Tupiza and check out some farmacias to get my illness under control. We left on a night train for Tupiza but couldn't leave without a meal. Imagine 2 Americans with huge backpacks and various other backpackers breathlessly walking into a pizza restaurant asking for a pizza to go. Thank goodness we are used to being stared at... The train ride was actually quite awful with the amount of dust and hot and cold temperatures...especially being sick.
We made it to Tupiza and attempted to search for a tour but had very little luck finding a tour with only openings available. We did however find a French doctor who was able to give me some medicine because at this point I was terribly sick and afraid to be going on a 4 day jeep tour with no doctor or farmacia in sight. We stayed another night in Tupiza so that I could rest and get better.
We finally left for Uyuni in a jeep with 2 other French ladies, Kate and I, and our driver and cook. The first day was mostly just driving with not too many sites to see. It was super cold but the Frenchies Lucie and Maude kept things quite interesting. Those ladies are a hoot!
The 2nd day had some amazing sights like Laguna Verde and the Laguna Colorada. Todo bien!
Laguna Verde
Laguna Colorada
Flamingos!
Salt Hotel
Sunrise
Salt Flat photo shoot
The 3rd day had geysers, flamingos, and a salt hotel. We went for a hike through some Cacti and finished off the night throwing some back with our new French friends and Basilio and Annie ( Our cook and driver who were in a romantic relationship)
The 4th and final day we watched the sunrise at Isla de Pescadores which was totally amazing. Then we had a blast taking pictures and having a dance party on the salt flats. We then had to return to La Paz and prepare ourselves to head back to the good ol US.
We did make sure we saw the witches market in La Paz to see all the interesting rituals and dead baby llamas used for good luck. Though the trip was a bit challenging physically with the high altitudes and cold weather, there were so many amazing sights to see and memories that were shared!
Those are dead baby llamas!
After leaving our volunteer experience in Cusco we took the overnight bus to Arequipa. The bus was quite luxurious and the only truly terrifying moment was when one of the bus workers came around with a video tape showing everybody's faces and saying their seat numbers, just in case something were to happen. The hostel we stayed at had a delicious breakfast each morning and we were talked into a tour of 3 volcanoes because we were so "beautiful" we got a great discount. lol. The tour was fun but perhaps a little long and repetitive. For dinner we decided to eat in the plaza at a pre-incan restaurant. The owner of the restaurant was incredibly nice even when we told him we only had 80 Nuevo soles (not really a lot of money) He decided to order our food for us, something that would "fit" our budget. Most of the food was quite good until he brought out seafood stew made with river shrimp. On first contact with my mouth I knew this meal was going to be a struggle. We attempted to eat what we could but claimed to be too full to finish. Walking home that night the river shrimp set in instantly and there was some immediate discomfort. South American tip: Never eat river shrimp.
The next day we left for a tour of Colca Canyon whose claim to fame is the giant condors that soar through the canyon looking for food. It was quite a long drive with some super high altitudes. When we got to the town we went to a hot spring and were finally able to temporarily warm up for a bit. That night we went to show called a Pena and watched traditional dancing. The next day was a bit challenging for me only because I have an intense fear of birds. Now imagine a giant bird whose wingspan is the length of my monkey arms. Had I now been perched upon a rock with plenty of other tourists I might have had a severe panic attack or worse yet, messed myself. Failing to have planned ahead, the battery on my camera died and all we had was Kate's phone to take pictures. After our up close encounter with Condors it was time to head back to Arequipa, then move on to Puno.
In Puno, sources will neither confirm nor deny if we temporarily lost our luggage for a night...I will say I do get a rise out of arguing in Spanish. We stayed at a really great hostel called Quechuas if you are ever in the area. The next day we headed out for a tour or Uros which is an island completely made of reeds. The entire island is floating and solely made of reeds tied together. It was pretty amazing to see and even more amazing to know that if you ever got into it with your neighbor you could simply cut your reeds apart and be done with them. From Uros we headed to Amananti where we had arranged to stay with a host family. I wish I could say they were a bit more friendly but they weren't all that talkative. They did however fix us delicious soup and some insanely rubbery cheese to eat. We hiked to the top of a mountain called Pachatata for an out of this world sunset over Lake Titicaca. That night, our host sister dressed us in traditional clothing and we went to a little fiesta and did some interesting circle dancing. With little time to rest, the next day we left for Taquile Island to check out the town and have a super yummy lunch looking out over Lake Titicaca. Then, back to Puno for more adventures.
Now, having done a bit of research about Americans crossing the border into Bolivia, Kate and I were pretty freaked out trying to make sure we had enough money and all the proper documents. We were literally shaking walking into immigrations office. Within minutes the guards were laughing and joking with us, telling us to come back soon. It truly pays to know Spanish! We made it to the town of Copacabana which is a very small laid back town with tons of artisanal crafts and shady internet. Our first night there we went to a restaurant that had happy hour. We decided to try a cocktail that for the life of me I can't remember the actual name but Kate had somehow confused for Copacabinis. Night we decided to go for a hike to the mirador to watch the sunset. The sunset truly was fantastic and we did manage to get a picture from a man who neither spoke English nor Spanish and I truly tried to evolve my mime skills. I am not sure I have yet mentioned how flipping cold it is in South America during their winter but it was stinking cold. Kate and I went straight mountain goat down the mountain, knowing the sooner we got down the mountain, the sooner we might find some warmth. That night we tried the Bolivian beer Hauri and Pacena to decide which was better. We also ate some pretty delicious Bolivian Nachos.
Panaroma of Lake Titicaca
Then, it was on to La Paz where we walked around a little and checked out some of the crafts. We knew we would be heading back to La Paz before we left so we kept it pretty chill.
Then it was off to Oruro where we stayed in a fabulous hostel with some of the sweetest owners. By this point I had gotten pretty sick coughing, and I am fairly certain with a fever. We went to buy train tickets for Tupiza and check out some farmacias to get my illness under control. We left on a night train for Tupiza but couldn't leave without a meal. Imagine 2 Americans with huge backpacks and various other backpackers breathlessly walking into a pizza restaurant asking for a pizza to go. Thank goodness we are used to being stared at... The train ride was actually quite awful with the amount of dust and hot and cold temperatures...especially being sick.
We made it to Tupiza and attempted to search for a tour but had very little luck finding a tour with only openings available. We did however find a French doctor who was able to give me some medicine because at this point I was terribly sick and afraid to be going on a 4 day jeep tour with no doctor or farmacia in sight. We stayed another night in Tupiza so that I could rest and get better.
We finally left for Uyuni in a jeep with 2 other French ladies, Kate and I, and our driver and cook. The first day was mostly just driving with not too many sites to see. It was super cold but the Frenchies Lucie and Maude kept things quite interesting. Those ladies are a hoot!
The 2nd day had some amazing sights like Laguna Verde and the Laguna Colorada. Todo bien!
The 3rd day had geysers, flamingos, and a salt hotel. We went for a hike through some Cacti and finished off the night throwing some back with our new French friends and Basilio and Annie ( Our cook and driver who were in a romantic relationship)
The 4th and final day we watched the sunrise at Isla de Pescadores which was totally amazing. Then we had a blast taking pictures and having a dance party on the salt flats. We then had to return to La Paz and prepare ourselves to head back to the good ol US.
We did make sure we saw the witches market in La Paz to see all the interesting rituals and dead baby llamas used for good luck. Though the trip was a bit challenging physically with the high altitudes and cold weather, there were so many amazing sights to see and memories that were shared!
Those are dead baby llamas!
The 12 days of Christmas: A challenge to give
Lately I have been feeling rather unmotivated during this holiday season. I recently read that volunteering leads to a longer life and most people feel happier after volunteering. In an attempt to inspire myself and perhaps others I have decided to create the 12 days of Christmas: A challenge to give. With the rush of the holidays and material purchases it is easy to forget what this season is truly about. I am in need of some humbling. I have tried to make this challenge cost friendly since we all feel the pinch this time of year. Take the challenge if you want! I am starting on Friday the 13th so that I will be done before Christmas Day. Yes, I am doing this backwards but it felt more time efficient for me. Here's what I have come up with:
The 12th day of Christmas: Hand out 12 Thank you cards to people who you would like to thank for however big or small of a reason.
The 11th day of Christmas: Give 11 compliments today (call a friend, send a message, or compliment a stranger!)
The 10th day of Christmas: Give 10 bottles of water or granola bars to the homeless, every little bit helps, or give $10 to a charity of your choice.
The 9th day of Christmas: Smile randomly at 9 people. A smile can go a long way.
The 8th day of Christmas: Donate 8 cans of canned goods to any type of canned food drive or food bank.
The 7th day of Christmas: Leave 7 sweet little notes for your loved one, coworkers, or friends.
The 6th day of Christmas: Bake cookies for 6 of your friends or neighbors.
The 5th day of Christmas: Donate 5 gently used articles of clothes, toys, or books to a charity. You know your closet has things you never wear anymore.
The 4th day of Christmas: Unplug for 4 hours and truly spend time with friends/and family. Cook a dinner or have a game night for some friends. No technology allowed!
The 3rd day of Christmas: Volunteer 3 hours of your time (it doesn't have to be to a charity but volunteer your time to a friend or neighbor or anyone who could use a little help or a break.)
The 2nd day of Christmas: Give a gift or 2. They can be handmade, they can be gifts to a friend or stranger, you choose!
The 1st day of Christmas: Do 1 random act of kindness. Buy a coffee or meal for a stranger or some sort of random act of kindness.
Good luck and happy holidays to all!
The 12th day of Christmas: Hand out 12 Thank you cards to people who you would like to thank for however big or small of a reason.
The 11th day of Christmas: Give 11 compliments today (call a friend, send a message, or compliment a stranger!)
The 10th day of Christmas: Give 10 bottles of water or granola bars to the homeless, every little bit helps, or give $10 to a charity of your choice.
The 9th day of Christmas: Smile randomly at 9 people. A smile can go a long way.
The 8th day of Christmas: Donate 8 cans of canned goods to any type of canned food drive or food bank.
The 7th day of Christmas: Leave 7 sweet little notes for your loved one, coworkers, or friends.
The 6th day of Christmas: Bake cookies for 6 of your friends or neighbors.
The 5th day of Christmas: Donate 5 gently used articles of clothes, toys, or books to a charity. You know your closet has things you never wear anymore.
The 4th day of Christmas: Unplug for 4 hours and truly spend time with friends/and family. Cook a dinner or have a game night for some friends. No technology allowed!
The 3rd day of Christmas: Volunteer 3 hours of your time (it doesn't have to be to a charity but volunteer your time to a friend or neighbor or anyone who could use a little help or a break.)
The 2nd day of Christmas: Give a gift or 2. They can be handmade, they can be gifts to a friend or stranger, you choose!
The 1st day of Christmas: Do 1 random act of kindness. Buy a coffee or meal for a stranger or some sort of random act of kindness.
Good luck and happy holidays to all!
Thursday, July 25, 2013
Peru, the beginning....
Well after all my travels I have finally made it south of the equator, down to Peru! After quite a fiasco with the airline (changed my flight to a flight 8 hours earlier) and coercing them to pay for a hotel ( in the ghetto) for a night, Kate and I met up in Lima. We definitely did not want to stay in Lima so we trekked to Miraflores, which is a very upscale and modern part of Lima. We found a hostel and bunked dorm style with about 6 or 7 other people. Now I might need to mention that south of the equator is winter, so Kate and I have been popsicle status since day one with no reprieve from the chill seeing as no one has heaters in houses or hostels. Now to make matters worse our hostel had a broken window which was cleverly covered by an owl painting, neither of which made me very happy. We enjoyed walking around town but the best part of Miraflores was the Peruvian cooking class we took at Skykitchen (highly recommend it). We learned how to make 3 typical Peruvian dishes: papas a la hauncaina, ceviche of course, and aji de gallina. All were super delicious! Then that night we decided to go out for dinner. We ordered a dish that looked typical Peruvian food. It was an assortment of meats, a salad, and French fries. Our meats looked interesting but we ate it anyways only to find out the next day that we had been eating cow heart, tripe, and cow gizzard. That was a bit of surprise for us, but we figured we were still alive so it couldn't have been too bad. Ah the adventures we have! After an imperative purchase of an alpaca blanket, we headed to the airport to go to Cuzco.
Upon arriving in Cuzco we waited for a while for our program to pick us up. When no one showed up we decided it was time to call. Well Kate was the one who called and for some reason she had convinced herself that the person in charge of the program was named Maximo (our program is called Maximo Nivel - maximum level) she kept asking for Maximo and at the end of the conversation she says gracias Maximo. Perhaps it was the altitude but we couldn't keep ourselves
from dying of laughter at Kate's misunderstanding. Finally we were picked up by our volunteer
program and taken to our host mother's house. I should mention that Cuzco has an altitude of over
11,000 so needless to say it is cold and takes a while to adjust to such altitude. A bit of a headache ache, some breathlessness, and nausea
are symptoms of altitude sickness. Thank goodness for coca tea which alleviates most of the symptoms of altitude sickness. We have been downing cups of coca tea, and no it doesn't get you high, not only for its benefits but because it is so dang cold that tea helps warm us up. After about a day we decided to make some necessary alpaca purchases of mittens and socks to beat the cold, especially at night. So if you are interested in alpaca wear just let me know because there is no shortage here at all, especially with the ever fashionable llama on it.
Our host mom is a super sweet lady, her name is Amanda and she is what I would call a Peruvian hippie. She is a vegetarian and practices yoga and meditation. In fact she practices meditation every
Monday, Wednesday , and Friday at her house. Kate and I joined her twice for a meditation session
and it was fun and interesting. We get fed three meals a day provided by our host mom and we love chatting it up with her at meal times. Cuzco is a very adorable town nestled high up in the mountains, because of its altitude it is a rather chilly place. Kate and I have learned many new dances included the llama sock shuffle and the sleeping bag shuffle ( you might note that llama socks are quite slippery on wooden floors and believe me you want to get to the bathroom and back as quickly as possible for fear of losing an extremity to the cold)
There are also some interesting food options in Peru. While there is the well known and absolutely delicious ceviche and lomo saltado, there is also the very tasty and slight spicy aji de gallina. Less well known perhaps is alpaca and cuy or guinea pig. Of course Kate and I could not leave Peru without trying alpaca and cuy. The alpaca went well, slightly salty and chewy but overall not a bad experience. While cuy in the other hand was quite a different story.. We went to a highly recommended restaurant where there is a meal and a show. Kate, the more adventurous food explorer ordered cuy and I the always delicious lomo saltado. The thing about Kate and I traveling together is that we always go halfsies on food. So technically half of the cuy was also mine. They bring out the cuy whole including its little paws and all, also stuffed with some green leaf looking things which were unidentifiable to us. There is very little meat on a guinea pig and what little meat we could find was disgusting! Though it's a food you must say you've eaten, it's definitely not one to order again.
Other noteworthy adventures include:
A hike up to Cristo Blanco which was exhausting because of the altitude and the straight up hillness. Nowhere and I mean nowhere in Peru is flat! On our hike up we encountered our first loose llama which we attempted to get close but looking back we were quite far away lol. We were the only ones at the top of the mountain and we encountered a sole cusquenan sitting at the top dressed in traditional attire with a guitar. He invited us to sit for a song which he serenaded to us in both Quechuan and Spanish. He was the sweetest little man and low and behold his name was Maximo! We enjoyed the sites from the top but also enjoyed llama hunting in a nearby field. We approached it Jeff Corwin style and couldn't control our laughs!
Checking out the Inca Museum where we learned much more about the pre-inca and Incan civilizations. It has truly unbelievable how these civilizations were able to be so efficient and smart. I realize now how google dependent I am, and how much smarter our ancestors were.
Last but not least of course our main objective was to be teaching English there. Unfortunately Kate and I were rather disappointed in our program. We were supposed to be teaching English as an after school program in a very poor area of Cuzco. The problem with this is that there was no consistency in the attendance of the students thus very difficult to make any real progress in learning. With that said we did meet a lot of very interesting people and some very sweet students. Overall it was a great learning opportunity for us and we are so blessed to have had this experience both the the good and bad of our adventures.
I apologize for the lack of pictures but we are unable to upload pictures onto the iPad. Stay tuned they will show up eventually!
Upon arriving in Cuzco we waited for a while for our program to pick us up. When no one showed up we decided it was time to call. Well Kate was the one who called and for some reason she had convinced herself that the person in charge of the program was named Maximo (our program is called Maximo Nivel - maximum level) she kept asking for Maximo and at the end of the conversation she says gracias Maximo. Perhaps it was the altitude but we couldn't keep ourselves
from dying of laughter at Kate's misunderstanding. Finally we were picked up by our volunteer
program and taken to our host mother's house. I should mention that Cuzco has an altitude of over
11,000 so needless to say it is cold and takes a while to adjust to such altitude. A bit of a headache ache, some breathlessness, and nausea
are symptoms of altitude sickness. Thank goodness for coca tea which alleviates most of the symptoms of altitude sickness. We have been downing cups of coca tea, and no it doesn't get you high, not only for its benefits but because it is so dang cold that tea helps warm us up. After about a day we decided to make some necessary alpaca purchases of mittens and socks to beat the cold, especially at night. So if you are interested in alpaca wear just let me know because there is no shortage here at all, especially with the ever fashionable llama on it.
Our host mom is a super sweet lady, her name is Amanda and she is what I would call a Peruvian hippie. She is a vegetarian and practices yoga and meditation. In fact she practices meditation every
Monday, Wednesday , and Friday at her house. Kate and I joined her twice for a meditation session
and it was fun and interesting. We get fed three meals a day provided by our host mom and we love chatting it up with her at meal times. Cuzco is a very adorable town nestled high up in the mountains, because of its altitude it is a rather chilly place. Kate and I have learned many new dances included the llama sock shuffle and the sleeping bag shuffle ( you might note that llama socks are quite slippery on wooden floors and believe me you want to get to the bathroom and back as quickly as possible for fear of losing an extremity to the cold)
There are also some interesting food options in Peru. While there is the well known and absolutely delicious ceviche and lomo saltado, there is also the very tasty and slight spicy aji de gallina. Less well known perhaps is alpaca and cuy or guinea pig. Of course Kate and I could not leave Peru without trying alpaca and cuy. The alpaca went well, slightly salty and chewy but overall not a bad experience. While cuy in the other hand was quite a different story.. We went to a highly recommended restaurant where there is a meal and a show. Kate, the more adventurous food explorer ordered cuy and I the always delicious lomo saltado. The thing about Kate and I traveling together is that we always go halfsies on food. So technically half of the cuy was also mine. They bring out the cuy whole including its little paws and all, also stuffed with some green leaf looking things which were unidentifiable to us. There is very little meat on a guinea pig and what little meat we could find was disgusting! Though it's a food you must say you've eaten, it's definitely not one to order again.
Other noteworthy adventures include:
A hike up to Cristo Blanco which was exhausting because of the altitude and the straight up hillness. Nowhere and I mean nowhere in Peru is flat! On our hike up we encountered our first loose llama which we attempted to get close but looking back we were quite far away lol. We were the only ones at the top of the mountain and we encountered a sole cusquenan sitting at the top dressed in traditional attire with a guitar. He invited us to sit for a song which he serenaded to us in both Quechuan and Spanish. He was the sweetest little man and low and behold his name was Maximo! We enjoyed the sites from the top but also enjoyed llama hunting in a nearby field. We approached it Jeff Corwin style and couldn't control our laughs!
Checking out the Inca Museum where we learned much more about the pre-inca and Incan civilizations. It has truly unbelievable how these civilizations were able to be so efficient and smart. I realize now how google dependent I am, and how much smarter our ancestors were.
Last but not least of course our main objective was to be teaching English there. Unfortunately Kate and I were rather disappointed in our program. We were supposed to be teaching English as an after school program in a very poor area of Cuzco. The problem with this is that there was no consistency in the attendance of the students thus very difficult to make any real progress in learning. With that said we did meet a lot of very interesting people and some very sweet students. Overall it was a great learning opportunity for us and we are so blessed to have had this experience both the the good and bad of our adventures.
I apologize for the lack of pictures but we are unable to upload pictures onto the iPad. Stay tuned they will show up eventually!
Monday, March 11, 2013
The Story of Us
Dang I realize it's been forever since I have written a blog but there are so many things happening in my life that I want to remember! The most important of course is getting engaged! Although I think everyone knows the story of how Wrenn and I met, I thought it would be a great idea to write it down, especially knowing my memory.
July 29th 2011
My friend Nicholle were having a grand ole time in Miami, FL. My potential last hurrah as I was embarking on the craziest adventure of my life, teaching in Honduras for 10 months. Flights were cheap from Miami and Nicholle and I are always down for an adventure. Friday night we go out on the town and hit up a dance club. We were dancing our lil hearts out when an older men approaches me wanting to dance. I shook my head no thank you, and the man left perhaps to repair his ego. Then Wrenn approaches me and asks "Are you going to shoot me down too?" As we all know Wrenn is incredibly handsome so I respond with a flirtatious " I dunno, we will see." We began dancing and attempting to conversate, for reasons I don't remember we would often drift apart but manage to lock eye contact and begin dancing again. Eventually it became late and my feet were hurting so we all went and sat down. By this point I had completely lost my voice (as is customary anytime I take a red eye flight) so it ends up that Wrenn would ask me questions and I would have to text him my response. He claims to this day, it was the easiest phone number he's gotten. Of course the night continued on and it was time to call it a night. We talked about maybe hanging out the next day, which we spent a few hours together on the beach. He told me he wanted to call me at the airport before I left and I politely nodded, thinking to myself we will see. Sure enough he called me at the airport and we chatted for a bit before I set off to Honduras.
Once I was settled in Gracias, and had internet again, Wrenn and I began messaging each other on FaceBook. From FaceBook it went to skyping until the point that we were skyping every morning before work and every night before bed. When I say every night, I mean every night. It was very rare for either of us to miss a conversation, unless of course the electricity was out. When Winter Break rolled around, I took a chance and spent my last few days in the US in Dallas, TX enjoying time with my favorite man. Then it came to be his spring break and Wrenn and his cousin TJ came down for a visit. I knew when he came down to Honduras (if you know Wrenn and his lack of desire to travel to developing countries, you understand how much this meant to me) that this was something serious. I began scouring the Dallas area looking for teaching jobs so that I could take a chance on love.
When my time ended in Honduras and I had spent a month travelling Central America, it was time to face the harsh reality that I still didn't have a job, I decided to make a detour home by stopping in Dallas to take the Bilingual Generalist test in hopes to boost my chances of getting a job. I also went on an interview and was offered a bilingual teaching position out in Sherman TX. I asked for a few days to think about it, and in the mean time had several phone and skype interviews with schools in the Richardson school district. Finally, I was offered the position at the school I am at now. Wrenn and I both were relieved but then came the stress and realization that I had 2 weeks to pack and drive to Texas! There were many days when I would look in the mirror and think what the he** am I doing? It seemed so crazy to be moving across the country for a man, but he isn't just any ordinary man, he truly is extraordinary. I knew that some people may have been skeptical and called me crazy, but that's me. I don't think anyone can argue that I live my life to the fullest and will look back with no regrets.
The first few months were hard, I will be honest. Wrenn was busy with football and I as attempting to adjusting to life not only in the US but Texas nonetheless (stay tuned for a blog about Texas and you will understand) . Finally Wrenn and I found our groove and things couldn't be any better, until March 6, 2013.
March 6 started off as a normal day (the only slightly un-normal part was that Wrenn wanted to pick out my outfit for me which he does every now and then, but this time I politely declined saying I wanted to wear something comfortable). I went to work as usual, and with the week's prior events I was only looking forward to a day of not having to deal with any poop or pee on the job ( a long story) . I had high hopes and was in good mood since Spring Break was rapidly approaching. The day went on as normal and everyone seemed excited that we were almost done for the week. The end of the day approached and my students began to pack up for library (which the librarian had changed the day and time of) when Caitlin, one of the other 2nd grade teachers asked if I could watch her class for a few minutes, she had a behavior meeting she had to go to. Knowing her class I had no reason to doubt this was true. She offered to take my students to the library since she was heading that way. Again, seemed totally believable. I hung out in her class until Alyshia the literacy specialist came in to relieve me. I walked to the library and had assumed the librarian was just talking to the kids. All of a sudden a student comes up and gives me a rose. Now, recall it had been a rough week so I assumed my students were apologizing for their behavior. I graciously say thank you to the first 2 roses. Then it hits me that there are lyrics on the roses and Wrenn and my song is being played, Bruno Mars' You're amazing just the way you are (Wrenn had actually enlisted the choir and he was the one singing!) As soon as it hit me, I began laughing and crying and looking around for him. As I looked for him I saw my Principal, Assistant Principal, Nurse, and other co-workers and staff. The music and roses continue and I keep searching for Wrenn. Finally his little niece Taylor brings out a rose to me and Wrenn follows shortly after. He said "You're an amazing woman and I want to spend the rest of my life with you" (that's all he could get out :) ) He got down on his knee and asked me to marry him. The rest is pretty much a blur but there were pictures taken and later we went out to dinner at Kobe's Japanese Steak House.
I am so glad that my students were able to be a part of it and I know this will be a memory they will have forever. What an amazing day and I couldn't be happier to spend the rest of my life with a truly amazing man! Stay tuned for wedding details!
July 29th 2011
My friend Nicholle were having a grand ole time in Miami, FL. My potential last hurrah as I was embarking on the craziest adventure of my life, teaching in Honduras for 10 months. Flights were cheap from Miami and Nicholle and I are always down for an adventure. Friday night we go out on the town and hit up a dance club. We were dancing our lil hearts out when an older men approaches me wanting to dance. I shook my head no thank you, and the man left perhaps to repair his ego. Then Wrenn approaches me and asks "Are you going to shoot me down too?" As we all know Wrenn is incredibly handsome so I respond with a flirtatious " I dunno, we will see." We began dancing and attempting to conversate, for reasons I don't remember we would often drift apart but manage to lock eye contact and begin dancing again. Eventually it became late and my feet were hurting so we all went and sat down. By this point I had completely lost my voice (as is customary anytime I take a red eye flight) so it ends up that Wrenn would ask me questions and I would have to text him my response. He claims to this day, it was the easiest phone number he's gotten. Of course the night continued on and it was time to call it a night. We talked about maybe hanging out the next day, which we spent a few hours together on the beach. He told me he wanted to call me at the airport before I left and I politely nodded, thinking to myself we will see. Sure enough he called me at the airport and we chatted for a bit before I set off to Honduras.
Once I was settled in Gracias, and had internet again, Wrenn and I began messaging each other on FaceBook. From FaceBook it went to skyping until the point that we were skyping every morning before work and every night before bed. When I say every night, I mean every night. It was very rare for either of us to miss a conversation, unless of course the electricity was out. When Winter Break rolled around, I took a chance and spent my last few days in the US in Dallas, TX enjoying time with my favorite man. Then it came to be his spring break and Wrenn and his cousin TJ came down for a visit. I knew when he came down to Honduras (if you know Wrenn and his lack of desire to travel to developing countries, you understand how much this meant to me) that this was something serious. I began scouring the Dallas area looking for teaching jobs so that I could take a chance on love.
When my time ended in Honduras and I had spent a month travelling Central America, it was time to face the harsh reality that I still didn't have a job, I decided to make a detour home by stopping in Dallas to take the Bilingual Generalist test in hopes to boost my chances of getting a job. I also went on an interview and was offered a bilingual teaching position out in Sherman TX. I asked for a few days to think about it, and in the mean time had several phone and skype interviews with schools in the Richardson school district. Finally, I was offered the position at the school I am at now. Wrenn and I both were relieved but then came the stress and realization that I had 2 weeks to pack and drive to Texas! There were many days when I would look in the mirror and think what the he** am I doing? It seemed so crazy to be moving across the country for a man, but he isn't just any ordinary man, he truly is extraordinary. I knew that some people may have been skeptical and called me crazy, but that's me. I don't think anyone can argue that I live my life to the fullest and will look back with no regrets.
The first few months were hard, I will be honest. Wrenn was busy with football and I as attempting to adjusting to life not only in the US but Texas nonetheless (stay tuned for a blog about Texas and you will understand) . Finally Wrenn and I found our groove and things couldn't be any better, until March 6, 2013.
March 6 started off as a normal day (the only slightly un-normal part was that Wrenn wanted to pick out my outfit for me which he does every now and then, but this time I politely declined saying I wanted to wear something comfortable). I went to work as usual, and with the week's prior events I was only looking forward to a day of not having to deal with any poop or pee on the job ( a long story) . I had high hopes and was in good mood since Spring Break was rapidly approaching. The day went on as normal and everyone seemed excited that we were almost done for the week. The end of the day approached and my students began to pack up for library (which the librarian had changed the day and time of) when Caitlin, one of the other 2nd grade teachers asked if I could watch her class for a few minutes, she had a behavior meeting she had to go to. Knowing her class I had no reason to doubt this was true. She offered to take my students to the library since she was heading that way. Again, seemed totally believable. I hung out in her class until Alyshia the literacy specialist came in to relieve me. I walked to the library and had assumed the librarian was just talking to the kids. All of a sudden a student comes up and gives me a rose. Now, recall it had been a rough week so I assumed my students were apologizing for their behavior. I graciously say thank you to the first 2 roses. Then it hits me that there are lyrics on the roses and Wrenn and my song is being played, Bruno Mars' You're amazing just the way you are (Wrenn had actually enlisted the choir and he was the one singing!) As soon as it hit me, I began laughing and crying and looking around for him. As I looked for him I saw my Principal, Assistant Principal, Nurse, and other co-workers and staff. The music and roses continue and I keep searching for Wrenn. Finally his little niece Taylor brings out a rose to me and Wrenn follows shortly after. He said "You're an amazing woman and I want to spend the rest of my life with you" (that's all he could get out :) ) He got down on his knee and asked me to marry him. The rest is pretty much a blur but there were pictures taken and later we went out to dinner at Kobe's Japanese Steak House.
I am so glad that my students were able to be a part of it and I know this will be a memory they will have forever. What an amazing day and I couldn't be happier to spend the rest of my life with a truly amazing man! Stay tuned for wedding details!
Saturday, September 8, 2012
Last up... Panama
After an interesting border crossing, walking on janky plywood over a river, we had arrived in Panama, the final country on our tour. After catching a taxi then hopping in a boat we made it the archipelago of Bocas del Toro. While venturing out for food we ran into our dear friend Colleen's boyfriend where we made plans to meet up later at their hostel. After lunch and checking in with our loved ones, we set off in water taxi across the water to their hostel. After a few games of beer pong and some free ladies night drinks it was time to call it a night.
We had heard the weather in Bocas wasn't that great and they were right. We had 2 days of rain off and on so we spent a lot of time enjoying the cable tv in the room. We did get out and about and found some very cool and unique stores.
On our last full day we decided take our friends advice and go on the Catamaran snorkeling tour. It was so much fun to lounge on the boat taking in vitamin D is we sailed past all sorts of little islands till we reached our first stop, Dolphin Bay. We were able to watch dolphins gliding and diving all around us. Right before we left we were able to watch 2 dolphins play from a distance. Next up was our first snorkeling adventure, next to a mangrove. We saw some of the most beautiful coral I have ever seen. Bright purples,reds, and yellows with vibrant colored starfish speckling the area. There were some bright colored fish and anenome. It was amazing! Then we were fed a hearty sandwich as we ventured towards our next snorkel spot. The fish there were incredible. There were rainbow fish, and fish with bright blue spots, and needle nose fish, and etc.... we did take pictures using an underwater camera that will hopefully someday somehow end up in the blog. We sailed back to the island browned, tired, but thrilled with all the beautiful things we had seen. After a yummy dinner it was time to pack our backs for the next morning's early departure. After packing we planned to meet up with some lovely ladies we had met on our boating adventure, we went to a super cool bar only they were having a dj remix contest....we could only handle so much.
That's a dolphin up there!
Sunday July 1: We had a great plan of going to a sleepy mountain town nestled at the base of a volcano until reality sunk and we realized how extensive the traveling really would be. We ended up staying the night in a small town in a shady area just a few hours from Panama City. We attempted to go out to eat but felt a bit uneasy with the nearby dining options. Luckily for us there was a large grocery store nearby where we splurged on granola, snacks, and peanut butter.
Monday July 2: We made it to Panama City and were blown away by the sky line there! What a super cool city. We wandered about, but didn't want to do too much exploring because Nicholle was coming the next days. We saw a few cool stores and grabbed a cappuchino (with hand whipped foam :) ) After resting a bit at our hostel it was time for some din din. We stopped at a nice looking restaraunt and once inside we felt like we were back in the states. After dinner, we checked out the view from the roof top bar which was phenomenal!
Tuesday July 3: After stopping for some coffee and crepes we decided it was time to make our way towards the airport to pickup Nicholle. We imagined we would have plenty of time to get there and even spent a little time walking through the mall before hopping a bus. Little did we know that the bus to the airport tooke 2 1/2 hours!! It was awful! I was getting car sick from all the stop and go, and there was a little too much liquid build up if you know what I mean. Then, the bus dropped us off about 1/4 mile from the actual airport, we were already running about an hour and a half late to get Nicholle and I felt terrible! We finally made it inside, met up with Nicholle, then hopped a taxi back to the city. We went back to the rooftop bar that night where we met a rather interesting "vampire" couple.
Wednesday July 4th: Ironically we spent Independence Day at the Panama Canal. We strolled through the museums and were able to watch a small boat pass through the canal. We were hoping to see a large boat but it just didn't work out. We headed back to Casco Viejo ( the area where we were staying) and did a little bit of venturing. That night we decided to have typical Panamenian food at a restaraunt called El Diablicos. The food was quite tasty!
Thursday July 5th: After switching hostels to a much better hostel with fabulous staff, we hailed a taxi to the causeway. The causeway is a stretch of road with restaraunts and shops all along the way. After a bit of shopping we rented some bicycles and puttered our way down the causeway. Of course what day would be complete without a bit of ice cream!? I have turned into a bit of an ice cream monster! Even though we had an early morning heading out to the San Blaas Islands, we decided it was very necessary to see Panama City nightlife. We had our very own tour guide, Gustavo, one of the owners of our hostel. After dancing till the wee hours we made it back,only to wake up a few short hours later.
Friday July 6th: About 5:45 am we woke up in a panic...and possibly still a bit ennebriated. Kate's alarm had not gone off, and the we were supposed to be picked up at 5:30....oops! Good thing the driver was late too! 6:15 we set off for the San Blaas Islands, all of us sleeping most of the way. Then it came time to catch a boat to the island. I may not have mentioned this earlier, but it was green season in Panama, meaning rainy season. We were getting drenched sitting in an un-covered boat. I truly must have looked miserable with wind and rain pelting my face. Soggy we arrived at the island and the 2 minutes to our tiny little hut on the other side of the island. The island was called Iguana Island, and was maybe 1/3 of a mile all the way around. Our hut had no floor, just sand and there may have been a few cockroaches in the beds. We were all served the same meal, minus Nicholle and her food "allergy" to seafood. Lucky for her because our lunch was not all that appetizing, some sort of lobster slaw with some veggies. It was back to bed for us, since it was raining and there wasn't much to do. Dinner was another meal of lobster, but this time half a lobster and much fresher. We hoped the next day would bring some sunshine!
Saturday July 7th: Brought some sunshine, thank goodness! After a morning yoga session with our new friends, and a cross fit workout, it was time to get our tan on. I had to get my study on! After a good healthy dose of swimming and vitamin D, we had another lunch of yup you guessed it, Lobster!
Then came the exciting part, we were able to go snorkeling at a sunken ship. It was one of the coolest snorkeling experiences I have had, even though the tide caused a bit of a struggle. Then came dinner and what a surprise, we had chicken! We called it an early night in preparation for a morning of traveling.
Sunday July 8th: Nicholle's Birthday! After breakfast, it was time to begin our adventure back to Panama City. Once we got back it was time for souvenir shopping. We walked around for hours picking up souvenirs for loved ones. That night after dinner out. We had a birthday party for Nicholle up on the roof. It was a smattering of people from all different cultures and we surprised her with a cake and candles.
Monday July 9th: Kate left early in the morning, homebound for the good ol US of A. It was sad to see her go, but I know that our paths will cross again. That left Nicholle and I to tear up the town. Another day of walking around and venturing...also souvenir shopping. We got some goodies for friends and family!
Tuesday July 10th: Last day in Central America! Nicholle and I headed to a small little island. There was only one time you could arrive and one time you could leave. We got there at about 9 am and decided to do some exploring. We had heard you could hike to the Cross up on the hill and decided it was worth it to give it a shot. Well unfortunately, none of the trails were well marked and we knew we had gone the wrong way when we ended up at a landfill.. The smell was atrocious but a little farther up was a cool view of the sea. We headed back into town and decided to do some relaxing at the beach, again I was studying :( We spent a few hours there then headed for lunch. By the time lunch was over it was about time to head back to the ferry and make our way back to Panama City. For dinner we went out with our favorite hostel owner and enjoyed some out door eating. We topped of Tour de Central America with good food and good company.
Wednesday July 11th: After almost a year of living in Central America it was finally time to be back in the states. Of course a quick stop in Dallas to take a test, interview, and see my love were in order. There were so many amazing moments and memories made while being in Central America. I am so much more grateful for everything that I have in my life. I miss my old kiddos like crazy but a new year will bring new students and new challenges. I am still amazed at the way life turns out and will now and forever say that life is indeed crazy beautiful! :)
We had heard the weather in Bocas wasn't that great and they were right. We had 2 days of rain off and on so we spent a lot of time enjoying the cable tv in the room. We did get out and about and found some very cool and unique stores.
On our last full day we decided take our friends advice and go on the Catamaran snorkeling tour. It was so much fun to lounge on the boat taking in vitamin D is we sailed past all sorts of little islands till we reached our first stop, Dolphin Bay. We were able to watch dolphins gliding and diving all around us. Right before we left we were able to watch 2 dolphins play from a distance. Next up was our first snorkeling adventure, next to a mangrove. We saw some of the most beautiful coral I have ever seen. Bright purples,reds, and yellows with vibrant colored starfish speckling the area. There were some bright colored fish and anenome. It was amazing! Then we were fed a hearty sandwich as we ventured towards our next snorkel spot. The fish there were incredible. There were rainbow fish, and fish with bright blue spots, and needle nose fish, and etc.... we did take pictures using an underwater camera that will hopefully someday somehow end up in the blog. We sailed back to the island browned, tired, but thrilled with all the beautiful things we had seen. After a yummy dinner it was time to pack our backs for the next morning's early departure. After packing we planned to meet up with some lovely ladies we had met on our boating adventure, we went to a super cool bar only they were having a dj remix contest....we could only handle so much.
That's a dolphin up there!
Sunday July 1: We had a great plan of going to a sleepy mountain town nestled at the base of a volcano until reality sunk and we realized how extensive the traveling really would be. We ended up staying the night in a small town in a shady area just a few hours from Panama City. We attempted to go out to eat but felt a bit uneasy with the nearby dining options. Luckily for us there was a large grocery store nearby where we splurged on granola, snacks, and peanut butter.
Monday July 2: We made it to Panama City and were blown away by the sky line there! What a super cool city. We wandered about, but didn't want to do too much exploring because Nicholle was coming the next days. We saw a few cool stores and grabbed a cappuchino (with hand whipped foam :) ) After resting a bit at our hostel it was time for some din din. We stopped at a nice looking restaraunt and once inside we felt like we were back in the states. After dinner, we checked out the view from the roof top bar which was phenomenal!
Tuesday July 3: After stopping for some coffee and crepes we decided it was time to make our way towards the airport to pickup Nicholle. We imagined we would have plenty of time to get there and even spent a little time walking through the mall before hopping a bus. Little did we know that the bus to the airport tooke 2 1/2 hours!! It was awful! I was getting car sick from all the stop and go, and there was a little too much liquid build up if you know what I mean. Then, the bus dropped us off about 1/4 mile from the actual airport, we were already running about an hour and a half late to get Nicholle and I felt terrible! We finally made it inside, met up with Nicholle, then hopped a taxi back to the city. We went back to the rooftop bar that night where we met a rather interesting "vampire" couple.
Wednesday July 4th: Ironically we spent Independence Day at the Panama Canal. We strolled through the museums and were able to watch a small boat pass through the canal. We were hoping to see a large boat but it just didn't work out. We headed back to Casco Viejo ( the area where we were staying) and did a little bit of venturing. That night we decided to have typical Panamenian food at a restaraunt called El Diablicos. The food was quite tasty!
Thursday July 5th: After switching hostels to a much better hostel with fabulous staff, we hailed a taxi to the causeway. The causeway is a stretch of road with restaraunts and shops all along the way. After a bit of shopping we rented some bicycles and puttered our way down the causeway. Of course what day would be complete without a bit of ice cream!? I have turned into a bit of an ice cream monster! Even though we had an early morning heading out to the San Blaas Islands, we decided it was very necessary to see Panama City nightlife. We had our very own tour guide, Gustavo, one of the owners of our hostel. After dancing till the wee hours we made it back,only to wake up a few short hours later.
Friday July 6th: About 5:45 am we woke up in a panic...and possibly still a bit ennebriated. Kate's alarm had not gone off, and the we were supposed to be picked up at 5:30....oops! Good thing the driver was late too! 6:15 we set off for the San Blaas Islands, all of us sleeping most of the way. Then it came time to catch a boat to the island. I may not have mentioned this earlier, but it was green season in Panama, meaning rainy season. We were getting drenched sitting in an un-covered boat. I truly must have looked miserable with wind and rain pelting my face. Soggy we arrived at the island and the 2 minutes to our tiny little hut on the other side of the island. The island was called Iguana Island, and was maybe 1/3 of a mile all the way around. Our hut had no floor, just sand and there may have been a few cockroaches in the beds. We were all served the same meal, minus Nicholle and her food "allergy" to seafood. Lucky for her because our lunch was not all that appetizing, some sort of lobster slaw with some veggies. It was back to bed for us, since it was raining and there wasn't much to do. Dinner was another meal of lobster, but this time half a lobster and much fresher. We hoped the next day would bring some sunshine!
Saturday July 7th: Brought some sunshine, thank goodness! After a morning yoga session with our new friends, and a cross fit workout, it was time to get our tan on. I had to get my study on! After a good healthy dose of swimming and vitamin D, we had another lunch of yup you guessed it, Lobster!
Then came the exciting part, we were able to go snorkeling at a sunken ship. It was one of the coolest snorkeling experiences I have had, even though the tide caused a bit of a struggle. Then came dinner and what a surprise, we had chicken! We called it an early night in preparation for a morning of traveling.
Sunday July 8th: Nicholle's Birthday! After breakfast, it was time to begin our adventure back to Panama City. Once we got back it was time for souvenir shopping. We walked around for hours picking up souvenirs for loved ones. That night after dinner out. We had a birthday party for Nicholle up on the roof. It was a smattering of people from all different cultures and we surprised her with a cake and candles.
Monday July 9th: Kate left early in the morning, homebound for the good ol US of A. It was sad to see her go, but I know that our paths will cross again. That left Nicholle and I to tear up the town. Another day of walking around and venturing...also souvenir shopping. We got some goodies for friends and family!
Tuesday July 10th: Last day in Central America! Nicholle and I headed to a small little island. There was only one time you could arrive and one time you could leave. We got there at about 9 am and decided to do some exploring. We had heard you could hike to the Cross up on the hill and decided it was worth it to give it a shot. Well unfortunately, none of the trails were well marked and we knew we had gone the wrong way when we ended up at a landfill.. The smell was atrocious but a little farther up was a cool view of the sea. We headed back into town and decided to do some relaxing at the beach, again I was studying :( We spent a few hours there then headed for lunch. By the time lunch was over it was about time to head back to the ferry and make our way back to Panama City. For dinner we went out with our favorite hostel owner and enjoyed some out door eating. We topped of Tour de Central America with good food and good company.
Wednesday July 11th: After almost a year of living in Central America it was finally time to be back in the states. Of course a quick stop in Dallas to take a test, interview, and see my love were in order. There were so many amazing moments and memories made while being in Central America. I am so much more grateful for everything that I have in my life. I miss my old kiddos like crazy but a new year will bring new students and new challenges. I am still amazed at the way life turns out and will now and forever say that life is indeed crazy beautiful! :)
Sunday, July 1, 2012
Costa Rica....Pura vida
Colleen, Jenna, Kate, and I parted ways with Nicaragua...and our awesome hostel Pacha Mama...(the hostel wasn't really great at all, unless you enjoy sharing a room with crude strangers) We left via taxi to the border then hopped on a bus to Canas. After purchasing some snacks on snacks we had to trek it over 100 m to the bus station. We could already tell that Costa Rica was going to be different. There were no longer shacks alongside the road and the buses now had sections for the disabled. Yes, pura vida was going to be quite different. After arriving in Tilaran we learned that there were no more buses heading to La Fortuna, our 2 options were to stay over night, or pay for a taxi. Realizing that our time is limited we decided on the taxi. We finally arrived into La Fortuna with it's huge Volcano Arenal. After grabbing some din din and chatting it up with Gringo Pete it was time to hit the hay.
Thursday June 21: Kate and I decided to have a chill day because she had an interview and I had some studying to do. After a quick workout and a trip to the grocery story, we took full advantage of Pete's free coffee as we attempted to work on our lives back in the US. After enough coffee and work was completed we went to check out the souvenir shops to see if La Fortuna had something good to offer. After meandering around, we worked up quite a sweat which of course can only be cured by beer, Imperial is the national cerveza of Costa Rica. After 2 rounds we decided it was time to head back to meet up with Colleen and Jenna, unfortunately Pacha Mama (mother nature) had different plans in store. A full scale rain storm began and we had to take cover in a nearby restaraunt, another perfect moment to enjoy a cerveza...Finally the rain calmed down as our bellies became angered. We were starving, and how can you not stop at a restaraunt titled Just Good Food. Their food was fairly tasty. After a quick stop for ice cream :) it was bed time. We had a tour scheduled to leave at 8 am in the morning.
Impromptu photo shoot
Enjoying beers, Imperial is the way to go
Friday June 22: The all day adventure began with a hike up to Cerro Chato, which is a lagoon created by the eruption of Arenal. Would have been great for a swim but after hiking down into the lagoon, we knew what was in store on the way up. I think we all just wanted to get it done and over with. After a few hours of hiking we were picked up and taken to a great little swimming spot with a rope swing and cold water. I know I shouldn't be surprised about cold water, I did grow up in OR but over the last few weeks I have become so accustomed to warmer water, that it was quite a shock to my body. Then came a yummy typical lunch of rice, beans, a coleslaw type salad, and casado which is grilled meat. We had yet another hike to see the river bed of old lava flow. Though it was raining and a little chilly we kept ourselves entertained by swinging on vines and taking silly pictures. After the hike it was time to relax in the natural hot springs river and enjoy another national drink, cacique and coke (essentially rum and coke). What better luck for us girls than having another tour guide give us mud masks using mud from the volcano which is supposedly full of nutrients and good stuff for your skin. Then, it was dinner time and we had essentially a repeat of lunch...seeing as rice and beans and meat are the typical dishes. We got home completely exhausted
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rope bridge
Volan Arenal
a bit of a roadblock, thanks to rainy season
Cerro Chato
Lava surfing
Tarzan better watch out!
Saturday June 23: Time to pack up and leave La Fortuna for Tortuguero, an island famous for turtles laying eggs. Well after 3 buses, a taxi, and a boat ride we made it! We were fortunate enough to meet a Spanish couple on our journey and drank some beers with them while we waited for our bus. It took me back to my time in Spain and Castillian Spanish..grathias! After we got settled in and booked our tours for the next day, we needed to eat some yummy food and Miss Mirian really had it in store for us. She cooked almost everything with coconut and it was de lish!
Boat ride to Tortuguero
Sunday June 24th: Woke up at 5 am to go on a canoeing trip down the canals. We were able to see 3 kinds of monkeys: spider monkeys, howler monkeys, and white faced monkeys. We saw many species of birds and though I am not the biggest bird fan by any means I still enjoyed seeing the different types of birds. We were also able to see a caiman which is like a little crocodile. After a nap. it was time to explore the shops and of course hit the beach. At night it was time to try our luck seeing turtles lay their eggs on the beach. Apparently, Kate and I are quite lucky and we were able to see 4 turtles and it was absolutely amazing. We saw 2 start to come to shore but when they feel threatened or in danger they turn around and head back to sea where they will have to try again.One of those turtles was the Hawksvill turtle. Then we stumbled upon the tracks of a Green turtle laying her eggs. We were able to watch her cover up her eggs and drag herself back to the water, she was so big and beautiful. Then came the grand finale, there was another Green turtle making the nest to lay her eggs. We literally were able to watch as she deposited her eggs into the sand and covered up her eggs. We had run into a conservation group that works to protect the turtles by making sure the mama is ok, marking where her nest is, and tagging her so they can keep track of her. They measured the length of her shell from head to tail at 114 centimeters and I believe width wise she was 105 centimeters. Words truly can't express how amazing it is to watch nature happen. We were traipsing on the beach with nothing but the light from the stars and the occasional red light (they have to use red lights as to not bother the turtles as much) watching some of the most amazing creatures work to continue the cycle of life. I wish we could have taken pictures but it of course was not allowed because the flash would scare the turtles, but I will carry this memory with me forever
A tiger heron
Lil Lizard Guy Spider monkey
Thursday June 21: Kate and I decided to have a chill day because she had an interview and I had some studying to do. After a quick workout and a trip to the grocery story, we took full advantage of Pete's free coffee as we attempted to work on our lives back in the US. After enough coffee and work was completed we went to check out the souvenir shops to see if La Fortuna had something good to offer. After meandering around, we worked up quite a sweat which of course can only be cured by beer, Imperial is the national cerveza of Costa Rica. After 2 rounds we decided it was time to head back to meet up with Colleen and Jenna, unfortunately Pacha Mama (mother nature) had different plans in store. A full scale rain storm began and we had to take cover in a nearby restaraunt, another perfect moment to enjoy a cerveza...Finally the rain calmed down as our bellies became angered. We were starving, and how can you not stop at a restaraunt titled Just Good Food. Their food was fairly tasty. After a quick stop for ice cream :) it was bed time. We had a tour scheduled to leave at 8 am in the morning.
Friday June 22: The all day adventure began with a hike up to Cerro Chato, which is a lagoon created by the eruption of Arenal. Would have been great for a swim but after hiking down into the lagoon, we knew what was in store on the way up. I think we all just wanted to get it done and over with. After a few hours of hiking we were picked up and taken to a great little swimming spot with a rope swing and cold water. I know I shouldn't be surprised about cold water, I did grow up in OR but over the last few weeks I have become so accustomed to warmer water, that it was quite a shock to my body. Then came a yummy typical lunch of rice, beans, a coleslaw type salad, and casado which is grilled meat. We had yet another hike to see the river bed of old lava flow. Though it was raining and a little chilly we kept ourselves entertained by swinging on vines and taking silly pictures. After the hike it was time to relax in the natural hot springs river and enjoy another national drink, cacique and coke (essentially rum and coke). What better luck for us girls than having another tour guide give us mud masks using mud from the volcano which is supposedly full of nutrients and good stuff for your skin. Then, it was dinner time and we had essentially a repeat of lunch...seeing as rice and beans and meat are the typical dishes. We got home completely exhausted
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Volan Arenala bit of a roadblock, thanks to rainy season
Lava surfing
Tarzan better watch out!
Saturday June 23: Time to pack up and leave La Fortuna for Tortuguero, an island famous for turtles laying eggs. Well after 3 buses, a taxi, and a boat ride we made it! We were fortunate enough to meet a Spanish couple on our journey and drank some beers with them while we waited for our bus. It took me back to my time in Spain and Castillian Spanish..grathias! After we got settled in and booked our tours for the next day, we needed to eat some yummy food and Miss Mirian really had it in store for us. She cooked almost everything with coconut and it was de lish!
Boat ride to Tortuguero
Sunday June 24th: Woke up at 5 am to go on a canoeing trip down the canals. We were able to see 3 kinds of monkeys: spider monkeys, howler monkeys, and white faced monkeys. We saw many species of birds and though I am not the biggest bird fan by any means I still enjoyed seeing the different types of birds. We were also able to see a caiman which is like a little crocodile. After a nap. it was time to explore the shops and of course hit the beach. At night it was time to try our luck seeing turtles lay their eggs on the beach. Apparently, Kate and I are quite lucky and we were able to see 4 turtles and it was absolutely amazing. We saw 2 start to come to shore but when they feel threatened or in danger they turn around and head back to sea where they will have to try again.One of those turtles was the Hawksvill turtle. Then we stumbled upon the tracks of a Green turtle laying her eggs. We were able to watch her cover up her eggs and drag herself back to the water, she was so big and beautiful. Then came the grand finale, there was another Green turtle making the nest to lay her eggs. We literally were able to watch as she deposited her eggs into the sand and covered up her eggs. We had run into a conservation group that works to protect the turtles by making sure the mama is ok, marking where her nest is, and tagging her so they can keep track of her. They measured the length of her shell from head to tail at 114 centimeters and I believe width wise she was 105 centimeters. Words truly can't express how amazing it is to watch nature happen. We were traipsing on the beach with nothing but the light from the stars and the occasional red light (they have to use red lights as to not bother the turtles as much) watching some of the most amazing creatures work to continue the cycle of life. I wish we could have taken pictures but it of course was not allowed because the flash would scare the turtles, but I will carry this memory with me forever
A tiger heron
Lil Lizard Guy Spider monkey
Caiman
White faced monkey
Howler monkey
Are we not turtle enough for your turtle club???
June 24th: Time to leave Tortuguero and head down the coast towards Panama. After an intense morning workout, it was time to pack and hop a boat to Cahuita. After, a 4 hour boat ride and a taxi drive we arrived in a very small town with a National Park and beatiful beach. Unfortunately, Kate and I both suffer a bit of motion sickness (this is new for me but one bad experience will scare you enough to take dramamine every time) and in the battle against motion sickness we lost the war against dramamine. We went for lunch and then we zonked out for a rather intensive nap. We barely managed to drag ourselves to an interent cafe to catch up with the world and grab some ice cream before we were calling it quits for the night.
June 25th: After an interesting breakfast of Pinto Gallo (rice and beans) and chicken it was time to see what the Cahuita beach had in store for us. The beach was perfect and the water was refreshing...life is just so tough these days. We lounged for awhile then hit the trail in the natural park to see what wild life would visit us. Just a lot of ants and a few lizards. Another delicious dinner then time to pack because next up.... Panama!!!!
Of course not before a little snafu in our night. As we were typing out blogs and chatting with loved ones we had a rather unwanted visitor in our room. A large crab who really didn't want to leave. After battling with crab a while as he worked himself into a corner we left him to find his own way out....Hopefully he doesn't make a reappearance.
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