Thursday, August 29, 2013

Los Suenos (The Dream)

Last week I needed to make a run to Los Suenos for business.  While I was there I took the time to stroll around the marina.  This first class resort is owned by Marriott so you can imagine it's pretty fancy.  It's certainly nice to visit once in awhile.....but my heart belongs to EO :)

Pura Vida












Mamados

A few day ago a very good friend of mine died.  Her name was Mamados and she was one of the best dog friends I have ever had.  

I first met Mamados back in 2006.  Apparently 2 years prior she had just showed up at the home of Fred and Bri.  She was thin..had a puppy with her that didn't make it.  At that time, Brigitte had another dog named Mama.  When this mama showed up she became Mamados - Mama number 2.

In the summer of 2007 I had the privilege of being the caretaker of Fred and Bri's house during the 5 months they are back in British Colombia.  During that time -it was just me and Mamados.  We bonded on our many walks on the beach, she slept in my room at night, just the fact that we lived together all that time.....sealed the deal.  

As the years have gone by there have been times when I have been house sitting and once again it is just me and her.  I knew her - she knew me......and we truly loved each other.

All dogs go to Heaven.  I am not sure I will make it there......but my guess is that is where my Mamados is - being the little bitch she was, in control of everything but a huge heart of gold for those she care about.  I was one of the lucky ones :)

Pura Vida


Good Times - Good Friends

Anna is in town this week, Rick is here from Daytona for a few more, the Brit's with their friends totally enjoying every single moment in the warm water.  Sweet waves - life is Good :)

Pura Vida







Shaun and Jo Taylor w/friends from England



Rick

Anna



Shaun

Recent Visitors

Another pizote hanging out on the wall and......a Blue Crowned Motmot.  

You may or many not know, but Costa Rica (According to both Lonely Planet and Fodor's) has more species of birds than any other country in the whole wide world - seriously!! Altho the mammals in Costa Rica might be elusive, you can be guaranteed you will see plenty of birds.  When I wake up in the morning it is always to the sound of tropical music provided by the local nature - unless it is pouring rain, but I love that also.  For at least 30 minutes joy fills the air starting about 5:30 am.  My windows are always open and this is how I begin the day.

I have seen a motmot before but not in my own backyard.  I was heading out back when I saw it sitting on the chair.  I carefully walked back into my room and grabbed the camera.  Got a quick shot before it flew up to the trees behind my wall. There it sat for quiet awhile just watching me take photos of it.  

With my own photos I have included one from the internet that shows just how amazing this bird is.  It's tail feathers is what makes it extra special.  The other very cool thing about this bird is its' cry - sounds very much like an owl.  

Enjoy :)

Pura Vida






Wednesday, August 28, 2013

All Systems Go

Not only have Dieter and I been dealing with obstacles related to just figuring out exactly what was the best method to use to fix her, tide schedules, the awesome sculptor who often changes his mind as to what needs to be done and what he wants to do, finding the proper materials in a country that does have a lot but seemingly not what we need......, etc, etc. - having reliable help has been touch and go.  In the beginning we had William, the son of Mainor the fisherman, who is awesome - was always there on time.  However, since May, William now works on Saturdays and each time Dieter came to Esterillos -it was a challenge to find someone else to help him - until now.  Now...we have Flaco!

I have known Flaco for many years but until recently, for the past 2 years he was living somewhere else.  Well now...he is back in Esterillos.  Like all of us...Flaco has had his own challenges but for now, he is here, he is on it and he is thrilled to be part of the team.  He is on time and he wants to help do whatever is needed.  

Saturday was the first time Flaco was with Dieter.  The two of them hit it off and I am beyond happy to have someone I know I can count on.

Photos are from Saturday.  Unfortunately my battery died before we were done.  We were on the reef for 2 hours and in that time a number of people ventured out to see what was up.  While the guys were working - I was taking photos for the visitors. Everyone wants to know the story and on this particular day - it was just a ton of fun being there.  

With a proven plan, the amazing Dieter who has been with me since the beginning and now Flaco.....for the first time I feel relieved and confident things are moving along as best as possible with the 2 best guys who will get this done.

Pura Vida