I just had to write a quick blog update tonight before this highly exciting information left my brain! Oh, Osita! Tonight I went outside to give Osita and Reina their “mid-evening” snack (usually a dog biscuit), and found Reina immediately perched by our back door. However, Osita was not to be found and calling her did not bring her out of wherever she was. I waited a few minutes, then looked around the house calling her name repeatedly and still could not find her. Finally, I went to the back door where Reina was anxiously awaiting her treat and alas, there is Osita lumbering out of the dog pen. I was surprised because it is impossible to get them in the dog pen in the first place. So, I petted Osita on the back and as ... read more

“Rainy days and Mondays always….” and Tuesday through Sunday as well Yep, it is raining here. My guess is two inches a day but don’t quote me on that. I need to find a rain meter. Yes, I know it does rain in many places throughout the world, but frankly, I’m not used to two seasons—rainy and dry—rather, four seasons! I won’t miss the snow in the northeast this winter though. While many of you are clearing the snow off of your cars or facing higher oil and electric bills (sorry!), I’ll be here sitting outside looking at the crisp blue sky and enjoying temperatures in the 70s or low 80s. The rain does not bother me as much here, however, as it did back in Washington. It is usually a warm rain, happens in the ... read more

Yes, another blog entry. The pictures for this entry are pretty random, but basically were taken this week while our workers were putting in our new patio and grass. So, why another blog update so soon? Well, because I am sitting in an office near the San Jose airport, waiting for over an hour to meet the inspector who will go over Beth and my goods that finally arrived from the U.S. I was on time at 2pm as requested, but the inspector was late of course. This is the part of moving to a foreign country that I hate—form, waiting, and more waiting! Honestly, I was a bit disappointed with the moving company in the U.S. I will be sending them a nasty letter. I won’t name them here (for fear of a lawsuit), but ... read more

The week started off nicely on Sunday with a full house of guests brought by George Lundquist, (www.costaricaretireonss.com) one of the people here who do “retirement tours” for people—mostly North Americans—considering spending their latter years (or not so latter years) in this beautiful country. It’s a nice tour and I’m glad he comes to stay with us every month at Angel Valley Farm B&B. He gives a great “insiders” view of Costa Rica and shows his clients property for sale throughout the Central Valley. I am still amazed at the prices here for which one can buy a nice piece of land and build a custom home. Who said living the “good life” had to be expensive? A great group for those considering a move to Costa Rica is: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CostaRicaLiving/. Monday was a chaotic day. It ... read more

My good friend Andrew L. suggested that I update my blog more often, even if I have less to say, rather than letting a long time go between updates. He believes that people want more frequent updates. I agree. I also think I need to balance frequent updates with good “content,” as they say in the business (it’s not personal, “it’s only business”). I don’t want my readers to get bored! So, I need to have at least mildly interesting things to say. I am surprised no one has commented yet on my last blog entry given it was 7 weeks since my last entry, so much had happened, and I had quite a bit to say. I love seeing comments, so get writing! One of my chores Beth left me with was taking our new ... read more