 The Sheridans - Just Jen | All Comments |
Comments | |
| 25th June 2008 Jessika | your green frog - From: Butterfly Conservatory actually your picture of the green frog on the green leaf is a red-eyed tree frog. when resting they seal up all their color so they look all green, but once moving they have the yellow and blue sides, oragne feet, and red eyes. I know this because we sell them at the PetSmart I work at, in Utah. I remember when I first saw it, I thought a different frog got into the red-eyed frog's cage some how. But when moving it I saw that it was indeed a red-eyed tree frog. They are pretty intersting little frogs! |
| 14th May 2008 jaclyn | - From: Daily life in Costa Rica i might move to costa rica!!! is it cool??? |
| 8th April 2008 Paige Hailey | Strong Rip Current - From: The Beach, Playa Esterillos Hi, I just wanted to mention that parts of Playa Esterillos do have a very, very strong rip current, especially when the tide is going low. My parents live on Playa Esterillos and we have seen many accounts of people getting sucked out and in very dangerous situations. Even when the surf is only five to six feet, the rips can cause a lot of problems. In the last two years, there have been five or six drownings in the area and more than 20 rescues by local surfers and even a fishing boat. Please be careful and always go in with fins or a boogie board, especially in Esterillos Este and Central. |
| 13th March 2008 Manrique Molina | Irazu volcano - From: Poas Volcano Have you been to Irazu yet? Nice drive and similar to Poas but more moonlike. You should make a day trip, volcano, Cartago city and Orosi valley, nice!!! |
| 21st January 2008 cailley | cool - From: Daily life in Costa Rica you have a cool website. neat pictures, |
| 20th October 2007 Just Jen | photos - From: Thanks for reading Thanks Donna! You wouldn't believe how many sand dollars we actually collect. It was amazing. |
| 19th October 2007 Donna | Photos Fabulous - From: Thanks for reading Jen, I had no idea you were so skilled in photography! These photos are wonderful...please save ocean currency and 2nd beach chair from the left for me. See you soon. Love Donna |
| 28th February 2007 Just Jen | May he rest in peace - From: Random acts of kindness I'd had similar turtles when I was young, mine lasted longer than Callista's. We decided he died from lonliness. Next time we're going to get two at the same time. No one likes to be alone! The turtle is the only other pet Bear has allowed us to have. He's very territorial, we're HIS family and no one elses. |
| 26th February 2007 Lulu | I'm pretty sure they are sliders.... - From: Random acts of kindness If they have little yellow or red markings on the sides of the head, they are slider's. They are aquatic as you can see w/their webbed feet and are mainly carnivorous. They like to eat little pieces of raw meat, fish, shrimp, insects, etc. In their warmed up state this is when they eat the most. Sometimes they might not eat for days. For example, like when it's cooler cause as cold blooded animals their metabolism slows down, but it doesn't mean they are sick. Decades ago it wasn't unusual to find these baby turtles and baby gators for sale in pet shops here in FL. I remember decades ago, my dad bought me two baby red eared slider's and I named them Lucy & Desi - had them for years. They are aquatic cold blooded reptiles & they need a shallow fresh water base w/elevated areas (like stones) for sunning from time to time - not too much sun cause they can overheat and perish. I had mine outside & it's like a game w/the weather outside. |
| 22nd February 2007 Just Jen | Thanks for the tears Paul! - From: Driving in Costa Rica WOW!!! The first glimpse of the flowers brought tears to my eyes! What a special gift you sent me! I can't thank you enough. Jen |
| 22nd February 2007 Just Jen | Awesome! Thanks Paul - From: Driving in Costa Rica I can't wait to check out the site. Pea Soup Anderson's/TGI Fridays, what a waste!!!! Are the flower fields still there? We'll be in San Deigo in July when Bill's son gets married. Our first trip back to the states. I'm looking forward to driving Palomar Airport road and seeing the changes. My mom sent us pics from the Carlsbad street fair last fall. It's amazing how things have changed so much. When I first moved to Carlsbad my 1st hubby and I survived on happy hour at Fidels. The last time we were there Fidels had turned upscale. If and when you make it back down here be sure to look us up. |
| 22nd February 2007 Paul | from San Diego - From: Driving in Costa Rica I'm from San Diego and I know EXACTLY what you are talking about in regards to the Carlsbad PCH Drive... living in Cardiff by the Sea, this drive has always has been one of my fav's (FYI, Pea Soup Andersons = TGIFridays). Love your blog! Takes me back to my 2-weeker in CR (late 2005). I'm saving up to go back to Naranjo and Grecia to see all the great friends I made there. Tico's are so genuine and I vow to return. Keep up your site cause I love the pictures!! In return for helping me re-live such fond memories, I thought I'd help you out ;) a little something I found for you... http://home-and-garden.webshots.com/photo/1061133357027375118QIwiAq scroll to the bottom and reminisce over roads from torrey pines all the way to the carlsbad power plant! http://www.westcoastroads.com/california/us-101a_ca.html Pura Vida!! P.S. I LOVED driving in CR... it was like a match made in Heaven! :) |
| 8th February 2007 cassie | yah - From: Daily life in Costa Rica go costa rica i luv it |
| 2nd February 2007 Just Jen | Thanks for commenting Alexander - From: Tico Train Tour Atenas to Caldera I'm looking forward to another trip to the Caribbean. Our first trip was fun but I would've liked to do more exploring instead of spending time at the hotel. Our daughter starts school in a week so unfortunately our travels will be limited to vacations. I'm thankful for the year we've taken off and traveled around. I'd be interested to know about where you stayed and if you'd recommend it. Thanks again for reading and more for commenting. We may live here but we learn from others travels. |
| 2nd February 2007 Alexander | Costa Rica - From: Tico Train Tour Atenas to Caldera Even before getting on the plane, I couldn’t control my excitement. I had heard so many wonderful things about the Costa Rican beaches and their particular nature. That is why I had decided to visit both coasts, Pacific and Caribbean during my vacation. For 15 days I traveled trouble free on public transport throughout Costa Rica’s coastline, getting to know a variety of fascinating beaches. Each one having a particular type of sand and vegetation. The Caribbean Sea is unique and this particular coastline is home to a vivid afro Jamaican culture. The colors and the smells are unforgettable, where the natural beauty of the area can only be compared with the flavors of their cuisine, unique in the country both original and delicious. From the coconut flavored “rice and beans” platter to the Caribbean “patty” dumplings. The Pacific is also a very diverse area. You can find all different kinds of beaches where the vegetation grows right up to the coast. For example, in Manuel Antonio National Park, the tree branches from the rain forest provide shelter from the sun as you sit on the sand, the only thing one has to worry about are the whiteface monkeys that like to eat your food. These adorable and friendly natives tend to befriend tourists while their friends sneak behind you and take your snacks; it’s quite funny actually. There is so much to see in Costa Rican beaches. It is very different from anything I have ever seen, and I am eager to see more of Costa Rica. My next trip will probably be focused on volcanoes, rainforests and bird watching, if I get the chance! |
| 1st January 2007 peggy | wow - From: Day trip, Zarcero & Termales del Bosque my husband and i just returned from a visit to costa rica and we went to termales on Thursday! we missed you by a few days- it was great! we also stopped in the park in zarcero. |
| 31st December 2006 Just Jen | Just call when you're ready! - From: Day trip, Zarcero & Termales del Bosque Cal and I are always ready to go back, Bill enjoys it as well. Massages are a little steep for me, $22 for 30 min but the $7 mask is a fun treat. They won't let Bear stay in the hotel so we aren't able to do overnights. We tried the restaurant this time, EXCELLENT! Happy New Year! Hope you get some sleep. |
| 31st December 2006 Saratica | - From: Day trip, Zarcero & Termales del Bosque Can't wait to visit there with you next time! |
| 28th December 2006 Just Jen | Gracias Carol Lynn and Sam - From: A December to Remember We are so blessed in our lives here. Yes, there are bad days but people have those everywhere. Stay true to your beliefs and you'll be able to make it thru anything. I hope you start a blog about your adventure if you haven't already. It's great therapy! When bad days come along reading past comments can do wonders to heal your soul and lift spirits. Thank you for taking time to write us, we appreciate it!!! |
| 27th December 2006 Carol Lynn and Sam | Sounds amazing to me - From: A December to Remember I think that sounds like one of the calmest and most appreciative Christmas' ever. I can't wait to challenge new traditions with my family and another moving to Honduras soon. Wish us luck with all of the beautiful changes ahead. Your family has been inspirational for me to believe we too can do it. Thanks kindly. CarolLynn and Sam |
| 27th December 2006 Just Jen | Thanks for the correction - From: Butterfly Conservatory No problem at all Bertha, I welcome the correction. We see so many new things here it's easy to get mixed up. I try to be more careful these days but...ya never know. |
| 27th December 2006 Bertha | wrong. - From: Butterfly Conservatory you're so called posion dart frog is really a red eyed tree frog. you told me to correct you if you were wrong. sometimes the truth hurts. bye. |
| 26th December 2006 Cyn | Merry Christmas - From: A December to Remember No white Christmas here in MD either. Your not missing anything at all. Love to all, Cyn |
| 17th December 2006 Just Jen | You bet Vicki! - From: San Ramon Tope 2006 Callista would absolutely LOVE a horse, what little girl wouldn't? Maybe one day. We do have a lot of fun here, it was the right choice for us. There are bad days as well but the daily blessings out weigh any of the negatives. Hi Melia! |
| 16th December 2006 Vicki Petersen | Hello all - From: San Ramon Tope 2006 I think Calista may be ready for a horse, It is so great to see you having so many adventures and fun. Melia says to say hi to Calista. She misses you lots. Glad your having fun. |
| 29th November 2006 Just Jen | We're coming your way next summer - From: The Beach, Playa Esterillos Hi Char, Thanks for writing! If you really want to end up here start thinking about it as a reality, visualize it. Hey, it worked for us! We're headed to San Diego in July. If we've got to come back to the states what better place than SD in the summer. If you don't mind sharing, what was your favorite place in CR? |
| 29th November 2006 Char Theilman | Good for you! - From: The Beach, Playa Esterillos Greetings from So. California.... My husband and I took our three boys to Costa Rica a year ago in September, and we can't wait to go back. What a trip that was for all of us! Some of the places you have mentioned were places we had gone. The Crocodiles, Playa Herradura, Los suenos and we stayed two nights at the Martino hotel in Alejuela and many more. All we talk about now is how and when we will move to Costa Rica. I can only hope that we can make it a reality! Best of luck to you... Bob and Char Theilman |
| 29th November 2006 Just Jen | We drove right by it! - From: Why the country life? We commented on the movie theater but didn't see the Don Fernando sign. Drove past the damn place several times! We'll be back at the dentist next week, Calli & I want to stop at the Chocolateria next time as well. I am really happy you moved to Escazu so we can visit. Don't want to live there but it's nice knowing people who do. :) Do they still have those unnatural colored coconut palms for sale in the keys? Beep as you pass Little Torch Key and Parmers resort for us. We had a great time there with our son last summer. Eat some escargot for me if you get a chance! See ya in a few weeks. |
| 29th November 2006 Saratica | City Mouse, Country Mouse - From: Why the country life? That's a children's play I did years ago in Key West... Let's see: who should I play???? Alas, I've always been a city girl. If I could afford Manhattan, I'd have an apartment there in, well, a New York minute! I love the country, the quiet, the scenery. That is why I like Costa Rica - even in the city here, it's still country! But not like San Ramon - it is so beautiful there! When I need a fix, I will come to you. When you all need city fixin's, come to me, ok? OH - Don Fernando. As you come down the main road past Tony Roma's, you get to Scotiabank and bear right. You will come to a tall older mall on the left - can't think of the name of it, but one of the main signs reads "Don Fernando's" and there is a movie theatre on the lower level. At the far end, there is an underground parking lot. It's 400 or 500 colones to park there but you aren't paying a guard or having to search for a place to park. Let me know if you find it - great place!!! See you mid-December - we are in Florida now, heading to Key West today. Pura vida, Jen and gang! |
| 27th November 2006 Just Jen | Yeah! - From: New Beginnings Today we've been watching a budding romance between two of the little white necked ones. It's so sweet watching the courtship! You'd love it. |
| 27th November 2006 anonymous | - From: New Beginnings Loved the bird pix. Mom |
| 23rd November 2006 Just Jen | I miss you too! - From: Day trips, Palmares, Atenas and Escazu I love getting comments from you!!! Our long talks are something I treasured. Have you been to Changing Hands lately? How I miss that store, the books AND the atmosphere. We need to talk about SKYPE. I'll send you a private email. I love you very much and think of you often. You're the best damn Aunt anyone could ever ask for. Please send my love to K&E and holiday greetings to the rest of your family at your mothers house today, the day of thanks. BTW the iguanas are truely fascinating, never thought I'd be saying that either. |
| 23rd November 2006 Just Jen | Terry, Glad to hear you're still in! - From: Scouting expedition to Mt. Chirripo You call us or we'll call you ... we need to talk about stuff like uh, where and how to get 0 degree sleeping bags and such. |
| 22nd November 2006 Carole Winslow | Happy T-giving - From: Day trips, Palmares, Atenas and Escazu Hi Sheridans !! Glad to know you "shot" a pie for T-giving. Saved a bird AND insured that there will be no leftovers to deal with. Smart girl. Very warm here so turning on the oven means turning on the a/c, too (not very Norman Rockwell). I'll be at my mom's. At nearly 90, she's unable to do the cooking but wants to host the festivities nevertheless. K & E will be in Irvine. E is studying for her final licensing exam on 12/27 (what fool picked THAT date?). If she passes, she has a great job awaiting her at one of the family-therapy clinics in OC where she interned. K's calendar is always full during the holidays, so he's resting up w/ "a lot of football and a nap on the couch." Bet Bill would like to join him for both (after the pie). Hugs to all. Jen, I miss our long talks, but gotta tell ya that the only creature I refuse to share space w/ is an iguana. So, getting me to CR to admire them just ain't gonna happen !! Still, you sound happy & that makes me happy. Feel loved (and missed). Aunt C. |
| 22nd November 2006 Terry Fickett | It's time to get in shape! - From: Scouting expedition to Mt. Chirripo Read your article and the climb up the mountain sounds challenging. We can make it though, right Bill? Now the road over, that sounds more challenging than the climb! About 6 weeks to get into shape. Guess I'll start tomorrow......... |
| 18th November 2006 Just Jen | VICKI !!!! - From: What's it like to visit us? How the heck are you???? I'm so glad you found time to spend on the site. Whether you realize it or not I think of all of you at the school often and am thankful for the challenges it presented. I hope more people use it as a safe place to challenge ideas and step out of their comfort zones. The rewards are/ can be heavenly! Hugs to you and the family. |
| 18th November 2006 Just Jen | Encouraging words greatly appreciated - From: Frustration Thanks Costabellena! Sometimes my words worry the family but in the end they agree what I'm doing is right even if it can be uncomfortable. Reader comments keep me going when the outside world overwhelms me. I'm thankful for each and every comment made as I know it means that person had to step out of their own comfort zone to write as well. |
| 18th November 2006 Just Jen | Thanks KC - From: Frustration Revisited and more What a different world it would be if each and every person just took responsibility for themselves and their actions instead of pointing fingers and blaming others. I appreciate your taking time to comment. |
| 17th November 2006 Vicki Petersen | Paradise - From: What's it like to visit us? Hello Your heaven looks like paradise. Thanks for these beautiful pictures and your beautiful poem. Friends. Love and laughs to you all. |
| 13th November 2006 costaballena | You see it like it is! - From: Frustration Good for you Jen to see and say it like it is! I, too, can't fathom ex-pats on entended tourist visas, iilegal to say the least, exploiting Costa Rica in the name of the almighty dollar. Can you imagine the baby-boomers visiting CR in the near future and looking for their piece of paradise? Every Tom, Dick, Harry and whoever will be on the frontline trying to bait their fish. Not only will they make a ton of CASH escorting the BBs around but they risk also to make a nice commission or profit on land they bought for peanuts from a Tico farmer or Tica widow in her aging years. Buying land at a fair price is questionable! Just read all the real estate websites time to time and it is flagrant to see a parcel of land in the Central Valley property for sale for 500,000+, which was formerly a family finca. Unless the developer paid to the owner at least 400,000 of the selling price, well, it's manipulative speculation pure and simple and only creates animosity in the community. It's not a question of being in the right place at the right time but more or less disinheriting Ticos of a just $ value to their property. Why do you think the attitude of Costa Ricans concerning petty theft towards Gringos is not an issue with them? Simply because the Gringos have merited this in one way or another. If being disinherited of a just value or knowing of the many instances by rumour or local gossip, Ticos are not going to sympathize with the situation and sadly, ex-pats who have nothing to do with this are penalized and affected. All of this is supposedly in the name of making a living! What gives them the right to exploit Costa Rica and the Ticos by selling their land at inflated prices and touring around the country vanting the beauty and the tranquility and paraise found for big $$$? Of course, the answer is always the same, ''we are creating jobs in the community''. Certainly, jobs at 800 colones an hour! WOW! Low-end paying jobs such as gardeners, cooks, cleaning ladies created to run their businesses and make even more $$$. Regulating real estate and tourist businesses laws should be established to eliminate unscrupulous practice. A hefty capital gains tax in real estate transactions, a real estate and tourist business licence for residents only after 5 years of residency and excluding pensionados from working since the first reason they have come to CR is to retire. In closing, I agree with you on not getting started on the men and the Ticas. That's a Pandora's Box! Keep up your good perspective and writing! |
| 12th November 2006 KC | Couldn't agree with you more ! ! ! - From: Frustration Revisited and more Thanks Jen for sharing so much truth! You're wearing blinders? I think it's quite the opposite don't you? Those running helter skelter trying to make another dollar to buy another trinket that they really don't need. Passing the poor and needy on the street without so much as a kind thought for them. Jesus said the second greatest commandment is for us to love our neighbors as ourselves, the first of course is to love God with all our Heart, Mind, Soul, and Strength. It's the darkness of this world that has blinded the hearts of mankind. Pura Vida! |
| 11th November 2006 Just Jen | reader comments inspire me - From: Frustration Revisited and more Thanks Cindy for the compliment but it's my higher power who deserves the credit, I am just a worker bee. I don't preach my faith, I choose instead to be an example of it. Comments like yours help give me the strength and energy to keep writing and living my life the way I do when the outside world tries to force its way in. I've tried living my faith quietly but apparently that isn't the way it's supposed to be. Thank you for supporting and encouraging my way of life. |
| 10th November 2006 Cindy | Frustration revisited and more - From: Frustration Revisited and more Jen, I salute and applaud you. I'm not very good with words, but I want to thank you for sharing your heartfelt feelings. You hit the nail on the head EXACTLY. How wonderful it is to know someone who feels the same as I. I feel so out of place and alone living in the US. I can't wait until I get to CR, only then do I feel I can truly open my heart and completely enjoy life. Thank you for being such an inspiration. |
| 9th November 2006 Just Jen | Thanks Jose - From: Frustration I appreciate your comments. My opinions are based my conversations and dealings with people newer in the area than yourself without the track record you speak of. Unfortunately, there are bad apples in every bunch. It's just the way it is. Those bad apples reflect badly on good guys as well. Perhaps the good guys should band together to to drive the unscrupulous out? My blog is simply one persons opinion perhaps soured by my experiences but none the less a valid opinion. I sincerely appreciate your comments and encourage others who have strong opinions to have their comments published along with mine for blog readers to consider. Something everyone should know if they don't already is that I speak, write honestly from my heart. I welcome the opportunity to share my life's philosophy with anyone who cares to listen. Perhaps then it would be easier for some to understand where I'm coming from in my opinions. Sincerely, Just Jen |
| 9th November 2006 Jose in San Ramon | Valid Points - From: Frustration Jen, you make valid points, but the picture is much bigger and can be quite different from what you say. I have a small B and B in Alajuela, I built it from the ground up with a lot of hard woirk, and I´m proud to say it´s done well and provides a needed service for a fair price. I´ve also bought land here in San Ramon and have had a part in building over 17 houses for very nice people who are enjoying life here in their retirement years, in a safe and secure area. The land was bought at a fair price from a local farmer who is still my friend and who has seen how hard I have worked to make his cattle pasture a good place to live. He has seen the caliber of people I have brought to their little community, and who provide employment to a handful of locals who celebrate events with us. The dozen or more people who are living here because of my activities are but a small fraction of the total population, are quiet and well mannered, and their lifestyles enrich our total community. Most of them are trying to learn Spanish and enrich their own appreciation of Tico culture. I do not have a lot of money, the activities I do I have to do to make a living, and I hold my head up as I walk through town, knowing I am doing it as well as I can. I run Solo Bueno, an Internet Cafe and Bookstore frequented by the local expats, and I hope you will come by and say hello sometime. I can understand your sentiments, but most of the bad apples are not in this area. |
| 7th November 2006 Just Jen | You're awesome! - From: Looking for a Bear sitter Thank-you, thank-you, thank-you! We'll let you know if it comes to that. |
| 7th November 2006 Saratica | - From: Looking for a Bear sitter Of course: if no one can stay in your house during that time, we would love to have Bear here. We'll have at least two dogs by then... it will be like summer camp! Good luck finding someone to stay there - i know that's your first choice. See you! |
| 6th November 2006 Cindy | Frustration - From: Frustration Jen, I'm so glad you wrote this. We were there in April, fell in love with Costa Rica and bought a lot from George, whom we dearly love. I feel the same as you about not wanting to let any more people come into the country. ha! I can't help worrying about the bad Americans/Foreigners stripping the innocence from CR and it's people. I just hope what we love does not get ruined by money hungry insensitvive people. Hopefully, the majority will be people like you and the other nice people that have written in this comment column. We will be there permantly in six years (after we retire) and we would love to meet you. Cindy |
| 2nd November 2006 Just Jen | Honest American Realtors - From: Frustration I can say the American Realtors honestly want your money. :) I'm hoping most of the people with the bad attitudes will just move on. By not going to places many of them hang out we really are sheltered from the garbage. We went into "their" territory the other weekend that's why I was fuming. It is possible to stay away from the negative type. We've made some awesome friends from the states here. Great people with great hearts. Keep the faith, we don't want to let "them" win. |
| 1st November 2006 cleo | - From: Frustration We haven't even moved there yet and I was already feeling the way you do. We've noticed so much attention to the area that we thought maybe we were making a mistake...I don't want San Ramon to change into a million dollar tourist trap... it's in jeapordy of becoming the very thing we want to leave behind. I wish something could be done. We haven't met any honest american realtors to help us and we're getting FRUSTRATED right along with you!!! |
| 29th October 2006 Just Jen | Arenal is one of our favorite places - From: Arenal Volcano This country continues to fascinate us. Baldi was a fav spot until we found Termales del Bosque near San Carlos, no tiles and more natural, not made to look natural. Did you see coati's up there? Our friends just returned from there and saw tons of them. Thanks for reading and commenting. |
| 29th October 2006 Shelly | love costa rica - From: Arenal Volcano My son and I go to Costa Rica each year to visit with his dad and family. Each year we have the oppurtunity to see a new part of this amazing country. We visited the Baldi Hot Springs this trip(august 2006) I absolutely loved it and would recommend it to everyone. Just make sure you bring a waterproof camera during rainy season because it poured on us part of the day. We are looking forward to our next trip probably in March 2007 |
| 29th October 2006 Just Jen | Thanks!! - From: Frustration Hubby was nervous I'd get tons of negative emails on my rant but I've gotten nothing but support! Thanks for commenting, it means a lot and encourages me to keep writing, the truth as I see it! |
| 29th October 2006 Just Jen | Momon chinos - From: Emotional roller coaster Sorry, I still can't eat koosh balls, or pudding... It's a texture thing. Hubby is hesitant now as they are still at the feria but kinda late in the season. He had a couple of bad ones. Did you eat the frog egg, snotty stuff too? Genadina or something like that... they make the chan drink from it. Thanks for commenting! |
| 29th October 2006 bridget | i must agree - From: Emotional roller coaster I studied abroad in costs rica in 1999 and have never met another person who has eaten mamonchino so for a while I thought I was a little crazy but I couldn't give it up (since it tastes like starburst) so I decided to google the word and your story came up! I'm not crazy and domeone else agrees, you missed out on the best fruit ever! |
| 29th October 2006 Jim in AZ | You Go Girl! - From: Frustration I've been coming to CR the last 3 years and San Ramon has been the area I go to. I just hope that your views get thru to the ones that feel nothing when stepping on others to reach the next dollar/colon. I enjoy reading your open and honest blog. |
| 28th October 2006 Just Jen | Thanks for speaking up! - From: Frustration I thought I was alone in my feelings. It's so uplifting to hear there really are more people moving here with similar values . We tend to shy away from expats in San Ramon because so many are connected to the real estate game. The North American friends we cherish live in other towns, no connection to the local hyjinx. Great point about the residency issue! Don't even get me started on the men who come here for the young Ticas, get 'em pregnant and don't marry them. |
| 28th October 2006 Jessica | I totally agree - From: Frustration We are moving there in January & I agree with your point 100%. Of all those realtors, how many have legitimized their residency status? Of the tour operators, how many have been there longer than 5 years? It is unfortunate that the expatriates who want to respect the Ticos because we realize the privilege of living in their country (like us) must live side-by-side with the expatriates who only want to turn a profit & see no problem with stepping on Ticos in the process. I, for one, wish there was more regulation of these types of businesses because if the immigration laws were applied, many of those gringoes would be deported!!! |
| 28th October 2006 Just Jen | Thanks for a Costaricenses opinion - From: Frustration I can't thank-you enough for commenting!!!!!! The people here captured my heart the first time I visited. It breaks my heart to see them taken advantage of. I feel loved and accepted by the people here, something I never felt living in the states. Gracias para leer mi Blog. Jen |
| 28th October 2006 Tayutic | Thanks - From: Frustration I really appreciate your point of view, our fear as costarricenses is that we wake up one day and we discover that the country that used to be ours isn't anymore, stories are told about lands and beaches were people used to go before someone thought it was better to put some fences, I welcome everybody wo comes to my country, but I don't want to become the guy who cuts the grass from a property that used to be mine and sold for 1 colon, and later resold for $100 000 dollars, and this happens... But thank you again, for trying to understand us and our culture, If all the people that comes here was like you, open minded, and not trying to put Mc Donalds in every corner it would be much better. |
| 27th October 2006 Just Jen | Thanks Saratica! - From: Frustration We're looking forward to seeing you in Escazu. Other than going to the play we've only been there one other time, on our tour for one night a year ago. It'll be fun having you show us around. We here you can find anything you're craving there. Let me know if you find pinto beans in the markets, the ones mom sent with a friend got confiscated at the airport. I'll be waiting for your version of the with story as well. :) Thanks for the hug, I needed it! |
| 27th October 2006 Saratica | - From: Frustration Hear, hear. Although we are moving to Escazu to be nearer the theatre, I hear exactly what you are saying. As a former real estate broker, what those people are talking about is speculation: buying property solely to make money on the appreciation. Sickening that they would take advantage of the locals this way and so blatantly. Couldn't they at least have the decency to be slightly ashamed of their behavior? Unfortunately for them, luckily for you, they are on the wrong side of the curve on this idea... Anyone who jumps into the speculation game at this period in history is going to be burned unless they are very, VERY lucky. Just my dos colones. Which I earned thru hard hard experience. BIG HUG. Come visit me in Escazu when you need a gringo fix... or anytime! xoxos. |
| 22nd October 2006 Just Jen | Hot Springs - From: What's it like to visit us? Termales del Bosque outside San Carlos. We only saw two other couples all day, both Ticos. |
| 21st October 2006 Elena | Name - From: What's it like to visit us? What is the name of the hot springs you went to? |
| 21st October 2006 Just Jen | What do we do for a living? - From: Cost of Living We are retired and live off a small pension. By watching what we spend we live very happily here. When traveling we stay at $35 hotels not the resorts like Tabacon at $150 a night. Most North Americans we know in the area end up selling real estate or doing "move to CR tours". It's just not for us. We know of people who've come down and worked here but I don't know all the legal details. It is possible but the wages are very low. |
| 21st October 2006 Tania | What do you do for a living? - From: Cost of Living I would love to live in CR but do not know what I would do for a living down there. My husband is a truck driver here in the U.S. I'm a stay at home mom. Did you guys retire or something? Do they have decent paying jobs there? Thanks and God Bless, Tania |
| 20th October 2006 Just Jen | Sorry Gabrielle! - From: What's it like to visit us? Didn't mean to forget to mention you! I'm so sorry. |
| 20th October 2006 Just Jen | Hey Mich, Pat, Zach and Sophie - From: What's it like to visit us? Thanks for writing! The goal for groundbreaking is still the first part of Nov. We're working with ICE, the electric company on getting the lines in ASAP. Guess it's time for a property update blog. Yes, we feel the property has definate magical, spiritual qualities. You'll have to ask Jesslyn and Dustin their thoughts. We're partial, when we first saw it we knew... no other property would do. |
| 20th October 2006 anonymous | hello from the guindon's - From: What's it like to visit us? Hi Jen, Bill and Calli, What great pictures and thanks for the update. Gabrielle, Sophie, Zach and I really enjoyed seeing them. Nalii and I are talking about the need to plan a trip!! Your piece of property looks magical, when do you get to break ground? Love to you all, Micheline |
| 19th October 2006 Just Jen | wow! - From: What's it like to visit us? it is not the same as being there but you sure did make it seam like it love calli. |
| 18th October 2006 Just Jen | Keeping it a secret - From: What's it like to visit us? I'll send you an private email...we wanna keep this place just the way it is! |
| 18th October 2006 Saratica | - From: What's it like to visit us? Where were you with the hot springs and the volcanic clay mud masks??? I NEED one of those... Looks like fun! |
| 13th October 2006 costarica | tapir - From: Craig's visit to Costa Rica i like the tapir photo! |
| 10th October 2006 Just Jen | Two questions, two answers - From: Cost of Living Water is AWESOME!!!! We save soda bottles and fill them with tap water for hikes, trips and what not. We NEVER drank tap water in AZ. We drink tap water in all the restaurants and sodas without a second thought (except in the Caribbean). You can have generators. On the property we'll most likely have one, just in case. Ticos don't worry about it when the power goes out, unless there is a soccer game on, then you hear groans. Many cook w/ propane or wood stoves so it's not an issue for them. |
| 9th October 2006 Harry | Hi'ya - From: Cost of Living Hey, been following your blog for a while, gotta hand it to you guys!!! I have 2 questions, what about water? do you buy water? and also, is there any chance of having a small generator for when the power goes down? Thanks. |
| 6th October 2006 K,C,&J | Excellent Blog! - From: Driving in Costa Rica I couldn't agree with you more . . .Don't move to a country and then constantly complain or compare it to the place you left. If you don't like it, just stay home! Hope you and your family are all well! |
| 4th October 2006 Just Jen | Deb & Bob - From: Cost of Living Hey... if you have room throw a couple of old sports pages in your bag for us. Bill would be absolutely thrilled! He's using the internet for sports but there's nothing like getting news print on your hands. :) |
| 4th October 2006 Just Jen | Welcome in advance! - From: Cost of Living Did answer back? If not...We bought the beds from our landlord. He has a taller (workshop) on the property. We've now purchased 3, a twin, queen and king. If you have something particular in mind bring a picture and he can probably make it. We've seen him put out some beautiful furniture. We bought the mattresses at a factory in Palmares, we can show you where. Shoot me an email when you get in or ask Beth/Andrew for our number. |
| 3rd October 2006 Debbie | Be there soon! - From: Cost of Living Hola Jen, Emailed you a few months back on where you got the king size bed. Bob and I will finally be there this Fri. eve! I am sure we will be meeting each other, aswe will be staying for 18 days(Angel Valley) Bill sounds alot like Bob (sports and beer)lol I'm sure they will have alot in common. He was an AD at a high school in Wis. befor we moved to Florida 12 years ago. See you soon, Deb & Bob |
| 3rd October 2006 Saratica (Sissy) | - From: Adding a little culture to our lives Getting cul-cha in Costa Rica is waaay more fun! I'm so glad you got to see it. And we did use padding, like in, um, sports... See you... |
| 23rd September 2006 Just Jen | Lights - From: A day in the life of the Sheridan Family He spent an hour looking then had to decide between ones with tube lights and the ones he bought. We paid $6 each, what'd you pay? |
| 23rd September 2006 Tiffany | Christmas Light Decorations - From: A day in the life of the Sheridan Family I laughed at the lights. I bought the same ones at Wal-mart during the after Christmas sales. |
| 19th September 2006 Just Jen | Spiders yes but so much more - From: I don't like spiders and snakes (not for kids) One day spiders in your bathroom, the next toucans in your backyard. The amazing things we see from this house out weigh the creepy crawlies by far! Can you believe I'm saying that? You can wait to visit until the new house is built. We'll have screens on all the windows decreasing the chance of intruders ten fold. Our current home has no screens and you can see 1/4 inch of daylight in some rooms. Not ideal for keeping critters out. The new house won't be the Hilton but Callista has offered you the use of her jacuzzi bath tub with waterfall. I get a tub with a view, she gets a waterfall. Besides, the price is better, includes meals, three personal guides, a fitness trainer (Bear who'll make sure you walk every day) and spectacular views. Hugs back atcha!!! Jen |
| 18th September 2006 Aunt Carole | Spiders - From: I don't like spiders and snakes (not for kids) Thanks for the spider(s) story and, no, I don't expect ME anytime soon. I understand the balance of nature as per spiders, scorpions, etc. but I don't share my bed with them. I don't care if they bite or not, I'd be on spider patrol all nite for as many nites as I'm there; wouldn't sleep a wink. Let me know if there's a Hilton Suites nearby and I'll reconsider. And, yes, get me a room on the top floor !! Hugs -- Noah Spiders |
| 18th September 2006 CINDY CELAYA | BEAUTIFUL DESCRIPTION - From: Just another day in paradise VERY WELL WRITTEN. I KNOW HOW YOU FEEL. I FELT THE SAME WAY ON OUR VISIT IN APRIL. I CAN'T WAIT TO MOVE THERE. I FEEL LIKE THAT IS WHERE I BELONG TOO. IT'S HOME. |
| 16th September 2006 Just Jen | - From: Alternative Medicine I'll email you privately with his info... he's in Tibas near the park and also has a macrobiotica. anonymous? ;) |
| 16th September 2006 anonymous | My first "doctor" - From: Alternative Medicine Doctor D'Adamo, world reknowned iridologist, was my first doctor off-the-beaten-path. He diagnosed me as an alcoholic. I RAN and professed him to be a quack. Now 18 years sober by the grace of God and the help of AA, I can only look back and chuckle. He also told me to stay off sugar which I did for 6 weeks and never felt better. And he was a purist... when he said no sugar, he meant no fruit, no sweetener, no coffee (caffeine creates the high and low that sugar does, insulin response), no tea, no jelly, no beer (that's when I panicked), NOTHING. I was sick for the first week... then on a high I haven't been on since. What this is all leading up to is that I am sold on iridology. Amazing stuff, eh? So who is this doctor? I'd love to go, take the boys and Hal. And, um, goat's milk with your Oreos? My iridologist wouldn't let me have Oreos. I'm going to like yours better... |
| 16th September 2006 Just Jen | Blessed Herbs - From: Alternative Medicine Thanks for the tip, I'll check it out post haste! I did the onion/lime juice concoction on Thursday and SWEAR I'll never do it again even though Luis advised it once a month. Not long after drinking it Arenal Volcano erupted in my stomach... everything came out the way it went in. ARGH! I knew their had to be some other way. We bought two big bags of carrots at the farmers market last night so we're ready to start having a glass a day. A friend is taking us to buy goat milk and ice cream today. Let you know how that goes. Thanks for commenting!!! Jen |
| 16th September 2006 Carol Lynn Featherstone | Great for you Jen! - From: Alternative Medicine I have been changing my diet too. I used to suffer from depression and all sorts of little ills and have never felt better since incorporating a few changes as well as drinking more h2o and no more diet drinks. I used to drink tons of em. Now that being said I wanted to direct you to a web site that sells a colon cleanser that I have done twice now. You wouldnt believe how great you feel and your skin becomes so clear and your body thanks you in enormously gross ways by means of (expelling toxins) gross I know. Here it is...by the way, i am in no way connected to this company other than using the colon cleanser has changed my life in amazing ways. The site is under Blessed Herbs. You can google it. I like the ginger flavor best! Just a thought. Carol Lynn. Ps: we are now looking into CR, Honduras as well as Nicaragua! Can you imagine it? So exciting. CL |
| 13th September 2006 Aunt Carole | Home - From: Just another day in paradise "Home is where the heart is." Glad you and Bill have found the place your hearts have been searching for !! |
| 13th September 2006 Saratica | - From: Just another day in paradise How lovely! Pura vida indeed. |
| 9th September 2006 Saratica | Wow! - From: Festejos Patronales San Ramon 2006 Sorry we missed this event!!! Next year... |
| 2nd September 2006 Tica Macha | Property in Costa Rica - From: CALGON, TAKE ME AWAY! You can't take anything for granted, especially if it comes from the "abogado diablo". It takes two attorneys to purchase land here (to be safe, have the second one check the first one) and it pays to have your property surveyed twice. Before and after. Enjoy the birds and nature - it's the natural tranquilizer for living here. "Pura Vida", Teri |
| 2nd September 2006 Saratica | oh to be a type b - From: CALGON, TAKE ME AWAY! I hear ya LOUD AND CLEAR. There is NOTHING to do but count to 10. Er make that 10,000. Thank you for your perspective on GB. Yes, now she can enjoy Costa Rica... big hug! |
| 30th August 2006 Grand Ma Donna | Wow! - From: CALGON, TAKE ME AWAY! Scared me for a moment but sounds like you've worked everything out. Take care. Love Grand Ma Donna |
| 29th August 2006 Donna | Home - From: Craig's Visit Manuel Antonio and more.... I bet Craig found it hard to leave. Pictures look great Love Grand Ma Donna |
| 23rd August 2006 Aunt Carole | Craig's trip - From: Craig's visit to Costa Rica Hi All -- LOVED the pics of Bill & kids. Cannot believe how Craig has grown. What a great family reunion !! Not sure you could get ME on a swinging bridge. Couldn't help but notice the fishing trip photo of Calli playing foosball shows how much she resembles Jen at that age. I kept going back to that pic and admiring the resemblance. Lucky Bill to have two beautiful women in his life. Hoping someday it'll be my turn to visit. 'Til then -- feel loved, Aunt Carole |
| 21st August 2006 Just Jen | Craig stay...no way! - From: Craig's visit to Costa Rica Although we'd love to have Craig stay this isn't the time. Maybe when he's 40 he'll move his family down as well. :) |
| 20th August 2006 Mom (Gramma) | - From: Craig's visit to Costa Rica Sounds like everyone is having a great time. Maybe Craig won't want to return to Florida. We are still catching up from our vacation. Went to Willcox & picked 140# peaches which we have canned. Hit a really bad storm on the way home. Keep up the good work with the blogs. Love to all - Mom |
| 13th August 2006 Lauren | Mamon Chinos - From: Emotional roller coaster i lived in costa rica this whole summer and probably the saddest thing was leaving behind mamon chinos. you say you wont try them, but they are DELICIOUS! i wouldnt try them for the longest time until the last week. and then i ate them nonstop. you must indulge,you really must. |
| 10th August 2006 CL in SF ba area | Love your whole blog so far... - From: Craig Arrives My family and another family are setting the stages to move to CR in about 6-8 months. We are all here in the Beautiful area of San Francisco CA but have had enough of this lifestyle. No more keeping up with the Jones' and stressing out about money when happiness is most important to us. We have three kids 2-4-and 6 and our best friends have a 4 and 6 yr old. We are still really crazy excited but have so many things to look into still. We are going to join the ARCR and try and get residency started here. We don't even know what we will do for jobs yet...I hope hope hope and know one day we will be happily coexisting with all of the other folks who decided the rat race isnt a race worth running, and want out. Love your blog. It is inspirational and I am so happy to have read it. Your family is amazing to me and you all are going to have the life of your dreams at this rate. Congratulations for just doing it. Please let me know if it would be ok to ask questions if ever we have them... Sincerely, CarolLynn- sfandclf@gmail.com |
| 9th August 2006 Donna | Vacation? - From: Gone Fishin' Is this what is meant by "life is a vacation" Love Grand Ma Donna |
| 9th August 2006 Donna | Great Smiles :-) - From: Craig Arrives Have a great time Love Grand Ma Donna |
| 9th August 2006 Cyn | Hello Craig!!! - From: Craig Arrives Glad to see you made it safe and sound. Enjoy!!!! You need to send me your email address, so we can keep in touch from time to time. Hugs to all, Cyn |
| 7th August 2006 Saratica | I hear ya! - From: Emotional roller coaster Hi Jen, I hear ya on the emotional roller coaster.... I just returned from almost 3 weeks in the states and I'll tell you, that was GREAT for getting me over missing that place. I am SO happy to be back here. We are all going back for a trip around Thanksgiving and I'm anxious for the boys and Hal to feel like it's not so far away. That this is a beginning, rather than an ending. Although they all swear they don't miss it... maybe I really was the only one. But baby I'm HERE now!!! We need to get together - conversations in English are important to me, too. And making forays into the expat community. I'm not a group person either, but I need girlfriends. If we lived closer, I'm sure we'd be buddies - so call me when you all come to town. We'll have lunch at Bernie's. See you - Sally |
| 5th August 2006 Julian | Dental Care - From: No one likes to go to the Dentist Thank you for this info. My family and I are in preparing to move from the US to CR within the next few months. When I read articles like yours explaining medical and dental costs, it makes me more eager. I agree with your sentiment on dental work here in the US. My family can easily pay thousands of dollars a year to obtain just half of the work that you and the young girl obtained. Thanks for the insight. |
| 2nd August 2006 Donna | Great - From: Emotional roller coaster Everyone looks great. Jen glad your enjoying the magazines. There old but some thinks never change! Love Donna |
| 18th July 2006 Naomi | Saw it, too!! - From: Butterfly Conservatory I was so excited to see your blog about the butterfly conservatory. Not only were the mariposas and ranas (butterflies and frogs) amazing but my guide Evert was also very knowledgeable about biology and a fun tour guide!! I had an awesome time and plan to visit again! FYI--I was just there in early July...just missed eachother! |
| 8th July 2006 Aunt Cathie | Hi! - From: Eury Family visit San Ramon Calista looks so beautiful! We love seeing the pictures! My, you take alot of wonderful trips. I hope all is well with you. I'm sure spending time with your friends from AZ was good for you. Our summer is going great. Working my two jobs, but finally using some State vacation time. Golfing, taking mortocycle trips to Tahoe, and spending time on the beach at Rogers place in Lawsons Landing (Dillons Beach). I'm hooked on the ocean. I'm sure you are too! Your pictures are awesome. My business trip to San Francisco was especially nice when it turned into too much fun with Aunt Lisa. Roger and I are taking a 4 day golf trip to Carson City, Nevada in a few weeks. We golf with 7 other couples from surrounding Country Clubs. Their so nice a little crazy! Marcus is still taking test for the CA Corrections Officer position and Frances is a "Princess." She's going back to school in a couple weeks. Mark finally signed over the house to me w/retirement monies. Were working it out and he's being nice. I feel like celebrating this weekend except Roger is on a 9 day motorcycle trip to Mount Rushmore. He has a Yamaha FJR. It's fast, I like fast! Last month he flew to Alaska and took a week long dirt bike trip. Yea, he's one of those lucky retired folks! I only like the one or two day trips - my butt gets tired and I want to stop and see everything. Lacy, our 16 yr old cat died. We miss her. So, Francie has a new too cute puppy. She's a cute litle Yourkie mix named "La La"I clean up the poop because sometimes Francie just doesn't see it! Imagine that! . Calling "La La" throughout Home Depot when she jumps out of her puppy purse is goofy experience! Well, this is just a little bit about what's happening with the Burnett's, and I better get back to work! My new boss is back, he's a ittle more strict but alot more handsome! He reminds me of my brother! Watch out for those snakes! Love ya Cathryn |
| 28th June 2006 Mrs. Montoya ;) | frogs!! - From: Butterfly Conservatory What a feast for my little eyes! Those frogs are almost unbelievable they are so perfect and cute! I'm printing some of the pics off to share with others...thanks so much for thinking of me! Better than anything I've seen in National Geographic ;) I'll write more soon!! Jenn |
| 28th June 2006 Just Jen | Thanks Cyn - From: Return to Arenal Katheryn will love it here! Does she check out the blog with you? |
| 28th June 2006 Just Jen | Thanks Carole - From: Butterfly Conservatory Yep, it's me... We're headed to the caribbean coast tomorrow for a few days. I'm calling it my B'day trip. All I want for my b'day is to hold a sloth. If I get my hands on one I'll let Callista take my pic. If not, you're outta luck been eating way too much banana bread and not walking lately. Life is rough in the rainy season. Yep, sitting on the porch with binoculars trying to identify birds and plants. It takes a lot out of you. I count my blessings everyday! :) Hugs, Jen |
| 27th June 2006 Aunt Carole | Kudos to the photographer - From: Butterfly Conservatory Jen -- I am assuming you are the photographer since you don't appear in the photos. They are fabu !! Really, you have an eye for composition and color (altho I'd say Mother Nature gives you a lot of help with the color). So many great adventures, so much to see that's different from "just more heat" here in AZ. Sounds like you are VERY happy. . . and that makes ME happy. Hugs to all. :-) |
| 26th June 2006 Cyn | So beautiful - From: Return to Arenal How lucky you are to see all that. It is just beautiful. |
| 26th June 2006 Tai | Statue - From: University of Costa Rica , San Jose Hi, This is Clodomiro Picado, he was a dctor Dr. Clodomiro’s research contributed to the development and innovation of biological sciences. In 1927 he published the results of research which demonstrated the inhibitory action of the fungal genus Penicillium sp. on the proliferation of the bacteria Staphylococcus and Streptococcus, which led to the development of penicillin. Although, the discovery of penicillin has been attributed to Alexander Fleming, Clorito's old laboratory notebooks from 1923, show records of the antibiosis of penicillium sp. His greatest internationally recognized achievements were for his studies of venomous snakes and his contribution to the development of various antivenom serums. |
| 21st June 2006 Just Jen | pipa's pipas - From: Daily life in Costa Rica Don't have a clue what these are? Help me out, pleast. |
| 21st June 2006 Just Jen | Debbie - From: Just what is a typical day? No problem... Beth and Andrew have our number and know directions to our house. They've got out pics on their website. That's Bill ziplining in November while we stayed with them. http://www.angelvalleyfarmbandb.com/amenities.com.htm |
| 20th June 2006 Debbie | Response - From: Just what is a typical day? Thanks Jen. I was also worried about finding a replacement for our king size bed. Our plans are to downsize as much furniture as possible! Oh yea, thanks also on the tip about the igloo cooler! This is just the kind of stuff I'm looking for , all those crazy little things that you would never think of. Would love to meet in Oct. We will be at staying at Angel Valley B&B( saw those party pics!) looked like a great time. Debbie |
| 19th June 2006 Just Jen | Response to Debbie - From: Just what is a typical day? Thanks for reading! We didn't need box springs for the beds we purchased. This is the third we've bought from them. All have been excellent quality. The one for our king bed is a little firm for me but Bill likes it. We had them make us a pad to put on it and it's better now. We compared prices to the stores and think we did well. You never really know here but we're happy with the purchases. Let us know when you're in town and perhaps we can meet. Jennifer |
| 18th June 2006 Debbie | Keep the articles coming! - From: Just what is a typical day? Jen, I just came across your blogs about a week ago! My husband and I are coming for about 3 weeks in Oct to look at land in San Ramon. We are staying at Angel Valley. We will be meeting with Ben and also Jose. We will be looking at Ben's Rio de Jesus property and with Jose at his Butterfly Dance. We like a little warmer weather coming from Florida! I did want to ask about the mattress factory. Would you say that they were of good quality? Box springs? Pura Vida, Debbie |
| 14th June 2006 Just Jen | Response to Elena - From: Friends Visit from Arizona Glad you like the blog. We look forward to meeting you as well. We've heard wonderful things about you and have seen the pics at the house. |
| 13th June 2006 Elena Cabezas | Love the blog - From: Friends Visit from Arizona My sister told me about your blog and what you guys did (moving to Costa Rica and all that jazz.)I thinks it's really awsome. I'm also really glad my papi could help you out and that you all are good friends. Tell the Eury's I said "hi!" Hope to meet you one day as well and looking forward to more blogs. :) |
| 12th June 2006 Aunt Carole | Lovin' all the news & photos - From: Friends Visit from Arizona Hi Sheridans -- Seems to me you do a lot of birthday cake eating !! Do people in Costa Rica get more than one birthday a year? It all sounds idyllic and I think how Daisy would have loved Bear's life so much more than the one she got -- stuck in a townhouse. Think I need to start saving my money for a visit -- you save for a bed to go in the guestroom. Yes, I promise to bring American goodies and trashy novels. Hugs to all -- Aunt C. |
| 10th June 2006 Mom | Beach - From: Escape to the Beach Looks like a great beach. So glad you had a good time. Glad Bear met h is relatives. |
| 7th June 2006 Pam Edens | Pictures - From: Blood, Sweat and Tears Hi Everyone!! We have been enjoying your letters and the pictures. Looks so beautiful!!! We are doing great here, although Arizona has already been unusally hot so far!! Sterling Jr is having another boy!!... Expected to be born in September by my birthday. Bill, Sterling misses playing golf with you and your friendship. Bless you all, it sounds like a great adventure!! Pam and Sterling |
| 5th June 2006 Andrew | Terrific! - From: Blood, Sweat and Tears Hola Bill, Jen and Calle! Sounds like things are coming along! I cannot wait see when they start building your house. Have fun! Andrew http://www.AngelValleyFarmBandB.com |
| 30th May 2006 Just Jen | Yep, We've got mail - From: Memorial Day Hey Tom! We've got snail mail but not at the rental house. We use an APDO box at the local post office. Mail to and from the U.S. has been running about 10 days. Had one package from Aguilar lost for a month. Still waiting for two packages to arrive that were mailed in April. We've rec'd nine other packages in the 10 day range so assume these will turn up eventually. We still check the mail almost daily hoping. They'll probably show up when we give up on them. How's the new route treating you? Letters to the states cost us 120 colones or about $ . 24! |
| 30th May 2006 Tom the mailman | You got mail! - From: Memorial Day Hey, I just want to know how your mail delivery is down there, besides the internet. HA HA! Glad to here it's getting more exciting everyday. Keep us posted on the new property and house plans, etc. Talk later. TW |
| 24th May 2006 Saratica | massage therapist? - From: Three Month update Can you share his name??? I will be forever grateful! |
| 24th May 2006 Saratica | that bridge... - From: Arenal Volcano I burst out laughing when I saw that bridge photo! I remember that bridge from our February trip to Arenal - oh my goodness... |
| 23rd May 2006 Just Jen | Erin - From: Cinco de Mayo Hope you check out the blog again. I just checked out yours, WOW! Gonna have to look it over one night when I can't sleep. It's got a lot of content! Thanks for adding me to your page! Eventually I'll take the blog to another site but for now, this is simple and fast. |
| 23rd May 2006 Just Jen | Carole - From: Cinco de Mayo Glad you tracked me down. Thought the post card would start you thinking. Feel free to share the blog with anyone you wish, especially Kirk and Emily. |
| 20th May 2006 Aunt Carole | Ah hah, I've tracked you down !! - From: Cinco de Mayo Hello from Snotsdale. Cynthia gave me your blog link. Mark had called with new phone no. in Port Deposit so I got caught up w/ them. Have enjoyed your descriptions and photos. Sounds divine, except for the roads !! Bravo to Propane Bill. Can you convert in Infinity? Belated happy birthday to Callistra. LOVED the photo of the new bike (next it will be a car, y'know?). Thought the blog entry she wrote was excellent. (And, remember, I used to teach the fourth grade !) I envy all the time you have together. Home schooling sounds like the right choice for now. I spent Mother's Day in Irvine. Kirk was preaching; I was proud ! 'Nuf said. Feel loved and thanks for the postcard. Will write soon. Off to help my mom. Adios -- Aunt Carole |
| 17th May 2006 Rachael | - From: Cinco de Mayo I would like to know more about installing propaine in the rodeo... please email me @ irielioness1982@aol.com |
| 11th May 2006 Vicki Petersen | Yaaaaa Hoooooey - From: Cinco de Mayo hello hello, May 9th awe what a great day. My 49th birthday. One more year to 50. Hope your doing as great as it sounds. I am so excited for all of you. Melia asks all the time when do we get to go to Costa Rica. I keep saying believe it will be and it will. Great to know you have closed on your property. I will send good energy and prayers for your great success on building your dream home. Love and kisses Vicki Gary Melia & Connor. |
| 10th May 2006 Erin | Sounds beautiful... - From: Cinco de Mayo You sound truly content. What a beautiful thing! I can't wait to read more about your journeys and to dig into past entries (this is my first time to your blog). Anyway, just thought I'd drop by and say hi. I've blogrolled you on my site (www.gringuitica.com) in the "Costa Rica Blogs" section. Peace and pura vida! Erin |
| 10th May 2006 Maura | Hi - From: Cinco de Mayo What a treat to have three entries to read. It all sounds like so much fun. For some reason my computer wouldn't show the the pictures for the night views. I am sure they are beautiful though. The park you went to sounds like something right up Aidan's alley. Well actually all of it does. Maura |
| 9th May 2006 Marge & Dennis | Laughlin, NV - From: Cinco de Mayo Bill - This weekend we went to Laughlin for one night. Had a great time, just the two of us. Did stop in at the Regent (remember that little casino between the Edgewater and the Flango. Yes, it is still there. Talked to someone who works there and she told us that the only way it can be sold is to an individual as something in the deed states it can not be sold to another casino. They have cut it in half so really it is smaller if you can image that. We had a good time - lost about $30-40. |
| 8th May 2006 Sandy & Rita Crabbe | hello - From: Amusement Park We visited Costa Rica about 5 years ago. San Jose area. Had a great time looking over volcanos, rain forests and coffee plantations. Wish you all the best. Thanks for all the info. The Crabbes from Escondido. |
| 6th May 2006 j | hi - From: Birthday in Costa Rica muy lindo |
| 25th April 2006 Jenn M. | your grade ;) - From: Poas Volcano by Callista As your former teacher, I'd like to give you an A+++++ on your expository writing!!! Great descriptions, Callista! I read them to the class and we all agreed that we felt like we were there! Keep these entries for your book! I can't wait to read more! Hugs, Jenn |
| 20th April 2006 Chris in Miami | Thank You!!! - From: Three Month update Jen, My husband took a position in San Jose starting in February and I accompanied him down to CR expecting...well...a third world country. I couldn't believe how much I enjoyed my stay and loved the people and the gorgeous surroundings and began to think that maybe this might be the best place to raise our 4 year old daughter. After two weeks I came back to Miami and tried hard to convince myself that my husband and I could easily live at least a year apart and that Miami hadn't completely worn me out. Last week, Semana Santa, my husband came up from San Jose for a visit and meetings. We sat down at one point and wrote out a 5 year plan for what we really wanted from our lives and what it would take out of us to try to live that life in Miami. We realized that we had both been thinking about making the move to CR. As of this morning I am now making preparations to move down by August and I went online in search of some voice that sounded like us. We will rent for at least 6 months as we get acclimated to the change. While our familiarity with Latin culture and our ability to speak the language will surely be a help, it's nice to know that there is someone else out there walking the same road and a bit farther along. Thank you for writing down your experiences. Please keep writing! Best of luck and much happiness to you and your family! |
| 16th April 2006 Donna | yard - From: Three Month update Tico Bill looks like he has enough yard work to keep him busy. |
| 16th April 2006 donna | your photos are great - From: Monteverde Cloud Forest Kassidy and I enjoyed seeing your latest pictures. You all look great! Donna |
| 16th April 2006 Shaver Family | Sounds like things are going well - From: Three Month update I am glad to hear from you guys. It is good to hear that bill got a new weed eater. You guys will have to let us know when and where you find the best bananna split. Have a very happy easter we will be going to Jamie's parents house tomorrow for the Easter Day. We are planning on coloring eggs tonight. I still have not been on the mountain since last month. I was planning to get to REI and get a good pair of hiking boots. When I get them I will have to send some pictures. Take care and know we also think of you guys often, can't wait to come and visit. Some buddies invited me to go to Rocky Point and go deep sea fishing, if it pans out I will send some pictures also. Talk to you soon. Jer |
| 13th April 2006 Scott & Kelly | Happy Easter Guys - From: Three Month update Love Ya... Prizes are on the way |
| 13th April 2006 Scott | Treehouse Restaurant - From: Monteverde Cloud Forest Ha! That's funny we ate the same restaurant last year |
| 13th April 2006 Marage Kavanagh | Change of E-Mail - From: Three Month update Remember to change our e-mail address to margekav2@yahoo.com. Enjoying your messages. |
| 13th April 2006 Tom Walters | Happy Easter. - From: Three Month update Hi All, today was my last day to deliver mail on Sesame St. I bid on a route that has no walking or having to carry a satchel. My back thanks me. It was bittersweet with meeting so many good people over the years.(The Sheridan's). But as you moved on, so do I. Sounds like you took some neat trips and the beach is wild. Go Bear!!!!! Will wait to hear more, enjoy and thanks for your blogs. TW. |
| 12th April 2006 Jenn M. | amazing! - From: Three Month update Hello Sheridan Family! Our fourth graders would just like to say a few things after looking at all of the pictures (we looked at the last three entries)....Pablo wants to know what kind of crocodiles those are, Brisa wants to know if there were any cool shells on the beach, they ALL want to know if everyone was ok in the accident ;), they also couldn't BELIEVE that the tree house was in a real tree (they thought it looked like Disneyworld's Tree of Life), and Katiya still wants to be sent down in a suitcase (I told her that she would be too expensive to mail. Seriously, they LOVED the pictures and the comments, especially yours Callista! Thanks for sharing your experiences and for making us all feel like we are close to you, and living the dream with you....29 (plus mine!!) hugs and 29 (plus mine!) hello's from Aguilar!!! |
| 4th April 2006 Maura | - From: Grecia You guys are doing such cool things. Th epictures really helps me feel like I am right there, which of course with the snakes is a little unnerving. I can never remember how you are supposed to tell them apart. How is the house planning coming? What is the next step? I am amazed by your views. Do you have internet yet? How is Callista doing in school? Has Bill found a place to golf and if so, what did he think? What is the best part of being there. These are the questions that inquiring minds what to know. Miss you , Maura |
| 30th March 2006 Donna | snakes - From: Grecia Hi, As you may remember we have our own snakes in AZ. I saw a nice fat rattler this week. They will be coming out now that the weather is getting warm. Talk to you soon. Love |
| 30th March 2006 Jenn Montoya | So fun!!! - From: Grecia Hello Sheridan Family!! I have to say that my class was very excited to see the pictures and hear about your slithery adventure! We all had a great time last week at science camp, but they said this looked even better! I am so glad that you are getting settled and that you are able to experience such amazing things just minutes from your doorstep! We moved into our new house last week, so we have boxes everywhere, but we love it and are so excited....I'll take pictures and send them soon! Hugs, Jenn |
| 21st March 2006 Donna Juckett | Can't wait to visit - From: Update time, again Grand Ma Donna and the Kell's family will see you soon. |
| 19th March 2006 Lydia & Ernie | email address - From: Update time, again Might be helpful: lvogt6900@direcway.com |
| 19th March 2006 Lydia & Ernie | What a great resource you are! - From: Update time, again We are considering the same move, and your blog is both informative and fun! We will be in San Ramon next week, and would love to talk to you!! Lydia & Ernie from Escondido |
| 18th March 2006 Nalii | Lucky Ducks! - From: Arenal Volcano Bill and Callista looks so happy and relaxed. I wish I felt the same way...We just got back from a vacation to San Carlos, MX with Mich and Pat and the kids. I was great! We sat on the beach, drank beer and ate crab tostadas while the kids played in the water. It Was wonderful! We miss you, but I am sure you are having a great time just where you are. Love you all, Nalii |
| 16th March 2006 Cristina | friends in San Jose? - From: Arenal Volcano So I'm going to "out" my father! I hear he helped you buy the car. Glad he is of service! We can just tell him to get used to being on the interenet. I keep waiting to see a picture of him and his craziness! Dragging to you all to a US political party and it's not even the good one! But hey it was a pretty cool country club! So I'm glad you all are getting in some good day trips. It's wounderful to have your own set of wheels! |
| 16th March 2006 Cristina | music - From: Day trip to Zarcero The instrument is called a marimba. It is quite a traditional instrument, and you will see it when people do traditional dances. The sound is so beautiful! |
| 16th March 2006 Craig | - From: Property Update Are all these pics of where the house is to be located? |
| 15th March 2006 Donna | WOW - From: Property Update WOW! |
| 15th March 2006 Donna | Great photos - From: Arenal Volcano Wow! great photos. Thank you for sharing. |
| 15th March 2006 donna | WOW! - From: Property Update WoW! I can't wait to see your new home. love Grand Ma Donna |
| 14th March 2006 Maura | - From: Property Update It is great to see more pictures of your property and to hear how it is progressing. I love reading all your posts and getting a sense of what life is like for you. So after you see your lawyer and finalize the sale, what is the next step? In one of your posts you mention adjusting to Callista's school as one of the things you like least. What about it is frustrating? I appreciate all the time you put into the blog which allows the rest of us to live vicariously. Much Love, Maura |
| 14th March 2006 Tom Walters | Reply to blog - From: Arenal Volcano Hi folks, I am so excited for you and it really sounds like you are really getting into the homestead thing. I love the pictures and the geography lessons. I share these with a woman I work with who has traveled to Costa Rica. She enjoys them too. TW |
| 13th March 2006 Kelly | Happy to hear things are going well - From: Update time, again Your entries are great, thanks for sharing your adventures. Scott and I think of you often and are so glad to see how happy you look in your pictures. We would like to put together a little care package now that you can recieve mail. I know Calli is into Furryvilles, are there any she needs or wants? Think about US comforts you might be missing and let us know! We are hoping school will get a little easier, tell Callista to hang in there, she is in my prayers. Love you guys and miss you! Kelly |
| 13th March 2006 Scott | PIPA'S - From: Daily life in Costa Rica Have you tried PIPA'S PIPA'S yet? |
| 13th March 2006 Scott | Oh Shit! - From: Property Update R U kidding? That is the view to the pacific? It look like it is on 10 miles away... Is that trick photography? |
| 13th March 2006 Cyn | Wow!! - From: Day trip to Zarcero How beautiful. What a nice day trip. Cyn |
| 13th March 2006 Cyn | Looks and sounds great - From: Update time, again Glad everything is going well. Loved the pictures of your house. Tell Callie we send our love and she looks great! Everyone looks happy and we miss you. Added a new member to our family. Aneca (Ah-nick-ca) the Briard. She is wonderful. Wish you could see her. Will send pics as soon as we get some. We move into our new house April 3rd. YEAH!!!!! Hugs and Kisses, Cyn Hugs and kisses, |
| 3rd March 2006 Jenn | Hola! - From: Location - San Ramon I finally figured out the blog!! I'm so glad to see your journals...tell Calli to hang in there with school! Adjustment takes time, but if there is anyone that can handle it, it is her!!! If she ever needs to talk, tell her to give me a call ;) |
| 3rd March 2006 Ken Billings | Sesame Street - From: Location - San Ramon To the Sheridans of Sesame Street: Bert and Ernie and the Cookie Monster send their best wishes. Miss Piggy has disappeared, and Kermit and BigBird are busy making signs, "Free Ham", and couldn't be reached for comment. I like the new casa....and I'm glad you have your Isuzu. Looking forward to seeing y'all in a few months. Ken |
| 3rd March 2006 Nalii | Hey..... - From: Location - San Ramon Jen, Bill and Calista, You finally sound like you are really settleing in. It sounds great and looks like a dream! How is Cali doing in school? Are any of you picking up any spanish? How is the food? Are there many snakes?.....(you know how I hate snakes!)What are you up to other than getting adjusted? Are you planning to work? Are you planning a visit back home some day? The kids are good, as well as the big people around here. We are trying to stay out of trouble for the most part.....and still in enough of it to be having a good time. We often think of you when we are sitting around with Pat and Mich drinking beer in the back yard. When we get really wacky we start to plan a trip down to see you. We love to see all of the pictures and read all the info...so keep us posted!!! Love to you all...Nalii |
| 3rd March 2006 Donna Juckett | great to hear from you - From: Location - San Ramon Hi, Sounds like you've all adjusted well. Hope you can get connected to the internet soon. Would love to commucate with you more. Janie at the Title Company asked about you. Love the photo of Callista in the front of your home. They both look lovely. |
| 2nd March 2006 Mark | Hi Again - From: Location - San Ramon Glad to hear that things are going well. Find any placce to play golf yet? |
| 28th February 2006 Maura | Hi - From: Update Bill, Jon is still talking about the hike you guys took and I always end up looking like the "bad wife" who failed to mention that it was 16 miles, oops. That's the thanks I get for providing him with bragging rights (16 miles)and a great story to tell. |
| 26th February 2006 Debby Wehunt | awesome - From: Update I work with your mail carrier, Tom, in Tempe. I've lived short term in Ireland, Switzerland, and Honduras, many years ago, (before getting married). Last year for my 50th birthday, my husband and I spent 10 days in Costa Rica. I enjoy your blogs, and photos. You made an awesome change in your life, and a brave one too. |
| 25th February 2006 Cristina | that bumpy road of adjustment... - From: Update Glad to hear Calli is doing a little better. This is, for sure, the hardest part, trying to get adjusted in school and not one but 2 languages is tough. It can take a little while and is sometimes painful, but it is rewarding in the end! Expect her to come home sometimes with headaches from trying to process everything. But she is quite a capable girl and I'm sure she will be translating for you two in no time at all! |
| 25th February 2006 Tom W. | Buenos dias - From: Update Hola, Sheridan's. Sounds like all is well. Update us on the geography as to your town location. Good to hear from you. TW |
| 24th February 2006 Maura | Hi - From: Update I am glad Callista is having a better time of it now. It is great she gets to be an assistant in her science class. What are her school hours? So what would you say a typical day is like for you? It looked like Callista was swimming in one or two of the pictures, it was warm enough to swim? As always it is great to see the pictures. Much love, Maura |
| 24th February 2006 Donna Juckett | Callista - From: Update Dear Jennifer and Bill, I am so proud of Callista it brings tears to my eyes. You and Bill have given her an experience most people dream of. Love Grand Ma Donna |
| 18th February 2006 The Shavers | Glad to see you adjusting - From: Short Update I am glad to see you all adjusting, Mike was excited to see the pictures, he is taking after school spanish, I know that it is hard from personal experiance. Tell Cali to hang in there see will get it. All our best wishes. |
| 17th February 2006 Cyn | Looks Wonderful - From: We´ve arrived Love the house. The furniture guy sounds great and Calista looks very happy. Tell her she has more guts than I for going into the jungle. I am a wuss. Love to the four of you! Cyn |
| 16th February 2006 Maura | Hi - From: Short Update The pictures are great. Callista's bed turn out nice. The lack of closet/shelving is the same in Germany. You have to buy "shranks" (that is what they call closets). How are your neighbors? Maura |
| 16th February 2006 TheBortmans | Sounds Great! - From: Short Update Hello Just Jen and family -- we're another family in Costa Rica from the US (you commented on our blog before you left). Glad to hear everything is going well -- Pura Vida! We recommend Instant Messenger or Skype for communicating -- even with dial-up internet service, voice conversations are ok. Also, look for a call back service to call the states -- much cheaper. |
| 15th February 2006 Cristina | wonderful! - From: Short Update So glad to hear your things arrived safely! The house looks great! And oh how I miss the green, but come June we will be there! |
| 15th February 2006 Nalii | I love it! - From: Short Update I love to see all of this Jen. It all looks and sounds so exciting. What a wonderful expierience...hope we get to visit soon. Nalii |
| 15th February 2006 Nalii | I love this! - From: Short Update |
| 14th February 2006 Maura | Hi - From: We´ve arrived Great to see the pictures and hear that you have moved into your rental house. Have you been able to relax at all yet? Hope Callista's 1st day of school went well. Aidan would also love the World of Snakes. We were thinking of you guys just yesterday as we were alreday talking about camping this summer. We will miss you then. Tell Bill that Jon has his trophey prominently displayed. He tells evryone about the hike and of course how I fail to mention that it was 16 miles. Tell Calliata hi and that we miss her smile. Love, Maura |
| 13th February 2006 anonymous | - From: We´ve arrived Did the monkey's get the shoes? Hope all goes well from here on out. |
| 13th February 2006 Nalii | Congrats!! - From: We´ve arrived Hey...It all sounds and looks great. How exciting this must be for Calista. Tell her we are thinking of her. Tell Bill that Marcus says to drink lots of beer on him and that in a couple of months we will send a picture of Marcus' hair. Wishing you the best....Nalii |
| 13th February 2006 Nalii | Congrats! - From: We´ve arrived |
| 13th February 2006 Nalii | Congrats! - From: We´ve arrived |
| 13th February 2006 eodrus | Glad to here you made it OK. - From: We´ve arrived Let me know when the communication links get better. I don't do snail mail anymore. Trying to save on glue. Mark |
| 13th February 2006 Mom | Phones - From: We´ve arrived Glad to see the blog. Still haven't been to Costco to check on the phone card but will do so soon. Can't send to you until you get a po box. |
| 26th January 2006 Ken | The Trip - From: Good-bye Sesame St Hope everything went smoothly. Will be E-mailing you soon. Don't take any wooden Colones. |
| 25th January 2006 Nalii | Yippeeeeeeeeeee! - From: Good-bye Sesame St Hey there world tavelers, We wanted to wish you the best of luck during your travels and we are looking forward to hearing from you once you have arrived and settled in. Love you all. Nalii and Family |
| 14th January 2006 TheBortmans | Pura Vida! - From: We're getting there! Got to your blog from ours. Best of luck heading to Costa Rica -- we love it. Don't worry, you should be able to find good mattresses. |
| 14th January 2006 Just Jen | Hey LONA!!! - From: Bear CAN fly !!! I'm so glad you checked out the blog. Our last night in town is Wednesday. Best bet, call ahead and stop by the house. Give me a call! I'll be taking care of little details until the bitter end. :) |
| 13th January 2006 Lona | Great News - From: Bear CAN fly !!! Jen, so happy to know things worked out with Bear. I know what you were going through. Glad things are progressing well for you. Can't believe how big Cali is!! Think there might be a chance I can see you before you go? Lona |
| 13th January 2006 Just Jen | Thanks Nalii! - From: Bear CAN fly !!! I'm glad you found the blog without a problem. You and Marcus will really enjoy reading some of the other blogs as well. Thanks to Andrew at Angel Valley B & B for turning me on to blogging. It's such a great way to share info with a lot of people at one time. As for your visit, looking forward to it as well. Let Marcus know Bill will be ready to take him on some awesome hikes. I'll have an easel all set up for us to draw on the balcony. All the chalks, charcoals and waldorf crayons are packed! |
| 12th January 2006 Nalii | Yippeeeeeeeeeeee!!! - From: Bear CAN fly !!! It all sounds like so much fun...to see the pictures of CR again make me wonder what the hell I am still doing in Phoenix?@#$! I wish all four of you the best of luck and a safe journey! We love you and we look forward to a visit soon. Nalii and the DeLap Family |
| 12th January 2006 AndrewNCostaRica | Best of luck! - From: New Year, new life preparations Hey Jen! Best of luck with the blog! See you soon! -Andrew www.AngelValleyFarmBandB.com Andrew4cr@gmail.com |
| 12th January 2006 Just Jen | Our Secret - From: New Year, new life preparations Thanks for asking...Our initial work will be learning to live in a foreign country and building our house near San Ramon. My husband has a pension so we won't be looking to work. We'll rent until the house is built. At this time we believe our daughter will attend a local, private bilingual school. We have friends whose children attend. They're pleased so, we'll explore that possibility. We're also prepared to home school if that works better for our daughter. |
| 9th January 2006 Leisha | What's your secret - From: New Year, new life preparations Are you going to work there? What area are you moving to? Are you going to put your kid in public, private, or home school? Are you buying, building or renting? I'm going to try to move with my family at the end of the year. |
