Yesterday, I celebrated six months living in paradise.
I have been studying Spanish for the past 150 days using online program Duolingo and, I am now able to generally make myself understood.
I have made two border runs since arriving. Unless one is a resident, you are only allowed a maximum of 90 days in Costa Rica without leaving the country and renewing your passport stamp. I have a residency appointment for next March.
I am able to make two of Costa Rica’s national dishes, Arroz con Pollo and a slightly modified version of Chifrijo. Both are delicious.
My yard has been visited by Whitetail Deer, Armadillos, Possum, Howler Monkeys, Squirrels, one Snake and 71 different species of birds.
The walls of my home are now adorned with two beautiful murals and I am indebted to Paula and Andru, the ladies that made this possible.
One of the things I did early in my journey was to select a Veterinarian and a Dentist. Both are caring, compassionate, skilled professionals. Yesterday, I chose my new Doctor. We sat down and went over my medical history in detail and, I am happy to say that I believe that I am in good hands.
The cats have adjusted well and are loving their jungle home. I have four wonderful street dogs that visit regularly. Yesterday, Buddy and I played Phil throw the stick, Phil go find the stick, Phil throw the stick again and Phil go find it again. Costa Rican dogs don’t seem to understand the concept of Fetch.
My gardens are expanding and flourishing thanks to friends Jane, Sandy, Heather and Henry and their kind generosity and the abundance of reasonably priced Viveros.
I am happy. Pura Vida.