Saturday, February 28, 2009
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
pictures
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Snorkeling/ yoga/ Graibin/ Rainer
Bob treated us. We had an awesome day with Capitan Vibert, and his son Vibert (Jr.). The fishing boat was converted by Vibert from a 21' Boca to a 27'. Vibert has lived here since 1971, but before that, he lived in Barbados. His son is a beautiful blend of Barbadian and Costa Rican.
The two of them are obviously accustomed to each other, having only to say a few words here and there to adjust speed and whereabouts. They navigated around rocks and reefs. The plan was to go out to a ship wreck and do some skin diving, but it was too rough, and not clear enough. The other thing we were on the outlook for was jelly fish. The red ones sting badly.
Not too far out, we stopped along side a little rock and sand island. We all donned snorkel gear and all but me got flippers (none small enough). It was fairly rough, with a good undertow so it was difficult getting to the island. I ended up not using my snorkel gear, because I didn't have enough time to wrap my brain around the psychology of breathing under water. Erroll, my young man, stayed by me, giving me the thumbs up in question and making sure I was ok.
I wished I had my camera. The sand is pink, the rocks are green and black. It was most likely volcanic rock and had most interesting formations. In the little pools on the ocean side of the island, we watched little fish swimming, Jr showed us some very blue ones. I was wondering why he, a fisherman's son, and so obviously adept at swimming and snorkeling would take a boogie board. When we got to the island, we saw why. He crept around the rocks like a mountain goat, a plastic container in one hand and a knife in the other. I saw the container was full of ocean creatures. There were shelled creatures with Spanish names like "feet of the horse" and "cockroach". There were also a couple little beautifully coloured crabs. They are all going into a rice dish, says he.
Back to the boat. We cruised around a little, inland from the reef, to find some clear, shallow water. Both Bob and I had had enough with battling the current on the island, so Erroll, Lindsay and Jr went out snorkeling. The grin on Erroll's face when he got back in the boat was worth a million bucks. What an experience! He saw lots of colourful fish. Linds had the same trouble with putting her head under and breathing thru the snorkel, but agreed at the next stop that she would try again.
The results were fantastic. The three of them went out, away from the boat. Jr took his hook and got a little lobster. Erroll saw him get it. The came back to the boat exhausted and happy.
I asked Vibert if he worries about security, leaving his boat anchored just off shore. He entertained us with stories of how he and the other Capitans have worked together to catch thieves that have stolen motors. In one story, he tells us that he asked some guys that weren't from town where they were going. They said Nicoya. They had very dirty clothes (most likely from taking apart the motors). He asked if they'd like to hop in the back of his truck, that he's going to Nicoya. They did, and he took them back to Garza, where the other Capitans were waiting. They phoned the police, who came out. I knew from other stories around Nosara that the police don't make it in time, and often at all, so I knew that Vibert and the Capitans had taken matters into their own hands because of this. The police then called a judge from Nicoya to come out and sign the papers saying they could hold the criminals. She said she didn't have transportation, and the Capitans didn't catch them with the motors so the police had to let them go. The police said next time, beat them up. ha.
There was a next time. There were warrants out for these fellows and they were caught. In the long run, the motors were returned and the criminals charged. no beating up, tho.
~~~
Before going snorkeling, at 7:30 am Linds and i went to Kimberly's cabina, behind us in the jungle and had 90 min of yoga. Kimberly has just completed the yoga teaching class at the Yoga Institute, here in Nosara. We were her first students! She did a very good job. Linds has never done a full yoga session before, and was elated at how good she felt afterward. Me too. Kudos, Kimberly!
~~~~
Also before going snorkeling, I talked with Graibin, who had a little English to share with me. I am so proud of him. The first time he had a class, he was very afraid. Now, he tells me, he's got a new teacher on Saturdays in Nosara. I told him that by the next time I see him, he will speak English very well and I will speak Spanish very well. I was able to do this in Spanish, so he said I have already made great improvements. *smile*
~~~~
After a nap, Linds, Erroll and I went to use the internet at Cafe de Paris. There, we talked with Rainer, who asked about our families having dinner together. We've booked it for Sunday. My heart swells with the beautiful people here.
The two of them are obviously accustomed to each other, having only to say a few words here and there to adjust speed and whereabouts. They navigated around rocks and reefs. The plan was to go out to a ship wreck and do some skin diving, but it was too rough, and not clear enough. The other thing we were on the outlook for was jelly fish. The red ones sting badly.
Not too far out, we stopped along side a little rock and sand island. We all donned snorkel gear and all but me got flippers (none small enough). It was fairly rough, with a good undertow so it was difficult getting to the island. I ended up not using my snorkel gear, because I didn't have enough time to wrap my brain around the psychology of breathing under water. Erroll, my young man, stayed by me, giving me the thumbs up in question and making sure I was ok.
I wished I had my camera. The sand is pink, the rocks are green and black. It was most likely volcanic rock and had most interesting formations. In the little pools on the ocean side of the island, we watched little fish swimming, Jr showed us some very blue ones. I was wondering why he, a fisherman's son, and so obviously adept at swimming and snorkeling would take a boogie board. When we got to the island, we saw why. He crept around the rocks like a mountain goat, a plastic container in one hand and a knife in the other. I saw the container was full of ocean creatures. There were shelled creatures with Spanish names like "feet of the horse" and "cockroach". There were also a couple little beautifully coloured crabs. They are all going into a rice dish, says he.
Back to the boat. We cruised around a little, inland from the reef, to find some clear, shallow water. Both Bob and I had had enough with battling the current on the island, so Erroll, Lindsay and Jr went out snorkeling. The grin on Erroll's face when he got back in the boat was worth a million bucks. What an experience! He saw lots of colourful fish. Linds had the same trouble with putting her head under and breathing thru the snorkel, but agreed at the next stop that she would try again.
The results were fantastic. The three of them went out, away from the boat. Jr took his hook and got a little lobster. Erroll saw him get it. The came back to the boat exhausted and happy.
I asked Vibert if he worries about security, leaving his boat anchored just off shore. He entertained us with stories of how he and the other Capitans have worked together to catch thieves that have stolen motors. In one story, he tells us that he asked some guys that weren't from town where they were going. They said Nicoya. They had very dirty clothes (most likely from taking apart the motors). He asked if they'd like to hop in the back of his truck, that he's going to Nicoya. They did, and he took them back to Garza, where the other Capitans were waiting. They phoned the police, who came out. I knew from other stories around Nosara that the police don't make it in time, and often at all, so I knew that Vibert and the Capitans had taken matters into their own hands because of this. The police then called a judge from Nicoya to come out and sign the papers saying they could hold the criminals. She said she didn't have transportation, and the Capitans didn't catch them with the motors so the police had to let them go. The police said next time, beat them up. ha.
There was a next time. There were warrants out for these fellows and they were caught. In the long run, the motors were returned and the criminals charged. no beating up, tho.
~~~
Before going snorkeling, at 7:30 am Linds and i went to Kimberly's cabina, behind us in the jungle and had 90 min of yoga. Kimberly has just completed the yoga teaching class at the Yoga Institute, here in Nosara. We were her first students! She did a very good job. Linds has never done a full yoga session before, and was elated at how good she felt afterward. Me too. Kudos, Kimberly!
~~~~
Also before going snorkeling, I talked with Graibin, who had a little English to share with me. I am so proud of him. The first time he had a class, he was very afraid. Now, he tells me, he's got a new teacher on Saturdays in Nosara. I told him that by the next time I see him, he will speak English very well and I will speak Spanish very well. I was able to do this in Spanish, so he said I have already made great improvements. *smile*
~~~~
After a nap, Linds, Erroll and I went to use the internet at Cafe de Paris. There, we talked with Rainer, who asked about our families having dinner together. We've booked it for Sunday. My heart swells with the beautiful people here.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
School supplies/ Nicoya/ Arroz de Pollos
What a fun day! Nicoya is 1 hour away by bus (only $2.40 each person). Javier met us at 7:30, looking all cleaned up and ready to hit town. The bus ride was interesting. Noisy. Bumpy. Dusty. Hot. But not so sticky; the seats are cloth, unlike the bus to Nosara. It's still a school bus converted, but far more comfortable than sitting on vinyl.
Nicoya is a bustling little town, full of busy people. We hustled along behind Javier, who led us to the bank first. The Capitans that Nosara Paradise rentals supports thru their advertising for the sports fishing helped fund raise for the school supplies. For each Sports fishing t-shirt they sold 1 American dollar goes to school supplies. They raised $300. With Lindsay and Erroll's $160 American, we had $360!
On the way to the little store where we would buy school supplies, Javier took us to (?). It's a 2000 (maybe more) year old building that was built by the Indians here, in Guanacasta. The site is a preserved one and is now used as a park and a church. Guanacasta province has only been part of Costa Rica for 150 or so years and after negotiations, joined so trade could be set up for their pottery and other goods. It was an interesting tour.
At the store, a nice young clerk stayed with us the whole time, while we sorted thru what we should get for the schools in Nosara and Garza. My brain got a real work out, tallying the costs in Colones and communicating with Javier. His English is very good, but there are many words we have to discuss to understand each other. It was good for me. We used a bit of Spanish in there too, but were far outdone by Javier's English.
With 7 very full bags, we had to run back to the bus depot to catch the 12:00 bus. On the way back we had to stand, which is fine, until we got to Samara, where the road turns from smooth (albeit curvy and hilly) to very rough. Both on the way there and the way back, ladies with pails full of home made goodies got on. On the way to Nicoya, it was some kind of potato pastery, smelling all sweet and browned. We didn't have any of that, but on the way back the pail contained little plastic bags, the contents of which were red or white, brown or orange. Javier saw the pail and reached for some money right away. He dug out 4 white bags, their tops tied shut, the sides bulging. It's frozen coconut and cream. The other choices were sandia (watermelon), chocolate, or mango We follow his lead, and bite the corner off, and suck out the contents. They are called El Hielo (the ice) or Nieve (snow). Mmmmm. little bits of coconut to chew on later.
We got off the bus and stepped into some fresh molasses. This is what they use here to keep the dust down. Very sticky men walk the road with big white buckets and a scoop, splashing the very liquified black stuff all over the road. It's what's available here. We thought it very strange at first, but I think it's far better than the oil that they use on some of our country roads to keep down the dust.
Back at the office, we sort thru a desk full of supplies. There's one bag that will go to the kindergarten, one to Garza's smaller school and several to Nosara, which has 300 kids.
I had assumed that our trip on Thursday with the Capitans and either Manuel or Javier would be to hand over the bags of goodies and head to the next school, giving the teachers the responsibility of distributing to whomever is most in need. Not so, I'm told. Javier feels that it's best that the supplies go straight from our hands to the childrens'. The suggestion is that they might not end up going where intended. This is an education for me.
Afterwards, we went to Robin's and at Javier's recommendation, we ate Arroz de Pollos. It's a typical Costa Rican dish that we've decided to bring home. As luck would have it, Robin stopped by in the evening, bringing Mango and Macha, her dogs. I asked for the recipe and (while the dogs growled and groaned at our feet, play fighting) she was most willing to share, a fortunate thing from a chef. For my records and yours:
Arroz de Pollos
Cook chicken and onions, cilantro, making stock
Sufrito:
Onions, peppers (dolce), garlic, sauted.
Rice and water into above, cook.
finish with chicken stock
Pull meat off chicken, add Lizano, Pechote (about 3 table spoons to 4 dry cups rice)
Stir chicken into rice slowly.
Make Chimmi Churri (Salsa) and serve on top:
Chop and mix together: onions, tomatoes, garlic, cilantro, hot pepper or hot sauce, salt and lime
Nicoya is a bustling little town, full of busy people. We hustled along behind Javier, who led us to the bank first. The Capitans that Nosara Paradise rentals supports thru their advertising for the sports fishing helped fund raise for the school supplies. For each Sports fishing t-shirt they sold 1 American dollar goes to school supplies. They raised $300. With Lindsay and Erroll's $160 American, we had $360!
On the way to the little store where we would buy school supplies, Javier took us to (?). It's a 2000 (maybe more) year old building that was built by the Indians here, in Guanacasta. The site is a preserved one and is now used as a park and a church. Guanacasta province has only been part of Costa Rica for 150 or so years and after negotiations, joined so trade could be set up for their pottery and other goods. It was an interesting tour.
At the store, a nice young clerk stayed with us the whole time, while we sorted thru what we should get for the schools in Nosara and Garza. My brain got a real work out, tallying the costs in Colones and communicating with Javier. His English is very good, but there are many words we have to discuss to understand each other. It was good for me. We used a bit of Spanish in there too, but were far outdone by Javier's English.
With 7 very full bags, we had to run back to the bus depot to catch the 12:00 bus. On the way back we had to stand, which is fine, until we got to Samara, where the road turns from smooth (albeit curvy and hilly) to very rough. Both on the way there and the way back, ladies with pails full of home made goodies got on. On the way to Nicoya, it was some kind of potato pastery, smelling all sweet and browned. We didn't have any of that, but on the way back the pail contained little plastic bags, the contents of which were red or white, brown or orange. Javier saw the pail and reached for some money right away. He dug out 4 white bags, their tops tied shut, the sides bulging. It's frozen coconut and cream. The other choices were sandia (watermelon), chocolate, or mango We follow his lead, and bite the corner off, and suck out the contents. They are called El Hielo (the ice) or Nieve (snow). Mmmmm. little bits of coconut to chew on later.
We got off the bus and stepped into some fresh molasses. This is what they use here to keep the dust down. Very sticky men walk the road with big white buckets and a scoop, splashing the very liquified black stuff all over the road. It's what's available here. We thought it very strange at first, but I think it's far better than the oil that they use on some of our country roads to keep down the dust.
Back at the office, we sort thru a desk full of supplies. There's one bag that will go to the kindergarten, one to Garza's smaller school and several to Nosara, which has 300 kids.
I had assumed that our trip on Thursday with the Capitans and either Manuel or Javier would be to hand over the bags of goodies and head to the next school, giving the teachers the responsibility of distributing to whomever is most in need. Not so, I'm told. Javier feels that it's best that the supplies go straight from our hands to the childrens'. The suggestion is that they might not end up going where intended. This is an education for me.
Afterwards, we went to Robin's and at Javier's recommendation, we ate Arroz de Pollos. It's a typical Costa Rican dish that we've decided to bring home. As luck would have it, Robin stopped by in the evening, bringing Mango and Macha, her dogs. I asked for the recipe and (while the dogs growled and groaned at our feet, play fighting) she was most willing to share, a fortunate thing from a chef. For my records and yours:
Arroz de Pollos
Cook chicken and onions, cilantro, making stock
Sufrito:
Onions, peppers (dolce), garlic, sauted.
Rice and water into above, cook.
finish with chicken stock
Pull meat off chicken, add Lizano, Pechote (about 3 table spoons to 4 dry cups rice)
Stir chicken into rice slowly.
Make Chimmi Churri (Salsa) and serve on top:
Chop and mix together: onions, tomatoes, garlic, cilantro, hot pepper or hot sauce, salt and lime
The firmest plans yet
Monday morning rolled around and the alarm beep-beeped us awake at 6 am. Erroll groaned and made the decision that he'd stay home and do homework today, his bruised rib (the surf was particularly hard on Sunday) wouldn't be able to handle the bumpy ride to Nicoya on the bus. Lindsay and I waited for the bus, but were intersected by Javier on his golf cart. He wouldn't be going to Nicoya to buy school supplies because something happened and he'd be the only one in the office. So we would postpone our trip too.
So, we had a fruit plate at Cafe de Paris, then later went for a long walk up the beach to see Michael at his Nosara B & B. From our house to his, I think it's about 5 miles. We walked, for the most part, on the beach. Gionnes beach is very shallow, with the surf washing quite a distance up the shore. The result is that one can walk in the white sand and an inch of water for quite a ways, then a wave will come in, putting you up to your shins. The water is very warm, but refreshing none the less, and staves off the heat from the very intense sun.
So, we had a fruit plate at Cafe de Paris, then later went for a long walk up the beach to see Michael at his Nosara B & B. From our house to his, I think it's about 5 miles. We walked, for the most part, on the beach. Gionnes beach is very shallow, with the surf washing quite a distance up the shore. The result is that one can walk in the white sand and an inch of water for quite a ways, then a wave will come in, putting you up to your shins. The water is very warm, but refreshing none the less, and staves off the heat from the very intense sun.
Some humorous sign-age on the way:
Michael and Deborah greeted us on their patio. Their setting is beautiful. It's a sloped land, with trees and cabinas dotted here and there. Their house is at the upper most part of the property. Their dog, Petuka (named after a famous clown), entertained Erroll and Lindsay with her scrabbling thru the bamboo leaves Deborah and Michael had put down beside their patio.
I was invited to talk turkey. Michael and I had met, if you remember, at Wantana's when she made Pad Thai for a bunch of us. Ganca and Gunther (land owners) had mentioned Michael to me in regards to his wanting to do some vegetable farming. That discussion at Wantana's was very affirming that this area could use exactly what I came to do and more. Michael shared his knowledge and I mine.
This day, on their patio, we delved deeper. Fine tuned the ideas a bit, expressed each other's gifts to the project, and made tentative plans for my return to stay with them at Nosara B & B in the rainy season. The rainy season is not a good time to plant, the rains being to hard, and there not being enough sun. It is a good time to gather the people that might be players and to get the details hashed out.
There are Michael and Deborah, interested in farming vegetables for the area, and in permaculture, and a people collector. There is a business man, already growing landscaping plants, who has growing knowledge, and business smarts. Another man, Beddoa, a Tico that has been to Earth University in Costa Rica and who owns a restaurant in Nosara on Playa Palada, that serves organic food but he can't find enough of it and wants to grow. There's a Pastor of a church in town that wants to have somewhat of a community garden to help feed his parishioners. And, there's me, who has had experience in setting up and running a Community Shared Agriculture and is in the process of learning permaculture ways.
There was discussion about where the land should be located, how we might appropriate it, and some ideas on fundraising and initial costs. There was also the question as to whether I'd come back and be a part in some permaculture set up at Nosara B & B.
Now THAT'S what I'm talking about.
Michael and Deborah greeted us on their patio. Their setting is beautiful. It's a sloped land, with trees and cabinas dotted here and there. Their house is at the upper most part of the property. Their dog, Petuka (named after a famous clown), entertained Erroll and Lindsay with her scrabbling thru the bamboo leaves Deborah and Michael had put down beside their patio.
I was invited to talk turkey. Michael and I had met, if you remember, at Wantana's when she made Pad Thai for a bunch of us. Ganca and Gunther (land owners) had mentioned Michael to me in regards to his wanting to do some vegetable farming. That discussion at Wantana's was very affirming that this area could use exactly what I came to do and more. Michael shared his knowledge and I mine.
This day, on their patio, we delved deeper. Fine tuned the ideas a bit, expressed each other's gifts to the project, and made tentative plans for my return to stay with them at Nosara B & B in the rainy season. The rainy season is not a good time to plant, the rains being to hard, and there not being enough sun. It is a good time to gather the people that might be players and to get the details hashed out.
There are Michael and Deborah, interested in farming vegetables for the area, and in permaculture, and a people collector. There is a business man, already growing landscaping plants, who has growing knowledge, and business smarts. Another man, Beddoa, a Tico that has been to Earth University in Costa Rica and who owns a restaurant in Nosara on Playa Palada, that serves organic food but he can't find enough of it and wants to grow. There's a Pastor of a church in town that wants to have somewhat of a community garden to help feed his parishioners. And, there's me, who has had experience in setting up and running a Community Shared Agriculture and is in the process of learning permaculture ways.
There was discussion about where the land should be located, how we might appropriate it, and some ideas on fundraising and initial costs. There was also the question as to whether I'd come back and be a part in some permaculture set up at Nosara B & B.
Now THAT'S what I'm talking about.
surf/ english/ countdown/ full moon
For 2 days and 2 nights we weathered what I'd call a mini tropical storm. Nothing drastic happened at our house, but there were a few households in Nosara not as lucky. One woman told me that she and her husband sat in their vehicle all night, watching as the wind lifted their house's (not a rental) roof off of the walls and slammed it back down several times until in the early hours of the morning it flipped right off and flew into the jungle. Other houses in Nosara village proper suffered the same thing. Several cars were totaled by falling trees and even a bus shelter was squashed.
The first evening the kids and I were to meet with Wantana for sunset, but when we got to the beach and were literally sandblasted, the kids said "uh uh! no way!". We stayed long enough for me to take a few snaps of the breaking waves' spray and get some sand in my camera. It's been on again, off again since.
We've all had little sleep, because the palm trees crashed and swept into the house, dropping big branches onto the metal roof.
~~
As afore mentioned, Erroll and Lindsay have been taking surfing lessons. They have had 4 lessons with a bunch of Britts. Today, we went and rented 2 surf boards for them to use for the week. I'm quite proud of them, having arranged the whole thing, learning thru lessons (they could've had only 1, but chose the 5 lesson plan). Lindsay thinks she's gotten bitten by jelly fish a few times. It's quite like brushing up against a nettle, with it's stinging, itching feeling. The trick, I'm told weeks after we've already been stomping around on the bottom of the ocean, is to drag your feet so that you don't step on a sting ray. Their sting will ruin the day.
~~~
Uncle Bob's English lessons are going well. He teaches Graibin and Jennifer at the house, Sadie at her office, Consuelo at the Library and his friend in the fruit truck whenever he passes Uncle Bob and picks him up. Five students. Lindsay and Erroll have helped, as have I. It's very exciting to see Graibin and Jenny learn. I have to resist being taught Spanish during these lessons, as it's forbidden. I can see how they might cover more ground this way, but wonder if there might be a bit more camaraderie, and therefore a better understanding if both languages were taught back and forth.
~~~~
The countdown to departure has commenced. We are officially trying to get in as much as we can in the last two weeks. There's talk of snorkeling at a sunken ship, a trip to the mountains to see an organization of organic farms (the ones that sell at the farmer's market), a trip to Nicoya with Manuel and the "Capitans" of the fishing boats, who are going on a buying mission. They are purchasing school supplies to deliver to Nosara and Garza. Manuel at the office of the house rentals we're in has offered for us to come along. We'll see if the "Capitans" have room next week.
There is also the matter of going to Dona Anna's. I saw her at the farmer's market on Saturday. She is quite ill with a sore throat, so I won't go until she's better. Michael, a fellow community garden starter I met at Wantana's is interested in helping Anna get on her feet. Anna's is already established, and a good candidate for my efforts, if I return.
~~~~
Tonight is a full moon. There is a celebration on the beach, with a bonfire. I think we'll go.
The first evening the kids and I were to meet with Wantana for sunset, but when we got to the beach and were literally sandblasted, the kids said "uh uh! no way!". We stayed long enough for me to take a few snaps of the breaking waves' spray and get some sand in my camera. It's been on again, off again since.
We've all had little sleep, because the palm trees crashed and swept into the house, dropping big branches onto the metal roof.
~~
As afore mentioned, Erroll and Lindsay have been taking surfing lessons. They have had 4 lessons with a bunch of Britts. Today, we went and rented 2 surf boards for them to use for the week. I'm quite proud of them, having arranged the whole thing, learning thru lessons (they could've had only 1, but chose the 5 lesson plan). Lindsay thinks she's gotten bitten by jelly fish a few times. It's quite like brushing up against a nettle, with it's stinging, itching feeling. The trick, I'm told weeks after we've already been stomping around on the bottom of the ocean, is to drag your feet so that you don't step on a sting ray. Their sting will ruin the day.
~~~
Uncle Bob's English lessons are going well. He teaches Graibin and Jennifer at the house, Sadie at her office, Consuelo at the Library and his friend in the fruit truck whenever he passes Uncle Bob and picks him up. Five students. Lindsay and Erroll have helped, as have I. It's very exciting to see Graibin and Jenny learn. I have to resist being taught Spanish during these lessons, as it's forbidden. I can see how they might cover more ground this way, but wonder if there might be a bit more camaraderie, and therefore a better understanding if both languages were taught back and forth.
~~~~
The countdown to departure has commenced. We are officially trying to get in as much as we can in the last two weeks. There's talk of snorkeling at a sunken ship, a trip to the mountains to see an organization of organic farms (the ones that sell at the farmer's market), a trip to Nicoya with Manuel and the "Capitans" of the fishing boats, who are going on a buying mission. They are purchasing school supplies to deliver to Nosara and Garza. Manuel at the office of the house rentals we're in has offered for us to come along. We'll see if the "Capitans" have room next week.
There is also the matter of going to Dona Anna's. I saw her at the farmer's market on Saturday. She is quite ill with a sore throat, so I won't go until she's better. Michael, a fellow community garden starter I met at Wantana's is interested in helping Anna get on her feet. Anna's is already established, and a good candidate for my efforts, if I return.
~~~~
Tonight is a full moon. There is a celebration on the beach, with a bonfire. I think we'll go.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Pictures
I have been busy loading pictures in my flickr album (it takes too long to load them onto this site). Lookee here:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/maggiemaes_pics/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/maggiemaes_pics/
More contacts
So, having stopped actively searching for contacts for the garden, two things plopped in my lap. Last night, while Erroll, Lindsay and I giggled at the 70s and 80s videos that they seem to play everywhere here (David Bowie, Paul McCartney, Stevie Wonder, The Cure) and I tried with little success to chat via facebook w/friends, in comes Don Carlos. He's here for another 4 day work stint with Cafe de Paris. He has been thinking about how to connect my ideas and the culture here. Seeing it as a challenge worth while, he's come up with a few ways to entice people to think in the right direction.
-Because in Costa Rica, there is suspicious "nothing is free" attitude toward Western thinking, he suggests connecting with the Nosara Rep (comes out in both Spanish and English) and putting in an article explaining the virtues of eating good, healthy food grown locally and the iniquities of a limited diet, such as the likes of the local one.
-His best idea is to rent some land central (to Nosarians and foreigners alike) and start the thing, inviting anyone and everyone to join in the process, and stating up front "first come first serve" for plots.
Simple. Sweet.
Today, I sat, trying (again) to get things up and running online (very sketchy connections lately) at Robins, and found myself talking with a recently graduated student of the Yoga Institute's teacher training course. We'd seen each other around and thought we'd met. Name's Brian. Brian is a nomad, here to learn, but also to work as a massage therapist, DJ at La Luna and advisor to an Expat setting up a Health and Wellness centre from scratch. Turns out the Health and Wellness place is where the Permaculture designer I've spoken about, Ryan, did his consult about 6 weeks ago. Small world, this Nosara. Brian gave me two new contacts, the Nosara Rep Editor, Emilianna, and also the Health and Wellness guy, Darin McBratney.
Feels a lot like serendipity
-Because in Costa Rica, there is suspicious "nothing is free" attitude toward Western thinking, he suggests connecting with the Nosara Rep (comes out in both Spanish and English) and putting in an article explaining the virtues of eating good, healthy food grown locally and the iniquities of a limited diet, such as the likes of the local one.
-His best idea is to rent some land central (to Nosarians and foreigners alike) and start the thing, inviting anyone and everyone to join in the process, and stating up front "first come first serve" for plots.
Simple. Sweet.
Today, I sat, trying (again) to get things up and running online (very sketchy connections lately) at Robins, and found myself talking with a recently graduated student of the Yoga Institute's teacher training course. We'd seen each other around and thought we'd met. Name's Brian. Brian is a nomad, here to learn, but also to work as a massage therapist, DJ at La Luna and advisor to an Expat setting up a Health and Wellness centre from scratch. Turns out the Health and Wellness place is where the Permaculture designer I've spoken about, Ryan, did his consult about 6 weeks ago. Small world, this Nosara. Brian gave me two new contacts, the Nosara Rep Editor, Emilianna, and also the Health and Wellness guy, Darin McBratney.
Feels a lot like serendipity
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Surfing... life lessons
Erroll and Lindsay asked if I would go watch their surfing this evening at sunset. I happily followed the two, each with both arms around their boards, Erroll in front and Lindsay in back, co operating (who woulda thunk it???) and tripping down the road to the beach. I was the official sandal guard (Erroll's were stolen yesterday while they were out in the ocean). It's a good thing I had some kind of job, since I couldn't see which head was who's and consequently, couldn't see my kids surf.
The sun set, and as per usual, my kids were following up the rear. Except Erroll didn't come back. Linds and I stood in the whooshing waves and tried to see if any of the 3 heads out there were his. There was one WAAAY out there. hmmm. grumble grumble.
Finally, Erroll comes surfing to the shallows where we stood and explained that there was a strong after current (not sure if that's the correct term) and he got stuck in it, being swept out into the ocean. Alex, one of their instructors was out there and managed to coax Erroll back. His arms about fell off, it was that strong. Sigh. How's a mother to let go?
The sun set, and as per usual, my kids were following up the rear. Except Erroll didn't come back. Linds and I stood in the whooshing waves and tried to see if any of the 3 heads out there were his. There was one WAAAY out there. hmmm. grumble grumble.
Finally, Erroll comes surfing to the shallows where we stood and explained that there was a strong after current (not sure if that's the correct term) and he got stuck in it, being swept out into the ocean. Alex, one of their instructors was out there and managed to coax Erroll back. His arms about fell off, it was that strong. Sigh. How's a mother to let go?
Yoga
Many of the girls that I've met over the past month from the Yoga Institute's teacher program have graduated and gone home. There were around 50 students. I met and talked regularly with about 10 of them. I'll miss their company. Uncle Bob says he notices that they look like they are walking around glowing. I agree. They are definitely well exercised and apparently the program is a very good one for the personal work they do.
Kimberly is one of the girls that has decided to stay on after the program to take a couple other courses and to hang out in Nosara for a while. She and I have talked a bit about her coming to work on my place if I get things up and running again, as well as coming back here to work when we start whatever we're going to get going here.
Last night Kimberly also offered to give me private yoga lessons as often as I want. This thrills me to no end. One can make neighbours anywhere in the world.
Kimberly is one of the girls that has decided to stay on after the program to take a couple other courses and to hang out in Nosara for a while. She and I have talked a bit about her coming to work on my place if I get things up and running again, as well as coming back here to work when we start whatever we're going to get going here.
Last night Kimberly also offered to give me private yoga lessons as often as I want. This thrills me to no end. One can make neighbours anywhere in the world.
Eduardo, Javier and Graibin's family farm
Graibin brought Eduardo around to the house yesterday. We sat on the patio for a while, going over the Canadian coins I wanted Eduardo to give to his kids. They are big on Animal Planet and National Geographic here and have seen most of the animals on our coins. Erroll pointed out that the Spanish word for Beaver is Castor, just like the star.
Eduardo expressed that the visit we had at their table was a lot of fun and that our family is welcome to go camp at his house. We've accepted with a lot of anticipation. I hope to meet more of their family and enjoy learning more of their culture.
The very cool way that we talked when Rainne, Di, the kids and I sat around Jesus' table (their Mamma) was THE highlight of my trip. There was some pretty neat energy flying around, I think because we all decided that we are on the same playing field. They, with little English and us with little Spanish. We laughed lots about how each language in the other's mouth tasted like marbles, and begged the other to speak "SLOWLY!"..."LENTO!". They also laughed at the thought of Spanglish, or as Erroll says, to be more fair Espangles.
Because there is little time left, with Erroll and Lindsay booking their surf boards for the week, and a few other things I want to put together for the garden, it will have to be booked for next week.
Eduardo expressed that the visit we had at their table was a lot of fun and that our family is welcome to go camp at his house. We've accepted with a lot of anticipation. I hope to meet more of their family and enjoy learning more of their culture.
The very cool way that we talked when Rainne, Di, the kids and I sat around Jesus' table (their Mamma) was THE highlight of my trip. There was some pretty neat energy flying around, I think because we all decided that we are on the same playing field. They, with little English and us with little Spanish. We laughed lots about how each language in the other's mouth tasted like marbles, and begged the other to speak "SLOWLY!"..."LENTO!". They also laughed at the thought of Spanglish, or as Erroll says, to be more fair Espangles.
Because there is little time left, with Erroll and Lindsay booking their surf boards for the week, and a few other things I want to put together for the garden, it will have to be booked for next week.
Teaching English
Bob showed much trust in using Erroll Lindsay and I in his English classes with Graibin and Jennifer. Lindsay and Erroll played ball with them, all giggling wildly as they say things like "roll the ball to Erroll!". They also played "go fish". It was a blast to listen to all the whoops and yahoos.
I taught Graibin for one class and count his enthusiasm as a successful class. He didn't want to quit!
I taught Graibin for one class and count his enthusiasm as a successful class. He didn't want to quit!
Counting....
With only a couple weeks left here, I'm counting both the days 'til home and seeing the ones I love, and the things we've accomplished here.
There have been many ups and downs, twists and turns on our way. A week or so ago, I'd thought that there may not be enough time to collect enough information to start what I wanted to start here. Now, as I look at the connections made, the people I've met and the mysteries of this very different culture, I think I can see a way thru.
Dona Anna's garden ( the one I first visited) is up in Nosara village proper. People already go to her and buy vegetables. She is well enough known by the locals and foreigners alike. She has hired two Tico men who are working there full time, and being fed by her and live there, on her land (not always reliable help, tho). Dona Anna's biggest challenge is that she needs help and some cash injection for a new pump for her well. There is enough demand here for her to expand, but she is only one person. I think that if I can express to her (again, limited Spanish) some of the concepts from my CSA and other gardens I've gotten to know, plus some cash for that pump, and perhaps connect her with some of the resources I've collected she might be able to enhance what she's already got.
There have been many ups and downs, twists and turns on our way. A week or so ago, I'd thought that there may not be enough time to collect enough information to start what I wanted to start here. Now, as I look at the connections made, the people I've met and the mysteries of this very different culture, I think I can see a way thru.
Dona Anna's garden ( the one I first visited) is up in Nosara village proper. People already go to her and buy vegetables. She is well enough known by the locals and foreigners alike. She has hired two Tico men who are working there full time, and being fed by her and live there, on her land (not always reliable help, tho). Dona Anna's biggest challenge is that she needs help and some cash injection for a new pump for her well. There is enough demand here for her to expand, but she is only one person. I think that if I can express to her (again, limited Spanish) some of the concepts from my CSA and other gardens I've gotten to know, plus some cash for that pump, and perhaps connect her with some of the resources I've collected she might be able to enhance what she's already got.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Surf Days- by Lindsay
Even before we got to Costa RIca, we have been anticipating going surfing. It was an exciting idea, and all the more reason to tell our friends about our trip. Although surfing was one of the main buzzes of Costa Rican waters, we couldn't think less about taking a couple of lessons as we settled in. A month went by, we still hadn't rented board nor had we taken a lesson.
While Mom was off doing something or rather, Erroll and I decided to pop into the Innocent Surf School just for a look around. There were two rooms, both covered in slick white tiles, the second room only the size of a small bathroom. The first thing that caught our eyes were the tiny kittens with long ears that must've been only weeks old. They might've been the seller, but of course you'll never know. Still grasping the petite cats in our hands, we took a gander at the methodically placed water proof(very important in a surf shop) information sheets around the room. We calculated the money that we had left, minus the money for the lessons, plus the money that Mom'll be spending on the first of our lessons and minus from my money what Erroll would be borrowing. It took us a long time to figure out if we had enough money, even for our mathematically inclined brains. In spite the fact that we only got an approximate number, we signed up for a lesson for the next day. We told Mom about our new expense, thinking that she would say something about how she had plans, but she was happy that we had taken the initiative. Once in a blue moon, eh?
We were scheduled to meet the instructors at the shop at 9:50, and already I was setting the alarms and butterflies were building up in my stomach. Luckily, we both woke up when we were supposed to. We ate, showered, dressed ourselves in our swim suits and a tight t-shirt(to keep off the sun), slathered our bodies in sunscreen and found each other waiting for a long time.
Erroll and I walked to the shop. It was no time to worry about kittens, we had to get down to work before the butterflies eat their way out of our stomachs. Our instructor's names were Ru and Gem. Both English, both very pretty people, both very funny(it could just be the accents), and both running the shop all by themselves. We signed a couple of very boring forms about our safety, they chose our boards for us, and we were off.
Gem stayed at the shop while Ru took us to the beach. Being the English gentleman that he is, he took my board for me. We reached the beach and, lesson #1, we walked quite a ways down the beach to keep from hitting other surfers or them hitting us. They set our boards down and Ru began to give us our 'morning lesson'. Mainly, it was about our safety and the proper way to lie down on the board. We we only lie down for now because we were beginners. I plunged into the ocean with my board. They are pretty heavy and too wide for my little arms, so i could not carry them properly. We were only catching broken waves on our bellies for today, but even a head height broken wave was more than slightly intimidating. Broken waves are easy to catch because you don't have to paddle as hard, but, like a spinning top, you have less control since you go slow. It was fun to do yet it is just as easy to say that it was only partially gratifying to call it surfing.
Ru called us back to the beach, to my delight we were going to learn how to stand up on our boards hopefully without falling off. It's a very complicated to do when you are just beginning; you have to have your feet exactly in the middle with your toes pointed in, your knees bent, your left arm behind you and your right arm in front of you, your head facing forward, and at the same time you have to be able to lean forward and backward to accelerate and decelerate. However, as a known rule in surfing, you will always forget everything that you just learned as soon as you stand up on your board. There were lots and lots of falling and plofs(perfect landing of face) but since Ru said that should happen, I felt that i had achieved a great deal today. More than once that day, I had surfed my way to the beach. I was pretty proud of myself.
We carried our boards back, or i should say Ru and Erroll carried our boards back, and we washed off.
While Mom was off doing something or rather, Erroll and I decided to pop into the Innocent Surf School just for a look around. There were two rooms, both covered in slick white tiles, the second room only the size of a small bathroom. The first thing that caught our eyes were the tiny kittens with long ears that must've been only weeks old. They might've been the seller, but of course you'll never know. Still grasping the petite cats in our hands, we took a gander at the methodically placed water proof(very important in a surf shop) information sheets around the room. We calculated the money that we had left, minus the money for the lessons, plus the money that Mom'll be spending on the first of our lessons and minus from my money what Erroll would be borrowing. It took us a long time to figure out if we had enough money, even for our mathematically inclined brains. In spite the fact that we only got an approximate number, we signed up for a lesson for the next day. We told Mom about our new expense, thinking that she would say something about how she had plans, but she was happy that we had taken the initiative. Once in a blue moon, eh?
We were scheduled to meet the instructors at the shop at 9:50, and already I was setting the alarms and butterflies were building up in my stomach. Luckily, we both woke up when we were supposed to. We ate, showered, dressed ourselves in our swim suits and a tight t-shirt(to keep off the sun), slathered our bodies in sunscreen and found each other waiting for a long time.
Erroll and I walked to the shop. It was no time to worry about kittens, we had to get down to work before the butterflies eat their way out of our stomachs. Our instructor's names were Ru and Gem. Both English, both very pretty people, both very funny(it could just be the accents), and both running the shop all by themselves. We signed a couple of very boring forms about our safety, they chose our boards for us, and we were off.
Gem stayed at the shop while Ru took us to the beach. Being the English gentleman that he is, he took my board for me. We reached the beach and, lesson #1, we walked quite a ways down the beach to keep from hitting other surfers or them hitting us. They set our boards down and Ru began to give us our 'morning lesson'. Mainly, it was about our safety and the proper way to lie down on the board. We we only lie down for now because we were beginners. I plunged into the ocean with my board. They are pretty heavy and too wide for my little arms, so i could not carry them properly. We were only catching broken waves on our bellies for today, but even a head height broken wave was more than slightly intimidating. Broken waves are easy to catch because you don't have to paddle as hard, but, like a spinning top, you have less control since you go slow. It was fun to do yet it is just as easy to say that it was only partially gratifying to call it surfing.
Ru called us back to the beach, to my delight we were going to learn how to stand up on our boards hopefully without falling off. It's a very complicated to do when you are just beginning; you have to have your feet exactly in the middle with your toes pointed in, your knees bent, your left arm behind you and your right arm in front of you, your head facing forward, and at the same time you have to be able to lean forward and backward to accelerate and decelerate. However, as a known rule in surfing, you will always forget everything that you just learned as soon as you stand up on your board. There were lots and lots of falling and plofs(perfect landing of face) but since Ru said that should happen, I felt that i had achieved a great deal today. More than once that day, I had surfed my way to the beach. I was pretty proud of myself.
We carried our boards back, or i should say Ru and Erroll carried our boards back, and we washed off.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Strange and wonderful things
One day, while on our way to Escualita, on the path that comes up from the beach, over the point and onto the next beach, we looked up. There, on the crest of the hill, were a very big bull and a Tico on horseback, pushing the thing on with a crop. Actually, I don't know, it might've been a long stick, I had my eye on those horns and was busy thinking, that little rope tied around his neck ain't gonna stop signor bull if he wants to rush us! It was a little tiny bit relieving that the fellow smiled and said ola, but not much. There were two more bulls and two more men on horseback. We were all very respectful and stayed stock still as far back on the path as the steep hill behind us would allow until they all passed.
There was a grasshopper with red and green wings that flew into our window one evening. I thought it was a bat, it was that big. I don't normally squeal like a girl in the face of anything insect, but the kids witnessed it that night (and enjoyed it a little too much, I might add).
Erroll found a scorpion in his computer case. He was lucky enough to look before reaching into the pocket. He saw the end of the tail and wondered what it was. Good thing. Scorpions hurt.
At the kids first surf lesson (still have to post about that. It's not my story, I think that's why I've taken some time with it) they were told to shuffle their feet on the floor of the ocean so that they don't step on a sting ray. We've been stomping around for 5 weeks and haven't hit one. blind luck.
At about 10 pm, the people at the restaurant at Cafe de Paris close. they leave one light on if someones still there emailing but sometimes we've emailed in the dark. It's a thatched roof over some tables, with the kitchen behind sliding doors that they shut when closing. Weird, that, being able to walk into an open air restaurant.
We haven't seen it yet, but there's a green flash that happens at sun set, sometimes. right before the sun dips below the horizon, it'll flash a cool, green light.
Supposedly, there is a monoculture ant colony in Costa Rica. One family, stretching out all over the place.
The monkeys will poop on you if you stand under the tree they are in.
There is an effort to insulate the wires for the monkeys. Also, they put net bridges across some roads, to dissuade them from going across the wires.
The monkey's howl wakes me and everyone I've spoken to at about 5:30 every morning. And yet, none of us get up and see each other. Why is that?
Ticos and Ticas smooch each other and us warmly on the cheek in greeting. Why don't we do this? I'm going to transport it. I hope they don't take it away from me at the border. (Erroll politely asked the pretty girl's name after she kissed him last night). Are you proud of him, Randy?
Our refrigerator has a sticker inside the door that says "push the red button at least 2 times/week". Di pushed it and everything promptly froze.
Sugar cane.
My kids are surfing almost daily. I've been off, doing things and so have yet to watch them. I can't wait, but am also enjoying their independence.
Orion's belt is directly above head. I can't find the big and little dipper! Not a star watcher usually, but that was disconcerting for a while. The stars stand out amazingly here.
There was a grasshopper with red and green wings that flew into our window one evening. I thought it was a bat, it was that big. I don't normally squeal like a girl in the face of anything insect, but the kids witnessed it that night (and enjoyed it a little too much, I might add).
Erroll found a scorpion in his computer case. He was lucky enough to look before reaching into the pocket. He saw the end of the tail and wondered what it was. Good thing. Scorpions hurt.
At the kids first surf lesson (still have to post about that. It's not my story, I think that's why I've taken some time with it) they were told to shuffle their feet on the floor of the ocean so that they don't step on a sting ray. We've been stomping around for 5 weeks and haven't hit one. blind luck.
At about 10 pm, the people at the restaurant at Cafe de Paris close. they leave one light on if someones still there emailing but sometimes we've emailed in the dark. It's a thatched roof over some tables, with the kitchen behind sliding doors that they shut when closing. Weird, that, being able to walk into an open air restaurant.
We haven't seen it yet, but there's a green flash that happens at sun set, sometimes. right before the sun dips below the horizon, it'll flash a cool, green light.
Supposedly, there is a monoculture ant colony in Costa Rica. One family, stretching out all over the place.
The monkeys will poop on you if you stand under the tree they are in.
There is an effort to insulate the wires for the monkeys. Also, they put net bridges across some roads, to dissuade them from going across the wires.
The monkey's howl wakes me and everyone I've spoken to at about 5:30 every morning. And yet, none of us get up and see each other. Why is that?
Ticos and Ticas smooch each other and us warmly on the cheek in greeting. Why don't we do this? I'm going to transport it. I hope they don't take it away from me at the border. (Erroll politely asked the pretty girl's name after she kissed him last night). Are you proud of him, Randy?
Our refrigerator has a sticker inside the door that says "push the red button at least 2 times/week". Di pushed it and everything promptly froze.
Sugar cane.
My kids are surfing almost daily. I've been off, doing things and so have yet to watch them. I can't wait, but am also enjoying their independence.
Orion's belt is directly above head. I can't find the big and little dipper! Not a star watcher usually, but that was disconcerting for a while. The stars stand out amazingly here.
Bob's English Lessons
It's taken a few false starts, but my uncle's purpose for coming here (amongst other things), to teach, has been successful. Yesterday afternoon he hopped a bus up to Nosara to teach Consuelo and her sister, some English. This morning, I waited with him until Greibin (finally got the correct spelling on that one) and Jennifer, the gardener and maid came for their lesson. I chatted for a few minutes with them, as prearranged, until it was apparent that they felt comfortable. It was good to hear laughter coming from all 3 when I left the house.
Later Greibin reported that he thought Bob was "mui, mui bueno". He had been quite nervous to come for the lessons, so we weren't sure if they would show. They didn't the day before, leaving poor Bob waiting. I'm glad for all that today's session was good. For sure, colours and "name" were learned. I repaid Greibin's earlier compliment to me by saying "tu hable mucho Englais!".
The other lessons have been while getting a ride. In the passenger seat, Bob teaches his new friend, who seems to be en route every time Bob needs a ride. This fellow has stopped and thrown Bob's bike in the back of the truck 3 times now, and often stops just to chat. He wants to learn. Bob has tried to pin him down for an appointment, like the others, but I guess he must just like the truck/classroom. The man's (his name eludes me right now) job is to deliver fruit and veggies from Nosara to our neck of the woods. His little datsun truck goes up and down the road daily.
I'm very glad to see the purpose in my Uncle's step.
Later Greibin reported that he thought Bob was "mui, mui bueno". He had been quite nervous to come for the lessons, so we weren't sure if they would show. They didn't the day before, leaving poor Bob waiting. I'm glad for all that today's session was good. For sure, colours and "name" were learned. I repaid Greibin's earlier compliment to me by saying "tu hable mucho Englais!".
The other lessons have been while getting a ride. In the passenger seat, Bob teaches his new friend, who seems to be en route every time Bob needs a ride. This fellow has stopped and thrown Bob's bike in the back of the truck 3 times now, and often stops just to chat. He wants to learn. Bob has tried to pin him down for an appointment, like the others, but I guess he must just like the truck/classroom. The man's (his name eludes me right now) job is to deliver fruit and veggies from Nosara to our neck of the woods. His little datsun truck goes up and down the road daily.
I'm very glad to see the purpose in my Uncle's step.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Community
The community here is somewhat unsettled. This area, down by the beach, is called "Projecto Americano" for a good reason. People come and go. There are the one and two weekers, nice to say hello to, feels good to share what we've discovered and find out where they're from, what they do. It's a sharing place. I'm not an anomaly, hanging out, with purpose for over a month. There are quite a few people who have found this place,either for the first of dozenth time as an excellent retreat. The yoga students are here for a full month and I've spoken with a few who've extended their stay. Who can blame them?
There are some houses that the expat owners live in, renting out rooms, whole floors or a whole other house on their property. This seems the life to me. Altho it comes with it's problems of unreliable workers, theft of toasters and refrigerators. They are even more subject to the Costa Rican systems than the rest of us.
The cultures here can be divided, not by whence a person comes , but by their pass times. There's surfers, yogies, sightseers, those inflicted with wanderlust, this being only one stop in their life as travelers, some who come hoping to find their niche in this beautiful landscape, and then there's the Lost and found; people looking for healing, a place to lick their wounds.
It's very easy to meet people here. People seem eager to share their experiences. We bump into people no matter where we go. Last weekend it was meeting Dona Anna's helper, Anna and friend, Wantana. Now I bump into Wantana every day. Today, I met a Calgarian, who, with his wife and 5 year old son, has moved here. He shared his knowledge of passion fruit, highly suggesting we go get one off the shelf and eat it, they're that good here. We got one and then bumped into him again outside the store, and he told Erroll how to break it open and bite into the seed part. mmmm.
Turns out Trent is a fireman, a bike enthusiast, and their family buys their fruits and vegetables in a "Box", a form of CSA w/o the work aspect. Small world. Perhaps an interested family in the community garden? Hopefully we can keep in touch.
The community from Nosara (I have decided that we are really not in Nosara, the town proper) is another whole community to discover, but we don't have the time nor the transportation. The Ticos that work her and live up there that we've met, if a good cross section, are great people. There are too many to mention here, but I hope to write them all down at some point and remember something about each of them.
That everyone seems to know everyone here, is very much like the small town atmosphere I've seen where I live. It's comforting to know such good people.
There are some houses that the expat owners live in, renting out rooms, whole floors or a whole other house on their property. This seems the life to me. Altho it comes with it's problems of unreliable workers, theft of toasters and refrigerators. They are even more subject to the Costa Rican systems than the rest of us.
The cultures here can be divided, not by whence a person comes , but by their pass times. There's surfers, yogies, sightseers, those inflicted with wanderlust, this being only one stop in their life as travelers, some who come hoping to find their niche in this beautiful landscape, and then there's the Lost and found; people looking for healing, a place to lick their wounds.
It's very easy to meet people here. People seem eager to share their experiences. We bump into people no matter where we go. Last weekend it was meeting Dona Anna's helper, Anna and friend, Wantana. Now I bump into Wantana every day. Today, I met a Calgarian, who, with his wife and 5 year old son, has moved here. He shared his knowledge of passion fruit, highly suggesting we go get one off the shelf and eat it, they're that good here. We got one and then bumped into him again outside the store, and he told Erroll how to break it open and bite into the seed part. mmmm.
Turns out Trent is a fireman, a bike enthusiast, and their family buys their fruits and vegetables in a "Box", a form of CSA w/o the work aspect. Small world. Perhaps an interested family in the community garden? Hopefully we can keep in touch.
The community from Nosara (I have decided that we are really not in Nosara, the town proper) is another whole community to discover, but we don't have the time nor the transportation. The Ticos that work her and live up there that we've met, if a good cross section, are great people. There are too many to mention here, but I hope to write them all down at some point and remember something about each of them.
That everyone seems to know everyone here, is very much like the small town atmosphere I've seen where I live. It's comforting to know such good people.
musings.... accidentally deleted post from a few days ago
WIth the bikes returned ($200!) and another safe key ordered, and the lack of hot water reported, the dvds returned, the house cleaning done (a service I've gratefully accepted as part of the package), Uncle's laundry whisked away by the maid, the day is 1/2 over.
Uncle Bob's first attempt to do what he came for ie: teaching English has been dashed. The local library has changed their mind, they would not be using the talents of those outside their hand-picked teachers from a College in the US. It would be easy to see this, and my attempts at finding the right avenues for my endeavours as failure, but I refuse to.
Instead, I believe that we have yet to find the right holes for our pegs.
In N. America, the trend toward ecological living is much further on the upswing. Nosara is just in it's infancy, but there are some pretty good starts. Of the locals I've met with any knowledge of organics, it seems their thinking is the same as mine was as I started the CSA; organic growing is a fancy term for how things were done by our forefathers. It's natural growing, using healthy, sustainable methods. Before chemical fertilizer made it's debut, farmers wisely learned to use whatever available. Compost and manure and local rock or bones added elements depleted by growing crops that deplete them. Crop rotation and clever interplanting make for better pest management than spending money on pesticides and herbicides.
When tackling the challenge of marketing the relatively new concept of CSA as a way to purchase one's food, I found that I was trying to sell the concept of hard work. Here, it's no different. I've polled a few locals, including Raineer, who, if you remember, is the manager at 26 years old, of Cafe de Paris. Raineer has been listening to me since I came. He understands the concept, but admits if he were to be used as an example of the average Tico worker, here, in Projecto Americano, after a long day of work, he wants to go home to his family, and perhaps play or watch some soccer on tv, then go to bed. There is little sun left after work, who wants to garden? I'm undaunted. I've heard this argument many times over, and still had more calls in the last couple years as owner of my CSA than I did membership spots. Raineer still knows its a good thing and has been trying to figure out how to help me. In fact, his introducing Don Carlos to me showed how much he understands.
Even tho Don Carlos could not help me obtain land as he thought he might, helped me to understand the local mentality a little better. The best thing he said was "Be careful! I would not speak of your ideas to this person and that person. In Costa Rica, people will steal your ideas!!!" I laughed at the time, but now I can't help but wonder if this is a key to an unknown lock. Perhaps the people of Costa Rica are so bent on the N. American ways, and making $, that the CSA concept, or something like it would work better here, than a "commons" space would. Uncle Bob seems to think that N. America doesn't like "the commons" way of thinking anymore (there was a time in England where every town would have a field on the outskirts of town. Everyone with livestock could use the commons, as they were called, for grazing their animals. The towns eventually swallowed up these spaces and are no longer used in the same manner), and that it's "every man for himself".
I've thought that if I can find a company in the service industry, that has wealthy owners, and a little extra space, and that wants to jump on the ecological bandwagon I may be able to convince them that:
~they would benefit by being able to state their "greenness" because of the organic nature of the garden
~they would benefit by supporting, or sponsoring a local by allowing their staff, and only their staff to use space in the garden
~they would benefit by the organic produce from the garden in their restaurant.
The staff would benefit by:
~being able to produce organic produce for their family
~feeling the support of the company they work for by being allowed to use company space
The project could have some permanence, and even progress to spaces in the staff's communities for the locals, in the future.
Uncle Bob and I discussed the idea that to "sell" this idea is a difficult one. He's of the mind that one shouldn't have to sell a good idea. It should sell itself. If only. Unfortunately, the idea does not have legs of it's own. The book I received from my parents called The Tipping Point, speaks of how things become a trend. Sometimes it's mysterious, but under close scrutiny, "they" have found that many things become popular because they are carried from one type of person to another during a somewhat complex series of stages. I've been trying to figure out which type of person I am, and who I need to pass it off to next to make this concept a trend here. I think I am an Early Innovator. A person to try new things, in this case. I need an Early Adopter, someone who sees this idea and is convinced it is a good one and gives it a try. And a Maven or Connector, someone who loves a good deal, who is connected to the Mainstream, but in a conscientious way; this person/s I need to make the idea palatable for the Mainstream.
Figuring out the culture may take longer than I have. Perhaps the culture is not ready for the Community Garden concept. Or, perhaps one or more of the above ideas will take hold, be stolen, in time. Perhaps by my talking talking talking to the locals and foreigners, it will grow legs and run thru Costa Rica. It would be nice to see Costa Rica skipping over some of the mistakes made by N. America. Maybe they can take their not-so-distant past in farming and living off the land and teach us, the foreigners how it should be done.
Uncle Bob's first attempt to do what he came for ie: teaching English has been dashed. The local library has changed their mind, they would not be using the talents of those outside their hand-picked teachers from a College in the US. It would be easy to see this, and my attempts at finding the right avenues for my endeavours as failure, but I refuse to.
Instead, I believe that we have yet to find the right holes for our pegs.
In N. America, the trend toward ecological living is much further on the upswing. Nosara is just in it's infancy, but there are some pretty good starts. Of the locals I've met with any knowledge of organics, it seems their thinking is the same as mine was as I started the CSA; organic growing is a fancy term for how things were done by our forefathers. It's natural growing, using healthy, sustainable methods. Before chemical fertilizer made it's debut, farmers wisely learned to use whatever available. Compost and manure and local rock or bones added elements depleted by growing crops that deplete them. Crop rotation and clever interplanting make for better pest management than spending money on pesticides and herbicides.
When tackling the challenge of marketing the relatively new concept of CSA as a way to purchase one's food, I found that I was trying to sell the concept of hard work. Here, it's no different. I've polled a few locals, including Raineer, who, if you remember, is the manager at 26 years old, of Cafe de Paris. Raineer has been listening to me since I came. He understands the concept, but admits if he were to be used as an example of the average Tico worker, here, in Projecto Americano, after a long day of work, he wants to go home to his family, and perhaps play or watch some soccer on tv, then go to bed. There is little sun left after work, who wants to garden? I'm undaunted. I've heard this argument many times over, and still had more calls in the last couple years as owner of my CSA than I did membership spots. Raineer still knows its a good thing and has been trying to figure out how to help me. In fact, his introducing Don Carlos to me showed how much he understands.
Even tho Don Carlos could not help me obtain land as he thought he might, helped me to understand the local mentality a little better. The best thing he said was "Be careful! I would not speak of your ideas to this person and that person. In Costa Rica, people will steal your ideas!!!" I laughed at the time, but now I can't help but wonder if this is a key to an unknown lock. Perhaps the people of Costa Rica are so bent on the N. American ways, and making $, that the CSA concept, or something like it would work better here, than a "commons" space would. Uncle Bob seems to think that N. America doesn't like "the commons" way of thinking anymore (there was a time in England where every town would have a field on the outskirts of town. Everyone with livestock could use the commons, as they were called, for grazing their animals. The towns eventually swallowed up these spaces and are no longer used in the same manner), and that it's "every man for himself".
I've thought that if I can find a company in the service industry, that has wealthy owners, and a little extra space, and that wants to jump on the ecological bandwagon I may be able to convince them that:
~they would benefit by being able to state their "greenness" because of the organic nature of the garden
~they would benefit by supporting, or sponsoring a local by allowing their staff, and only their staff to use space in the garden
~they would benefit by the organic produce from the garden in their restaurant.
The staff would benefit by:
~being able to produce organic produce for their family
~feeling the support of the company they work for by being allowed to use company space
The project could have some permanence, and even progress to spaces in the staff's communities for the locals, in the future.
Uncle Bob and I discussed the idea that to "sell" this idea is a difficult one. He's of the mind that one shouldn't have to sell a good idea. It should sell itself. If only. Unfortunately, the idea does not have legs of it's own. The book I received from my parents called The Tipping Point, speaks of how things become a trend. Sometimes it's mysterious, but under close scrutiny, "they" have found that many things become popular because they are carried from one type of person to another during a somewhat complex series of stages. I've been trying to figure out which type of person I am, and who I need to pass it off to next to make this concept a trend here. I think I am an Early Innovator. A person to try new things, in this case. I need an Early Adopter, someone who sees this idea and is convinced it is a good one and gives it a try. And a Maven or Connector, someone who loves a good deal, who is connected to the Mainstream, but in a conscientious way; this person/s I need to make the idea palatable for the Mainstream.
Figuring out the culture may take longer than I have. Perhaps the culture is not ready for the Community Garden concept. Or, perhaps one or more of the above ideas will take hold, be stolen, in time. Perhaps by my talking talking talking to the locals and foreigners, it will grow legs and run thru Costa Rica. It would be nice to see Costa Rica skipping over some of the mistakes made by N. America. Maybe they can take their not-so-distant past in farming and living off the land and teach us, the foreigners how it should be done.
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