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With a smile stretched across my face, I ran over and embraced my mom in a great big bear hug. I sure am blessed to have two great parents who support me in everything that I decide to do; however crazy it may be. Having my mom fly down to meet me on such a short notice really means a lot. I had asked her if she was sure that she wanted to spend that kind of money; being that she could only stay one week. She simply replied; "Life is short; and the memories are worth ever cent." That is so very true. Time spent with family and friends should be cherished. Memories that are made to last are the ones that help us realize what really matters. Memories are one of the real ingredients to life; nothing artificial added.

No Artificial Ingredients

Jeremy Curl
2006-08-28 13:27:03

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put a damper on our spirits. My Finnish friend Tello even made an appearance for the last two days. The three of us enjoyed meals and walks together on the beach. To finish up mom's visit, we decided to head a short distance north to the area around Nosara. We had heard good things about it, so we gave it a shot!

The initial thought that popped into my head as the local chicken bus dropped us 2 miles past our turn-off; was what a huge mistake I have made. Finally after hitchhiking
a ride in the back of a pick-up truck; mom and I arrived to a secluded little dirt road with only a few hotels off in the woods. Expecting to be sorely disappointed, we soon discovered that this place was more than it seemed at first glance. The little community branched off into two more roads with hotels, a spa, and several shops. We selected The Guilded Iguana hotel because they accepted credit cards, and there wasn't an ATM to be found. Our hotel was a luxury get-away with a waterfall fed pool, tropical jungle setting, air-conditioned rooms, and a top-notch restaurant. This was the first warm shower I have had in 41 days (no joke); and I was loving it. Mom and I had decided to fly back to San José instead of driving in order to spend an extra day at the beach. Speaking of beach; the one 300 yards from our hotel was spectacular (Playa Guiones). Amazing waves (13-16 ft. swells), jungle backdrop, and not one single building on its banks (200 meters of animal refuge) . Surfers ruled the waters, beautiful shells covered the sands, and colorful crabs and iguanas scattered the woods. Mom had her first encounter with howler monkeys (sooo excited). They were swinging among the trees which lined the path to the beach. That night we watched as surfers caught their final waves before the sun drifted below the horizon. A misty haze was cast over the beach, which created a surreal atmosphere. We ended the evening with great food, live music at our hotel, and a little mingling with the locals. We spent mom's last day soaking up the last little bit of Costa Rica that we could and prepared for our departure.

Although rather expensive (to a backpacker), Costa Rica is a wonderful country with much to see and do. Rolling hills of jungle cover the land and amazing beaches line its shores. The locals have an expression that sums it up the best - pura vida or pure life. Everywhere you go you hear these words and it can't help to bring a smile to your face. Now, I would like to take a second and thank my wonderful mother for coming to spend time with me. She sure is a blessing; and I thank God for her everyday. I couldn't have asked for better. As for me; I am off on a night bus the same day my mom leaves. I will be headed straight to Panama City and the mighty Panama Canal. So until then; take care and pura vida!!!

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