Diversions

When we are not being amazed by the bio-diversity thriving on the mountain, or entertained by the kids, Kakuro is our latest addiction.

Strangler Fig Tree

Words cannot describe the immense awesomeness of these beautiful structures.

Hiking with friends

Jim went exploring with fellow über-hikers from La Lindora  to San Luis. 

When we moved here we met a group of outdoor enthusiasts who are "older parents" like us.  We all have children attending The Cloud Forest School here in Monteverde.  (see Kiera's birthday photo earlier in this blog.)

This river is called the Rio Guacimal.

Kiera with Tommy

Tommy is the puppy that does not live at our house. (We are not allowed pets by our landlord).  He resembles a miniature german shepherd (the dog, not the landlord).  I think we will bring him back with us when we return to St. Louis.  He lives at our neighbor's house across the street, but he likes to accompany us to movies, school, or whatever in a special pouch I made for him.

Costa Rica dreamin'

Celebrating a Bettye-Christmas with Mimi and Milkshake

Cow Amore

Music, dance and romance: integral parts of Costa Rican culture.

Cow Town

We always spend time in Alejuela (northwest of San Jose) before flying to or from the US.  

Before Christmas this cow-art was displayed in the town square.  

In January a huge earthquake hit the Alejuela area. Rescue efforts became a world news story.  (Thanks for all your e-mail messages of concern.) We know people who had family impacted by the quake, and we felt it all the way up the the mountain, but fortunately we were safe.

Merry cow-mas.

We love cows.

Cow Cats are watching...

The beach on the caribbean side

Val and Kiera enjoy the caribbean beach south of Limón.  A few weeks later the rainy season hit the coast and much of Limón was flooded.  Fund raisers were held in Monteverde and other towns to raise money for relief efforts.