If I remember correctly, it was Watership Down where i first came across the idea that straight lines were unnatural, because Man (as a species) makes them. The rabbits were discussing a line(another word) of trees. looking down from the window seat of the airplane and seeing long, uncannily even swatches of flattened paths, I can see that. its unnerving and rigid compared to the rivers and curvier clay roads.

For someone that hasnt been on a plane in yesrs, I was pretty calm. … well, my normal amount of calm. being thrown into unrehearsed situations tend to throw me, so i was flailing through the checkin and security lines, apologizing profusely.

Awkward really rough drafts aside,
I really needed that vacation.

It was good to have a change of scenery and not have to worry about The Usual Stuff. Or, if I still did, at least it was on the beach with a coconut drink and surrounded by beautiful flora.

I also felt some things dislodge and I was finally able to get some more drafts and ideas done.

I feel like I had a RESET of sorts. Refreshed.

I went with a partner and a meta, with a perfect blend of group adventures and smaller sidequests. I learned quite a bit from my much-more traveled companions, too. Like, how to pack. I had no idea what I was doing.

We ate some pretty awesome meals, and lounged, and was bounced around as we traveled to our lodgings and destinations.

I feel like I did not get enough swimming in this year, so I more than made up for it! (I’m still getting beach sand out of my ears– worth it.)

Some things I also really enjoyed:

  • sleeping – no rowdy neighbors banging above my head from 8pm til midnight
  • the sun
  • the rocks, and shells
  • the trees
  • the hiking
  • learning about the country and culture
  • being immersed in another language
  • the open air layout of most structures
  • sloths, rodents, and various critters
  • getting a lot of reading in
  • not clenching my teeth as much
  • I climbed a tree
  • I PICKED UP A CAT

I felt pretty refreshed upon my return– this in spite of the dubious food at the airport "Carolina Pizza Chicken." I should’ve stuck with a local joint for our return trip. Don’t trust anywhere that has chicken-on-pizza as their selling point!

And hey, enough reading! I know why you’re really here. THE PICTURES. Scenery so great not even my budget phone camera could ruin it. I didn’t take nearly as many as I should have– I let the other two with better equipment take the bulk of ’em– but hey, say I was in the moment enjoying it. πŸ™‚

Click Here for the Costa Rica Gallery

Β‘Pura Vida!

The volano in the distance at dusk, with a cloud covering the top of it. Aww, man.