Feliz Cumpleaños . . .

Today was a busy day filled with much activity. I went to volunteer at the Organic Market again. Holly asked me to see about working on the website and helping out at the store. I got great Sushi and some organic Chocolate out of the whole thing so it was totally worth it.

Holly's life amazes me. She came to Costa Rica on a Bus, literally a school bus, from California and they drove it all the way down to Tamarindo. Three girls and seven guys did it, nine years ago. Originally from Colorado, she didn't speak a word of Spanish, had never been here and now, along with a her husband, own/run a restaurant, hotel, surf camp, and surf school. She speaks fluent Spanish and says that she never pictured herself here, doing this. Now she's opening an Organic market and its going to be an amazing avenue for all those who want to help improve instead of consume.

So I did that today for a few hours, got to take the car. I can't help but feel like a teenager, all proud that I got the car today. I love driving it because it is so big, loud and solid. Like a tank with better gas mileage there is just something about driving an old car with squeaky shocks, limo tinted windows with Costa Rican license plates. Surreal moments just run through my head. Driving here is way easier then Africa, but people still hitch-hike, walk way too close to the road, and ride bikes on the main highways. Seeing people thumbing a ride just recalls the horror tales/movies I ever watched about "things that could go wrong." The worst here is you get asked for money or meet "interesting characters." Most of the time we drive, there isn't any room in the car, but one of these days I'll have to stop and work on my Spanish.

This evening was Duvan's 2nd Birthday. The caretakers of the complex are amazing, friendly people that invited us all to his birthday celebration here in the courtyard. It was a small gathering of friends and family, but we had Arroz con pollo, ensalada, and three desserts. Dulce pudding (amazing! tasted like rice pudding with cinnamon and cardamom) creamy vanilla ice cream in cones, and two types of birthday cake. Needless to say I was in addiction heaven, and savored every bite like the children that were there. I can still hear the Spanish music outside now, as they relax around the pool and enjoy the festive occasion. I'm way to tired to socialize but I did spend a good few hours mingling and eating.

Tomorrow is Organic Market day number two, so more volunteering and meeting new people. No driving, but I'll pray that the car gets us there since it's been having some difficulties. The mysteries of mechanics, well that's another story . . . .