One day in Medellin, David (tired of walking) decided to stay home. Brent, Stephanie, and I hopped on the metro and rode it all the way through the city, nearly to the end of the line. We switched lines and got on the cable car to go up the mountain.
The map made the cable car part look like such a short little ride! But it was at least a good half an hour. We went through three stations, and actually had to change cable cars at the last station for the final ascent up the mountain and to Parque Arvi, a national park-like wilderness area.
The views of the city while riding the cable car were impressive, and the park itself was beautiful.
Right at the top, there is an informational station and a little market, where we enjoyed a variety of food for lunch. Afterward, we joined a 90-minute guided hike through the forest. It was so cool and comfortable. There were these two apparently stray dogs hanging around the market area, and they joined our hike -- having a blast the entire way.
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
Monday, August 18, 2014
Cleanliness is next to....
Medellin is a striking city for many reasons, but one that we just couldn't get over was how CLEAN it was.
True, we're coming from Panama, where things are definitely not clean. As Stephanie put it after using a pay-to-pee public restroom under an overpass, "That was cleaner than the one at the bank in Panama."
The bathrooms were clean. The metro system was spotless. One day while we were in the city center -- a somewhat crowded and urban-feeling area -- a man was wiping down the phone booths. We passed numerous workers cleaning the streets.
The people of Medellin are definitely proud of their city -- and it shows.
True, we're coming from Panama, where things are definitely not clean. As Stephanie put it after using a pay-to-pee public restroom under an overpass, "That was cleaner than the one at the bank in Panama."
The bathrooms were clean. The metro system was spotless. One day while we were in the city center -- a somewhat crowded and urban-feeling area -- a man was wiping down the phone booths. We passed numerous workers cleaning the streets.
The people of Medellin are definitely proud of their city -- and it shows.
Friday, August 15, 2014
Flowers? What flowers?
By happy accident, booked our tickets to Medellin over the exact same week as the city's annual flower festival, which was apparently a big enough deal that we had a hard time finding a place to stay. (After several stressful search days back in July, I found us an apartment in the Poblado/Envigado area, where we stayed after our first night in the hostel.)
We browsed the event schedule online and decided we needed to go to Santa Elena, because there were numerous events going on up there and we figured it would keep us busy all day. We thought it was like a street or something, but when we finally found it on the map we realized it's a huge area in the mountains outside the city. No big deal -- doesn't look TOO far. So we hailed a cab.
He said it would be about a $50,000-peso (roughly $25) ride up there, and suggested the bus. We agreed to have him take us to the station, but about half-way there, after enjoying a long conversation with him, he said he's drive us there for $40,000. For simplicity's sake we agreed.
It was a long, windy trip, but luckily I didn't feel too sick when we got up there.
Where there was absolutely nothing going on.
He dropped us off at this little town center, which was charming -- but at 11:00am, there still wasn't much open. There were a few booths selling crafts and food. The library had a very small exhibit of flowers.
We were told we could hop on a tour and go out to the fincas (farms) where there would be, apparently, more flowers, but we opted out and took off walking up the road.
Luckily for David, there was a man selling cotton candy along the way.
We didn't come across any more flowers, so we stopped for lunch at a local place and shared the bandeja paisa for about $7.
It was one of the best lunches I've ever had. Tasted good, sure, but the women who ran the place were so helpful and loving. They were excited and proud to prepare for us our first ever traditional Colombian meal.
And we talked. And laughed. And laauuuuuuughed. I haven't laughed that hard in a long time.
The only bummer was that we took the bus back down to the city, and that did make me sick. I spent the next couple of hours with my head on the table while the rest of them enjoyed an afternoon drink overlooking these huge flower sculptures in the center of town -- more flowers than we'd seen all damn day.
We browsed the event schedule online and decided we needed to go to Santa Elena, because there were numerous events going on up there and we figured it would keep us busy all day. We thought it was like a street or something, but when we finally found it on the map we realized it's a huge area in the mountains outside the city. No big deal -- doesn't look TOO far. So we hailed a cab.
He said it would be about a $50,000-peso (roughly $25) ride up there, and suggested the bus. We agreed to have him take us to the station, but about half-way there, after enjoying a long conversation with him, he said he's drive us there for $40,000. For simplicity's sake we agreed.
It was a long, windy trip, but luckily I didn't feel too sick when we got up there.
Where there was absolutely nothing going on.
He dropped us off at this little town center, which was charming -- but at 11:00am, there still wasn't much open. There were a few booths selling crafts and food. The library had a very small exhibit of flowers.
We were told we could hop on a tour and go out to the fincas (farms) where there would be, apparently, more flowers, but we opted out and took off walking up the road.
Luckily for David, there was a man selling cotton candy along the way.
We didn't come across any more flowers, so we stopped for lunch at a local place and shared the bandeja paisa for about $7.
It was one of the best lunches I've ever had. Tasted good, sure, but the women who ran the place were so helpful and loving. They were excited and proud to prepare for us our first ever traditional Colombian meal.
And we talked. And laughed. And laauuuuuuughed. I haven't laughed that hard in a long time.
The only bummer was that we took the bus back down to the city, and that did make me sick. I spent the next couple of hours with my head on the table while the rest of them enjoyed an afternoon drink overlooking these huge flower sculptures in the center of town -- more flowers than we'd seen all damn day.
Ohhh, the food.
Maybe it's just because our most recent comparison is Coronado, where there are only a couple of choices for good restaurants, but eating in Medellin was a dream. Our top meals:
1. Bandeja paisa at the little restaurant in Santa Elena.
2. Ribs at Mu, where the only thing they serve is, as they say, "fukin good ribs." Have to make note of the killer guacamole that came out as an appetizer.
3. Tacos at Jacinto -- where all they serve is tacos. It reminded Brent and me of La Fabrica del Taco in Buenos Aires.
4. More traditional Colombian fare at Mondongo's. Rice and bacon and banana and meat and an egg, plus a soup that we topped with avocado and cilantro and spicy salsa. Delicious. Brent and I shared an order and were totally full.
5. Chocolate fondue at the House of Chocolate. The only downside to this experience was that we were still pretty full on ribs when we happened upon this place -- but the fondue was delicious and we very nearly cleaned it up, anyway. Note to self: return here and take advantage of making my own personalized chocolate bar, for which this place is well known.
6. Mexican food at Chilaquiles. We can never get enough Mexican food.
1. Bandeja paisa at the little restaurant in Santa Elena.
2. Ribs at Mu, where the only thing they serve is, as they say, "fukin good ribs." Have to make note of the killer guacamole that came out as an appetizer.
3. Tacos at Jacinto -- where all they serve is tacos. It reminded Brent and me of La Fabrica del Taco in Buenos Aires.
4. More traditional Colombian fare at Mondongo's. Rice and bacon and banana and meat and an egg, plus a soup that we topped with avocado and cilantro and spicy salsa. Delicious. Brent and I shared an order and were totally full.
5. Chocolate fondue at the House of Chocolate. The only downside to this experience was that we were still pretty full on ribs when we happened upon this place -- but the fondue was delicious and we very nearly cleaned it up, anyway. Note to self: return here and take advantage of making my own personalized chocolate bar, for which this place is well known.
6. Mexican food at Chilaquiles. We can never get enough Mexican food.
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
Touchdown: First Impressions
What a place.
Medellin is a city of about four million people nestled in a valley. We landed at the airport on August 2 and took a taxi ride of about an hour to get to where we were staying our first night.
Our first impression was definitely about the cleanliness of the city, closely followed by how friendly and helpful everyone was. We asked someone for directions once, and two people who were standing nearby stepped in to offer their suggestions, as well.
We stayed in the neighborhood of Poblado that first night, very near the very happenin' Parque Lleras...an area full of restaurants and bars. The beer drinkers among us enjoyed stopping by the local brewpubs and sampling their beers -- which, I'm told, were very, very good. We then had a fantastic dinner at a southern-style restaurant, Humo.
Brent and I went out for a drink while David and Stephanie rested at home. It's not necessarily a cheap city, and a lot of the restaurants where we stopped had $10-15 cocktails on their menus. There is also a lot of variety, even within this very popular area, and we found 2x1 margaritas, which at $14,000 Colombian pesos worked out to a little over US$3.50 per drink.
For the rest of the week, we lived in a great two-bedroom apartment near the metro line -- and it was only about a 40-minute walk to the Parque Lleras area, anyway, which was a perfect delight for us.
Our first impression was definitely about the cleanliness of the city, closely followed by how friendly and helpful everyone was. We asked someone for directions once, and two people who were standing nearby stepped in to offer their suggestions, as well.
We stayed in the neighborhood of Poblado that first night, very near the very happenin' Parque Lleras...an area full of restaurants and bars. The beer drinkers among us enjoyed stopping by the local brewpubs and sampling their beers -- which, I'm told, were very, very good. We then had a fantastic dinner at a southern-style restaurant, Humo.
Brent and I went out for a drink while David and Stephanie rested at home. It's not necessarily a cheap city, and a lot of the restaurants where we stopped had $10-15 cocktails on their menus. There is also a lot of variety, even within this very popular area, and we found 2x1 margaritas, which at $14,000 Colombian pesos worked out to a little over US$3.50 per drink.
For the rest of the week, we lived in a great two-bedroom apartment near the metro line -- and it was only about a 40-minute walk to the Parque Lleras area, anyway, which was a perfect delight for us.
Tuesday, July 29, 2014
Hotel BA. (AB? A&B? I love it no matter how you put it.)
Our friend (and new co-worker!) Greg came down last week for an all-too-brief visit so we could tackle a project. It was a joy to have him here, and we miss him already.
We haven't hosted many long-term stays since we moved into our current home last December, but we have had lots of one-night guests -- friends who didn't want to drive home after a late night, or who wanted to be close to whatever they had going on the next day.
At the end of August, we'll FINALLY be welcoming Brent's lifelong friend, Jack, for a few days (and hopefully longer).
Since we moved to Panama, we've lived the majority of the time in places with plenty of space for guests. Our house-sitting house on the golf course had three bedrooms. Even though one of them didn't have a bed yet, the one that did was occupied for a week or more on three separate occasions.
That was a new house owned by North Americans. The place we're in now is a Panamanian-owned beach condo, designed for long weekend escapes from the city.
Therefore, there are lots and lots of beds.
We have one bed in our master bedroom. The first guest room has two single beds. The second guest room has two BUNK BEDS. In a pinch, the maid's quarters has a bunk bed (currently being used as very large shelves). In this home, we have a total of nine beds. Come on down -- there's space for you.
Good thing, too, because the couch is not at all comfortable for sleeping. Or sitting, for that matter.
We haven't hosted many long-term stays since we moved into our current home last December, but we have had lots of one-night guests -- friends who didn't want to drive home after a late night, or who wanted to be close to whatever they had going on the next day.
At the end of August, we'll FINALLY be welcoming Brent's lifelong friend, Jack, for a few days (and hopefully longer).
Since we moved to Panama, we've lived the majority of the time in places with plenty of space for guests. Our house-sitting house on the golf course had three bedrooms. Even though one of them didn't have a bed yet, the one that did was occupied for a week or more on three separate occasions.
That was a new house owned by North Americans. The place we're in now is a Panamanian-owned beach condo, designed for long weekend escapes from the city.
Therefore, there are lots and lots of beds.
We have one bed in our master bedroom. The first guest room has two single beds. The second guest room has two BUNK BEDS. In a pinch, the maid's quarters has a bunk bed (currently being used as very large shelves). In this home, we have a total of nine beds. Come on down -- there's space for you.
Good thing, too, because the couch is not at all comfortable for sleeping. Or sitting, for that matter.
Saturday, July 26, 2014
Things They Don't Tell You About Living in the Tropics
I remember when we decided to move to Panama. Packing my bags for one season (HOT!) was incredibly easy and joyful, and I imagined what our beach lives would look like: surfing lessons, long runs down the beach, and so on. Don't get me wrong -- we really like it here. There are just a few things that didn't really come out the way I would have expected when I moved to a beach town.
1. You don't go to the beach that often. I can't say this is true for everyone, as I know people who take beach walks every single day. It's just weird to me: we live, literally, right across the street from the beach. Yet our twice-weekly beach volleyball games are almost the only times I ever go to the beach (and that beach is in a nearby town). I feel somewhat ashamed of this, but I'm admitting it anyway.
2. You're not the only one who notices the heat. I sort of feel like the bad gringa when I complain about the heat, so I don't do it very often, particularly not in the presence of Panamanians. But the Panamanians notice the exceptionally hot days, too, and will comment on it if the door is open for the conversation.
3. There is not the abundance of organic fruits and vegetables that you might expect. When we moved here, I was picturing weekly or even daily farmer's markets filled with delicious fruit untouched by the Monsanto-style devils. While there are a couple of guys who set fruit trucks up outside the grocery store every day, and there are a couple of weekly markets in nearby areas, there is no guarantee that the produce is pesticide or chemical fertilizer free. Unfortunately, that ugly nonsense is far-reaching, and it may in ways be evens worse here because the education about how terrible it is isn't wide-spread. We aim to buy organic when we can, and we pick mangoes off the giant tree in our yard.
4. Once scared of the water, always scared of the water. Not that I'm really scared -- I just never have (and still don't) enjoy having my head under it, and I certainly don't enjoy getting smashed into it when I least expect it. There go any ideas I might have had of becoming a surfer.
5. Beach community doesn't mean "fit" community. I enjoy a life of fitness, and I expected Panama to support that and even take it to the next level. The good news is that I am staying in shape, trying new things, and feeling generally happy with my body and what it can do nowadays. But the process is nothing like I thought it would be. I don't have a gym, so that's out. It's really hot outside! So the desire to get out there and run for miles just isn't there. Many people here are retired, so fitness isn't necessarily the first thing on their minds. (With notable exceptions -- there's a group who regularly trains for triathlons, and several who have started yoga and exercise programs for the first time.)
1. You don't go to the beach that often. I can't say this is true for everyone, as I know people who take beach walks every single day. It's just weird to me: we live, literally, right across the street from the beach. Yet our twice-weekly beach volleyball games are almost the only times I ever go to the beach (and that beach is in a nearby town). I feel somewhat ashamed of this, but I'm admitting it anyway.
2. You're not the only one who notices the heat. I sort of feel like the bad gringa when I complain about the heat, so I don't do it very often, particularly not in the presence of Panamanians. But the Panamanians notice the exceptionally hot days, too, and will comment on it if the door is open for the conversation.
3. There is not the abundance of organic fruits and vegetables that you might expect. When we moved here, I was picturing weekly or even daily farmer's markets filled with delicious fruit untouched by the Monsanto-style devils. While there are a couple of guys who set fruit trucks up outside the grocery store every day, and there are a couple of weekly markets in nearby areas, there is no guarantee that the produce is pesticide or chemical fertilizer free. Unfortunately, that ugly nonsense is far-reaching, and it may in ways be evens worse here because the education about how terrible it is isn't wide-spread. We aim to buy organic when we can, and we pick mangoes off the giant tree in our yard.
4. Once scared of the water, always scared of the water. Not that I'm really scared -- I just never have (and still don't) enjoy having my head under it, and I certainly don't enjoy getting smashed into it when I least expect it. There go any ideas I might have had of becoming a surfer.
5. Beach community doesn't mean "fit" community. I enjoy a life of fitness, and I expected Panama to support that and even take it to the next level. The good news is that I am staying in shape, trying new things, and feeling generally happy with my body and what it can do nowadays. But the process is nothing like I thought it would be. I don't have a gym, so that's out. It's really hot outside! So the desire to get out there and run for miles just isn't there. Many people here are retired, so fitness isn't necessarily the first thing on their minds. (With notable exceptions -- there's a group who regularly trains for triathlons, and several who have started yoga and exercise programs for the first time.)
Thursday, July 24, 2014
The ballet hole.
I miss ballet.
We're taking the month of July off, because many of the little girls are on vacation, so my teacher wanted a vacation, too.
As for me...not so much.
When I took a couple of weeks off to go to the US in April, it seemed to be good for my body. My hip had been hurting, and the two weeks allowed its recovery without losing the progress I'd made. With a month off, I'm nervous I'll go back in August and find myself in the same ballet mess I was in when I started in January.
I've been doing a few of the exercises, but it's just not the same when you're holding on to the back of the couch and moving your feet in time to the silence and the vague memory of the music in your head.
We're taking the month of July off, because many of the little girls are on vacation, so my teacher wanted a vacation, too.
As for me...not so much.
When I took a couple of weeks off to go to the US in April, it seemed to be good for my body. My hip had been hurting, and the two weeks allowed its recovery without losing the progress I'd made. With a month off, I'm nervous I'll go back in August and find myself in the same ballet mess I was in when I started in January.
I've been doing a few of the exercises, but it's just not the same when you're holding on to the back of the couch and moving your feet in time to the silence and the vague memory of the music in your head.
Monday, July 21, 2014
Everyone loves beach volleyball.
Last week, a pelican touched down on the beach very near to where we play volleyball, and he stayed there for quite awhile. It was the closest I had ever been to one for a prolonged period of time -- they're so big and beautiful. I love the pelicans.
This week, he returned. And this time, he set up camp right beside the pole for the net. He doesn't seem hurt, but I wonder if he's well -- it doesn't seem like your average pelican would just hang out with a bunch of humans and one very unpredictable ball. Maybe he just loves volleyball.
We played our game like usual (almost usual...I was a little distracted by him). He would watch, then he'd look at the ocean for awhile, then he would watch again. At one point the ball rolled toward him and against him, and he just spread his enormous wings and hopped away from it.
After an hour or so, he flew just slightly farther away, and stood there looking out at the water.
He arrived at the court just before I did, and he was still there when I left -- so he hung out for at least an hour and a half.
Such a handsome guy. I hope he's okay. I hope he comes back next time.
This week, he returned. And this time, he set up camp right beside the pole for the net. He doesn't seem hurt, but I wonder if he's well -- it doesn't seem like your average pelican would just hang out with a bunch of humans and one very unpredictable ball. Maybe he just loves volleyball.
 |
| The bird remains unimpressed by Marek's antics. |
We played our game like usual (almost usual...I was a little distracted by him). He would watch, then he'd look at the ocean for awhile, then he would watch again. At one point the ball rolled toward him and against him, and he just spread his enormous wings and hopped away from it.
 |
| Update: THIS is the closest I've ever been to a pelican for a prolonged period of time. |
After an hour or so, he flew just slightly farther away, and stood there looking out at the water.
He arrived at the court just before I did, and he was still there when I left -- so he hung out for at least an hour and a half.
Such a handsome guy. I hope he's okay. I hope he comes back next time.
Friday, July 18, 2014
This is TODAY! Vemma Colombia Pre-Launch
We've been waiting for this day for a long time! Vemma is pre-launching Colombia RIGHT NOW! Which means Colombians can place their orders or start their businesses, and products will be shipped out starting next month.
This opening is right on the heels of Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic is up next. As if we need excuses to go anywhere....
Wednesday, July 16, 2014
Tickets to COLOMBIA!
When we came to Panama, our grand idea was to visit Brent's dad and use the isthmus as a jumping-off point to spend long lengths of time in Colombia.
A year and a half later, we've still not been there.
But that's all changing on August 2, when we fly to Medellin for a week in The City of Eternal Spring. Two of our friends are going with us and we're looking forward to a great time, despite my brother's prediction that we will be kidnapped by the cartel. The truth is that Colombia has cleaned up its act quite a lot over the last few years. Everyone we know who has visited has loved it, and Brent recently spoke with a Colombian business-owner from the States who said the crime rate in Washington, D.C. is worse than it is in Medellin.
Vemma is opening in Colombia this month (pre-orders) and August (deliveries!), and we're excited to meet some of the leaders there. We'll be hitting town during the annual flower festival, which I've read is quite the event. Also on the agenda: food.
A year and a half later, we've still not been there.
But that's all changing on August 2, when we fly to Medellin for a week in The City of Eternal Spring. Two of our friends are going with us and we're looking forward to a great time, despite my brother's prediction that we will be kidnapped by the cartel. The truth is that Colombia has cleaned up its act quite a lot over the last few years. Everyone we know who has visited has loved it, and Brent recently spoke with a Colombian business-owner from the States who said the crime rate in Washington, D.C. is worse than it is in Medellin.
Vemma is opening in Colombia this month (pre-orders) and August (deliveries!), and we're excited to meet some of the leaders there. We'll be hitting town during the annual flower festival, which I've read is quite the event. Also on the agenda: food.
Monday, July 14, 2014
The rawer, the better.
I first tried sushi in Denver with a good friend of mine, who was very excited to introduce me to the world of raw fish. I wasn't overly excited, but I figured I had to give it a go (and see what everyone was raving about), so I let him place the order and I got my chopsticks ready.
He liked shashimi (big chunks of raw fish and nothing but raw fish, for those of you who are ever so slightly less versed in sushi language than I am). So that was my first step into sushi. It was a terrible one.
I managed to eat two of them, then I told him I really couldn't do anymore. Yucky.
Then I met Brent, and we lived in South America, and he loves sushi. He kept saying he wanted me to try sushi with him (apparently Denver can't possibly be the best place to eat raw fish) but he was waiting for a good opportunity because he knew he only had one shot -- if I disliked it again, my sushi days would be totally over.
When we got that chance, I tasted an assortment of sushi rolls, and it wasn't so bad. When we were in Argentina, the Benihana on the corner had a daily half-price roll happy hour, which we would go to occasionally. I started to really enjoy it, even look forward to it.
When we had the four-hour brunch at Gamboa, my meal consisted mainly of sushi. (And dessert. Come on, people, you know me.)
And now there is a sushi restaurant in Coronado.
They have other food, too, and Brent keeps annoying me by wanting to try it all instead of just ordering sushi to share with me so there is MORE SUSHI on our table. But, the curries and stir-fry have been very good, as well.
I never imagined I would be so excited about a restaurant like this just down the road from where we live. I didn't know it was even coming in until after it was open, and we've been there four times already. It's not the cheapest place in town, but it is a hotel restaurant -- and for most items the prices are pretty on par with what you'd expect around here. (There's an occasional $9 cocktail, but there's also a $5 Pisco sour -- the only Pisco sour I've seen since leaving South America -- and I'm good with that.)
I'm no connoisseur, but I know what I like -- and the general consensus among the Coronado folk is that it's a good place to eat. Just when we were getting bored with our meals-out options, this little place saved the day.
He liked shashimi (big chunks of raw fish and nothing but raw fish, for those of you who are ever so slightly less versed in sushi language than I am). So that was my first step into sushi. It was a terrible one.
I managed to eat two of them, then I told him I really couldn't do anymore. Yucky.
Then I met Brent, and we lived in South America, and he loves sushi. He kept saying he wanted me to try sushi with him (apparently Denver can't possibly be the best place to eat raw fish) but he was waiting for a good opportunity because he knew he only had one shot -- if I disliked it again, my sushi days would be totally over.
When we got that chance, I tasted an assortment of sushi rolls, and it wasn't so bad. When we were in Argentina, the Benihana on the corner had a daily half-price roll happy hour, which we would go to occasionally. I started to really enjoy it, even look forward to it.
When we had the four-hour brunch at Gamboa, my meal consisted mainly of sushi. (And dessert. Come on, people, you know me.)
And now there is a sushi restaurant in Coronado.
They have other food, too, and Brent keeps annoying me by wanting to try it all instead of just ordering sushi to share with me so there is MORE SUSHI on our table. But, the curries and stir-fry have been very good, as well.
I never imagined I would be so excited about a restaurant like this just down the road from where we live. I didn't know it was even coming in until after it was open, and we've been there four times already. It's not the cheapest place in town, but it is a hotel restaurant -- and for most items the prices are pretty on par with what you'd expect around here. (There's an occasional $9 cocktail, but there's also a $5 Pisco sour -- the only Pisco sour I've seen since leaving South America -- and I'm good with that.)
I'm no connoisseur, but I know what I like -- and the general consensus among the Coronado folk is that it's a good place to eat. Just when we were getting bored with our meals-out options, this little place saved the day.
Thursday, July 10, 2014
Burnin' up.
When you live in the tropics, you really shouldn't complain about the heat. That's just the way it is around here:
We don't have air conditioning in the main room of our condo -- which is fine, most of the time. But sweeping, washing dishes, cooking, or cleaning Nacho's living space all mean sweating like crazy. We shut up the bedroom at night and sleep with the air conditioner on, because otherwise it's just too hot to sleep.
I let slip a heat complaint every now and then, but for the most part I don't get negative about something I can't control. I grow really weary of a couple of friends we have who insist on reporting on the temperature every few days. The benefits of living here tend to outweigh the issues with the heat.
The worst part, though, is that sometimes it makes you crabby. It makes you snap when you shouldn't and wouldn't, in a normal situation. So that part -- that part is really too bad.
- You don't walk short distances if you need to look put together by the time you reach your destination.
- You take multiple showers every day. (Yesterday I took four. Yes, they were short, but still. Four.)
- You get used to being slightly sticky all the time.
We don't have air conditioning in the main room of our condo -- which is fine, most of the time. But sweeping, washing dishes, cooking, or cleaning Nacho's living space all mean sweating like crazy. We shut up the bedroom at night and sleep with the air conditioner on, because otherwise it's just too hot to sleep.
I let slip a heat complaint every now and then, but for the most part I don't get negative about something I can't control. I grow really weary of a couple of friends we have who insist on reporting on the temperature every few days. The benefits of living here tend to outweigh the issues with the heat.
The worst part, though, is that sometimes it makes you crabby. It makes you snap when you shouldn't and wouldn't, in a normal situation. So that part -- that part is really too bad.
Sunday, July 06, 2014
Independence Day and other celebrations.
I love holidays at home, but holidays abroad have been incredible, too. Celebrating a homeland holiday in another country is, in some ways, extra special, because all the expats come together in that commonality to celebrate. We had a wonderful 4th of July poolside with friends and a barbecue.
A few days earlier, Canada Day was celebrated by Americans and Canadians alike. I missed this year's festivities, but last year was quite a good time.
We also enjoy experiencing and learning about the local holidays (the Netherlands' Sinterklaas, Chile's DÃa del Niño, and Panama's Carnaval all come to mind), but we keep our native holidays close at heart, too, even though the only place they have here is with the many expats who share them.
A few days earlier, Canada Day was celebrated by Americans and Canadians alike. I missed this year's festivities, but last year was quite a good time.
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| July 1 last year -- Canadians and honorary Canadians. |
Tuesday, July 01, 2014
Inauguration Day
This year, after months of election signs hanging on anything they could possibly hang on, Panama elected a new president. Juan Carlos Varela is taking office today. (So I'll have five years to try to get my picture with him.)
So far everything seems pretty mellow out here at the beach -- banks, government offices, and a few small stores are closed. I would imagine things might be picking up in the city a bit, though.
Panama is blessed with a stable government -- because of the canal, it will probably stay that way. I don't know much about any changes this president is planning to make, so we'll just have to find out as we go along. If any of his decisions impact us, you can be sure to read about it here.
So far everything seems pretty mellow out here at the beach -- banks, government offices, and a few small stores are closed. I would imagine things might be picking up in the city a bit, though.
Panama is blessed with a stable government -- because of the canal, it will probably stay that way. I don't know much about any changes this president is planning to make, so we'll just have to find out as we go along. If any of his decisions impact us, you can be sure to read about it here.
Monday, June 23, 2014
Hablamos español.
Today started another round of Spanish classes. (With me as the teacher, in case you missed the previous post where I shared this information.)
I had such a stellar group last time, and they all wanted to continue right away. Claire is not doing her Level 2 class until August, so we started up a Level 1.5, a bit of a bridge class between Levels 1 and 2, hopefully a place where the students can get more comfortable actually using what they already know.
Too often with language learning, based on what I've seen and experienced first-hand, you learn a new topic, you might even understand it completely, but you stop using it when you go on to the next topic. By the time your daily-life Spanish has caught up to what you learned in class you're no longer confident in using certain skills. I'm hoping this 1.5 takes care of that a little bit for them by giving them another five weeks of studying and using what they know, rather than crowding the brain with too many new topics.
With the help of a couple of students spreading the word, I also managed to fill another Level 1 class, so it's a nice full morning of Spanish work.
With each class I teach, I get better at finding mistakes, better at hearing the errors as they occur rather than having to think about it. Teaching yoga taught me that the best way to learn something is to teach it to someone else, and these classes are driving that point home. They're making me study more, and look up things that I'm not sure about (whereas a non-teacher me might just say, "ehhh").
And it's so much fun. I remember being a high school student, watching a teacher lose control of her classroom and thinking I never wanted to be a teacher. But I've always loved teaching fitness and yoga, and now I love teaching Spanish. I think the age level of the students might have something to do with it.
I had such a stellar group last time, and they all wanted to continue right away. Claire is not doing her Level 2 class until August, so we started up a Level 1.5, a bit of a bridge class between Levels 1 and 2, hopefully a place where the students can get more comfortable actually using what they already know.
Too often with language learning, based on what I've seen and experienced first-hand, you learn a new topic, you might even understand it completely, but you stop using it when you go on to the next topic. By the time your daily-life Spanish has caught up to what you learned in class you're no longer confident in using certain skills. I'm hoping this 1.5 takes care of that a little bit for them by giving them another five weeks of studying and using what they know, rather than crowding the brain with too many new topics.
With the help of a couple of students spreading the word, I also managed to fill another Level 1 class, so it's a nice full morning of Spanish work.
With each class I teach, I get better at finding mistakes, better at hearing the errors as they occur rather than having to think about it. Teaching yoga taught me that the best way to learn something is to teach it to someone else, and these classes are driving that point home. They're making me study more, and look up things that I'm not sure about (whereas a non-teacher me might just say, "ehhh").
And it's so much fun. I remember being a high school student, watching a teacher lose control of her classroom and thinking I never wanted to be a teacher. But I've always loved teaching fitness and yoga, and now I love teaching Spanish. I think the age level of the students might have something to do with it.
Friday, June 20, 2014
Gone fishin'.
I do remember having a fishing pole when I was kid. I remember where it came from, and I even remember using it. I do not, however, remember ever catching a fish.
So, for our purposes, we have to say that the fish I caught yesterday was my first ever.
He was also the first fish to be caught that day, and the first to be thrown back. (I did catch many more throughout the day that were worthy of keeping.)
It was Cat's birthday on Wednesday, so the fishing trip was in honor of her. It was only that she should catch the biggest fish.
Mack and our friends Josh and Rachel came along. Brent was working and was unable to join us.
We left early, and I believe yesterday also marked the first time I've ever had an alcoholic beverage in my hand when the sun came up. (Just a little mimosa, folks. We're fishing here.)
The five of us went out on a little pontoon boat on Lake Gatun, about an hour or so from where we live. It was spoiled-little-girl fishing: our guide baited our hooks and took the fish of them for us. Awesome!
At the end of the day (1:30 or so), the five of us had caught 54 fish. They were expertly filleted and packaged, and we drove home, tired but happy.
I managed to escape serious sunburn (just a little on the chest), but I was still beat and opted out of the semi-weekly volleyball game. I was on hand, though, when George at the Bahia fried our fish for us, and a group of maybe 12 of us enjoyed it with Mack's spicy tartar sauce.
So, for our purposes, we have to say that the fish I caught yesterday was my first ever.
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| This photo, and all of today's photos, brought to you by Cat Mandell. |
He was also the first fish to be caught that day, and the first to be thrown back. (I did catch many more throughout the day that were worthy of keeping.)
It was Cat's birthday on Wednesday, so the fishing trip was in honor of her. It was only that she should catch the biggest fish.
Mack and our friends Josh and Rachel came along. Brent was working and was unable to join us.
We left early, and I believe yesterday also marked the first time I've ever had an alcoholic beverage in my hand when the sun came up. (Just a little mimosa, folks. We're fishing here.)
The five of us went out on a little pontoon boat on Lake Gatun, about an hour or so from where we live. It was spoiled-little-girl fishing: our guide baited our hooks and took the fish of them for us. Awesome!
At the end of the day (1:30 or so), the five of us had caught 54 fish. They were expertly filleted and packaged, and we drove home, tired but happy.
I managed to escape serious sunburn (just a little on the chest), but I was still beat and opted out of the semi-weekly volleyball game. I was on hand, though, when George at the Bahia fried our fish for us, and a group of maybe 12 of us enjoyed it with Mack's spicy tartar sauce.
Saturday, June 07, 2014
On my toes in Panama.
When I started ballet in January, I kind of thought I'd do it for just a couple of months. But after a couple of months, things started coming together, and I was hooked.
It hasn't gotten easier, per se, because the better you get the harder you can work, and there's always room to improve each step, each exercise. But I just love it. Like I typed about before, each class is a meditation in itself. I've been going three times a week since February, and I've noticed some changes in my legs -- the way they look, feel, and move. It's much easier now to hold my turnout, and though I went through a phase where it was bothering my hip a bit, my teacher said that's normal and I've gotten past it for the most part.
The little girls in my class are pretty delightful. At first, I thought they thought I was weird (yes, that's a 31-year-old feeling oddly intimidated by a small pack of 10-year-olds), but it turns out they're kind of impressed by how high I can jump, and how coordinated I am. (I can't bend backward like they can, though. Not even close.)
I started out barefoot, since I didn't really intend to continue with the classes, but on our trip to the States I picked out my very own pair of ballet shoes, and it's nice to have them. They're already filthy and well-loved.
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Since I spent a childhood wishing I could dance, something my teacher said to me a couple of months ago really meant a lot. She used to dance for the Russian and Canadian national ballets, and she has been teaching dancers -- and priming them to be professionals -- for years.
It was just me in class that day, and I had really improved. She remarked on how quickly I've learned, and said, a bit regretfully, that it was a shame I hadn't learned to dance as a kid, because if I had, I would almost certainly be a professional dancer today. (Or, I would have been one. At this point I suppose I'd be a bit past my tip-toe prime.)
Not to get all big-headed on you. I can see myself in the mirror during class. It's nothing to write home about, unless maybe you saw me on the first day and could see how far I've come. But still, her words went straight to the heart of the little girl in me who wanted to be a ballerina.
It hasn't gotten easier, per se, because the better you get the harder you can work, and there's always room to improve each step, each exercise. But I just love it. Like I typed about before, each class is a meditation in itself. I've been going three times a week since February, and I've noticed some changes in my legs -- the way they look, feel, and move. It's much easier now to hold my turnout, and though I went through a phase where it was bothering my hip a bit, my teacher said that's normal and I've gotten past it for the most part.
The little girls in my class are pretty delightful. At first, I thought they thought I was weird (yes, that's a 31-year-old feeling oddly intimidated by a small pack of 10-year-olds), but it turns out they're kind of impressed by how high I can jump, and how coordinated I am. (I can't bend backward like they can, though. Not even close.)
I started out barefoot, since I didn't really intend to continue with the classes, but on our trip to the States I picked out my very own pair of ballet shoes, and it's nice to have them. They're already filthy and well-loved.
Since I spent a childhood wishing I could dance, something my teacher said to me a couple of months ago really meant a lot. She used to dance for the Russian and Canadian national ballets, and she has been teaching dancers -- and priming them to be professionals -- for years.
It was just me in class that day, and I had really improved. She remarked on how quickly I've learned, and said, a bit regretfully, that it was a shame I hadn't learned to dance as a kid, because if I had, I would almost certainly be a professional dancer today. (Or, I would have been one. At this point I suppose I'd be a bit past my tip-toe prime.)
Not to get all big-headed on you. I can see myself in the mirror during class. It's nothing to write home about, unless maybe you saw me on the first day and could see how far I've come. But still, her words went straight to the heart of the little girl in me who wanted to be a ballerina.
Sunday, June 01, 2014
A goodness factory in the kitchen.
I have a couple of really good do-it-yourself friends who are also into clean, natural eating. I've always been a fan of smoothies with kale, and of cooking with real ingredients rather than the boxed stuff.
With their inspiration and some time on my hands, we've been taking it up a notch in this house.
First was the bug spray. It's so easy, smells good, and it only has three ingredients, every one of which you might put on your skin anyway: rubbing alcohol, baby oil, and cloves.
Then I started making my own coconut milk. It's wildly easy, so much cheaper than buying the cans, and it's all natural. (Which means you've got to drink it quickly, because it goes back quickly.) I buy a little bag of frozen but fresh-from-Panama unsweetened coconut. I blend it with about twice as much water for a few minutes, then I strain the pieces out. Delicious.
My friend Stephanie then dries the leftover coconut pieces in the oven to make coconut flour -- which can then be blended into coconut butter. So delicious. I haven't taken those steps yet, though, because I keep forgetting to buy parchment paper, and I'm not keen on leaving the oven on for four hours.
Brent started making his own sauerkraut, which is also very easy and nutritious. It's fun to do, doesn't take all that much time, and is very rewarding -- especially these days, as the "food" you find in your local grocery store gets more and more suspicious. Pesticides? GMOs? Preservatives? Artificial colors and flavors? Chemical sweeteners? It's lunchtime roulette, and making my own coconut milk is one way I make an effort to avoid playing.
With their inspiration and some time on my hands, we've been taking it up a notch in this house.
First was the bug spray. It's so easy, smells good, and it only has three ingredients, every one of which you might put on your skin anyway: rubbing alcohol, baby oil, and cloves.
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| Brent's bug spray, bottled up and ready to use. Not pictured: how good it smells. |
Then I started making my own coconut milk. It's wildly easy, so much cheaper than buying the cans, and it's all natural. (Which means you've got to drink it quickly, because it goes back quickly.) I buy a little bag of frozen but fresh-from-Panama unsweetened coconut. I blend it with about twice as much water for a few minutes, then I strain the pieces out. Delicious.
My friend Stephanie then dries the leftover coconut pieces in the oven to make coconut flour -- which can then be blended into coconut butter. So delicious. I haven't taken those steps yet, though, because I keep forgetting to buy parchment paper, and I'm not keen on leaving the oven on for four hours.
Brent started making his own sauerkraut, which is also very easy and nutritious. It's fun to do, doesn't take all that much time, and is very rewarding -- especially these days, as the "food" you find in your local grocery store gets more and more suspicious. Pesticides? GMOs? Preservatives? Artificial colors and flavors? Chemical sweeteners? It's lunchtime roulette, and making my own coconut milk is one way I make an effort to avoid playing.
Saturday, May 24, 2014
The return of the rain.
The rain is back, and we love watching everything green up. The generally overcast days are nice, too -- it doesn't always make a huge difference in temperature, but mentally it's very comforting. And when the storms pick up it can even get a bit chilly. We've been rained out of volleyball a couple of times already (which I don't remember happening much last year), but in general when we play, we really notice the change in seasons because we're not battling the sun in our eyes when we're on the east side of the court.
One thing we'd kind of forgotten about: bugs.
We're in the midst of the June bug craze, these couple of weeks when the erratic-flying but slow-to-escape-the-fly-swatter and don't-seem-especially-smart bugs are everywhere. We wake up to dozens dead on the floor.
And mosquitos. We've been having a tough time of them inside our condo. We keep the doors open for the breeze -- and we don't have any screens, so it's a free-for-all. Brent makes a homemade non-toxic bug spray that works pretty well, and we've taken to lighting mosquito-repellent incense spiral sticks just outside each door first thing in the morning, and sometimes again in the evening. That's helping quite a lot. I've really noticed a difference, though we do each occasionally still get bit while we're inside. Brent moreso than me.
One thing we'd kind of forgotten about: bugs.
We're in the midst of the June bug craze, these couple of weeks when the erratic-flying but slow-to-escape-the-fly-swatter and don't-seem-especially-smart bugs are everywhere. We wake up to dozens dead on the floor.
And mosquitos. We've been having a tough time of them inside our condo. We keep the doors open for the breeze -- and we don't have any screens, so it's a free-for-all. Brent makes a homemade non-toxic bug spray that works pretty well, and we've taken to lighting mosquito-repellent incense spiral sticks just outside each door first thing in the morning, and sometimes again in the evening. That's helping quite a lot. I've really noticed a difference, though we do each occasionally still get bit while we're inside. Brent moreso than me.
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
Redness and irritation.
Several weeks ago, before we took our trip, I noticed a couple of little bumps on my left leg. I thought they were aggravated mosquito or sand flea bites (not at all unusual around here), so I didn't think much of them.
A couple of days later, those little bumps had spread -- first just on my thigh, then on my low back. Before long, they traveled up my spine and started coming around on my rib cage. Super, super weird.
To this day, I'm still not sure what caused it.
They didn't really itch, but occasionally I'd feel a little flash of a heat everywhere they rash occurred. It was irritating and uncomfortable, but not really painful. I showed it to a couple of people (sorry, you couple of people), and they instantly said, "Heat rash."
I thought this might be the case. In April, the wind had died but the rain hadn't started, so it was especially hot -- especially in the house. I would sit to work at the computer, and I just always felt slightly damp. Since the rash only really showed up in places that are normally covered by clothes, it made sense.
But those are supposed to clear up in a couple of days. This one didn't.
We started thinking it might have been a reaction to too much basil. I had recently inherited a large basil plant, so I'd been making -- and eating -- pesto by the bowlful. I've since had basil with no outbreak, but we thought it might have been a case of basil overload.
I was starting to think I was scarred for life, but after about a month it started to look less irritated. Slowly, it started to subside. And now my skin looks and feels like skin again.
Ideas? Cripes.
A couple of days later, those little bumps had spread -- first just on my thigh, then on my low back. Before long, they traveled up my spine and started coming around on my rib cage. Super, super weird.
To this day, I'm still not sure what caused it.
They didn't really itch, but occasionally I'd feel a little flash of a heat everywhere they rash occurred. It was irritating and uncomfortable, but not really painful. I showed it to a couple of people (sorry, you couple of people), and they instantly said, "Heat rash."
I thought this might be the case. In April, the wind had died but the rain hadn't started, so it was especially hot -- especially in the house. I would sit to work at the computer, and I just always felt slightly damp. Since the rash only really showed up in places that are normally covered by clothes, it made sense.
But those are supposed to clear up in a couple of days. This one didn't.
We started thinking it might have been a reaction to too much basil. I had recently inherited a large basil plant, so I'd been making -- and eating -- pesto by the bowlful. I've since had basil with no outbreak, but we thought it might have been a case of basil overload.
I was starting to think I was scarred for life, but after about a month it started to look less irritated. Slowly, it started to subside. And now my skin looks and feels like skin again.
Ideas? Cripes.
Wednesday, May 07, 2014
Getting excited about ReMIX...
It's popular because of what we already know and love about Verve: the Vemma vitamin and mineral formula with mangosteen, 80 mg of natural caffeine, no gluten, no artificial sweeteners/colors/flavors, and no high fructose corn syrup -- and also because of what is new about ReMIX: a new refreshing flavor that combines Bold and ParTea at a lower price point.
If you use energy drinks -- or make mid-afternoon coffee stops -- Verve is an excellent healthy alternative. And now with ReMix, you can do it for less.
Wednesday, April 30, 2014
Hills and then mountains.
We arrived in Colorado to some fairly chilly temperatures, but we missed some of the big storms they've had recently. We drove straight up to South Dakota for a few days in the Hills -- Easter at sunrise service at Mt. Rushmore, followed by some nice short hikes at various places with Judi, Shauna, and Shauna's boyfriend Ryan.
We saw a play and tooled around downtown Rapid. They now sell the most excellent chocolates at the Alex Johnson -- we chose this maple bacon truffle.
When we went to the ranch, I handily beat Brent at Trivial Pursuit (he will claim it was a close game, but don't listen to him). And then he got sick, and he spent the next day sniffling and sneezing in the basement.
Luckily he was quite a bit better by the time we drove back to Colorado. We landed for a couple of days, then made a five-hour drive to Taos, New Mexico. It's a gorgeous drive through the Rockies, and we lucked out with really great weather.
This was my first trip down there, and I was plenty excited for that alone. But the reason for the visit -- to see two shaman that Brent's mom knows and works with -- was even more spectacular. Our time with them impacted us both and left us with plenty to think about. All good.
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| Mt. Rushmore, Easter morning |
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| Sunrise service at Mt. Rushmore |
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| One of three waterfalls we visited in one day. |
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| Beautiful day for a hike. |
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| The moon lingering in the mid-morning sky. |
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| Walking around Sylvan Lake. |
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| Hiking in the Hills. |
We saw a play and tooled around downtown Rapid. They now sell the most excellent chocolates at the Alex Johnson -- we chose this maple bacon truffle.
When we went to the ranch, I handily beat Brent at Trivial Pursuit (he will claim it was a close game, but don't listen to him). And then he got sick, and he spent the next day sniffling and sneezing in the basement.
Luckily he was quite a bit better by the time we drove back to Colorado. We landed for a couple of days, then made a five-hour drive to Taos, New Mexico. It's a gorgeous drive through the Rockies, and we lucked out with really great weather.
This was my first trip down there, and I was plenty excited for that alone. But the reason for the visit -- to see two shaman that Brent's mom knows and works with -- was even more spectacular. Our time with them impacted us both and left us with plenty to think about. All good.
Sunday, April 13, 2014
Partying with the president.
Last night, we attended the inauguration of a nearby real estate development's beach club.
An open bar attracts a lot of people, so it was definitely THE place to be. Hey, if it's good enough for the President of Panama, Ricardo Martinelli, then it's good enough for us.
There was a security detail on the president, but it was quite laid back. He's a very approachable guy, very friendly. I loved it: he's the president, but he's still a human being. The security kept a close watch on him, but gave him space to live his life.
I've never been in the presence of a US president, but from what I gather, it's quite a different situation.
We had a great evening with our friends, and enjoyed a stellar view and great music. There wasn't a lot of food, and our little group got hungry and left. Turns out, we missed out -- everyone said that things really got cranking shortly after we left. I don't think there's any correlation.
An open bar attracts a lot of people, so it was definitely THE place to be. Hey, if it's good enough for the President of Panama, Ricardo Martinelli, then it's good enough for us.
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| Stephanie and I with President Martinelli |
There was a security detail on the president, but it was quite laid back. He's a very approachable guy, very friendly. I loved it: he's the president, but he's still a human being. The security kept a close watch on him, but gave him space to live his life.
I've never been in the presence of a US president, but from what I gather, it's quite a different situation.
We had a great evening with our friends, and enjoyed a stellar view and great music. There wasn't a lot of food, and our little group got hungry and left. Turns out, we missed out -- everyone said that things really got cranking shortly after we left. I don't think there's any correlation.
Thursday, March 27, 2014
Going to America!
We were just in the US four months ago, but we're totally ready to go visit again. This time, we're taking that slightly longer trip I insisted upon (we'll be there about two and a half weeks), and splitting the time between South Dakota and Colorado (and maybe a trip to New Mexico thrown in).
We'll be leaving on April 17. Until then, we're just trying to keep up with ourselves, taking advantage of the fact that this is still high season (which corresponds almost perfectly with dry season) -- and by the time we return on May 5, many of the people we see every day will be gone for the summer.
We'll be leaving on April 17. Until then, we're just trying to keep up with ourselves, taking advantage of the fact that this is still high season (which corresponds almost perfectly with dry season) -- and by the time we return on May 5, many of the people we see every day will be gone for the summer.
Saturday, March 15, 2014
How many hats?
It feels good to be busy, but holy smokes.
Over the last few months, things have really picked up. We managed to weed out the nasty time-suckers that didn't pay off, and we're left with what we do best. In my case, that seems to be a great many things. It's sort of become a joke, that I'm the one with 18 jobs or whatever. Never gets boring, baby!
Something I think I've failed to mention over the past few months, which is a weird oversight because it's so bizarre even in my own mind: I'm teaching Spanish.
To beginners, mind you, but Spanish, nonetheless. Sometimes I hardly believe it, when I stand up there and grammar-Nazi the heck out of them (I have a knack for it in both languages), that after what feels like ages of struggling to speak Spanish, I can actually trust myself to accurately teach it to others.
I still have a long way to go, and I'm the first one to admit that. I will not be teaching advanced language students any time soon. In fact, that's a class I could probably still stand to be in. But, weird as it is, I've got a pretty darn good handle on Spanish. I'm not afraid to talk on the phone (in either language). I don't freak out if someone approaches me with a Spanish-speaking tongue. And I teach a Spanish class!
It's so much fun. The students are all adults, some of whom know so little they actually forget that they do know hola and gracias. It's a lot of laughing and, when I come across the students that actually do their homework and apply themselves, it's quite a bit of learning, too.
Over the last few months, things have really picked up. We managed to weed out the nasty time-suckers that didn't pay off, and we're left with what we do best. In my case, that seems to be a great many things. It's sort of become a joke, that I'm the one with 18 jobs or whatever. Never gets boring, baby!
Something I think I've failed to mention over the past few months, which is a weird oversight because it's so bizarre even in my own mind: I'm teaching Spanish.
To beginners, mind you, but Spanish, nonetheless. Sometimes I hardly believe it, when I stand up there and grammar-Nazi the heck out of them (I have a knack for it in both languages), that after what feels like ages of struggling to speak Spanish, I can actually trust myself to accurately teach it to others.
I still have a long way to go, and I'm the first one to admit that. I will not be teaching advanced language students any time soon. In fact, that's a class I could probably still stand to be in. But, weird as it is, I've got a pretty darn good handle on Spanish. I'm not afraid to talk on the phone (in either language). I don't freak out if someone approaches me with a Spanish-speaking tongue. And I teach a Spanish class!
It's so much fun. The students are all adults, some of whom know so little they actually forget that they do know hola and gracias. It's a lot of laughing and, when I come across the students that actually do their homework and apply themselves, it's quite a bit of learning, too.
Tuesday, March 04, 2014
Oscar Night at Locos
I've always loved watching the Oscars, so when we decided to show them at Locos, I was pretty delighted.
Not a lot of people showed up. This is Carnaval weekend, after all, so everyone is pretty much tied up with all the drinking and shenanigans. Eh. I got to play-interview the ones who did come, and it turned out to be a pretty good time.
(Photos, as you can see, by the talented Trent Bayliss.)
Plus, I got to watch the show on the projector screen.
Not a lot of people showed up. This is Carnaval weekend, after all, so everyone is pretty much tied up with all the drinking and shenanigans. Eh. I got to play-interview the ones who did come, and it turned out to be a pretty good time.
(Photos, as you can see, by the talented Trent Bayliss.)
Plus, I got to watch the show on the projector screen.
Monday, February 24, 2014
Dry season hits you harder the second time around.
We arrived in Panama at the start of the dry season. I remember nonstop hot, sunny days, and trying to go on a run before 7:00am. Then rainy season arrived in April, and that was great.
It's actually kind of nice -- it's not too strong (yet), and it creates a great breeze through our condo and keeps it at a pretty comfortable temperature even though we don't have air conditioning in the main room.
But... I will be glad when the rainy season rolls around again, and we're gifted with overcast days, thunderstorms, and a green landscape. And probably some bugs.
Now we're well into dry season again, and I'm wondering how in the heck I could have forgotten exactly what it was like. We're back to those non-stop hot, sunny days -- they just seem to be more intense this time around.
Maybe it was because we were so busy settling in to life here, we didn't really notice. Or maybe we've just gotten so spoiled on rainy season (it does last about eight months, after all). I don't know, but what I do know is that even though this is our second time through the dry season, it feels brand new.
Another thing I had sort of forgotten was the wind. I do remember last March, how it would whip through the Bahia lobby, but I don't remember it being everywhere, all season long.
It's actually kind of nice -- it's not too strong (yet), and it creates a great breeze through our condo and keeps it at a pretty comfortable temperature even though we don't have air conditioning in the main room.
But... I will be glad when the rainy season rolls around again, and we're gifted with overcast days, thunderstorms, and a green landscape. And probably some bugs.
Monday, February 17, 2014
Back to Boquete: Jazz Fest!
We got to Panama last year just in time to know about Boquete's annual jazz and blues festival, but too late to really get our act together and take the five-hour trip. As you know, we've since been to Boquete twice, but we've been planning on going to this festival ever since we missed it last year.
It also happens to coincide with Valentine's Day (not a Brent favorite) and our third anniversary.
Sheldon lives in Boquete, so even though we had tentative plans and wishes to stay at a hostel that has a tree house, we decided to stay with him instead -- which is, of course, an excellent choice.
With the warm days, we ended up deciding not to go to the festival during the day at all. However, every night there are a few official and unofficial festival activities -- mostly jam sessions at various bars around town -- and they were wonderful.
We met a guy with a little trumpet (called a pocket trumpet, I learned), and we asked what band he was with. He said he wasn't with a band, he just happened to be traveling there at the right time. Then what's with the trumpet, we asked.
"I carry this with me everywhere," he said. A true musician. Indeed, he hopped on stage during the jam sessions a couple of times.
During the day, we opted for hiking and, of course, true to Boquete form, eating. We took a hike to waterfall and on the way we saw the rare and elusive quetzals as well as several glass-winged butterflies, another rare species. It was a beautiful day for a hike, and it was such a treat to see those creatures.
On the third day, we enjoyed one last breakfast with Sheldon at Sugar & Spice, and started the drive back to Coronado.
It also happens to coincide with Valentine's Day (not a Brent favorite) and our third anniversary.
Sheldon lives in Boquete, so even though we had tentative plans and wishes to stay at a hostel that has a tree house, we decided to stay with him instead -- which is, of course, an excellent choice.
With the warm days, we ended up deciding not to go to the festival during the day at all. However, every night there are a few official and unofficial festival activities -- mostly jam sessions at various bars around town -- and they were wonderful.
We met a guy with a little trumpet (called a pocket trumpet, I learned), and we asked what band he was with. He said he wasn't with a band, he just happened to be traveling there at the right time. Then what's with the trumpet, we asked.
"I carry this with me everywhere," he said. A true musician. Indeed, he hopped on stage during the jam sessions a couple of times.
During the day, we opted for hiking and, of course, true to Boquete form, eating. We took a hike to waterfall and on the way we saw the rare and elusive quetzals as well as several glass-winged butterflies, another rare species. It was a beautiful day for a hike, and it was such a treat to see those creatures.
On the third day, we enjoyed one last breakfast with Sheldon at Sugar & Spice, and started the drive back to Coronado.
Thursday, February 06, 2014
Verve MoJoe on the way!
Now, being in a coffee-producing nation, we have access to some really fantastic coffee. Gotta say, though, that I'm still really excited about Verve's latest incarnation: MoJoe, an iced coffee beverage. Coming soon -- it'll have all the same stellar nutrition you can expect from Vemma with premium natural coffee and 80mg of natural caffeine, no artificial sweeteners/colors/flavors, no high fructose corn syrup, and no dairy.
As an official coffee drinker of three years, I can. Not. Wait.
Friday, January 31, 2014
Nothing matters when we're dancing.
Incredibly, there's now a ballet studio in tiny little Coronado.
As certain family members know, I had this thing for being on my toes when I was little. I remember wanting to take ballet classes so badly, but if there were any available, they would have been at least an hour away, so it never happened. Plus, I had basketballs and stuff to play with.
So I had to do it. I joined ballet class.
With 10-year-old girls.
The idea was to have an adult class twice a week, but there are only two of us -- so we get one day to ourselves (Tuesdays) and one day with the crazy flexible little girls (Monday).
I've only done a couple of classes so far, but I'm loving it. It's difficult physically, of course, but it also requires so much concentration on my part (new steps, new ways of moving, lots of body parts to coordinate) that it becomes an hour and a half of meditation, as well. I've found it impossible to think of anything else while I'm in class. Only ballet, and how somewhat awkward I am at it.
As certain family members know, I had this thing for being on my toes when I was little. I remember wanting to take ballet classes so badly, but if there were any available, they would have been at least an hour away, so it never happened. Plus, I had basketballs and stuff to play with.
So I had to do it. I joined ballet class.
With 10-year-old girls.
The idea was to have an adult class twice a week, but there are only two of us -- so we get one day to ourselves (Tuesdays) and one day with the crazy flexible little girls (Monday).
I've only done a couple of classes so far, but I'm loving it. It's difficult physically, of course, but it also requires so much concentration on my part (new steps, new ways of moving, lots of body parts to coordinate) that it becomes an hour and a half of meditation, as well. I've found it impossible to think of anything else while I'm in class. Only ballet, and how somewhat awkward I am at it.
Saturday, January 25, 2014
The Local Locos
I stopped helping out at the restaurant in Gorgona in order to start helping out at their new location, which opened in Coronado.
Doing things like opening a restaurant in Panama is no easy task, and so it was that it seemed like we weren't going to pull it off, and I only ever know half the story of what's going on.
But we had invited about 60 people to have a dinner featuring some of the highlights on the new menu, as well as five carefully chosen glasses of wine. (I got stuck on the Pinot Noir.) So we plowed ahead.
Despite our careful consideration when it came to inviting guests, and an explicit notice on the invitation that each was being invited because of how laid back and understanding he or she was of what it's like to open a restaurant in Panama, we still ended up with a few complainers. Unfortunate, to be sure, but the food was good, the wine was good, and people danced. This is going to be fun.
Doing things like opening a restaurant in Panama is no easy task, and so it was that it seemed like we weren't going to pull it off, and I only ever know half the story of what's going on.
But we had invited about 60 people to have a dinner featuring some of the highlights on the new menu, as well as five carefully chosen glasses of wine. (I got stuck on the Pinot Noir.) So we plowed ahead.
Despite our careful consideration when it came to inviting guests, and an explicit notice on the invitation that each was being invited because of how laid back and understanding he or she was of what it's like to open a restaurant in Panama, we still ended up with a few complainers. Unfortunate, to be sure, but the food was good, the wine was good, and people danced. This is going to be fun.
Saturday, January 04, 2014
An ode to the resolution.
I don't normally set new year's resolutions, as I've found it easier to just implement those changes throughout the year as they occur to me or as I realize they need to be done. But I still love and respect the resolution, because I love when people make a decision to change their lives for the better -- and I love it even more when they follow through.
As a fitness instructor, I've had a front-row seat for many resolution successes and failures. I noticed a few trends that seemed to indicate whether or not people would give up or not.
Some of those who quit the gym after a couple of weeks were so focused on speeding toward their desired result. Every day that they weighed the same as they did the day before was frustrating and painful. They couldn't seem to wrap their heads around the fact that it took them a long time to gain weight or to fall out of shape -- and it would take awhile to lose it or to increase their fitness.
The exercisers who were able to focus on each workout and appreciate where they were, those who were able to congratulate themselves for a job well done on each particular day, were still in the gym by March, by July, and beyond. It's what yoga has been teaching me all along: the best place to live is in the present.
You can't be plagued by guilt if you're not dwelling on the past -- on too many chocolate chip cookies and too many missed workouts. You can't be frustrated if you're not dwelling on the future -- the hopes of a possibly unattainable body or the fear that you might never get where you want to be. Taking each day at a time was a huge factor in those successfully executed resolutions.
I haven't had a gym for about a year. For awhile, I really missed those workouts -- I missed lifting weights. But I'm starting to appreciate what not having a gym is doing for me.
At first, I felt like those failed resolutionists, freaked out that I was failing my body by not doing the sorts of workouts I was accustomed to. Then I got back to my roots. I ran more (the most portable workout), took long walks, and did a lot more yoga and pilates. Even though my cardiovascular and muscular endurance aren't what they used to be, I'm thrilled with the creative crosstraining I've been doing. I work out every day, but I don't have a routine: I do what feels good. I don't feel guilty if I only run one time this week. And based on what I learned from the successful and failed resolutions, I think this approach is going to do me just fine.
So once again this year, I don't really have a resolution. But if you do, I hope you take it day by day -- and then one of those days, you'll look back and go, wow: that change set in, and I didn't even realize it.
As a fitness instructor, I've had a front-row seat for many resolution successes and failures. I noticed a few trends that seemed to indicate whether or not people would give up or not.
Some of those who quit the gym after a couple of weeks were so focused on speeding toward their desired result. Every day that they weighed the same as they did the day before was frustrating and painful. They couldn't seem to wrap their heads around the fact that it took them a long time to gain weight or to fall out of shape -- and it would take awhile to lose it or to increase their fitness.
The exercisers who were able to focus on each workout and appreciate where they were, those who were able to congratulate themselves for a job well done on each particular day, were still in the gym by March, by July, and beyond. It's what yoga has been teaching me all along: the best place to live is in the present.
You can't be plagued by guilt if you're not dwelling on the past -- on too many chocolate chip cookies and too many missed workouts. You can't be frustrated if you're not dwelling on the future -- the hopes of a possibly unattainable body or the fear that you might never get where you want to be. Taking each day at a time was a huge factor in those successfully executed resolutions.
I haven't had a gym for about a year. For awhile, I really missed those workouts -- I missed lifting weights. But I'm starting to appreciate what not having a gym is doing for me.
At first, I felt like those failed resolutionists, freaked out that I was failing my body by not doing the sorts of workouts I was accustomed to. Then I got back to my roots. I ran more (the most portable workout), took long walks, and did a lot more yoga and pilates. Even though my cardiovascular and muscular endurance aren't what they used to be, I'm thrilled with the creative crosstraining I've been doing. I work out every day, but I don't have a routine: I do what feels good. I don't feel guilty if I only run one time this week. And based on what I learned from the successful and failed resolutions, I think this approach is going to do me just fine.
So once again this year, I don't really have a resolution. But if you do, I hope you take it day by day -- and then one of those days, you'll look back and go, wow: that change set in, and I didn't even realize it.
Wednesday, January 01, 2014
Each year happier than the last.
It was down to the wire before we knew how and where we'd be celebrating the new year. Our friend's invited us to join them at another friend's place, so it was sort of a third-party invitation, but we were welcomed and we had a great time.
The fireworks stole the show, as they did when Jack, Joel, and I rang in 2007 in Vienna. My only regret is that we were in a backyard rather than on a rooftop somewhere, though I have since heard that every rooftop was incredibly crowded. I appreciated the breathing room we had.
After the fireworks died down, we went out to the beach for a few minutes, listening to the waves and staring at that dark, starry sky.
Happy 2014 -- to the best yet.
The fireworks stole the show, as they did when Jack, Joel, and I rang in 2007 in Vienna. My only regret is that we were in a backyard rather than on a rooftop somewhere, though I have since heard that every rooftop was incredibly crowded. I appreciated the breathing room we had.
After the fireworks died down, we went out to the beach for a few minutes, listening to the waves and staring at that dark, starry sky.
Happy 2014 -- to the best yet.
Friday, December 27, 2013
Is it still called dinner if I haven't stopped eating since breakfast?
Eating lightly, but still.
The next stop was back to Cat's place for Christmas dinner. We had a smaller group that evening, and we'd all agreed to wear our pajamas. I made Mom's date balls and the most delightful key lime fudge.
We got up on Christmas and invited Larry over for a gift exchange. Brent wasn't feeling well, and even in the minutes as we waited for Larry to arrive, he deteriorated until it became obvious that he would not be joining in the day's many festivities. I was so disappointed, as I love holidays and I love spending them with that guy.
Brent knows me well: I got a blender (YAYAYAY!!!) and a necklace he made himself using a perfectly triangular green rock we'd found in Playa Venao last month. Love it.
He went back to bed, and I went to Don and Jill's for brunch. This is a yearly tradition at their place, and it has grown to include a large number of community members. The food was excellent, and I lingered until after 1:00pm, drinking entirely too much coffee.
The next stop was back to Cat's place for Christmas dinner. We had a smaller group that evening, and we'd all agreed to wear our pajamas. I made Mom's date balls and the most delightful key lime fudge.
Thursday, December 26, 2013
Merry Christmas Eve, now with sand toys.
On Christmas Eve, we went to Cat's place in Gorgona to enjoy a beautiful sunset view of the Pacific Ocean, the company of great people, and a killer meal like only Cat can prepare.
(Seriously, when it comes to hostessing, there is no better role model.)
We each brought a white elephant gift and played a gift exchange game.
I'm a huge fan of gift exchange games, as you might remember from my Sinterklaas experience in 2006. This one was a little different, but every bit as fun.
First, we all drew playing cards. The number on the card indicated who was first, second, third, and so on. The first person was allowed to choose a gift to unwrap. Each person afterward was allowed either to choose a new gift, or to steal one that had already been opened. However a gift could only be stolen so many times before it forever belonged to the last person holding it.
With so many couples present, it became incredibly strategic, as one partner stole a present so that the other partner could steal it from them, and so on. We kept a close watch on the bottle of rum, and we came home with it in the end. That, and a bucket of sand toys and other random dollar-store items.
Other gems that our friends took home included five rolls of colorful duct tape, volleyballs, and blow-up pool toys.
(Seriously, when it comes to hostessing, there is no better role model.)
We each brought a white elephant gift and played a gift exchange game.
I'm a huge fan of gift exchange games, as you might remember from my Sinterklaas experience in 2006. This one was a little different, but every bit as fun.
First, we all drew playing cards. The number on the card indicated who was first, second, third, and so on. The first person was allowed to choose a gift to unwrap. Each person afterward was allowed either to choose a new gift, or to steal one that had already been opened. However a gift could only be stolen so many times before it forever belonged to the last person holding it.
With so many couples present, it became incredibly strategic, as one partner stole a present so that the other partner could steal it from them, and so on. We kept a close watch on the bottle of rum, and we came home with it in the end. That, and a bucket of sand toys and other random dollar-store items.
Other gems that our friends took home included five rolls of colorful duct tape, volleyballs, and blow-up pool toys.
Friday, December 20, 2013
Tropical Christmases
It's funny how, even though I've never been a fan of the snow and cold, I like it when Christmas is in the winter.
Maybe it's just because it doesn't quite feel like Christmas here. Like in Argentina, there aren't so many decorations and specialty food items around to constantly remind you that Christmas is approaching. Even though the malls here did the big Black Friday nonsense, locally it has all been much more low key.
That's not to say we don't have some lovely gatherings planned. I do love the holidays, wherever I am.
Maybe it's just because it doesn't quite feel like Christmas here. Like in Argentina, there aren't so many decorations and specialty food items around to constantly remind you that Christmas is approaching. Even though the malls here did the big Black Friday nonsense, locally it has all been much more low key.
That's not to say we don't have some lovely gatherings planned. I do love the holidays, wherever I am.
Sunday, December 15, 2013
The case of the too-short vacation.
Not that we really need a vacation from Panama, but it's always nice to be home.
Less than two weeks, though, just isn't enough. Even in the holy-freaking cold.
I arrived and went straight up to South Dakota -- Brent drove me to Cheyenne, and Mom picked me up there. Unfortunately, Jack and Avery weren't able to come visit with the little boys, so I wasn't able to see them.
A few lovely days later, we did a similar swap in Cheyenne and I returned to Denver for a few days with Brent and Jody.
Whenever we plan a trip, we try to schedule it around work commitments as best we can. Brent wasn't wanting to miss a lot of days at the chiropractic office, because it really kills momentum, and with the holidays it's all a little bit screwy anyway. So we booked this short little trip, 12 days, and it just went so crazy fast. Anything less than two weeks just isn't enough, especially when you're splitting time between two places. Next time, we'll stay longer.
Less than two weeks, though, just isn't enough. Even in the holy-freaking cold.
I arrived and went straight up to South Dakota -- Brent drove me to Cheyenne, and Mom picked me up there. Unfortunately, Jack and Avery weren't able to come visit with the little boys, so I wasn't able to see them.
A few lovely days later, we did a similar swap in Cheyenne and I returned to Denver for a few days with Brent and Jody.
Whenever we plan a trip, we try to schedule it around work commitments as best we can. Brent wasn't wanting to miss a lot of days at the chiropractic office, because it really kills momentum, and with the holidays it's all a little bit screwy anyway. So we booked this short little trip, 12 days, and it just went so crazy fast. Anything less than two weeks just isn't enough, especially when you're splitting time between two places. Next time, we'll stay longer.
Sunday, December 01, 2013
The holiday season is full of gifts.
First gift. MOVING DAY!
Our Australian friends Dave and Vicki lived in a lovely condo in a small complex just across the street from the beach. Turns out, they were leaving on December 1, exactly when we needed a new home. So today, we moved into our 2nd floor three-bedroom lofted condo. We love it. And, naturally, we are wildly relieved to be out of that other place which shall no longer be named.
The rest of the condos here are owned by Panamanians from the city who come spend the occasional weekend here. So, we pretty much have the place to ourselves.
Second gift: TRAVEL DAY!
Coming up on December 5, we are going to visit the States for the first time in nearly a year...
Our Australian friends Dave and Vicki lived in a lovely condo in a small complex just across the street from the beach. Turns out, they were leaving on December 1, exactly when we needed a new home. So today, we moved into our 2nd floor three-bedroom lofted condo. We love it. And, naturally, we are wildly relieved to be out of that other place which shall no longer be named.
The rest of the condos here are owned by Panamanians from the city who come spend the occasional weekend here. So, we pretty much have the place to ourselves.
Second gift: TRAVEL DAY!
Coming up on December 5, we are going to visit the States for the first time in nearly a year...
Friday, November 29, 2013
The Second Thanksgiving
For the real Thanksgiving day, we wanted to spend time with Larry. We were invited to Angie's place for a small gathering. (Angie was a regular in the water aerobics class I taught over the summer in her building.) It was just us, Angie, Bruce and Robin, Bruce and Robin's landlords, and a lovely Argentine/German couple. And, supposedly, Larry, but he didn't show up! We called him, and he just said he wasn't coming. We were disappointed, and still unsure as to why, but we still had a great time.
Highlight: there were two sweet potato casseroles, but the one with the candied pecans on top was my favorite, and I could have lived on that for days. We ended up staying late that evening, speaking a mixture of English and Spanish, and reminiscing a bit about Argentina with the Argentinian half of the young couple.
Highlight: there were two sweet potato casseroles, but the one with the candied pecans on top was my favorite, and I could have lived on that for days. We ended up staying late that evening, speaking a mixture of English and Spanish, and reminiscing a bit about Argentina with the Argentinian half of the young couple.
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
The First Thanksgiving (this week)
With so many people to see and so much love to spread, one Thanksgiving just wasn't enough this year, so yesterday we got the Thanksgiving season started with a wonderful meal. Denise is house-sitting for a couple of months, so we had a fantastic location for the party.
I had my first taste of imported Turducken (a turkey stuffed with a duck stuffed with a chicken). A little too much meat for me, what with so many mashed potatoes lying around. I made pecan pie bars, which are every bit as good as pecan pie except that you can eat them with your hands.
As always, lots to be thankful for.
I had my first taste of imported Turducken (a turkey stuffed with a duck stuffed with a chicken). A little too much meat for me, what with so many mashed potatoes lying around. I made pecan pie bars, which are every bit as good as pecan pie except that you can eat them with your hands.
As always, lots to be thankful for.
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