A society that presumes a norm of violence and celebrates aggression, whether in the subway, on the football field, or in the conduct of its business, cannot help making celebrities of the people who would destroy it. -Lewis H. Lapham, editor and writer (b. 8 Jan 1935)
Up at 6:55 am to have a quick shower before heading downstairs for breakfast. Was looking forward to my java with hot milk to start the day. Sipped it while Lady Dar worked away on her scrambled and fried rice. This morning I slathered a good helping of sauce piquante on my eggs and the taste was poifect, not too too fiery and very tasty. Went back to the serving table for some of the juicy pineapple to douse the lingering fire in my mouth. One last cup of java and then back to our room to ready ourselves for morning's walk and trip to bank. Light showers are forecast for mid-day so Lady Dar is on a mission to find me a rain jacket since I forget to bring one. I wanted to use a large garbage bag but she nixed the thought!
Back to our room to ready ourselves for coming outing and then we found our way to the entrance to the Nacional Museo, having already become reasonably familiar with the streets we needed to take to reach the plaza in front. Much busier this morning, with both pedestrian and vehicular traffic, people en route to work, etc. Unfortunately, once there, we discovered it was closed every Monday so we decided to visit the Museo del Oro Precolombino, not all that far away, following, for much of the way, a pedestrian only thoroughfare which runs for many, many blocks.
Building itself is underground, only one in Costa Rica, apparently, and it is an architectural marvel. Collectiions are simply stunning so it was a wonderful way to begin to get to know a little bit about the country's culture. We spent most of the morning and early afternoon there and then made for the Central Market to explore it, stopping en route to buy me a light rain jacket as I forgot to bring one from home! Very pleasant time strolling the almost endless alleyways and after we had seen enough we stopped for a delicious bowl of Sopa Azteca, (basically a chicken broth base with pieces of chicken and tortilla chips topped with cheese, avocado and crema), and lemonade with mint, both extremely delicious and refreshing.
Bit more wandering and then back to our room to nap, read and digitating for a couple of hours before showering/changing for dinner, having a few drinks, local rum for me, Carmenère for Lady Dar, before strolling a few blocks to the Del Mar, a restaurant we had spotted on way back to hotel. It was a great place and we had a wonderful meal and a terrific time with our waiter as place was fairly quiet and he seemed to like chatting with us. Back home to "unwind" as being a tourist is almost as tiring as being retired in The Okanagan!
Patrick, Congratulations to you and Corinne on the graduation of your grandson from Firefighting School (is that what it is called?). It is really heartwarming to see our children and grandchildren take their place in the world. Have a wonderful stay in CR. We will embark on a 2-3 week road trip adventure next Sunday. No plans regarding a destination other than we want to explore Portland, Oregon and St. George, Utah. Not sure how far south we will venture…we are seeking sun and warmth so this will dictate our route. We are taking our golf clubs and mountain bikes. Look forward to catching up with you both upon your return. Safe travels. Pamela Webster
Hi Pamela! Thanks for the congratulations on Alex's achievement. Think institution is called the LAFD Academy but I'm not quite sure. Anyway, must say we are very proud of his achievement so thanks. Your own travel plans sound terrific. Portland is a great city, one of our favourites. Would like to get to know Utah as well so will be keen to hear what you might discover.
Just a quick note as the internet connection is not as good in our room so I was downstairs for a bit. We had another lovely day today, both in terms of weather and sightseeing. Spent about three hours, not in in the Museo Nacional as it was closed, but in the so-called Gold Museum so a full morning to see and absorb much. Must away as Lady Dar needs me to pour her another glass of Carmère! Fondestos from Her Ladyship to you and Bill. Travel safely. Cheers, Patrizzio!
Dear Patrick & Corinne, A busy trip but I was so impressed with your grandson Alex graduating from LAFD. My very good friend’s husband Rick is a retired firefighter and he is one of the happiest people I have met in my life. He is also an avid fisherman and chef as all firefighters must learn to cook for their team when on duty. Rick brought his delicious smoked salmon to our open house.
Then there is another friend and her husband who together run their appliance business but Arthur is also a Dutch volunteer firefighter and again so unbelievably happy, funny with endless stories. I would say your grandson Alex is a very happy guy, very grounded and what a beautiful career he has chosen. He will also become an excellent chef. Much love, Jean & John
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