So I started a blog.
I have no idea if I will actually update it, or if anyone actually cares to read it. Regardless, it exists.
The title to my blog, El país de Nunca Jamás, means Neverland in espanol which I found fitting. Peter Pan was always my favorite fairytale, and as I grow up I still find the idea of Neverland and infinite childhood extremely appealing. Costa Rica is my Neverland of sorts.
As I kid, I have vivid memories of donning my homemade Peter Pan costume, throwing all the couch pillows on the floor, turning the fan on, and jumping off the couch onto the pillows. Every time I jumped I was convinced I would fly. Much to everyone's surprise--I never actually took flight, but I gave it my best damn shot. I was convinced if I believed enough it would actually happen one day, and for some unknown reason turning the fan on was a necessary step.
My first trip to Costa Rica (and every trip) I spent hours listening to Milton ramble on about exciting and dangerous excursions he had taken in the name of science. The students would gather round and loose all track of time as he entertained us with stories of rat catching under gunfire and deadly snake bites while gathering tree data. Eventually I had my own stories to tell (balla ant attack). He told us we were the lost boys and he stepped in for Peter Pan. Before I knew it I had found my Neverland, and even though it didn't entail flying I was the happiest I'd ever been. So maybe I'm a nerd or maybe I'm a thrill seeker, but science and the jungle are my idea of Utopia.
I found leaving Costa Rica just as bittersweet as Wendy found leaving Neverland, but I always figured I would return. Looks like I was right.
For now I am counting down the days in anticipation of my 6 months in the rich coast.
