Oh what a week!

Well last week went by in a blink of an eye! It was great to have Phoenix and Crystal here.

On Tuesday, we did drive to "Dog Heaven" (the dog refuge). We checked the hours of operation and after a harrowing drive in insane traffic, we still made it there on time. However, when we arrived at the big red gate, it was closed and no one was around. I had to reverse down the narrow dirt driveway because there was nowhere to turn around. There were a few houses nearby so I decided to get out and ask a woman to see if the GPS had led us astray, but she confirmed we had the right place and she was surprised it wasn't open. So, we didn't get to see all those 900 puppies after all (see previous post if you don't know what I'm talking about). It was a real shame, but we did try. The girls and I braved the horrible traffic back to the highway and head up to Arenal. Once we reached the highway, it was a free and breezy drive: beautiful winding roads, gorgeous pastureland on either side, and eventually, this... ta da!

photo credit: Phoenix Sage Potter

We found our hostel, unpacked our bags and then found a restaurant to have some dinner. In the evening, we lounged by the pool (well, I lounged and fell asleep, the girls went swimming) and while they were in the pool, they met another woman who was from Burlington... but not only that, they had mutual acquaintances! Small world.

The following day we went on a guided tour of the volcano. We walked to this waterfall, which I recognized from Kevin and my first trip to Costa Rica.

After the hiking was done, we ended at a hot spring where we were treated to a cocktail and a mud facial mask. It was very relaxing and a great way to end a super day.

Spending time with Phoenix was amazing... and filled my heart.

On Thursday morning, I drove Phoenix and Crystal to the airport, then headed home. While I was galavanting, Kevin was home giving a tour to a group of teachers and students from Arizona. Bill had contacted us a few months ago and mentioned that his Aunt Jo and Uncle Peter had recommended that he contact us. We remember Jo and Peter fondly... great guests from January 2015. It's amazing the connections we make.

We had invited Bill and his group to come to Hush Valley Lodge for a tour and then to go fishing at Martin's for lunch. I also suggested they do the coffee tour, meet up with our friends, Seidy and Danilo, to visit their sustainable farm, and to drop in at the Copey Learning Center. Apparently, they are doing all of those things this week.

When I arrived home, they were all at Martin's, just wrapping up their day. I was delighted to get the chance to meet Bill in person after months of emailing. Kevin said he had a really great time. Thanks Jo and Peter for spreading the word of our little piece of paradise! We appreciate it.