Costa Rica – Page 7 – Fish Eye Farm

Southern Speed

Slow down you move too fast….You got to make the morning last now……words by Simon and Garfunkel..

I’m stuck in the South. I call myself stuck, because I would not be here if I didn’t have to be. It would not be my choice.

If I had my way I would be in Costa Rica. Yeah, it’s further south, but North Florida is the south, that I call South.

I listen to NPR, and this morning. I heard a comment about the speed of technology. Everything in social media is accelerating at break neck speed and they have a class you can go to, to assist you in keeping up with the pace. NOT

I like slow. The South, like many other things are way too fast for me now.

I want to be true to MY speed~slower than southern slow.

Where do we think we’re all going anyway?

Water for Air

I am flying out today, and I’m starting to feel like a fish out of water. I have travelled the flight, round trip, Florida to Costa Rica, about thirty times. I always feel a tinge of dread; the long lines, all the people, the germs on the plane, not to mention I have to start wearing real clothes again.

But, it is the way to get home. I work to enjoy it. By midnight, I will have employed the “Hail Mary” enough times, for there to be peace on earth.

Que, Kooks and Censorship

Once a month, I write an article for a local magazine, Que! My column is titled Eye Am Art. Meeting the two guys that own this publication was a fortunate day. Que!, is satirical and hilarious. It pokes fun at our crazy, Costa Rican lives. Hence the name, Que!. In English that means ~ What! Which~ you will find yourself saying here a lot. Such as in my recent post John Denver and Cat Burglars. Check out the magazine. If you like to laugh, you will enjoy it.

Eye Am Art is serious. Each month I write about a local artist or I expound on the topic of aesthetics, or I just try to be encouraging of the arts. I have a Fine Arts degree and am passionate about all the arts. I’m an art cheerleader.

Coincidentally, this month I wrote about Poetry and censorship. As an artist, I am against censorship of any kind. Right now there is a House Bill in the works, SOPA. It is supposed to protect intellectual property rights. But as the bill reads today, it opens the door for repression. WordPress, as well as myself and bloggers worldwide, are protesting. That is why there is a STOP CENSORSHIP banner across the right corner of my blog. If you want to become more informed, read, One Cool Spot Blog, January 17th’s post.

That being said, I would like to share with you my latest column from the magazine.

Poetry~The Word Arts—A Poet’s Advice

A poet is somebody who feels, and who expresses his feeling through words. This may sound easy. It isn’t.

A lot of people think or believe or know they feel-but that’s thinking or believing or knowing; not feeling. And poetry is feeling-not knowing or believing or thinking.

Almost anybody can learn to think or believe or know, but not a single human being can be taught to feel. Why? Because whenever you think or you believe or you know, you’re a lot of other people: but the moment you feel, you’re nobody but yourself.

To be nobody-but-yourself–in a world which is doing its best, night and day, to make you everybody else-means to fight the hardest battle which any human being can fight; and never stop fighting.

As for expressing nobody-but-yourself in words, that means working just a bit harder than anybody who isn’t a poet can possibly imagine. Why? Because nothing is quite as easy as using words like somebody else. We all of us do exactly this nearly all the time-and when we do it, we’re not poets.

If, at the end of your first ten or fifteen years of fighting and working and feeling, you find you’ve written one line of one poem, you’ll be very lucky indeed.

And so my advice to all young people who wish to become poets is: do something easy, like learning how to blow up the world-unless you’re not only willing, but glad, to feel and work and fight till you die.

Does this sound dismal? It isn’t.

It’s the most wonderful life on earth.

Or so I feel.

Reply to a letter from a high school editor; published in Ottawa Hills (Grand Rapid, Michigan) High School Spectator October 26, 1955

—————————————————————————————————————————————————

This poem was sent to me by an anonymous poet. So, we printed it and I advised anyone who wants to write to do so, like no-one was ever going to see it. Writing should be a freedom of expression. It’s an art. Art is how we connect as human beings.

The editor and poet who wrote to the high school editor, giving advice did so in 1955. I doubt he would have been able to use those words, “blow up the world” today. He could inadvertently become responsable for some kooks bad behavior.

Now me, printing the above poem-I will not take responsibility for what happens in the line up.

That’s one reason I like it down here, you’re basically own your own.

I don’t know what the future holds. But I do know it has been portrayed in novels, such as 1984, as a place where all of our freedoms will be taken from us. And we will be controlled by Big Brother through the use of technology. Vamos a ver/we’ll see.

I feel, until then, I will practice the editor’s advice to a poet and be and individual, I feel.

And as far as the anonymous poem, I don’t want to feel any pain~so we are all warned no dropping in!

pura vida

STOP AMERICAN CENSORSHIP

Tick tock~time talk

My blog is approaching 1000 views. At the last peep it was 991, and the clock ticks. I created this blog, as a learning tool.

As you can tell from the nature of my post that surfing is an important aspect of my life. At one time, because of my love for the beach, sitting in the sun and swimming and surfing, I found it hard to get to school or do anything else. I found myself, not where I wanted to be. Time was getting away from me.

I’ve always been an artist, but I really wanted to be better. I went to the local, junior college and took a drawing class. After that class, I was awarded a half time, talent grant and went to school for four years on scholarship. I always took one art class and one academic class. You don’t HAVE to go to college to get ahead, but it sure does help.

If my life’s path had not turned in this direction I can’t imagine where I would be.

I learned to start things and finish things. I learned to use my time well.

These are a few drawings that I did very quickly to prove my art abilities, to someone here in Potrero. She thought I was lying about my academic credentials. I can’t say as I blame her. Lying is a favorite pastime of gringos in Costa Rica.

Anyway, I have a lot of time on my hands here, sometimes. We do not expect to have waves until next Friday.

I have created new goals for myself on my blog. I would like to create a better home page. Who am I?

Once I have done that to my satisfaction, I’m going to create a Facebook page for the Secondhand surfer.

I live my life one day at a time, one wave at a time, and now, one post at a time.

Why not, that’s all you can do, the same as, you can’t drive two cars at one time!

And the clock ticks, tick tock, time talk.

John Denver and Cat Burglars

Hey, it’s good to be back home again! Sometimes, this old farm feels like a long-lost friend. Hey, it’s good to be back home again! You probably recognize these John Denver lyrics.~That’s how I felt coming home, after being gone for four days. Only to find out that I had been robbed.

The scene of the crime. This is the entrance to my humble abode. I have been able to ward off the sneaky, crawly thieves of Playa Potrero for ten years; in this house anyway. I feel like having a party. I know, it’s a weird reaction, to being robbed, but it’s true~ In the early years in 2002, I use to live in fear of burglars. In the night, my dog Bwana, was always at the foot of my bed. My husband was in the States, working and I stayed behind to start my garden. It was terrifying. You knew when you laid down at night; very likely people were going to be outside in your yard, trying to get into your house. It had a way of creating anxiety.

I know this sounds bizarre, but life here is often just that. You have to do the deal, or leave.

It was a time of many cat burglars, in the neighborhood. The ladrones/burglars here had a few unique techniques, one being scarier than the other. They would spray ether on you; a chemical they had access to, because of the rodeo events. The cowboys use it to put down, out of control bulls. The burglars would enter your house and spray you with ether, and rob you while you slept. The other was that they would have a gancho/hook. This gancho is fishing, gift hook And can be used to lift items fifteen feet, through your window. But these burglars are always polite thieves. They will pick up your pants off the floor, take your wallet, steal your money and put everything back where it was. What? Why do they do that?

When you’re robbed here; you’re just robbed. There’s no one to call for help. You are on your own.

I’ve always heard local real estate agents say, “Petty thievery exists here, but nothing dangerous. There’s no violence here “. hmmmmmmmm……To expound on that would make for a very long story, maybe even a book.

This is the window where the thief entered the house, Monday, the day I left. The odd custom of burglars here, is to remove the jalousie windows, climb through the window and put the glass back in. Isn’t that weird? I know of them taking down burglar bars, removing the glass out of the window, stealing a few items and then putting the glass back and re-install the burglar bars. Why don’t they just go into the window business? There were so many fingerprints on the window. But, like I said, there are no police to report a burglary to. Yet, another aspect of Costa Rican living.

The key deposit. After the intruder left my house, he/she/they took a set of my house keys and dropped them in this flower-pot. Doesn’t it seem like they would put them in their pocket?

Living here is full of wonder and mystery, some good and some not so good. I don’t want to be cavalier about this burglary, but on the other hand, I have never wanted to be a prisoner to my things.

These are the words of Thomas Catton-someone that I admire. Our practice simply becomes to remain open to the ongoing challenges and obstacles that throw themselves at us; this becomes the path to the divine, to our inner joy. The divine plan was set up before our arrival; difficulties would be the searchlight to guide our spirit to awaken.The Mindful Addict @Amazon

This is what I truly believe. Scriptually, I’m taught that if someone wants to steal my TV, I should ask them if they would like to have my stereo. But I’m also warned that what I don’t protect will be taken from me.

My words on the matter are,

If I don’t think about it, I won’t become confused.

It still looks like paradise to me!

Secret Spot

Playa Tamarindo, Costa Rica, once was a secret spot. As a matter of fact, the country was unknown, until recently. Turning from Villa Real, faint images of ox carts on the swirling, dusty road, come to mind. There were few cars. It was wide open. There was only one rental car company in the country, and every rental was the same; a white, Suzuki Sidekick. You could tell a “gringo” local, at a glance. They all had an outback, rough and rugged look. Now, the town is filled with pampered pioneers. That’s progress, eh?

I actually struggled internally over writing this post. It seems a bit sacrilegious. First you share paradise, then it’s gone. It’s not like I’m spilling the beans on what a jewel Costa Rica is; I just want to tell you about a special day in a special place. One that’s pure-a-vida still.

I would not feel comfortable to disclose who these people (first names only) are or where this spot is. I can only say, this is the best. To me it cannot be improved upon. It is heaven at hand.

Roosters are a mainstay in Costa Rican lifestyle and the story would not be complete without this guy. Their crowing is second in the chain of morning animal sounds; the first being the Howler monkeys.

100_2448 — Adelina, The Family Matriarch

Adelina, was our hostess and I always feel honored to be in her presence. Who wouldn’t? She generously invited my husband and I to dinner and we were happy to accept. Her stove is red hot clay, fueled by cut wood. Each “burner” is a hole in the clay. The smoke is ventilated through the roof of the house. She tried to show me how to make a tortilla. I participated the best I could. I don’t think she realized how undomesticated that I am. Or maybe, she did! It’s kind of hard to hide. It was another National Geographic experience. What can I say?

100_2226 — Karen and the other ~ Tropical Rooster~

Karen is the reason we know this family. She is from southern California, and is fluent in Spanish; I only aspire to be. Her husband Glenn is a photographer and world traveller. When they’re in town, we gather here and swap adventure stories and tell tall tales. With the right people, this is my favorite pastime.

This is Omar, Adelina’s grandson. He’s unknowingly putting on a show for us. This is his front yard and private playground.

~the table was set for a typical Costa Rican meal; fish, caught that morning, black beans, rice and tortillas.

Sweet! Life just doesn’t get any better than this.

The day was done and we had to go back home. I could see the warmth through the window and I felt the magic.

I was reluctant parting, like I always am, when I have to leave these people and this place.

This is the Costa Rica that I fell in love with.

As I head home……………… I know I’ve just tasted a piece of heaven.

I’ve always been more of a sinner than a saint…..

Don’t tell anyone…………ok?

Women Surfers~All Washed Up at 21?

Olivia Benavidea/Playa Negra~Stonefish Photos

Olivia Benavides/Playa Negra, Costa Rica~Stonefishfoto

Andrea Raffo/Playa Negra, Costa Rica~Stonefishfoto

Jessie Carnes/Playa Negra, Costa Rica~Stonefishfoto

These ladies are great examples of young women surfing today. Fifteen years ago, you wouldn’t have seen this at Playa Negra. I know, I was there. There are more and more women in the water, and their abilities have no limits. Women’s surfing is not what it use to be, and it’s not what it’s going to be.

I just ran across a not, too old article, in Surfing Magazine. The shocking photo, for the article, is of a woman, with dirty feet, wearing a lot of make up and curls, maybe nude, maybe not, in a trash can. It mimics the cover of an Esquire magazine.

The title of the article is The New Woman Surfer Through at 21. It was written by Stuart Cornuelle. I checked out his articles and he doesn’t seem like a woman-hater.

I know that the surfing industry has been slow to change. It’s all age-old BS. Stuart’s view of women’s professional surfing is, that he’s reminded of the cruel, Hollywood of old. There’s only a place for the young women. Young, being 21 and under.

I don’t think so.

His perspective seems a bit shortsighted. Or maybe he’s just young and therefore naïve.

I’ve surfed longer than most surfers have been alive, and I’ve gotta tell you, or warn you, whichever; things are changing and they’re changing fast.

He asked women, what are they going to do, to change their current status? I have to laugh. My answer is, “They already have.”

we’re free people

I dream of a trip to the city.

I use to live in LA. Echo Park. That was in 1985.

Before discovering Costa Rica, I use to go to Manhattan twice a year.

Then I found it impossible to leave the waves.

Like I said, I dream of a trip to the city.

& so we ramble

latest free people shoot took place in the streets of LA and NY. LA or NY girl? via honestlywtf.

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Body~Temple

My body is the Temple of God? I believe this statement to be true. However, when I was first informed of this, at the age of six, it freaked me out. I wrestled with the idea of God, being in my body. I was trying to understand all of this new Catechism information. It created anxiety in me; more than I already had, which was a lot.

But today, I know that the Spirit lives in me. It’s my life force and energy, and it connects with everything around me. We Are One.

So I work at taking care of myself, physically, mentally and spiritually. I live and learn.

At one time, in my life, or I should say, in my youth, I was out of shape. Looking back, I know I was a strong person. I can only imagine what my abilities could have been, had I been in shape. But I wasn’t. And I wouldn’t say I’m 100% fit, now. But I am healthy. And I’d like to be healthier; it’s possible.

For years, I have invested many hours and energy into my well being.

I am in it, for the long haul.

At thirty one, I had gained a lot of weight, and I lost it; sixty five pounds. Can you believe it? And I have kept it off, all of these years. I lost it slowly, thinking of lifestyle change, rather than just loosing weight.

For incentive, I ran a few races; one being the Jacksonville River Run, 5X’s. I climbed Mount Precipice, in Bar Harbor, Maine. I crossed country skied in Colorado. And I’ve avidly surfed for the last fifteen years.

What I’m trying to say here is, I do things to take care of myself. I’m active in fun, healthy exercise. And I’m going to add, that it was done with less positive support and more negative comments.

When training for the runs, especially in the beginning, women would always comment, “You’re going to get hurt.” When I climbed Precipice, the people that I was with, said I could die, and don’t do it. It was too dangerous. And when I went to Colorado, my friend I was visiting, was sure I would be unconcious in the snow, from a lack of oxygen. I was breaking free and having fun. Everyone of those adventures were awesome, priceless, never to be repeated, and worth every bit of the effort.

Also, people often want you to eat, eat, eat! There’s so much social pressure to eat decadent foods, especially in the holidays. And if I do get thinner, then I have to endure all of the, “Are you sure you’re eating enough?” Anorexic paranoia prevails.

Personally, I don’t think people are meant to carry the extra weight that North Americans have become accustomed to.

It’s hard to stick to your guns, to exercise and eat right. But if you want to reap the rewards and care for the God in you, you have to prioritize.

CLIMB MORE MOUNTAINS~SWIM MORE SEAS~RIDE MORE WAVES~PUMP IRON~RUN~

Don’t adhere to the “crabs in the bucket”, that try to pull you down.

Now that I’ve shared all of that………….I have been asked many times,”Do you have grocery stores in Costa Rica?” I want to say there are no dumb questions…..but…..Costa Rica is a country, filled with people. How could we not have grocery stores?

Yesterday, I went to town, to the big grocery store. I would say the equivalent of a Publix, at home. We have many smaller stores, scattered about and a plethora of roadside vegetable stands. I spent sixty dollars for two small bags of groceries. That’s partly due to the economy, and partly due to the fact that it costs more to eat healthy.

I gave in, when I decided to take better care of my temple, to spend the money for good food. I’m worth it. Right. We all are.

I fought that concept, for a long, time though.

Brown is the only way to buy bread, rice and pastas. Fruits and vegetables are a must, as are good proteins.

I know I need to work on my portion control…vamos a ver-we’ll see.

Also, yesterday, in the morning, was my first private yoga class. I’ve been to six group sessions now, and I am enjoying the benefits. At my one on one class, I focused on clarity, of the poses. I need to know how they are going to work for me.

There’s always knew things to learn.

I don’t believe we have to get sick as we get older.

I cherish the God in me and the God in you.

I’m glad I’m me.

Are you glad you’re you?

Namaste

Rise Up and KISS

Last night, I started writing my post. I began with my discovery of Costa Rica. I was trying to relay how coming to this country was a spiritual quest. I was answering the still small voice in me, that said, “GO”.

Answering that voice use to be scary; now, it’s old hat. I practiced, practiced, practiced!

My post got too wordy, and too bogged down, trying to share my experiences. It seemed important, but proved difficult.

This morning, waking anew, I just want to tell you the results of my spiritual adventure ~ I rise up and enjoy the day the Lord has made ~

Regardless of my circumstances ~

Trying to live here in Costa Rica, brought me to my knees, and that’s obviously a good place for me to be.

Keep it Simple

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