Sunday, December 7, 2008

Seven Month Mark

Just a picture of what a typical street looks like here. Costa Rica does have it's U.S. type streets but not very many of them.

So we have reached the seven month mark...I'm going to take a moment to pat myself on the back here.
{pat...pat...pat}

I've come up with an analogy for my relationship with Costa Rica. Do you want to hear it?

I figured. {Just humor me} Here goes.

When I first met my friend "Costa Rica" she was beautifully dressed, calming and full of adventure. I wanted to be like her. She seemed perfect.

Then I got close enough to see many brown spots, crows feet and a few occasions when she decided to behave with less than stellar character. {Our floods, struggling with the language and the difficulty of raising a large family here} I had to ask myself if I still wanted Costa Rica as a friend? Did I?

No, I was angry and disappointed.

I quickly learned that I couldn't avoid her. She was everywhere; the store, in town and even in my home. I then decided to stick it out and see what I can learn from her. Boy have I sat at the feet of this instructor. And now, finally, from this view, she is again beautiful to me.

I don't expect her to be something she's not. Her crows feet and quirkiness are what make her more attractive. I'm not trying to make her {Costa Rica} into what I think she should be and then be disappointed when she doesn't conform. I'm starting to love her for who she is...and our relationship is blossoming.

7 comments:

Ambrea said...

I am so proud of you! Seven months is quite an accomplishment and I would have never survived this long....hahaha!!!

Christine said...

Great perspective!

rebecca @ older and wisor said...

I so would've been in a padded room by now. Just saying.

How long do y'all plan to stay down there? I don't think I've read that anywhere. Or is it just until you crack ;)

Anonymous said...

What a great way to explain your unique relationship with Costa Rica! Maybe I'll meet her someday! :)

Peggy Sue:)

Alison said...

I'm so glad things are looking brighter for you. I think of you often and love my CR vanilla. Using it a lot lately! =) Thank you again!

loubige said...

Congratulations on your seven month anniversary. Here's to many more. (if that's what you want) :-)

It sounds like she's a bit of a stalker if you can't avoid her.

Lara said...

You are a trooper, Shawna! Happy 7th Anniversary! We can all learn from our friend--you!