La Fortuna

Lizzie and Merrill came in on Saturday. I was late picking them up because of the bus. Luckily they waited. We took a bus to Alejuela and then caught one to San Ramon. A taxi ride later we were at my apt. We dropped off their stuff and then took a walk to the centro. We found a soda restaurant where they could sample some typical Tico fare. After being harassed by a couple bums, Lizzie and I went to the Super to get some snacks and drink makings for the housewarming. We got home just before the party was set to begin. While there was a whirl of excitement, we then had some down time as no one showed up for an hour. Just as Lizzie and I were getting ready to play some cards and Merrill had decided to lay down for a nap, Nathan, Dalai and JuanCa showed up. Thus began the housewarming. Lizzie wanted us to make mojitos so we were busy in the kitchen stirring, grinding and testing. Sonia and Negro showed up a little bit later. The evening progressed smoothly. Several cocktails and beers later the party slowed. Lizzie and Mer were already retired to their room. The boys wanted to go out so after a quick costume change we reunited to continue the party. As it turned out everyone was tired and decided to go home.
Sunday morning after an egg scramble breakfast we packed out things and headed out for the bus station. The ride to la Fortuna took about 2:45. We found our hostel without much ado and for the second time since I have been here, I fell in love. I am such a sucker for baby kittens. We found ourselves a soda for a snack and walked around. Pretty much everything was closed because it was Sunday. Merrill found himself a soccer game in a Mexican restaurant and Lizzie and I took a walk. We returned with a pack of cards. We then found another soda for dinner. Yes- we ate a lot.
After taking my first truly hot shower in two months- since leaving the states- we went to bed.
The next morning we awoke to breakfast at our fav soda and walked around to find the best deal on tickets to Baldi Resort. A beautiful park resort just under the volcano Arenal that boasted 20 hot spring pools. We tried them all out only to return to our favorite. The one with a swim up bar. 3 $10 cocktails each later, it was time to head out to catch our bus back home.
I hope to post some photos as Mer took tons. Unfortunately he didn'y bring his cord so you will have to wait until he gets home.
ALSO- for those of you who plan to visit: I now have a new rule. Not only must you bring a contribution to the apt, but you must write a blog entry to share your experience with my other readers. you may all look forward to Lizzie and Mer's. The headed out for Montezuma this morning so look for that come Thursday.