Day 4

Today we had a boat adventure. A nice guy named Freddy met us at the beach right by our hotel. After wading out into the waves and climbing aboard, we were off!

We did some swimming and snorkeling at an island off the coast, then swam ashore to explore the cliffs and caves. Freddy brought along a cooler full of fresh fruits, which he cut into dripping slices whenever we started to get hungry. 

The most amazing part of the day was the delfinas (dolphins). Freddy drove us out to an area of the ocean where he can usually find a pod of 10-12. The kids fell asleep during that part of the trip. 

Once we got there, my shrieks woke them all up. There were at least 50 delfinas cavorting around the boat. They swam right next to the boat, usually in pairs, spouted, and jumped high in the air. It was a magical hour.  

We relaxed at the hotel for the afternoon, then went into town for an early dinner at Pizza A Go Go. 

An evening visit to Playa Carillo, then back to the hotel for dessert and stories. Another candidate for the best day of vacation ever. 

Day 3

Jude wrote in his journal during breakfast. 

We drove a few minutes to the beach just south of our hotel, Playa Carillo. 

We built sandcastles and swam in the waves for hours. 

There was a nice shady spot where we had snacks and drew pictures. 

I think this was the nicest beach I have ever visited, mostly because the water was perfect for swimming. We jumped waves, did some body surfing, and almost lost Jude's hat and my sunglasses in the "biggies".

After dinner we went to the nearby animal preserve to see some local fauna. It was an experience, being so close to the wild cats and reptiles. I don't think we will ever forget the attack of the red ants!

Day 2

This is a good representation of our second day. 

It was all about recovery. We landed and rented a car, then drove about four hours to Samara. For the rest of the day, we napped, swam, explored, and ate. And made plans for our next few days in Costa Rica!

Day 1

We started the day with a flowery breakfast. 

After feverishly packing All The Stuff while the kids were at school, we started a new tradition: pho before airplane. 

The kids were pretty excited to go to the airport. 

We got to the airport way too early, so we killed some time at the play area and coffee people. 

After a surprisingly fantastic dinner in LAX, the kids zoned out for a while. 

Ada did some tricks...

...and pretended to sleep on the plane. 

Our first overnight flight with the kids was harder than we expected, but we all survived. 

Day 0

All dressed up for the music program at Bridlemile. 

Swing

Jude got a new swing for Christmas.  After a few false starts, we got it hung up in his room.  Tonight, he discovered that the wooden bar across the top is pretty good for practicing his gymnastics moves...

Notice her First Love