Sunsets of Costa Rica: A Reflective Photoblog

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“Life is not measured by the breaths you take, but by the moments that take your breath away”. – unknown

We did it. Our first real epic family adventure and it was absolutely amazing. I confess that my expectations were a bit guarded when we finally agreed to do a big international trip with the kids. It is not that they are unruly kids. But they are kids. I have traveled for many years all over the place going to some of the furthest reaches of the earth but I have never brought the kids.

So this time we did. We waited many years, doing various family trips around the US and when they finally reached the age where we thought we could give it a try we did. We packed our bags, boarded a plane and headed south of the border to Costs Rica. And it was marvelous.

We didn’t stay at an all-inclusive resort on the beach but drove all over the place having quite the adventure for our first land trip out of the country. It was the best family trip we have ever been on, hands down. There were no meltdowns, no drama, no sibling bickering or bell bottom tears. Instead, it was nothing but laughing, smiling, enjoying each others’ company and getting out of our comfort zones to try new, daring things. 

I came back from this trip with a new lease on life. On a personal level, the past few months have been emotionally challenging for me. I was often overwhelmed, stressed and feeling like I was losing control. I realized that I had not been feeling at ease for months –quite frankly since the election. My world and everything that I have cared so deeply about was unraveling and falling apart. I was in a constant panic about the crumbling of human rights, the dismantling of the climate and environmental policies, the loss of dignity and the utter hatred, violence and cruelty surrounding the world.

I was constantly on the phone with my senators fighting, begging, and pleading to protect international foreign aid, to make sure mothers would have clean water for their children and that my friends in the community wouldn’t be deported and sent back. It was consuming my life to a point that I was constantly on edge, anxious and filled with dread and despair. I felt like a heavy weight was pushing me down and I was losing my breath.

Until I just simply couldn’t take it anymore. I could no longer obsess and be miserable over things that were out of my control and I couldn’t change. I stopped reading my friends posts on Facebook, stopped getting worked up about every little thing (that albeit in my opinion is terrible yet I can’t really change), and now I skim the newspaper. Slowly but surely the suffocating blanket of anxiety lifted and I could breathe.

I brought my focus back to the things I can change. I can continue to use my voice, I can be kind and good-hearted, I can give back to others and I can give myself some slack. I can live in the moment, and be grateful for the things I do have. Yes, there are millions upon millions of people in this world who are suffering but I can’t let my soul die to save them. I also know that my problems are “first-world” problems or even problems associated with living in the liberal middle class. Not everyone can go on a week trip to Costa Rica! But I’m human and like every single human being on the planet, we all have issues, worries and concerns whether it be health, economic or simply survival.

So I’ve turned over a new leaf. I’m practicing mindfulness and living more in the moment. I’m committed to enjoying what I have, my life, my family and as always to giving back and making a difference. That is what one week in Costa Rica with my family did. It brought me back to the now. To being alive, happy and free.

“Some days there won’t be a song in your heart. Sing Anyway”. – Emory Austin


“Let your hook be always cast; in the pool where you least expect it, there will be fish.” – Ovid

“If you love life, life will love you back.” – Arthur Rubinstein

“How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.” – Anne Frank

I hope you have enjoyed a preview of some of my pictures. These are the ones I’ve been sharing on Instagram. I’ve become a bit more active on there as I’ve enjoyed experimenting with creative photography and creating mini stories of my photos. As part of my “slowing down and stopping to enjoy the little things in life” I am going to take my time with my blogging. I can’t do my posts justice if I rush through them too fast. Over the next few months, I will be telling tons of stories about our family adventure. I can hardly wait to share it with you.

74 thoughts on “Sunsets of Costa Rica: A Reflective Photoblog”

    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Thanks! They are 10 and 12.

      Reply ↓

  2. I’m happy to read your reflections and resolutions, Nicole. Your photos are sun-sational and I’ll look forward to reading about your family vacation…when the time is right.

    janet

    Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Thanks Janet. Sorry I’ve been so behind on reading your blog. Keeping caught up online on everything has been a struggle. I hope to get back up to speed again but realize it will always be a challenge for now keeping up. 😌

      Reply ↓

      • Don’t worry about it. I post every day, so it’s harder to keep up. I didn’t really get much read during the Thursday-Sunday period, as I was busy with church, my s-i-l’s visit, making ravioli for Easter, etc. Life happens. 🙂 Always glad to see you when you have time and any time you get to Chicago.

        janet

      • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
        thirdeyemom on said:

        Thanks Janet. I just didn’t want you to think that I don’t care. I always always appreciate your comments so much. It means a lot to me. So thank you and glad you had an enjoyable Easter. We actually were untraditional and my husband cooked the meal and made an entire turkey dinner! I did a nice lasagne dinner Friday night for our neighbors. Yes, life is always o busy. 🙂 The kids keep us on our toes plus the one year old pup who is barking at me know to get off and take him on a walk before I pick my daughter up at school! 🙂

      • I appreciate you telling me that, Nicole. Ever since I learned to make ravioli, that’s what everyone wants for holiday meals. This year I ended up saying I’d make them for about 12 people at a friend’s house. It was a lot of work, but they were quite good. I did one batch with a meat filling and one with artichoke.

      • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
        thirdeyemom on said:

        Wonderful Janet! Sounds like a fun Easter! ☀️☀️☀️

    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Thanks Sally. Still trying to get through the poetry book. Like everything it is gathering dust but I’ve been trying to slow down a bit. I saw some new buds coming up in my garden. This summer I think I will try to focus more time on it and nature. 😌

      Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      So glad you enjoyed!

      Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Thank you so much!

      Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Thank you so much!

      Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Thank you Amy!

      Reply ↓

  8. Gorgeous photos. There is still a lot of good and beauty in the world despite how it seems in the media. I’ve withdrawn from Facebook and I don’t watch the news and since then I’ve felt a slight shift in my attitude for the better. Enjoy your upcoming family adventures.

    Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      So incredibly true. Getting away from it all and in vacation reminded me of what is most important. 😌

      Reply ↓

  9. I am pleased you are feeling better. As long as Trump doesn’t do something too stupid time will pass and life will go on. Turkey is another issue! The world has gone mad. All we can do is live as well as we can.

    Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Yes so true Debra. Thanks for the kind words.

      Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Thank you so much and I’m smiling! 😌

      Reply ↓
  11. restlessjo – Hi! I’m Jo! Johanna when I’m feeling posh, Jan to my Dad, and Joasiu to my Polish family. A bit of a mix-up, that’s me. The one constant, however, is my restless nature. I love to travel and to explore our world. It doesn’t have to be the big wide world. I can be ridiculously happy not too far from home, so long as I’m seeking new horizons. Of course I have a wish list, and it was to help me fulfil my dreams that I started to write travel guides for a venture called Simonseeks. I’d always kept a travel diary, and it was hugely satisfying to share my experiences and to make new friends who shared my passion for travel. Alas, Simonseeks hit a few troubles, but I still find myself writing about my travels. I’ve become addicted. I’d love to share them, and to make more friends. So, it has to be a blog- right? Or do I mean- write?
    restlessjo on said:

    The photos give me goosebumps, Nicole! 🙂 So glad you’ve regained your joy in life. You being miserable and under such stress was never going to help anyone and you have your lovely family to live for.

    Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Oh thanks Jo for your kind words. I put way too much pressure on myself and I’m learning to relax and slow down and stop worrying. It has helped so much!

      Reply ↓
  12. lexklein – I’m a restless, world-wandering, language-loving, book-devouring traveler trying to straddle the threshold between a traditional, stable family life and a free-spirited, irresistible urge to roam. Even when I was young, I always wanted to be somewhere else. I was the kid who loved camp, vacations, sleepovers, and all forms of transportation. Did my restlessness spring from a love of languages and other cultures? From a fiction fixation and all the places I’ve visited on the pages of a globeful of authors? I think it’s more primordial, though, an innate itch that demands scratching at regular intervals. I’m sure I won’t have a travel story every time I add to this blog, but I’ve got a lot! I’m a pretty happy camper (literally), but there is some angst as well as excitement in always having one foot out the door. Come along for the trip as I take the second step …
    lexklein on said:

    I’m glad you are feeling better. I’d been in quite a funk myself – partly election, partly reaction to the election, partly personal upheaval, etc., etc. – but I feel myself emerging from the morass these days, too. Maybe it’s a new location, the arrival of spring, or the realization (as you note) that I can’t fix everything in the world (or even my little world) myself. Enjoy these glorious family days and trips as much as you can; I miss those days a lot even though my kids have been great about staying attached and traveling with us (or to us) as much as they can. Happy spring, Nicole!

    Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Thanks Lexi! You have had a lot on your own plate too with all the moving. Yes I agree enjoying these special years and every day is so essential. Excited to read your blog post soon… in my inbox!

      Reply ↓

  13. I was amazed at how well my kids got along when we took a trip to the UK the summer before last. They were for the most part unplugged and the only time they really argued was when we were all crammed into a mid-size SUV (there are 6 of us). We all have wonderful memories of it.

    Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Wow four kids! I only have two and I feel busy.

      Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Thank you so much Lisa. I was so good for me to get away from our busy life here too and just take a break and be together as a family.

      Reply ↓
  15. Alison and Don – Occupation: being/living/experiencing/travelling. In our sixties, with apparently no other authentic option, my husband Don and I sold our apartment and car, sold or gave away all our stuff and set off to discover the world. And ourselves. We started in Italy in 2011 and from there have travelled to Spain, India, Bali, Australia, New Zealand, SE Asia, South America, Egypt, Japan, etc. - you can see the blog archive. We travelled full-time for nearly six years, and then re-established a home in Vancouver. We now travel 2-3 months per year. We are interested in how the world works, how life works, how the creation of experience works, how the mind works. As we travel and both "choose" our course, and at the same time just let it unfold, we discover the "mechanics" of life, the astounding creativity of life, and a continual need to return to trust and presence. Opening the heart, and acceptance of what is, as it is, are keystones for us both. Interests: In no particular order: travel, photography, figure skating (as a fan), acceptance, authenticity, walking/hiking, joy, creativity, being human, adventure, presence, NOW. Same for Don except replace figure skating with Formula One motor racing.
    Alison and Don on said:

    What a wonderful post Nicole. I’m so glad that you’ve stopped stressing so much and rediscovered your centre. Now you can spread joy in the world. What could be more helpful than that?
    Alison xox

    Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Oh thanks Alison! I think I also have been so overwhelmed with keeping up. I am so behind in blogging and reading my favorite blogs. It used to stress me out but now I just leave it all in my inbox and wait until I have time even if it is a few weeks!

      Reply ↓
      • Alison and Don – Occupation: being/living/experiencing/travelling. In our sixties, with apparently no other authentic option, my husband Don and I sold our apartment and car, sold or gave away all our stuff and set off to discover the world. And ourselves. We started in Italy in 2011 and from there have travelled to Spain, India, Bali, Australia, New Zealand, SE Asia, South America, Egypt, Japan, etc. - you can see the blog archive. We travelled full-time for nearly six years, and then re-established a home in Vancouver. We now travel 2-3 months per year. We are interested in how the world works, how life works, how the creation of experience works, how the mind works. As we travel and both "choose" our course, and at the same time just let it unfold, we discover the "mechanics" of life, the astounding creativity of life, and a continual need to return to trust and presence. Opening the heart, and acceptance of what is, as it is, are keystones for us both. Interests: In no particular order: travel, photography, figure skating (as a fan), acceptance, authenticity, walking/hiking, joy, creativity, being human, adventure, presence, NOW. Same for Don except replace figure skating with Formula One motor racing.
        Alison and Don on said:

        I also used to get stressed if I couldn’t keep up. Now I too do what you do – just let it be until I have time.

      • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
        thirdeyemom on said:

        A much better plan isn’t it Alison! Where are you off to next? Or are you spending the spring and summer in Vancouver?

      • Alison and Don – Occupation: being/living/experiencing/travelling. In our sixties, with apparently no other authentic option, my husband Don and I sold our apartment and car, sold or gave away all our stuff and set off to discover the world. And ourselves. We started in Italy in 2011 and from there have travelled to Spain, India, Bali, Australia, New Zealand, SE Asia, South America, Egypt, Japan, etc. - you can see the blog archive. We travelled full-time for nearly six years, and then re-established a home in Vancouver. We now travel 2-3 months per year. We are interested in how the world works, how life works, how the creation of experience works, how the mind works. As we travel and both "choose" our course, and at the same time just let it unfold, we discover the "mechanics" of life, the astounding creativity of life, and a continual need to return to trust and presence. Opening the heart, and acceptance of what is, as it is, are keystones for us both. Interests: In no particular order: travel, photography, figure skating (as a fan), acceptance, authenticity, walking/hiking, joy, creativity, being human, adventure, presence, NOW. Same for Don except replace figure skating with Formula One motor racing.
        Alison and Don on said:

        We’re in Vancouver for about a year this time. I’m having problems with chronic pain and mobility that I need to get sorted. We realised we just needed to take whatever time it takes for me to heal.

      • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
        thirdeyemom on said:

        That is nice you will be in Vancouver. What kind of chronic pain do you have? I remember we chatted before about pain. I’ve had chronic neck and back pain since I was 13 and my hip area has been on and off pain for about three years. It sucks!!! I just had a flare up myself with both my neck and hip area so I’m back in physical therapy and pain. It is annoying because I can’t do all that I want to do. Yet I remind myself it could always be so much worse. The Costa Rica trip got to me with all the driving. Oh well. I’ve been doing a lot of acupuncture which has helped a bit and in time hopefully it will be manageable again and I can back up running! 😌

      • Alison and Don – Occupation: being/living/experiencing/travelling. In our sixties, with apparently no other authentic option, my husband Don and I sold our apartment and car, sold or gave away all our stuff and set off to discover the world. And ourselves. We started in Italy in 2011 and from there have travelled to Spain, India, Bali, Australia, New Zealand, SE Asia, South America, Egypt, Japan, etc. - you can see the blog archive. We travelled full-time for nearly six years, and then re-established a home in Vancouver. We now travel 2-3 months per year. We are interested in how the world works, how life works, how the creation of experience works, how the mind works. As we travel and both "choose" our course, and at the same time just let it unfold, we discover the "mechanics" of life, the astounding creativity of life, and a continual need to return to trust and presence. Opening the heart, and acceptance of what is, as it is, are keystones for us both. Interests: In no particular order: travel, photography, figure skating (as a fan), acceptance, authenticity, walking/hiking, joy, creativity, being human, adventure, presence, NOW. Same for Don except replace figure skating with Formula One motor racing.
        Alison and Don on said:

        So sorry to hear how difficult it is for you! And yes, chronic pain sucks! I’m pretty much in pain from my hips to my ankles and the more I do the worse it gets. I haven’t yet found a doctor to diagnose it beyond arthritis in both knees and one hip, but I know it’s much more than that. I see yet another specialist next week.

      • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
        thirdeyemom on said:

        It is annoying as I am sure you can relate. Ironically I am much better when I’m on vacation and relaxed. I tend to hold a tremendous amount of tension in my body. Oh well. So did you have an injury? My mom has arthritis everywhere so she has suffered a lot herself. She had surgery on both knees. I know I have arthritis in my neck. Hope you mend soon… 😌

      • Alison and Don – Occupation: being/living/experiencing/travelling. In our sixties, with apparently no other authentic option, my husband Don and I sold our apartment and car, sold or gave away all our stuff and set off to discover the world. And ourselves. We started in Italy in 2011 and from there have travelled to Spain, India, Bali, Australia, New Zealand, SE Asia, South America, Egypt, Japan, etc. - you can see the blog archive. We travelled full-time for nearly six years, and then re-established a home in Vancouver. We now travel 2-3 months per year. We are interested in how the world works, how life works, how the creation of experience works, how the mind works. As we travel and both "choose" our course, and at the same time just let it unfold, we discover the "mechanics" of life, the astounding creativity of life, and a continual need to return to trust and presence. Opening the heart, and acceptance of what is, as it is, are keystones for us both. Interests: In no particular order: travel, photography, figure skating (as a fan), acceptance, authenticity, walking/hiking, joy, creativity, being human, adventure, presence, NOW. Same for Don except replace figure skating with Formula One motor racing.
        Alison and Don on said:

        Ironically the one joint which was never injured (right hip) is the one that’s giving me the most trouble!

      • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
        thirdeyemom on said:

        Hope you can get to the bottom of it soon Alison!

      • Alison and Don – Occupation: being/living/experiencing/travelling. In our sixties, with apparently no other authentic option, my husband Don and I sold our apartment and car, sold or gave away all our stuff and set off to discover the world. And ourselves. We started in Italy in 2011 and from there have travelled to Spain, India, Bali, Australia, New Zealand, SE Asia, South America, Egypt, Japan, etc. - you can see the blog archive. We travelled full-time for nearly six years, and then re-established a home in Vancouver. We now travel 2-3 months per year. We are interested in how the world works, how life works, how the creation of experience works, how the mind works. As we travel and both "choose" our course, and at the same time just let it unfold, we discover the "mechanics" of life, the astounding creativity of life, and a continual need to return to trust and presence. Opening the heart, and acceptance of what is, as it is, are keystones for us both. Interests: In no particular order: travel, photography, figure skating (as a fan), acceptance, authenticity, walking/hiking, joy, creativity, being human, adventure, presence, NOW. Same for Don except replace figure skating with Formula One motor racing.
        Alison and Don on said:

        Thanks Nicole. Me too!

      • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
        thirdeyemom on said:

        I had a rough weekend as I drove to a conference and spent 12 hours driving! 😐result was that I am very stiff yet better than expected . It is tough on the body isn’t it Alison. I have begun experimenting with supplements like fish oil and magnesium and it actually seems to have been helping cut down inflammation. Fingers crossed 😌

  16. nepenthenism – I'm in an Ongoing mind restoration from C-PTSD, and I choose faith over fear daily. I'd like to share random thoughts, therapy notes, and insights, but not my triggers.
    missfeatherhat on said:

    I love the Captivating view , calm and serene .

    Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Thanks so much!

      Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Thanks! 🙂

      Reply ↓
  18. Monalisa Yadav – Bangalore, Karnataka – Monalisa is a distinguished digital marketing expert with a prolific career that spans across various facets of online marketing. With an impressive track record in SEO, social media, and content strategy, she stands as a beacon of knowledge in the digital domain. Currently shining in her role as a Deputy Manager, Monalisa's passion lies in driving organic growth and enhancing brand visibility online. Her commitment to continuous learning is evident through her Coursera certifications, underscoring her dedication to staying ahead in the fast-evolving digital landscape. Monalisa's profile is a testament to her expertise, creativity, and the impactful results she delivers for her clients.
    Ranthambore Jeep Safari on said:

    I’m cheerful to peruse your appearance and resolutions, Nicole. Your photographs are sun-sational and I’ll anticipate perusing about your family excursion…

    Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Thank you so much and I’m really glad you enjoyed!

      Reply ↓

  19. I literally gasped out loud when I saw the pictures of this sunset. How wonderful! Thanks for sharing 😉

    Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Oh thank you so much! This makes me feel very pleased! 🌟🌟🌟😌

      Reply ↓

  20. ये तस्वीरें इतनी अद्भुत हैं कि शाृद शब्द कम पड़ जाए। Must say, amazing photography . Moreover, our nature is plenty of surprizes.

    Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Thank you so much! 🌟🌟🌟

      Reply ↓

  21. Pingback: Sunsets of Costa Rica: A Reflective Photoblog – Wag 'n Bietjie

  22. I love Costa Rica! We just visited Puerto Viejo in October. Such a beautiful country and people. Beautiful photos! Where did you visit in Costa Rica? We stayed on the Southeastern Caribbean on this visit. We also went to Bocos Del Toro in Panama, which I highly recommend. Our trip was 10 days of heaven! We also stayed in Cahuita. We loved the local culture and the fact that where ever we went, it wasn’t built up to high heaven. I never saw a building over two stories. I would retire there in a minute if I could.

    Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      This was my third trip to CR and I’ve been all over- the Osa Peninsula is my favorite! I wrote a lot about it on my blog as I went in January. We just got back from a family trip a few weeks ago and went to Arenal, Rio Celeste and Manuel Antonio. Loved it. I also have heard a ton about Bocos del Toro and wanted to learn more. Would it be a good place for kids? Have you written about it? How did you reach it? From CR?

      Reply ↓
      • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
        thirdeyemom on said:

        Thanks so much for this! I did read it and it is great! If we decide to go that way I will be sure to let you know as I may need some advice/tips.

      • Glad you enjoyed the article. We really liked Panama, and will go again. Also every single beer we had was ice cold, and cheap! Like a $1 a bottle!

      • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
        thirdeyemom on said:

        I must go! Thanks so much for the tips.

  23. Beautiful photos Nicole! I know exactly how you have been feeling, as I am walking in those same footsteps, feeling stressed every day, making phone calls, going to meetings, signing petitions, staying informed. I feel like I am suffocating! I am about to step away as we head out on Monday for the summer, an educational summer one for us as we have elected to volunteer for Yellowstone Association, supporting the naturalists who conduct the field seminars. Our internet access will be very limited so I will not be bombarded with the day-to-day madness of this administration. I think this is just what the doctor ordered. Looking forward to hearing more about your CR trip.

    Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Thanks LuAnn! How exciting. I am sure you will have an absolutely wonderful time. Enjoy! Unplug and be close to nature.

      Reply ↓
  24. Miriam – Australia – I’m a wonder lusting woman, a musician, a freelance travel writer and magazine columnist. Utterly passionate about travel and life and turning the ordinary moments into the extraordinary. My motto is “just do it”.
    Miriam on said:

    What a spectacular post Nicole. From your beautiful Instagram posts I know how deeply this trip affected you. And I’m so glad you have come back with a new lease on life. Look forward to reading more. 💕

    Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Oh thank you Miriam! I have so much more to write on Costa Rica and now Haiti too. I’ll be busy for the next several months.

      Reply ↓
      • Miriam – Australia – I’m a wonder lusting woman, a musician, a freelance travel writer and magazine columnist. Utterly passionate about travel and life and turning the ordinary moments into the extraordinary. My motto is “just do it”.
        Miriam on said:

        How wonderful. That’ll keep you out of trouble 😊

      • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
        thirdeyemom on said:

        Yep! So how is the job Miriam and how is life?

      • Miriam – Australia – I’m a wonder lusting woman, a musician, a freelance travel writer and magazine columnist. Utterly passionate about travel and life and turning the ordinary moments into the extraordinary. My motto is “just do it”.
        Miriam on said:

        Life is good Nicole but the job is no more.

      • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
        thirdeyemom on said:

        Sounds like a good decision Miriam!

      • Miriam – Australia – I’m a wonder lusting woman, a musician, a freelance travel writer and magazine columnist. Utterly passionate about travel and life and turning the ordinary moments into the extraordinary. My motto is “just do it”.
        Miriam on said:

        It wasn’t my decision … but maybe in time it would have been.

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