activites during december

I went with sisters to Catarina. About an 1hr and half north of SJdS. Because of its elevated position, it's a little cooler than San Juan del Sur. The sisters I went with were actually cold there. The climate reminded me of a lovely sunny day back home. It was perfect. It is famous for having an observation point overlooking the Apoyo Lagoon. Due to its rich soil, plant growing nurseries are everywhere along the road that lead to the observation point. It also has lots of little craft stalls along the way.

You can take a track down to the Lagoon and swim in it as well. The sisters are from left, Abigail, Blanquita, Gloria and Glorianita (sorry its not clear, dang camera startin to play up)

coffee in Catarina....so far from what i've seen here, there's no 'how do u like ur coffee' it'll cum to u black with tons of sugar, so you have to tell them before they make it.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Ka kite Paul & MC who went home during December. From the moment they met me in Costa Rica to when they went home, they were a blessing & made my transition into life here so much easier. I am so thankful for all their loving assistance. They were real troopers here. They are missed by all, in the cong & in the territory. 

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Kia ora Tusa's. They came knocking on my door Friday nite, 27th Dec, the day they arrived.

 they are doing great with their Spanish and speaking to people, haha they have no choice really

James has put them to work in the group. I love having them here.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Witnessing in El Pochote, Sunset at Playa el Coco and Tortugas (turtles). El Pochote is South of SJdS along the coast towards the Border of Costa Rica. About an 1hr from SJdS. It's territory that hasn't been done in a long time. As it is close to the Border of Costa Rica there is a military zone check of all vehicles.

 

We were stopped going both ways. Going thru, the guard checked Micah's (driver) passport and his wife's passport, then came to look briefly thru the back of the jeep where 3 of us were sitting, then we were aloud to pass. On our return, was a different guard. After he checked the passports, everyone was asked to get out of the jeep. He searched the front, then came to the back where I held the door open for him while he searched. There was literature on the seats and after searching my bag he asked if we were Jehovah's Witnesses. I said yes, we all were. He smiled, said we could get back in jeep and go. Micah gave him a brochure and one for his colleague.

The ministry was great as I've come to expect, lots of literature placed and bible studies started. Sad thing is I wonder if we'll get back there while I'm still here. hope so.

 yay lunch time.

Micha & his wife Hazel and their jeep. I spend abit of time in this jeep.

The ranges in the distance are Costa Rica. No one out fishing at this time of the day. Just us.

We had planned to visit this evening a refuge for turtles (for you Saffron, the Spanish word for turtles is tortugas) as we were in the area. Micah has a bible student who works at the refuge and he was going to take us. The tour wasn't until 7ish. After lunch we went to another area to preach slowly making our way closer to Playa La Flor where the turtles would be. By 5pmish we headed to Playa El Coco to see the sunset.

Micah went for a swim.

By 6ish it was time to pick up Micah's student and go to see las tortugas.

The Refugio de Vida Silvestre La Flor is better know for its influx of Olive Ridley Turtles during the montsh of July thru to December. The beach is beautiful and its petrolled by Military Guards to protect the habitat and the turtles. Nicaragua has one of the biggest Olive Ridley Turtle populations, but they are threatened by human interference who rob the nests.

 the sacks contain eggs. when they hatch las tortuguitas (baby turtles) are put into the baskets to be carried to the beach where they will head for the sea...

 no bright lights allowed

we saw many come in from the sea, lays their eggs and return to the sea. We were permitted to take photos only from the back if using a flash.

A lovely end to the day and the year. 

I was moved by the experience., I now have a soft spot for tortugas.