Pura Vida Life

In Costa Rica, Pura Vida isn't something they just say for tourists. It's a way of life. The bank has an inexplicably long line and takes 2 hours to be seen? Pura Vida. You see someone and want to say a quick hi? Pura Vida. You buy something at the market and say Gracias? Pura Vida is the response. Costa Rica is Pura Vida.

The past few days, residents have been celebrating El Dia de la Anexion. If you live in the states you probably haven't heard of this. This day, the 25th of July, is the celebration of the annexation of the Nicoyan peninsula by Costa Rica. The people in this area chose to apply to become part of Costa Rica officially. There are huge celebrations on this day and the days surrounding it. These include markets, traditional dancing, music, and foods.

traditional dancers in Nicoya

I came out of the bank and these girls were putting on a great performance!

In addition to those festivities the past few days, I graduated from TEFL! This was such a crazy and intense experience. We all got super close from doing it together, and I know I'll stay in touch with my fellow TEFL grads. We spent all day together 5 days a week for 4 weeks straight, working our asses off. I was proud to get to finish my last week by teaching a class about disability awareness. If you have any questions about doing this program, please reach out to me. I am happy to give you more information!

graduation day!

Also, we have some big news! Kalen and I have decided to stay put in Samara until at least November. We want to have time to feel a bit settled somewhere without the constant business of the TEFL program. We want to get to know Samara a bit better. It's a lovely place. Come visit us!!

Sending love to everyone wherever you are reading from! Pura Vida!

Awesome infographic we came across at a cafe in Tamarindo