Our Week in Costa Rica

I'm not sure I mentioned why we were having a layover in Samara, Costa Rica but for those that don't know; Derek's sister Keysha & her husband Tait & Derek's parents Jesse & Jodyne have moved to Samara, Costa Rica . It is also Derek's parents' 40th year anniversary so we we're having a week of celebrations, family time, and relaxation! Derek's brother Josha and his wife Irina have also flown in for the week from Russia . We also have a special family friend with us for the week, Sharon McCarthy, who moved down to CR a year ago from Connecticut to do need greater work. She has had some wonderful words of encouragment for all of us.
Some of the highlights this week:
1) The boys tying a machete to bamboo in order to cut coconuts out of the trees, then making delicious coconut drinks!
2) Our Iguana friends who come every day looking for sweet fruit that they eat right out of our hands
3) Our howler monkey friends that occupy the trees nearby, looking very cute and cuddly, yet they have a ferocious sounding howl
4) Going to the local English group where Tait, Keysha, Jesse, & Jodyne will be attending. Derek gave the public talk in English, which was a treat since they haven't had a public talk in English for over a month!
5) All the wonderful pineapple, mangos, papaya, bananas, coconuts and fish!
6) The beach, it's like bath water (especially since it's been high 90's everyday)
7) Last but not least, all the upbuilding association and encouragement from everyone
There is probably more I haven't mentioned, but it has been a great week! We leave tomorrow for Chile, our first stop will be in Santiago where we will visit the English Congregation there for two weeks.....