We are realizing that we just have to embrace the fact that there will be plenty of insects around. The houses simply do not close all the way up even though we have windows and all the windows have screens. Today Henry asked me to look at the large beetle he'd found on a windowsill in the dining room. My excitement waned rapidly when I explained to him that it was in fact a cockroach. But it wasn't that big. Welcome to the tropics.
We ventured into town with a few tasks in mind. Successfully withdrew more cash to finish paying the security deposit for the house. Stopped in at ICE, the Costa Rican national electric company, who also provides cell phone, home phone and internet service. Was told by the door man that we had to come back an hour later, at 2 when the representative was back from lunch. Maybe a small siesta too? When we did go in, we had to take a number, even though it was a small place with two other customers. The young man explained that the only way to obtain internet access for our computer was to buy a USB stick modem, which in theory can be plugged into a wireless router to provide a wi-fi network in the house. Then, we need to show our passport (how did he know I wasn't a local?) and we could obtain service. Of course they were out of the stick modems, as was the only other electronics shop in town. I'd read that some things taken for granted in the states require a bit more diligence here.
In spite of some trepidation on the kids' part ("you can't make us get out of the car!"), we boldly marched into the principal's office of the local school. I understood maybe a third of what he was telling us and surmised that he is a friendly man, that the kids would not only be able to go to school there but would learn Spanish rapidly in his opinion. He asked for their transcripts from their old schools. Not exactly sure what he is looking for but we'll try and round up some recent report cards. We will email them to him and talk about when they will start. This is exactly from where memories and stories will come.
After this adventure, we had some key copies made in the local hardware store and met a couple of friendly folks there. We scored some fruit and vegetables from the produce shop, whom our sources tell us receives fresh supplies every Monday and Friday. Loaded up on more groceries, clothesline to take full advantage of the sun and wind, a fly swatter and other necessities. Exciting, maybe not, but it's still an adventure figuring out where everything is and getting to know the local folks. And speaking Spanish.
More eating and organizing at home was followed by more playing of the banjo, guitar and ukelele. A typical amount of infighting amongst the young ones was capped off by Sullivan's launching of a lego piece near the eye of poor innocent Henry. Which resulted in the guilty party being readied for bed. Tomorrow we plan to venture as far as necessary to obtain the treasured USB stick modem and to hopefully get our hands on some proof that our children have indeed been attending school.
A few more house pictures. . .
A productive and memorable day. Home!!
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