Today was a sleep-in day.  I needed it.  It is one of our “free” days and we made plans last night with Dunia, Ruben,and Marija to go to Centro de Rescate Las Pumas.

Ruben came over to make breakfast. He told us that he had taken Dunia to the bus in Tilarán she had told us that her eye hurt.  Barbara looked at it and thought saw a scratch.  Barbara put some eye drops in Dunia’s eye and we all thought she should see the doctor.

We had a lively conversation and Guri (Marija’s mom) joined us for a bit.

This was a very relaxing morning.  Ruben will pick-up Dunia from the bus station and said he would bring lunch for us.  Barbara and I tried to insist that we would take everybody out for lunch, but he would not accept.

We really enjoyed spending time just relaxing today.  Ruben brought home chalupa for lunch.  Then this afternoon Ruben drove us to Centro de Rescate Las Pumas.   Marija came with us.  Guri and Gary came in another car.  Usually I am very bothered by seeing animals in cages but all of these animals have been rescued.  Each large cage has a plaque that says from where the animal was rescued and, for some, a mostly a sad story of what had happened to each of them.   They do their best to release any of these animals that are able to be returned to nature.

I took photos mostly by sticking my camera lens into the holes in the cages.  Two of the photos are of a monkeys that was actually outside of the cage and is wild.

Dunia returned from the homeopathic doctor in San José and we were happy to learn that he eye is fine.  She has drops and it is relieved that nothing is wrongWe continued having a relaxed afternoon.

The warmth and hospitality of the Ticos is wonderful.  They go out of their way to make us feel welcome and to assure that we enjoy ourselves.   Barbara and I both received gifts from Dunia and Ruben.  I sure will enjoy the desk set of  notes and eating m candy.  She clearly wants the best for us and I will treasure the prayer beads she gave to Barbara and me.

Watching the children dance at our farewell party tonight was a delight. There were many girls and one boy. They were twirling  and spinning which brought a big smile to my face.  I loved the way they made eye contact as they danced. Because of the lighting in the room, it was very difficult take  photos but that didn’t stop me from trying.

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Of course we needed a group shot.  Ruben took this for me.

I have again been blessed.  Barbara is a wonderful house mate.  I  had another fabulous host family.  I am staying in contact with Vilma almost every day via WhatsApp and hope to stay in contact with Dunia, both Rubens, and Marija also.

I am looking forward to meeting the Ticos of Perez Zeledon.