My neighbors had invited me to a magnificent Snapper dinner. I had just finished shoveling the last of the coleslaw into my mouth when an explosion was heard and the lights went out. Blackness surrounded the island. Neighbors emerged on their balconies, telephones in hand.
I was in my mid-twenties (just a few short years ago) when I received my open water scuba diving certification in Cozumel, Mexico. I was nick-named the "barracuda lady" on that trip because of the barracuda that was circling above me during the certification. I wasn't much interested in those big fish with big teeth. I wanted to see a Manatee.
One of the many constants on the Island is the children selling jewelry and Guatemalan vendors selling their purses and blankets on the beach. It is commonplace and I quickly learn how to say "no, thank you" without feeling the least bit guilty. They do have some beautiful items, but these are things that I do not need in my new, simplified life.
The sand, sea, plants and animals on this Island are very different than what we find in the Rocky Mountain region of Colorado. I have been very protective of my kitties, only allowing them outside on occasion and keeping them well within eye and ear shot. They have absolutely loved exploring their new surroundings and I am fortunate that, just like dogs, they will come running when I whistle.
Blue Caribbean waters, white sandy beaches, palm trees swaying in the wind; we've all heard the pitch before. That would be the ideal day on this Caribbean Island of San Pedro. However, on this particular day there are black clouds hanging on the horizon, the sea is choppy and rain is threatening.