All My Love, Gennavieve

Towering at a whopping 5,437 feet, this majestic volcano is one of five in Costa Rica. The powerful landmark gazes over pastured green hillsides surrounding its base. Although currently in a resting phase, Arenal remained the country’s most active volcano for 43 years. History tells of its infamous eruptions, both major and minor, affecting the region and people. Hiking this mountain with my Costa Rican sister and Mama proved to be quite the adventure as we were greeted with a refreshing downpour, a visit from a friendly eagle, volcanic rocks to stumble over, and a view which took our breath away with each pause to survey our progress. Sharing glances with my family showed me a reflection of my own smile in the lovely faces of Vivi and Mama Lilly. Countless places of natural wonders fill the pages of calenders, decorate the homes of many, inspire the artist, and invite the individual to enjoy the wonder of God's creation. Yet I believe it does not stop with the image of nature

With a breathtaking view from our little home, our group of students enjoyed a few days in the lovely beaches of Manuel Antonio. Unfortunately, I did not capture these beaches but I did snap some pictures of the view. The water is as warm as the people on this beach. Many locals speak English with perfection because of the tourist appeal to this destination. I found myself trying to respond in Spanish to English questions. My head was spinning after a bit. We spend one day on the beach and were caught in a beautiful downpour which soaked us completely through. After the initial squeals of surprise, we all broke down in pure laughter, allowing the rain to take over. In these unforeseen adventures, I find the most joy. The unplanned, magnificently natural events God places in the day to bring us a surprise and a smile. Incredible freedom lies in releasing control and surrendering to the King. May you surrender your day to the Lord, knowing He holds incredible plans in your future.

For all of its natural beauty, exotic appeal, and thrilling wildlife, Costa Rica offers much activity for the eyes to become captivated by. However, if one takes the time to pause from what is right in front of their eyes and lift their gaze to the heavens, they will surely discover a breathtaking sight. The sky continually changes from hour to hour. One moment sweltering sunshine shines down, bringing the surrounding greenery to life, while the next moment shows a threat of a downpour with dark clouds and the sound of thunder echoing off of the mountains. In these moments, soaking up the beautiful expanse of sky above me, I forget my insignificant worries, small concerns, and pointless thoughts. The wind brushes them away and I am in awe of the stretch of blue or dark grey above me. I pray you may you take the time to pause for a moment and look up, allowing God to remind you of how small you are a against the vastness of His heavens; how small but oh how precious you are to Him.

Costa Rica is known for their preservation, peace, and people. As I continue to study and learn my eyes are opened further to each aspect of world wide recognition. For preservation, Costa Rica not only commits itself to caring for the earth's bountiful green grasses, towering banana trees, and dense rainforest, it also strives to save the animals who thrive within this natural beauty. Several organizations work to care for animals, restore those injured due to hunting, and research for ways to combat extinction. I received the opportunity to visit such a location, learning the various endangered and exotic animals within Costa Rica. I witnessed a tortuous couple making some aggressive love, a gorgeous male peacock attempting to attract a mate, a boa kill and begin to gulp down a precious little guinea pig, a small wildcat cry in annoyance at the rain interrupting his nap, and a giant family of monkeys swinging like they were being paid for it. What magnificent creatures the L

The food. I always know when a meal may soon be on the table because when mi Mama cooks, the whole house becomes filled with wonderful aromas, tantalizing taste buds and causing the stomach to rumble. Meals in Costa Rica differ greatly from the norm in California. The family table as well as roles are valued differently. The Mamas always serve themselves last. The men or guests eat first, then the family, lastly the Mama. Desayuno, breakfast, is served for the houses schedules. El almuerzo, lunch, comes fairly early. Then years pass before dinner between 6 and 10. Luckily a coffee/tea break arrives around 4. Similar to the British and South African culture, Costa Ricans take a tea time; however, here it is called, "Cafe," or coffee. Typically, personas gather around a table to enjoy a cup of hot coffee with fresh, french bread and butter, jam, or cheese. The fruit in Costa Rica amazes me. Bananas, mangoes, papayas, guavas, and many other fruits I have never samp

A lovely trip to the rainforest gardens of Costa Rica with my family had me snapping photos left and right. The garden not only houses lovely plants and five majestic waterfalls it also serves as a wildlife preservation center. Monkeys, toucans, and jaguars oh my! My favorite part was the hummingbird haven. Families of these tiny birds hummed around me, flitting with quick speed and rapid wing beats. The colors were vibrant and the little bodies precious. My cheeks ached at the end of the hummingbird section because I was smiling the entire time. May the glory of the Lord overwhelm you, causing you to stop and stare for a moment, taking in His majesty. All my love, Gennavieve