Obviously, we made it. Indeed, we had time to buy the majority of our souvenirs, including coffee, a shirt, and some coffee liquor.

We are tanner, and relaxed, though sad to return. It is always hard to return from such a trip and go back to work (in fact, that word makes me tense just to think it!).

So, we'll think fondly of the things we did--we did all we had set out to do (rafting, horse riding, turtles, snorkeling, bird watching). I reflect upon what we missed with regret--yet, I know that you can never see or do everything in any country. I think we'll learn from our experiences, knowing in the future we can plan less, choose hotels with care, and wander more--still, we saw many beautiful places and wonderful things.

And, more than anything, I will remember the country of Costa Rica--its dichotomy of cutting and conservation most of all. The animals, plants--mariposas, pelicanos, tortagueros, papagayos, iguana, sloth, crabs--all of them and their habitats. We must work and travel to save them and their homes--as do the generous and nice people of Costa Rica who helped us.