It's been a while since my last post. I just haven't been inspired to write anything.
I started this blog 3 and half years ago. The purpose was three fold: stay in touch with my friends and family, document in real time the trials and travails of relocating to a 3rd World country, and entertain.
Most of my friends and family read the blog for a while, then dropped off. A couple of you, you know who you are, have continued to read. Thank you!
I did document the process of moving and getting established in a foreign land. I was tired of reading books authored several years after their relocation process. This sanitized and romanticized the move. I wanted people to see what it is really like. No bullshit. Straight talk, unedited and in-the-moment. Hopefully, this has helped some in their decision to relocate.
And the entertaining part...you have to answer that for yourself.
Now, most of the challenges and problems have been solved. Or our lives have been normalized to the effort required to do the simple things that are now difficult to do. Maybe we expect things to take longer, require multiple trips for anything, and nothing gets done as quickly as before.
I am running out of stuff to write about.
I feel this blog is complete. It has served it's purpose.
I will miss it. Most of the time it is like a good friend, coxing conversation out of me, on my mind about what will make good entertainment. I look upon the blog with fondness, kind of like family.
I will miss it.
But it is time to put it to bed.
A few final thoughts...
The first year was wickedly difficult. Un-spoiling the American Brat, putting the Type "A" personality through treatment for the "Get-Er-Done" syndrome which has no place in a Latin culture, making new friends, learning a new culture. And letting go of a wonderful life in Colorado.
All in all, a rough first year.
But, it was worth it. We love it here. The ability to retire early while we are young enough to be active, the unworldly natural beauty, amazing culture and people, an extraordinary group of gringos, opportunity to "reinvent" yourself...where else would I have gotten to be the male lead in a play or learn how to play screaming rock n roll lead, and e-x-h-a-l-e a-n-d r-e-l-a-x.
Yes, I miss my family and friends, for sure, especially our grandchildren. We are missing much of their growing up. Skype helps. The Internet is the most amazing tool to stay in touch with home.
But we love it here!
So it is time to say "Good Bye".
You have provided so much for me. Your time reading this blog has been generous and expansive. I don't take this gift lightly.
Thank you!
Hasta Luego, mi Amigo!!!
Monday, August 20, 2012
Friday, July 27, 2012
A Roller Coaster Ride
I just wrote a angry, pissed off blog and deleted it.
I couldn't help it. I wanted to strike out at something.
But in the end, I thought it was unfair so I deleted it.
This trip has been tumultuous.
Is this the nature of Big Business? When 10's of millions are on the table, do emotions have to run high?
Probably.
One thing is for sure, people act the same whether they are three years old in the sandbox or 50 years old in business.
No difference, I think.
Events this week have gone from magnificent to awful.
The end result is one happy client. He told us that he has gone through this procedure many times and that this was the best he has experienced.
So the brain damage has resulted in a successful trip.
I made it until this morning unscathed. Many of my co-partners is this venture have been through hell and gone but I avoided it until today.
In a panicked situation, I was asked to prepare a presentation. Three of us worked hard and fast and got it done. When I arrived this morning to deliver the presentation, I was told that someone else was going to do it.
I HATE to waist time! I HATE to have my time waisted. I especially HATE to work in panic for not.
I will get over it but I learned a lesson. Don't buy into the panic emanating from someone else.
I have to ask myself, "do these multi-million dollar projects have to go through this? Or is there another way?"
I think yes but what do I know.
Well, back home tomorrow.
Sanity is around the corner.
I couldn't help it. I wanted to strike out at something.
But in the end, I thought it was unfair so I deleted it.
This trip has been tumultuous.
Is this the nature of Big Business? When 10's of millions are on the table, do emotions have to run high?
Probably.
One thing is for sure, people act the same whether they are three years old in the sandbox or 50 years old in business.
No difference, I think.
Events this week have gone from magnificent to awful.
The end result is one happy client. He told us that he has gone through this procedure many times and that this was the best he has experienced.
So the brain damage has resulted in a successful trip.
I made it until this morning unscathed. Many of my co-partners is this venture have been through hell and gone but I avoided it until today.
In a panicked situation, I was asked to prepare a presentation. Three of us worked hard and fast and got it done. When I arrived this morning to deliver the presentation, I was told that someone else was going to do it.
I HATE to waist time! I HATE to have my time waisted. I especially HATE to work in panic for not.
I will get over it but I learned a lesson. Don't buy into the panic emanating from someone else.
I have to ask myself, "do these multi-million dollar projects have to go through this? Or is there another way?"
I think yes but what do I know.
Well, back home tomorrow.
Sanity is around the corner.
Sunday, July 22, 2012
A Couple of Colombian Quirks
If you want to be treated right in Colombia, grab a cane or wheelchair.
People will jump up, open doors, pull out chairs and anything else to help you if you are disabled in some way.
I was sitting at a sidewalk cafe, bundled up in a long sleeve shirt and light jacket because it is chilly at 8500 feet in the tropics. This was a packed little cafe with small round tables and 3 light chairs around the table.
Up rolls an old lady in an electric chair.
The waiter and 2 patrons start to clear a path for her to get her to a table, through the dense forest of chairs. Then they help her damn dog down off the electric chair and hook the leash to the table for her.
It doesn't stop with the disabled.
Three young teenage girls arrive on in-line roller skates. Completely out of control, banging into seated patrons, chairs and tables.
Same thing. The waiter rushes over to help.
Being teenage girls, they are up, down, up, down, up, down. Each time the process is repeated.
With my US ways, I'm miffed! Damn it! Sit down! And stay put!
I ordered a salad and no drink. Kind of unusual. The waiter doesn't say anything, not that I could understand his Spanish anyway.
I finish my salad, ask for the bill, pay with a credit card.
Only then does the waiter ask about not ordering a drink. Not to chide me or sell something extra.
He was concerned that I was having a problem and wanted to help.
The Land of Courtesy! Very charming.
We sophisticated, have-the-best-of-everything US citizens should pay close attention.
It really is a great way to relate and live.
People will jump up, open doors, pull out chairs and anything else to help you if you are disabled in some way.
I was sitting at a sidewalk cafe, bundled up in a long sleeve shirt and light jacket because it is chilly at 8500 feet in the tropics. This was a packed little cafe with small round tables and 3 light chairs around the table.
Up rolls an old lady in an electric chair.
The waiter and 2 patrons start to clear a path for her to get her to a table, through the dense forest of chairs. Then they help her damn dog down off the electric chair and hook the leash to the table for her.
It doesn't stop with the disabled.
Three young teenage girls arrive on in-line roller skates. Completely out of control, banging into seated patrons, chairs and tables.
Same thing. The waiter rushes over to help.
Being teenage girls, they are up, down, up, down, up, down. Each time the process is repeated.
With my US ways, I'm miffed! Damn it! Sit down! And stay put!
I ordered a salad and no drink. Kind of unusual. The waiter doesn't say anything, not that I could understand his Spanish anyway.
I finish my salad, ask for the bill, pay with a credit card.
Only then does the waiter ask about not ordering a drink. Not to chide me or sell something extra.
He was concerned that I was having a problem and wanted to help.
The Land of Courtesy! Very charming.
We sophisticated, have-the-best-of-everything US citizens should pay close attention.
It really is a great way to relate and live.
Friday, July 20, 2012
Colombian Fair
One of my Colombian partner's took us to the Bogota Fair...similar to a state fair. Bogota is a huge city of 8.5 million.
As you can imagine, this was a massive event. We had trouble finding parking, naturally.
It was full of the same type of booths that you see in the US except they sold different stuff, mainly hats.
These were HATS. They were woven of thin tan and brown straw with intricate designs and large, wide brims. And you could roll or fold them into any shape you want so they could be stored in your pocket or whatever. The hats bounced back into shape when unrolled...like magic. They are water proof...a working rancher and farmer's hat.
They also had a woven hat band, made right there on the spot. Another of our Colombian partners bought a hat and he wanted a feather in the band, which they didn't have. He is a gringo and has gringo tastes, thus no feather. He was told to return tomorrow and, by God, they would find a feather.
Got to love Latin accommodation!
They weren't cheap. Good ones cost about $70.
As we walked through the fair, with tens of thousands of people, our Colombian partner was greeted by people every step of the way. It seemed like he was known by EVERYONE. It took a l-o-n-g time to traverse the fair!
He and his father are actually known world-wide in the ranching and cattle industry.
We eventually ended up by an arena where his father was showing his cattle and winning awards. And, of course, buying and selling cattle.
His father was greeted by more people than the son. As we sat in the stands, a constant parade of people climbed the bleachers to greet his dad.
His dad looked 50 years old and was 70. He had a jolly, pleasant face with a constant smile. I could see why he was popular.
But that is not all the story.
His dad was also a prominent attorney, now retired, who was a powerful ally of many past presidents. His knowledge of the hidden power struggles and corruption is legendary.
If we are looking at a mining concession, we ALWAYS check with his dad for the REAL STORY. He knows all the ins and outs of the country. Who is corrupt, who is honest, who will sell you down the river.
But he looked so pleasant! Talking about his milking cows and bulls, disguised as a farmer.
I had just met one of the most powerful men in Colombia.
You just never know!
And as always in a Latin country, a true gentleman.
As you can imagine, this was a massive event. We had trouble finding parking, naturally.
It was full of the same type of booths that you see in the US except they sold different stuff, mainly hats.
These were HATS. They were woven of thin tan and brown straw with intricate designs and large, wide brims. And you could roll or fold them into any shape you want so they could be stored in your pocket or whatever. The hats bounced back into shape when unrolled...like magic. They are water proof...a working rancher and farmer's hat.
They also had a woven hat band, made right there on the spot. Another of our Colombian partners bought a hat and he wanted a feather in the band, which they didn't have. He is a gringo and has gringo tastes, thus no feather. He was told to return tomorrow and, by God, they would find a feather.
Got to love Latin accommodation!
They weren't cheap. Good ones cost about $70.
As we walked through the fair, with tens of thousands of people, our Colombian partner was greeted by people every step of the way. It seemed like he was known by EVERYONE. It took a l-o-n-g time to traverse the fair!
He and his father are actually known world-wide in the ranching and cattle industry.
We eventually ended up by an arena where his father was showing his cattle and winning awards. And, of course, buying and selling cattle.
His father was greeted by more people than the son. As we sat in the stands, a constant parade of people climbed the bleachers to greet his dad.
His dad looked 50 years old and was 70. He had a jolly, pleasant face with a constant smile. I could see why he was popular.
But that is not all the story.
His dad was also a prominent attorney, now retired, who was a powerful ally of many past presidents. His knowledge of the hidden power struggles and corruption is legendary.
If we are looking at a mining concession, we ALWAYS check with his dad for the REAL STORY. He knows all the ins and outs of the country. Who is corrupt, who is honest, who will sell you down the river.
But he looked so pleasant! Talking about his milking cows and bulls, disguised as a farmer.
I had just met one of the most powerful men in Colombia.
You just never know!
And as always in a Latin country, a true gentleman.
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Arriving In Colombia in Style
As I walked out of the airport in Bogota, Colombia, I was met by Alberto, the driver/body guard, with an armored Toyota Prado.
Before you freak out and buy into all that violent propaganda put out by the US government, let me explain.
Traffic is so congested in Bogota that you are only allowed to drive your car 3 days a week. Unless...you own an armed car which can drive any day. Many pay the extra $20,000 to armor their car so they have the freedom to drive every day.
Alberto, when he was younger, was the equivalent of a Secret Service body guard for dignitaries in Colombia. Now he is a driver for our affiliate business in Bogota.
Still, it is comforting to be picked up and transported by someone who knows how to handle, ah, let's say, sticky situations.
Alberto is a perfect gentleman. He grabbed my luggage, open my door and treated me like royalty. I didn't have the heart to tell him that I am just some guy, not a dignitary.
One of the things I enjoy the most about Latin culture is the courtesy. People are polite, courteous and kind, with all the time in the world to help or simply talk.
And, they are proud of their appearance. Men look sharp and women, well, you can only imagine given the reputation of Colombian women.
The last time I was in the US, I was appalled at the slovenly dress and appearance of Americans. Not to mention the rampant obesity.
On the half hour drive from the airport to the office, I practiced my spanish and he practiced his english.
I was shocked when he complimented my spanish. I feel totally inadequate speaking and hearing spanish. Colombians have impeccable pronunciation which makes it so much easier to hear spanish.
As I would get some piece of spanish, he would laugh and compliment me. And, when he would come up with an unusual english word, I would laugh and compliment him.
There is a joy to hearing someone speak a new language, and to help them, and watch their progress.
I arrived at the office to pandemonium.
More to follow later...
Before you freak out and buy into all that violent propaganda put out by the US government, let me explain.
Traffic is so congested in Bogota that you are only allowed to drive your car 3 days a week. Unless...you own an armed car which can drive any day. Many pay the extra $20,000 to armor their car so they have the freedom to drive every day.
Alberto, when he was younger, was the equivalent of a Secret Service body guard for dignitaries in Colombia. Now he is a driver for our affiliate business in Bogota.
Still, it is comforting to be picked up and transported by someone who knows how to handle, ah, let's say, sticky situations.
Alberto is a perfect gentleman. He grabbed my luggage, open my door and treated me like royalty. I didn't have the heart to tell him that I am just some guy, not a dignitary.
One of the things I enjoy the most about Latin culture is the courtesy. People are polite, courteous and kind, with all the time in the world to help or simply talk.
And, they are proud of their appearance. Men look sharp and women, well, you can only imagine given the reputation of Colombian women.
The last time I was in the US, I was appalled at the slovenly dress and appearance of Americans. Not to mention the rampant obesity.
What happened to our personal pride? Since I have been living in Latin cultures, I automatically dress better and keep my hair cut neatly. I just can't help it. These people compel you to look better, and be more polite and helpful.
On the half hour drive from the airport to the office, I practiced my spanish and he practiced his english.
I was shocked when he complimented my spanish. I feel totally inadequate speaking and hearing spanish. Colombians have impeccable pronunciation which makes it so much easier to hear spanish.
As I would get some piece of spanish, he would laugh and compliment me. And, when he would come up with an unusual english word, I would laugh and compliment him.
There is a joy to hearing someone speak a new language, and to help them, and watch their progress.
I arrived at the office to pandemonium.
More to follow later...
Saturday, July 14, 2012
Behemoths on the Road
Just down the road, toward the country, is a new development under construction. They leveled a lot of jungle to clear for the roads. The houses will do more jungle removal once they are being built. No one, including the local Panamanians, are happy about the destruction of jungle.
Several troops of cute, white-faced monkeys are wondering through the neighborhoods, looking for a new home. Sad.
Rumor has it that it is being funded by drug money.
That is the rumor for almost anything new so I have no idea if it's true. Most things are false here so I would bet on "no drug money" in this project.
Not far from the development and our house is a hydroelectric dam.
Every year, the hydroelectric dam operators dip out all the sand, gravel, cobbles and boulders that build up behind the dam each rainy season. This massive debris has to be hauled somewhere.
This year they are hauling it to the new development...over our roads...which are in piss poor condition as it is...now in really bad condition from the use of off road "Volvo" type massive dump trucks normally used in mining only. Each tire is about 8 feet in diameter and 2 feet wide.
Inevitably, no one will be held accountable to restore the roads to their prior condition.
So is the way of Panama and most other 3rd World nations.
Driving to and from our house has become dicey, to say the least. In many areas, there are guard rails and embankments that make it impossible to pull over out of the way of the huge trucks.
One afternoon, I was headed through a blind curve, guard rails and embankments on both sides of the road, when a behemoth barreled around the curve. Thank God he was empty. As it was, the back 4 huge tires locked up and skipped down the road. I pulled over as far as I could...a useless attempt to stay alive.
Fortunately, he stopped about 5 feet off my front bumper.
Whew! It took a few minutes to stop the pounding of my heart. My profanity flowed for several more minutes.
You just never know what Panama will throw at you.
I am headed back to Colombia this week for another whirlwind tour. These trips are heavily populated with WORKAHOLICS. Not my style.
Each trip, I give them a lecture about: I eat 3 meals a day, every day, every week; I sleep 8 hours a night, every night, every week; I don't enjoy working 12 to 16 hours a day, not now or ever ever.
The result of my lecture...if I'm lucky...is that I get one meal a day and 4 hours of sleep a night.
You could say my lecture can not trump addiction!
Hahahaha! I knew that! I just love to give a self-rightous, indignant lecture.
Several troops of cute, white-faced monkeys are wondering through the neighborhoods, looking for a new home. Sad.
Rumor has it that it is being funded by drug money.
That is the rumor for almost anything new so I have no idea if it's true. Most things are false here so I would bet on "no drug money" in this project.
Not far from the development and our house is a hydroelectric dam.
Every year, the hydroelectric dam operators dip out all the sand, gravel, cobbles and boulders that build up behind the dam each rainy season. This massive debris has to be hauled somewhere.
This year they are hauling it to the new development...over our roads...which are in piss poor condition as it is...now in really bad condition from the use of off road "Volvo" type massive dump trucks normally used in mining only. Each tire is about 8 feet in diameter and 2 feet wide.
Inevitably, no one will be held accountable to restore the roads to their prior condition.
So is the way of Panama and most other 3rd World nations.
Driving to and from our house has become dicey, to say the least. In many areas, there are guard rails and embankments that make it impossible to pull over out of the way of the huge trucks.
One afternoon, I was headed through a blind curve, guard rails and embankments on both sides of the road, when a behemoth barreled around the curve. Thank God he was empty. As it was, the back 4 huge tires locked up and skipped down the road. I pulled over as far as I could...a useless attempt to stay alive.
Fortunately, he stopped about 5 feet off my front bumper.
Whew! It took a few minutes to stop the pounding of my heart. My profanity flowed for several more minutes.
You just never know what Panama will throw at you.
I am headed back to Colombia this week for another whirlwind tour. These trips are heavily populated with WORKAHOLICS. Not my style.
Each trip, I give them a lecture about: I eat 3 meals a day, every day, every week; I sleep 8 hours a night, every night, every week; I don't enjoy working 12 to 16 hours a day, not now or ever ever.
The result of my lecture...if I'm lucky...is that I get one meal a day and 4 hours of sleep a night.
You could say my lecture can not trump addiction!
Hahahaha! I knew that! I just love to give a self-rightous, indignant lecture.
Sunday, July 8, 2012
Pity Pot Hangover
I thought I better write a reprieve after yesterdays wining fest.
The rainy season has been mild. April and May were very wet, as is usual. And we have dried out some in June and July which is the "Indian Summer" that happens most years.
This is nice because even though I like rain, enough is enough.
Last night our band played at the Oasis restaurant. We knew the gig might be short on people because the last 3 times we played there last year, they took 2 to 3 hours to get the dinners served. This pissed many of our fans off. They vowed to never return.
And they didn't return.
We had about 40 people, (100 to 120 is normal) which is a miserable turnout for us. And, we have never seen these people before...an all new audience. Very strange!
To make matters worse, Yella was sick and struggled through the night feeling poorly. She did a great job through the sickness but it was a strain for her.
Those that attended had a good time. We played marginally.
A let down for sure. Just as our last job at Las Ruinas last week was a let down.
I believe that the times are a changing, as I alluded to in yesterdays blog.
Time to move on!
This is a day of rest. All I have to do is take in the trash to the trash truck, conveniently parked in front of the fire station. This is our weekly outing with the dogs who get to ride into town and maybe take a walk. Since our dogs are unruly, mayhem will dominate.
I think I will watch Wimbledon tennis today while eating quarts of ice cream, chips and dip and copious quantities of coffee.
I can't wait to see what shows up next. The last wave of was excellent. Who knows what the next will be?
The rainy season has been mild. April and May were very wet, as is usual. And we have dried out some in June and July which is the "Indian Summer" that happens most years.
This is nice because even though I like rain, enough is enough.
Last night our band played at the Oasis restaurant. We knew the gig might be short on people because the last 3 times we played there last year, they took 2 to 3 hours to get the dinners served. This pissed many of our fans off. They vowed to never return.
And they didn't return.
We had about 40 people, (100 to 120 is normal) which is a miserable turnout for us. And, we have never seen these people before...an all new audience. Very strange!
To make matters worse, Yella was sick and struggled through the night feeling poorly. She did a great job through the sickness but it was a strain for her.
Those that attended had a good time. We played marginally.
A let down for sure. Just as our last job at Las Ruinas last week was a let down.
I believe that the times are a changing, as I alluded to in yesterdays blog.
Time to move on!
This is a day of rest. All I have to do is take in the trash to the trash truck, conveniently parked in front of the fire station. This is our weekly outing with the dogs who get to ride into town and maybe take a walk. Since our dogs are unruly, mayhem will dominate.
I think I will watch Wimbledon tennis today while eating quarts of ice cream, chips and dip and copious quantities of coffee.
I can't wait to see what shows up next. The last wave of was excellent. Who knows what the next will be?
Saturday, July 7, 2012
The End of an Era
The gringo community in Boquete is transient. People come and go. Turnover is high.
This year, some of the best in Boquete are going home.
I don't like it.
Our close community of friends was decimated this year with divorce. We had a circle of 5 couples that were like family. Three of the couples are now divorced and it is unknown how many of them will stay...I suspect about half.
This week we found out about another couple...high quality people with a wonderful family and philanthropic mission in life...which is calling it quits. Damn!
Several other couples are leaving for various reasons.
A big one is children. The "younger" couples with kids still in school have major challenges in paradise. Lack of quality formal education which forces most into home schooling, difficulty making a living at 3rd World wages, lack of socialization for children without a school.
My outlook has been gloomy for a few weeks. I can't help it...loosing so many friends in a year is tough. The majority of our friends are no more. Crap!
Now to pile more on the pity pot...
Our band will play it's last gig tonight.
This band has given me so many thrills, satisfactions, challenges and shear FUN that it also shows up as a big loss.
I started to learn how to play screaming rock n' roll lead guitar about a year ago. I had no idea this was something that I secretly craved.
Interesting what you don't know.
My generous band mates tolerated my poor skills and patiently waited for me to develop. I am so grateful for their patience.
Now, I have finally clawed my way up to playing proficient lead guitar. In truth, I am still somewhat clumsy, mistake prone and sometimes completely out to lunch.
But, I learned how to wail!
I discovered those coveted notes that SCREAM in a song. That make people look up and take note and break out in excitement. I know a few of them which I hoard until just the right moments throughout the night. Then unleash them with pride and authority!
There are actually people that tell me I am really good. (I suspect that my musical intelligence saves the day rather than my skills)
And tonight is the end of this era.
Not only is this the last performance for our band, but the 2 venues for dance bands are now gone. One place has been restricted from live music because of a noise ordinance...unimaginable in one of the loudest countries I have ever been! And another is moving to a venue that isn't big enough for live rock.
Change!
Who knows what the future holds?
I don't. And life seems to be cyclic. We are completing one cycle and starting another. Only time will tell how it all turns out.
This too shall pass. For good times and bad.
I hate that!
This year, some of the best in Boquete are going home.
I don't like it.
Our close community of friends was decimated this year with divorce. We had a circle of 5 couples that were like family. Three of the couples are now divorced and it is unknown how many of them will stay...I suspect about half.
This week we found out about another couple...high quality people with a wonderful family and philanthropic mission in life...which is calling it quits. Damn!
Several other couples are leaving for various reasons.
A big one is children. The "younger" couples with kids still in school have major challenges in paradise. Lack of quality formal education which forces most into home schooling, difficulty making a living at 3rd World wages, lack of socialization for children without a school.
My outlook has been gloomy for a few weeks. I can't help it...loosing so many friends in a year is tough. The majority of our friends are no more. Crap!
Now to pile more on the pity pot...
Our band will play it's last gig tonight.
This band has given me so many thrills, satisfactions, challenges and shear FUN that it also shows up as a big loss.
I started to learn how to play screaming rock n' roll lead guitar about a year ago. I had no idea this was something that I secretly craved.
Interesting what you don't know.
My generous band mates tolerated my poor skills and patiently waited for me to develop. I am so grateful for their patience.
Now, I have finally clawed my way up to playing proficient lead guitar. In truth, I am still somewhat clumsy, mistake prone and sometimes completely out to lunch.
But, I learned how to wail!
I discovered those coveted notes that SCREAM in a song. That make people look up and take note and break out in excitement. I know a few of them which I hoard until just the right moments throughout the night. Then unleash them with pride and authority!
There are actually people that tell me I am really good. (I suspect that my musical intelligence saves the day rather than my skills)
And tonight is the end of this era.
Not only is this the last performance for our band, but the 2 venues for dance bands are now gone. One place has been restricted from live music because of a noise ordinance...unimaginable in one of the loudest countries I have ever been! And another is moving to a venue that isn't big enough for live rock.
Change!
Who knows what the future holds?
I don't. And life seems to be cyclic. We are completing one cycle and starting another. Only time will tell how it all turns out.
This too shall pass. For good times and bad.
I hate that!
Saturday, June 23, 2012
Boquetewood
It was a magnificent morning today...sunny, calm, green-green-and more green. The volcano was resplendent against a azure sky.
And we slept in because we watched a movie till late last night. (11:30 pm is unimaginably late for us!)
I have been having many "I am so lucky to be retired and living in paradise" days.
Maybe because I am working about 75% of the time and I feel useful once again. Or, maybe just the natural cycle of up and down that life takes at will. Or maybe I finally let in how fortunate I am to retire early, with my health in tack, my marriage working at it's best and adventure around every corner.
For whatever reason, I have been ecstatic to be here.
A couple of things...
As I was driving home, approaching the Wilson Bridge, I saw 6 teenagers standing around a guy crumpled on the bridge with a pool of blood around his head.
Uh oh!
Here's how my mind works....a sorry thing at best.
I thought, "Damn, I had a relaxing afternoon planned that I don't want to interrupt, and I don't want to drive all the way to David to the hospital to get this kid help and get stuck with the bill and lose the entire rest of my day helping this little shit."
Ok, don't worry too much about me...I also thought, "Shit, looks bad, I'll stop and do whatever I can."
A pulled up next to the group. Before I could say anything, one kid in perfect english says,"Don't worry, it is a movie!"
These kids were staging an accident for their homemade movie. And having a blast scaring the crap out of all that were driving by!
Are we the next Bollywood? Or Boquetewood?
Just kidding.
I drove to my favorite hike this morning. I have been avoiding it because they started to charge $3 for the hike. But it is the best in Boquete, and the morning was so beautiful that I decided to splurge and cough up the $3.
I hiked, it was great and I thought I was going to get away without paying because there was no one on the trail, no guardian of the gate, no money taker. As I was walking the final 100 meters of trail, a lady calls out from a house about a block away.
I play dumb by waving cheerfully and walking on. As I got to my car, I hear her calling me.
Ok, I got caught.
So I walk back to her. She introduces herself and tells me I have to pay $3. But she does it so enchantingly that I am charmed. We chat a little in Spanish. She even compliments me on my Spanish, a clever ploy to disarm me...that works very well.
In the end, I was happy to pay. And I felt a little foolish trying to beat her out of $3.
Later this afternoon, we will go hear the newest band in town. Reportedly, they are very good.
Then back home for dinner and a MOVIE!!!!
Movies are a big deal here. We haven't seen a movie in many months because they are hard to download and run on our equipment so we kind of gave up.
But NOW, Yella has figured out how to download for our stuff.
Yay!!!!! MOVIES!!!!
And we slept in because we watched a movie till late last night. (11:30 pm is unimaginably late for us!)
I have been having many "I am so lucky to be retired and living in paradise" days.
Maybe because I am working about 75% of the time and I feel useful once again. Or, maybe just the natural cycle of up and down that life takes at will. Or maybe I finally let in how fortunate I am to retire early, with my health in tack, my marriage working at it's best and adventure around every corner.
For whatever reason, I have been ecstatic to be here.
A couple of things...
As I was driving home, approaching the Wilson Bridge, I saw 6 teenagers standing around a guy crumpled on the bridge with a pool of blood around his head.
Uh oh!
Here's how my mind works....a sorry thing at best.
I thought, "Damn, I had a relaxing afternoon planned that I don't want to interrupt, and I don't want to drive all the way to David to the hospital to get this kid help and get stuck with the bill and lose the entire rest of my day helping this little shit."
Ok, don't worry too much about me...I also thought, "Shit, looks bad, I'll stop and do whatever I can."
A pulled up next to the group. Before I could say anything, one kid in perfect english says,"Don't worry, it is a movie!"
These kids were staging an accident for their homemade movie. And having a blast scaring the crap out of all that were driving by!
Are we the next Bollywood? Or Boquetewood?
Just kidding.
I drove to my favorite hike this morning. I have been avoiding it because they started to charge $3 for the hike. But it is the best in Boquete, and the morning was so beautiful that I decided to splurge and cough up the $3.
I hiked, it was great and I thought I was going to get away without paying because there was no one on the trail, no guardian of the gate, no money taker. As I was walking the final 100 meters of trail, a lady calls out from a house about a block away.
I play dumb by waving cheerfully and walking on. As I got to my car, I hear her calling me.
Ok, I got caught.
So I walk back to her. She introduces herself and tells me I have to pay $3. But she does it so enchantingly that I am charmed. We chat a little in Spanish. She even compliments me on my Spanish, a clever ploy to disarm me...that works very well.
In the end, I was happy to pay. And I felt a little foolish trying to beat her out of $3.
Later this afternoon, we will go hear the newest band in town. Reportedly, they are very good.
Then back home for dinner and a MOVIE!!!!
Movies are a big deal here. We haven't seen a movie in many months because they are hard to download and run on our equipment so we kind of gave up.
But NOW, Yella has figured out how to download for our stuff.
Yay!!!!! MOVIES!!!!
Sunday, June 17, 2012
Battle of the Bands Benefit
Last night, our band played a long set at the Boquete Community Players theater for a fund raiser for said organization.
They have never had a dance with live music so this was new and risky. To take some of the risk away and boost the attendance, 2 bands were playing at the event.
For the last 9 months, there have been two bands in town.
We have been playing for a year and a half, and the newer, upstarts have been playing for 9 months.
There is, of course, talk about which band is better.
Let me regress for a moment about the event.
I was reluctant to do it. If we were going to play a set and that was it, I was fine. But, noooooo, they wanted to put the 2 bands together for a set so we would play together.
It is a lot of work to play a new song. I didn't want to put all that work into learning not one but 6 new songs that we would never play again.
A waist of time, in my world.
The real reason is that the other band has one of the best guitar players in rock anywhere in the world, much less our little berg of Boquete. There is no way I wanted to step on stage with a virtuoso.
What, you think I'm crazy? Who would want to do that?
So there I was, enduring 3 long, long, long, long rehearsals, learning new music that I knew would end up sounding like crap because it is really hard to get new stuff to sound good right out of the box. And having all my inadequacies exposed by a much better guitar player.
Now back to which band is better.
As is typical, the comparison is not apples to apples.
They are a blues band with better musicianship, playing for themselves and the spirit of hot licks.
We are a dance band with a great singer/entertainer out front and we shape our music to the crowd with compelling, hot dance music.
There is no doubt, we are more popular. No contest. Playing to the crowd always trumps quality unless you are in a special venue set up for avid music buffs and listening.
And, the competitive situation never was present in the event with the musicians...mainly with the patrons.
And, I hate to tell you, I was right. Several of our joint songs were pretty bad.
In the end, our band had a ball, played fairly well, the crowd loved us. We got to play in a more professional environment with a big sound system and sound man...always good to play in an upgraded place.
The other band was also well receiver, played very well, and the crowd appreciated them.
All in all, those attending had a blast. Another crazy, fun night in Boquete!
As a side note, when the Jazz and Blues Festival was here in March, the other band was invited to play several times during the event. We were not invited. Clearly, this type of event required better musicianship favoring them.
If I am honest, it did sting a little not being invited.
They have never had a dance with live music so this was new and risky. To take some of the risk away and boost the attendance, 2 bands were playing at the event.
For the last 9 months, there have been two bands in town.
We have been playing for a year and a half, and the newer, upstarts have been playing for 9 months.
There is, of course, talk about which band is better.
Let me regress for a moment about the event.
I was reluctant to do it. If we were going to play a set and that was it, I was fine. But, noooooo, they wanted to put the 2 bands together for a set so we would play together.
It is a lot of work to play a new song. I didn't want to put all that work into learning not one but 6 new songs that we would never play again.
A waist of time, in my world.
The real reason is that the other band has one of the best guitar players in rock anywhere in the world, much less our little berg of Boquete. There is no way I wanted to step on stage with a virtuoso.
What, you think I'm crazy? Who would want to do that?
So there I was, enduring 3 long, long, long, long rehearsals, learning new music that I knew would end up sounding like crap because it is really hard to get new stuff to sound good right out of the box. And having all my inadequacies exposed by a much better guitar player.
Now back to which band is better.
As is typical, the comparison is not apples to apples.
They are a blues band with better musicianship, playing for themselves and the spirit of hot licks.
We are a dance band with a great singer/entertainer out front and we shape our music to the crowd with compelling, hot dance music.
There is no doubt, we are more popular. No contest. Playing to the crowd always trumps quality unless you are in a special venue set up for avid music buffs and listening.
And, the competitive situation never was present in the event with the musicians...mainly with the patrons.
And, I hate to tell you, I was right. Several of our joint songs were pretty bad.
In the end, our band had a ball, played fairly well, the crowd loved us. We got to play in a more professional environment with a big sound system and sound man...always good to play in an upgraded place.
The other band was also well receiver, played very well, and the crowd appreciated them.
All in all, those attending had a blast. Another crazy, fun night in Boquete!
As a side note, when the Jazz and Blues Festival was here in March, the other band was invited to play several times during the event. We were not invited. Clearly, this type of event required better musicianship favoring them.
If I am honest, it did sting a little not being invited.
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Back in the Saddle
I am now "Back To Work."
I am ambivalent about it.
Tuesday, I wrote a 12 page report about our work in Colombia. Every time I looked up, several hours had passed.
Now that hasn't happened in a long time. To be so engrossed that time literally flies.
.
That is the good part of working again. It is fun to be part of something exciting. And to feel useful once again.
I like that!
However, my idyllic life style has taken a big hit.
No more time for leisurely breakfasts with friends. Followed by a couple of hours at the spa and gym. Moseying on to lunch followed by a nap. Then some guitar practice. And a heavy evening of TV or movies.
No more.
I do feel the loss. I don't suppose there is any balance between the two readily available.
I am scheduled to back in Colombia in 10 days for 2 weeks. I have to admit that being away from home for more than a week is not my cup of tea.
The work is stimulating. We are at that place it creating a business that is intoxicating. Full of energy and hopefulness. Plus, I work with some pretty awesome people. That always helps.
I sure hope we make some money!
Back to work...
I am ambivalent about it.
Tuesday, I wrote a 12 page report about our work in Colombia. Every time I looked up, several hours had passed.
Now that hasn't happened in a long time. To be so engrossed that time literally flies.
.
That is the good part of working again. It is fun to be part of something exciting. And to feel useful once again.
I like that!
However, my idyllic life style has taken a big hit.
No more time for leisurely breakfasts with friends. Followed by a couple of hours at the spa and gym. Moseying on to lunch followed by a nap. Then some guitar practice. And a heavy evening of TV or movies.
No more.
I do feel the loss. I don't suppose there is any balance between the two readily available.
I am scheduled to back in Colombia in 10 days for 2 weeks. I have to admit that being away from home for more than a week is not my cup of tea.
The work is stimulating. We are at that place it creating a business that is intoxicating. Full of energy and hopefulness. Plus, I work with some pretty awesome people. That always helps.
I sure hope we make some money!
Back to work...
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Colombian Urinal
I walked into a small country restaurant in rural Colombia with a couple of associates. After being served coffee and food, I asked where the bathroom was.
They pointed me to the wall.
I looked and seeing nothing asked again. They looked at me like I was stupid so I walked over to the wall and noticed a small, tile shelf with a little drain in it. On the wall, out in the open.
The urinal.
So, standing in the middle of a busy restaurant, I used it.
When in Rome, do as the Romans!
They pointed me to the wall.
I looked and seeing nothing asked again. They looked at me like I was stupid so I walked over to the wall and noticed a small, tile shelf with a little drain in it. On the wall, out in the open.
The urinal.
So, standing in the middle of a busy restaurant, I used it.
When in Rome, do as the Romans!
Sunday, May 27, 2012
Trucks, Trucks and More Trucks
As we were traveling out into the countryside of Colombian, we passed a truck stop...
...with over 500 trucks parked...Really!
We passed dozens of truck stops, all with hundreds of trucks parked.
You see, there are no railroads or pipelines in Colombia to move goods and fuel around the country.
Everything is moved by truck. What a pain in the ass!
There are almost 50 million people in Colombia, more than in Spain, for example. All these people eat, consume and drive. The highways are packed with trucks supplying the people with stuff.
This is a hilly, mountainous place. Trucks going 20 miles an hour are the norm...up and down hill. And it's all a hill.
This is by far the most dangerous place I've seen on the road.
Everyone is trying to pass, all the time, in a desperate attempt to get somewhere! We saw so many near misses that I stopped counting. I just closed my eyes and gritted my teeth.
Mayhem!
In the US, if you are going 100 miles, you know about how long it will take.
Not in Colombia. It may take 2 hours, 9 hours or more.
And the roads suck!
Most paved roads are lumpy because the soil is so bad. All the mountain roads are falling off the mountain...many roads are under construction so you drive on raw, bumpy dirt before it is paved.
I have a sore back. 3 Days in a pickup truck under these conditions was more than I ever want to experience again.
I'd rather walk!
Oh, did I mentions how incredibly beautiful it is here?
...with over 500 trucks parked...Really!
We passed dozens of truck stops, all with hundreds of trucks parked.
You see, there are no railroads or pipelines in Colombia to move goods and fuel around the country.
Everything is moved by truck. What a pain in the ass!
There are almost 50 million people in Colombia, more than in Spain, for example. All these people eat, consume and drive. The highways are packed with trucks supplying the people with stuff.
This is a hilly, mountainous place. Trucks going 20 miles an hour are the norm...up and down hill. And it's all a hill.
This is by far the most dangerous place I've seen on the road.
Everyone is trying to pass, all the time, in a desperate attempt to get somewhere! We saw so many near misses that I stopped counting. I just closed my eyes and gritted my teeth.
Mayhem!
In the US, if you are going 100 miles, you know about how long it will take.
Not in Colombia. It may take 2 hours, 9 hours or more.
And the roads suck!
Most paved roads are lumpy because the soil is so bad. All the mountain roads are falling off the mountain...many roads are under construction so you drive on raw, bumpy dirt before it is paved.
I have a sore back. 3 Days in a pickup truck under these conditions was more than I ever want to experience again.
I'd rather walk!
Oh, did I mentions how incredibly beautiful it is here?
Hacienda
You just don't know what you are going to find in a "3rd" World nation.
We traveled out of Bogota south in search of more coal reserves and barge ports on the Magdalena River. We overnighted for 2 nights at our Colombian partner's father's hacienda.
I call it a hacienda because I'm not sure what to call it.
It is a 5000 acre ranch that supports over 2000 head of cattle.
This is a woefully inadequate description of this ranch.
They are so advanced in their importing, breeding and husbandry of the animals that I can't possibly understand it.
The father knows the name of EVERY animal on the ranch. No shit! We tested him.
Not only does he know every name, so does the full time vet and most of 40 workers on his various ranches.
I have rarely seen animals cared for so tenderly.
The owner has a passion for cattle. That's the only way to explain it.
He knows all the breeds available around the world, focusing on Brazil (Apparently the leader in cattle breeding in the world), India (Where of course they don't eat them), and the US. They use artificial insemination and in vitro stuff, whatever that is. Apparently, they can split the embryo into four sections to get four calfs.
Who would figure?
They breed to maximize mild production as well as meat production.
They buy, sell and breed cattle like we used to trade baseball cards as kids.
It was a rare privilege to experience something like this!
We traveled out of Bogota south in search of more coal reserves and barge ports on the Magdalena River. We overnighted for 2 nights at our Colombian partner's father's hacienda.
I call it a hacienda because I'm not sure what to call it.
It is a 5000 acre ranch that supports over 2000 head of cattle.
This is a woefully inadequate description of this ranch.
They are so advanced in their importing, breeding and husbandry of the animals that I can't possibly understand it.
The father knows the name of EVERY animal on the ranch. No shit! We tested him.
Not only does he know every name, so does the full time vet and most of 40 workers on his various ranches.
I have rarely seen animals cared for so tenderly.
The owner has a passion for cattle. That's the only way to explain it.
He knows all the breeds available around the world, focusing on Brazil (Apparently the leader in cattle breeding in the world), India (Where of course they don't eat them), and the US. They use artificial insemination and in vitro stuff, whatever that is. Apparently, they can split the embryo into four sections to get four calfs.
Who would figure?
They breed to maximize mild production as well as meat production.
They buy, sell and breed cattle like we used to trade baseball cards as kids.
It was a rare privilege to experience something like this!
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Spinning My Wheels
And here I sit in Bogota...
This deal making stuff is frustrating.
Yesterday I sat in our Colombian partner's office all morning, trying to move things forward, moving in so many directions at once that nothing got done.
My partner from Boquete is recovering from an altitude caused lung problem so I was on my own all morning. Finally, we had a lunch meeting, seemingly making progress.
But not!
Most of the afternoon I sat in the hotel, getting nothing done.
Frustration!
Now, this morning, we are still sitting in the hotel.
Things seem to be happening. New business opportunities appear and disappear and re-appear and get lost.
Up, down, sideways...
I know that we will eventually get a deal done.
Colombia is an rapidly developing or emerging nation in the area of international raw materials. We are at the right time, the right place and I trust that it will happen.
I just don't like the frustration.
Fortunately, my Boquete partner is a master at this type of work. I feel lucky to be working with him. And, I learn much in the process.
So, at this point, I will quit bitching.
Thanks for listening!
This deal making stuff is frustrating.
Yesterday I sat in our Colombian partner's office all morning, trying to move things forward, moving in so many directions at once that nothing got done.
My partner from Boquete is recovering from an altitude caused lung problem so I was on my own all morning. Finally, we had a lunch meeting, seemingly making progress.
But not!
Most of the afternoon I sat in the hotel, getting nothing done.
Frustration!
Now, this morning, we are still sitting in the hotel.
Things seem to be happening. New business opportunities appear and disappear and re-appear and get lost.
Up, down, sideways...
I know that we will eventually get a deal done.
Colombia is an rapidly developing or emerging nation in the area of international raw materials. We are at the right time, the right place and I trust that it will happen.
I just don't like the frustration.
Fortunately, my Boquete partner is a master at this type of work. I feel lucky to be working with him. And, I learn much in the process.
So, at this point, I will quit bitching.
Thanks for listening!
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Oxygen
My business associate is sick. One major cold/flu thing.
The people in bogota think the elevation (8500 feet) and lack of oxygen is making it feel worse than it is. I don't know. He looks pretty miserable!
They sell small bottles of oxygen here. I don't think we could get them in the US or Panama without a doctors prescription. I hear that a couple of whiffs of pure oxygen makes you feel more vital and alive.
I think I will try to sneak a whiff when he is not looking.
I am working on my own today because he is in bed. A little scary because he is the lead man on this project.
There is a sense of urgency to get things done because we are on the road and paying big bucks for hotels and food. The pressure is on!
The world of big buck business is new to me. These folks talk about millions of dollars like you and I would talk about hundreds. Weird!
The say, "we can throw a few million at it and see what happens."
Hey, throw some this way if it is that easy!
Here's a picture of the local country side a short distance from Bogota. A lot of clouds but very little rain. And the humidity is reasonable. Not like home in Boquete where the humidity in the rainy season is off the chart!
Well, back to work. That sounds strange after 3 1/2 years of retirement!
The people in bogota think the elevation (8500 feet) and lack of oxygen is making it feel worse than it is. I don't know. He looks pretty miserable!
They sell small bottles of oxygen here. I don't think we could get them in the US or Panama without a doctors prescription. I hear that a couple of whiffs of pure oxygen makes you feel more vital and alive.
I think I will try to sneak a whiff when he is not looking.
I am working on my own today because he is in bed. A little scary because he is the lead man on this project.
There is a sense of urgency to get things done because we are on the road and paying big bucks for hotels and food. The pressure is on!
The world of big buck business is new to me. These folks talk about millions of dollars like you and I would talk about hundreds. Weird!
The say, "we can throw a few million at it and see what happens."
Hey, throw some this way if it is that easy!
Here's a picture of the local country side a short distance from Bogota. A lot of clouds but very little rain. And the humidity is reasonable. Not like home in Boquete where the humidity in the rainy season is off the chart!
Well, back to work. That sounds strange after 3 1/2 years of retirement!
Monday, May 21, 2012
Colombia
I sit in Bogota, Colombia. I will be here for 2 weeks to try and drum up some business deals.
The more I travel, the more I realize that I know nothing about the world. Living in the US for most of my life has left me ignorant. Our dear country does indeed fed us highly spun mis-information.
Now I sit in Bogota, in the dreaded, dastardly evil drug producing, FARC kidnapping country of Colombia. Well, that's what we were told. Now it is a 1st World city of 8 million people.
So far Colombia has been a double edged sword.
First the bad.
Our first morning here, after receiving a security briefing, my friend and I got conned and scammed out of $1200. It was so slick that it didn't even occur to either of us that we were in trouble.
As we left the hotel, walking down the sidewalk, an old, old, kindly man asked for directions. We couldn't help him but we did start to talk. That was our first mistake.
As we were talking, a detective in a 3 piece suit, approached us, showed us his "credentials" and asked us to follow him to the neighborhood police station to register our business intentions and log in our money. All things that we were told we have to do anyway.
As we walked toward the "police station", another police officer joined us and said the line at the station was long so he would help us by taking our money and registering it for us.
You guessed it. They were gone with our money.
The money hadn't left my hand more than a nano second before I figured it out...too late...by, by money.
Shit, did I feel stupid!
The problem is that we, as trusting Americans, can't actually hear instructions like, "don't talk to ANYONE!" It is impolite to avoid talking to a kindly old man, for God's sake.
Lesson learned.
Everything else, and I mean everything else, has been fantastic!
The people are wonderful. Polite, happy, helpful and delightful!
We spent 3 long, arduous days out in the wild country, touring mineral sites. Traveling on dirt tracks to goat tracks, meeting people in the remotest places. Staying in hotels that cost $2 a night, eating meals for $1.
We were in a party of 8 with 2 vehicles. It looked like the United Nations with an Indian (Sub continent India) geologist, a mining engineer from who knows where, us and Colombians.
The mountains were as beautiful as the Himalayas. Steep, lush, farmed or grazed all the way to the top and rugged.
This is a populated country, even in the hinter lands. About 50 million people.
The major towns like Bogota, Medellin and Cartagena are 1st World. And as expensive as the US. Yet out in the country it is not quite 3rd World and dirt cheap.
It is drier with less humidity than Panama, something that is pleasant. Slightly cool at 8500 feet in Bogota. We all wear light jackets unless the sun is out.
I have another week and a half here. Can't wait!
Today is a holiday so I have time to, well, write a blog.
The more I travel, the more I realize that I know nothing about the world. Living in the US for most of my life has left me ignorant. Our dear country does indeed fed us highly spun mis-information.
Now I sit in Bogota, in the dreaded, dastardly evil drug producing, FARC kidnapping country of Colombia. Well, that's what we were told. Now it is a 1st World city of 8 million people.
So far Colombia has been a double edged sword.
First the bad.
Our first morning here, after receiving a security briefing, my friend and I got conned and scammed out of $1200. It was so slick that it didn't even occur to either of us that we were in trouble.
As we left the hotel, walking down the sidewalk, an old, old, kindly man asked for directions. We couldn't help him but we did start to talk. That was our first mistake.
As we were talking, a detective in a 3 piece suit, approached us, showed us his "credentials" and asked us to follow him to the neighborhood police station to register our business intentions and log in our money. All things that we were told we have to do anyway.
As we walked toward the "police station", another police officer joined us and said the line at the station was long so he would help us by taking our money and registering it for us.
You guessed it. They were gone with our money.
The money hadn't left my hand more than a nano second before I figured it out...too late...by, by money.
Shit, did I feel stupid!
The problem is that we, as trusting Americans, can't actually hear instructions like, "don't talk to ANYONE!" It is impolite to avoid talking to a kindly old man, for God's sake.
Lesson learned.
Everything else, and I mean everything else, has been fantastic!
The people are wonderful. Polite, happy, helpful and delightful!
We spent 3 long, arduous days out in the wild country, touring mineral sites. Traveling on dirt tracks to goat tracks, meeting people in the remotest places. Staying in hotels that cost $2 a night, eating meals for $1.
We were in a party of 8 with 2 vehicles. It looked like the United Nations with an Indian (Sub continent India) geologist, a mining engineer from who knows where, us and Colombians.
The mountains were as beautiful as the Himalayas. Steep, lush, farmed or grazed all the way to the top and rugged.
This is a populated country, even in the hinter lands. About 50 million people.
The major towns like Bogota, Medellin and Cartagena are 1st World. And as expensive as the US. Yet out in the country it is not quite 3rd World and dirt cheap.
It is drier with less humidity than Panama, something that is pleasant. Slightly cool at 8500 feet in Bogota. We all wear light jackets unless the sun is out.
I have another week and a half here. Can't wait!
Today is a holiday so I have time to, well, write a blog.
Struggling to Continue Blogging
It's been awhile since my last blog.
Because I am conflicted.
It bothers me that I can't say what I want to say or use specific words in my blog because I am afraid my government, or for that matter, someone else, will get me for it.
This internet thing has taken a nasty turn. It is being used, in this case, by my government to monitor the activities of it's citizens.
I know, this has been the case for years, but I finally have done something that could get me in trouble. I have traveled to a place that is verboten...for no good reason...just misconstrued political horse shit.
There is no fun left in blogging for me.
And this sucks because I love to blog. But I refuse to edit my comments anymore out of fear.
I don't know what I am going to do.
Presently, I sit in a hotel in Colombia, an incredible country.
Now, it is OK for me to be here, legal and all that. So I'm going to try and blog again and see what happens. But just know that I have over 12 blogs that I will never write and you will never read. And hopefully not sounding self important, blogs that could have contributed to you in substantial ways.
F#$#@!!!! I used to love my government. It is a stretch for me now. Maybe I will re-bound as time progresses
Because I am conflicted.
It bothers me that I can't say what I want to say or use specific words in my blog because I am afraid my government, or for that matter, someone else, will get me for it.
This internet thing has taken a nasty turn. It is being used, in this case, by my government to monitor the activities of it's citizens.
I know, this has been the case for years, but I finally have done something that could get me in trouble. I have traveled to a place that is verboten...for no good reason...just misconstrued political horse shit.
There is no fun left in blogging for me.
And this sucks because I love to blog. But I refuse to edit my comments anymore out of fear.
I don't know what I am going to do.
Presently, I sit in a hotel in Colombia, an incredible country.
Now, it is OK for me to be here, legal and all that. So I'm going to try and blog again and see what happens. But just know that I have over 12 blogs that I will never write and you will never read. And hopefully not sounding self important, blogs that could have contributed to you in substantial ways.
F#$#@!!!! I used to love my government. It is a stretch for me now. Maybe I will re-bound as time progresses
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Goats in the Road
I was driving home and saw a herd of goats in the road. This was in a rural area close to our house. Also in the road was Rudy sitting on a chair, right in the middle of the road.
The goats are Rudy's.
I stopped behind 2 other vehicles. I said hi and told him his goats were looking good.
He said, "I meditate for 30 minutes while the goats eat a delicate snack on the grass and weeds along side the road. This grass is much tastier than the grass by my house."
I said, "Rudy, you can't meditate sitting in the middle of the road. Everyone stops to talk to you because the goats are novel."
He laughed and said, ya...no meditating.
Rudy is another of the quirky people in Boquete. He is Swiss, has 6 huge dogs that "vill obey my every command!"
The Swiss are obsessed with order. So he thinks his dogs perfectly obey him. I didn't tell him that his dogs visit us when he is not looking. That would spoil his "world view".
We have been improving several things in our house. This means we have Panamanian works here. That means that I am FULL TIME working for them.
That's the way it is here.
Workers show up without the tools and the things they need. So they are constantly asking, do you have a screw driver, a ladder, a nail, tape, and it goes on and on and on...
Then, you have to run to the store and buy material for them. And re-buy material because they tell you to buy the wrong stuff, or they can't estimate quantities and you have to buy more stuff, or you bought too much stuff and you have figure where to put it.
It goes on and on and on.
We had our garage doors, the swing out variety, replaced with the standard roll up door like in the US.
Why?
Well, the doors were so heavy that they needed constant maintenance to get them to close, which is mandatory because of theft issues.
This crew is similar to what you are used to in the US. They do this everyday, installing many doors a month so they are practiced and tooled by a big corporation.
They were great. But I had the preliminary work done by my local, normal Panamanian worker and he screwed them up good.
They were at the house until 7:30 Thursday evening trying to finish the job. This is rare in Panama. Workers always go home at 4:00.
They didn't get it done because my worker used the wrong kind of wire for their sensors. They had to return the next day.
It is finally complete...one week total time for one lousy garage door installation.
Next week we start on the living room. We are install molding around the ceiling because the drywall tape pulls away from the concrete block walls from the high humidity.
We hope to get around this by covering up the pulled drywall tape with molding.
God knows, but this will be at least a full week of work with the painting.
I am tired and frustrated just thinking about it.
The goats are Rudy's.
I stopped behind 2 other vehicles. I said hi and told him his goats were looking good.
He said, "I meditate for 30 minutes while the goats eat a delicate snack on the grass and weeds along side the road. This grass is much tastier than the grass by my house."
I said, "Rudy, you can't meditate sitting in the middle of the road. Everyone stops to talk to you because the goats are novel."
He laughed and said, ya...no meditating.
Rudy is another of the quirky people in Boquete. He is Swiss, has 6 huge dogs that "vill obey my every command!"
The Swiss are obsessed with order. So he thinks his dogs perfectly obey him. I didn't tell him that his dogs visit us when he is not looking. That would spoil his "world view".
We have been improving several things in our house. This means we have Panamanian works here. That means that I am FULL TIME working for them.
That's the way it is here.
Workers show up without the tools and the things they need. So they are constantly asking, do you have a screw driver, a ladder, a nail, tape, and it goes on and on and on...
Then, you have to run to the store and buy material for them. And re-buy material because they tell you to buy the wrong stuff, or they can't estimate quantities and you have to buy more stuff, or you bought too much stuff and you have figure where to put it.
It goes on and on and on.
We had our garage doors, the swing out variety, replaced with the standard roll up door like in the US.
Why?
Well, the doors were so heavy that they needed constant maintenance to get them to close, which is mandatory because of theft issues.
This crew is similar to what you are used to in the US. They do this everyday, installing many doors a month so they are practiced and tooled by a big corporation.
They were great. But I had the preliminary work done by my local, normal Panamanian worker and he screwed them up good.
They were at the house until 7:30 Thursday evening trying to finish the job. This is rare in Panama. Workers always go home at 4:00.
They didn't get it done because my worker used the wrong kind of wire for their sensors. They had to return the next day.
It is finally complete...one week total time for one lousy garage door installation.
Next week we start on the living room. We are install molding around the ceiling because the drywall tape pulls away from the concrete block walls from the high humidity.
We hope to get around this by covering up the pulled drywall tape with molding.
God knows, but this will be at least a full week of work with the painting.
I am tired and frustrated just thinking about it.
Friday, April 20, 2012
Forgetfullness
On the way to the airport to fly from David to Panama City, then onto a foreign land, when we were half way to the airport, I realized that I forgot my wallet.
I literally NEVER forget my wallet. In my memory, I have not done this in the past 40 years. (Quit laughing...I just forgot something and now I am telling you "in my memory"!)
What!!!??? The wallet with my Panama residency visa, the visa I need to leave or get back into the country. Yah, that one.
It would take us an hour to turn around, get my wallet and return to the spot where I realized I didn't have it. That would make us miss our flight.
I called my Panamanian friend that knows everything and asked her if I could travel on my passport only because I did have that with me. She said no problem.
So much for good advice for free.
When I was trying to get through security in Panama City for the international flight, the immigration agent stopped me because I either had to have my residency visa or be considered a tourist, in which case I had been in the country over 90 days and would have to pay a stiff fine and that would take a day.
What to do?
My travel partner was already through security looking back wondering what was going to happen. I really felt bad for him. All this planning and now his traveling companion may not make it.
This is where the best qualities of Panamanians comes out...when you need help.
The agent called his office on his radio, explained the situation, then told me I could fax a copy of the visa and that would do it.
Simple, right?
As I am standing in line, making a bit of a disturbance, I called my wife and asked her to find my wallet, find the visa, copy it and fax it. So off she went.
It was Sunday. No copy-fax places open. She went to a friend who had a fax...no go because it was North American protocol and it didn't work. So she sweet talked a hotel into faxing it.
All of this took 45 minutes and mucho brain damage to get done. Thanks to my wife!
As I was giving up hope, the agent gets a radio call from his office saying they received the faxed copy and all was good for getting out of the country.
Hurray!
While I was standing in line, I used my cell phone several times talking to my wife and travel partner. The agent let me use my phone while he was telling everyone else that they couldn't use their phone...all to help get me through...breaking the rules for me...not something normally done in this country.
And the agents changed during the 45 minutes I was standing there. The first agent made sure the second agent knew what was going on...he certainly didn't have to do that.
When the chips are down, Panamanians come through!
Now all I had to do was get back into the country!
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Can't Believe Everything You Learned
I have struggled with how to write about my last 2 week trip to another country. The US discourages travel to this place so I am going to invent a veiled term to indicate the country but the actual name won't pop up in a "Big Brother" internet search.
So I went to a land close to Florida with a government loathed by the US. Let's call it XXX just to have some fun.
Now I will get all sorts of porn inquiries and offers instead of a fine from the "Big Brother" land.
I hope...
I thought that this country was gorgeous...and clean with actual street cleaners...and fun with more music than anywhere I've ever been...and old, old old with amazing architecture...and artistic with pop to fine art.
The people were fun loving, kind and helpful. And, I must mention, beautiful.
And they were happy...
Hmmm????
How can this be? I have been lead to believe that their form of government is EVIL!
Maybe we have been kept in the dark and fed bullshit for a long time. Maybe there are different stokes for different folks...and one size doesn't fit all.
Everyone had enough food, free medical care, free education. They are so much better off than any of their neighboring countries, for sure.
Now, they have their issues and bitches. And the government has changed dramatically several times.
But things are good.
We stayed in peoples homes rather than hotels or resorts. Our visit was immersed in local culture, businesses, restaurants, bars, parks and homes.
My travel partner and I came to love several of these wide open homeowners who put us up. They loved sharing their country with us.
The food was only so so. We had some good (but not great) food and some really bad stuff too.
Oh well, you can't have everything.
We walked all over the main city in XXX. Through the worst and best neighborhoods, resort districts, the old original city, the harbor and docks.
Hardly any police and almost no soldiers. The police were girls without guns.
And there was NO crime. None whatsoever.
I had a hard time rectifying the information put out by the US vs the reality of the country.
I was feeling a little duped...mislead...manipulated.
Now before anyone goes postal on me, I love my country. I would live there if I could afford it. It is my home and where my patriotism resides.
But it is difficult to know your country until you see yourself from someone else's eyes.
I recommend it.
It will be much harder to keep me in the dark and feed bullshit in the future.
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Never Draw a Line in the Sand in Panama
This is the land of fluidity.
God help you if you have to get something done before a deadline.
I have a project at my house. It requires a contractor to visit the house and check it out.
The problem is that I am busier than a one armed paper hanger in preparation for my trip.
I arranged for the visit this morning, knowing that it probably wouldn't happen. Things just don't happen on the first try here.
I call early to get a status and hear the normal run around and uncertainty. So I forget about it and go on with my day.
I have a business meeting and international phone call scheduled for noon.
So, of course, I get a call at 11 AM saying that the contractor is on his way.
What!!?? Where did that come from?
Sure enough, just draw a line in the sand and see what happens. This place loves to screw with you.
So I go meet the guy, he is of course late, and we head up to my house. I call my business partner and tell him I will be late. He was gracious because he has lived here for a few years and knows the ropes...and fortunately, the call was rescheduled.
The alternative was to put this project off for another month. Not very palatable. So I squeeze the appointment in and it worked out.
The Land of Unfulfilled Expectations, it is!
Funny thing, I am getting used to it. In a small way...
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
When It Rains, It Pours
I don't travel much from Panama...maybe an annual trip to the US.
In a couple of days, I am going to Cuba for 2 weeks. This hopefully will be treat, seeing a country that has not progressed much in the socioeconomic area since the revolution about 50 years ago.
When I get back, I immediately go to Colombia for a week.
Phew! Mucho travel for this guy.
Our efforts to develop a mining business in Colombia are starting to take off.
My friend has been diligently working on this for over 18 months. In the middle of all the frustration and set backs, he has finally got a great lead on some business.
So off to Colombia we go to take a look and get something going for real.
This is a lot of travel for me. I do enjoy traveling and the Colombia part should be paid for by otheres. I anticipate that a good time will be had by all....we'll see.
Meanwhile, yesterday and today I am working. Real work...writing reports...not my favorite thing to do but necessary. I forgot how much work, work is.
My back aches, my head is befuddled, and there is a certain joy to being productive once again.
I admit it. I do like to work. And I have missed it in retirement.
Nothing like being a contribution to fill the soul with satisfaction and joy.
So I am off to work...
Friday, March 23, 2012
Panama Giveth & Panama Taketh Away
Yesterday started as a great day...warm, mild breezes and 70 degrees.
Ah, perfect.
Lulled me to sleep.
I was exercising at the gym when the power went out.
Damn! I was having fun.
The guy next to me starts to grumble. "The electric company should TELL us when this is going to happen. How can they do this? It is too much to ask? You would think that a corporation would treat their customers better. What are they thinking anyway."
Ah, perfect.
Lulled me to sleep.
I was exercising at the gym when the power went out.
Damn! I was having fun.
The guy next to me starts to grumble. "The electric company should TELL us when this is going to happen. How can they do this? It is too much to ask? You would think that a corporation would treat their customers better. What are they thinking anyway."
I look over and suggest he won't be here very long if this bothers him.
The electricity can be trying. Normally it is consistent, but at the damnedest times, it goes off. Maybe for 5 minutes (Not a problem!), maybe for 7 hours (Can be a problem) and sometimes for a couple of days (Definitely a big deal)
That was at 10 AM. It came back on at 5 PM.
And that is the way of Panama...
But there is more in the air...
Several couples have split up in the last couple of months.
I know that Panama is hard on couples. We certainly had our difficulties in the first year we were here, so I understand.
But it is still is disconcerting.
One of the most recent couples to split was one of our favorites. We loved both of them and considered them best friends. Now, we are unsure of the future for them. Will they stay here? Will our friendship remain in tact?
I don't know.
This, coupled with the transient nature of the immigrants in Boquete, leaves me feeling uncertain about maintaining friendships.
People come and go here. If they make it passed the first year (Only about half do), I would guess the average stay is 4 years.
Now, add in the deaths...this is an aging population, and it is tough to weather the changes.
I think much of this would be the same in the US for this demographic.
Much easier to tolerate the transient nature of life in paradise though!
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Odds & Ends, Round 3
No wind for the last 2 days.
Hurray!!!!
We can hear the birds sing again in the morning. I had no idea how much I missed that.
We are gradually transitioning into the rainy season. This means that April is the best month. Some rain but not too much...calm, beautiful days and nights...just perfect!
I scurried around this morning getting ready for our band practice on our porch. Normally, we rehearse at the piano players house but not today.
I was aware of the satisfaction, joy and anticipation of the rehearsal. Gorgeous morning...idillic temperature...the newness of playing at our house!
And we did rehearse for 4 hours, a lot for old people. And it was good. After an 8 week break, we have had to work mighty hard to get the memory synapsis working again. I think we have lost a good number of synapsis though.
Damn aging!
Today I am present to the joy of living in paradise.
This is not always the case.
I have been talking with an old friend about the frequent number and intensity of upsets I have experienced over the last few weeks.
Where is the love?
Over the last 30 years, I have developed ways to move through upsets quickly and with alacrity.
I seem to have lost this ability and this worries me.
My buddy said it may be the transition into retirement. That is as good an explanation as any.
Ah, but today life is grand!
Hope it lasts...but I do know better, so I am enjoying it while it lasts.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
No Hay Luz
No lights, no electricity.
Damn! This is the 3rd time in 4 weeks.
I write this blog as our generator bangs away outside.
Not desirable for 2 reasons. First, it is expensive to run a generator, about $25 every 12 hours. Second, its really noisy.
And, I have to sit around and wait for the repair people, who may or may not make it today, so I may be sitting around tomorrow as well.
You see, they can't find my house. Why, you ask? Good question. I get the electricity when it's working so they know where I am. But, they can't communicate this to their repair crews for some unknown reason. They could simply FOLLOW THE POWER LINES and that would get them here, wouldn't it?
So here I sit and wait. And wait. And wait. Having cancelled my plans for the day.
F$#$#!
Remember, this is the Land of Unfulfilled Expectations. I forget from time to time.
We have had bad winds for the last 4 days. It blew so strong last night that the wind picked up a 50 pound wood deck chair...frame only, no cushions on it...and hurled it down our yard about 100 feet.
Hell, I can't thrown the chair 10 feet.
Even the dogs won't go outside.
I tell you this because it means that there is plenty of wind trouble so the repair crews probably won't make it today and I'll have to call it all in again tomorrow.
What? You say.
Well, the electric company has to fix any problem in 24 hours according to the law. So if they don't make it, they trash the job order. Out of sight, out of mind. Apparently this is a "successful" repair.
You have to call in ANOTHER job order for repair, thus starting a new 24 hour period. Somehow, it their mind, this means they satisfied the 24 hour repair law.
WTF!!!
Well, that's they way it is...
On the other hand, I sit here in my shorts and sandals while my friends in the frozen north shiver their way through the day!
I'll take the Land of Unfulfilled Expectations over cold any day.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Me at the Jazz Festival
It occurred to me that there were no photos of me. Maybe you thought I made it up.In the top photo, I was watching a band with Yella after we had set them up and I was free to out into the audience.
In the middle photo, I am talking to our piano player from our band, Anything Goes. Maybe we are discussing just why we aren't nearly as good as the musicians in the festival.
In the bottom photo, I am standing behind stage watching the band after we set them up.
Hasta luego!
Monday, March 5, 2012
Exhausted & Satisfied
It's over...
The final day of the Jazz Festival is complete. What an event it was!
My buddy, who was a festival organizer in the US, said that this event rivaled anything he'd seen in the his past life.
We tripled the attendance over last year, almost unheard of in the entertainment world. The quality and divergence of the acts was superior.
I am left stupefied and stunned at the amount of awe and fun we had.
I have included some pictures so you can get a feel of what it was like.
The first pic shows you the arena which is perfect for a concert...a steep amphitheater with stadium seating. The sounds was really good.
The second picture is of the band from Holland. They had players from around the world including the US. One of the best bands.
The next 2 pics are of my favorite group from Panama City. They played last year without this amazing singer. She was a hoot, an entertainer and a wonderful vocalist. Also, you can see the joy and passion that her young band members displayed. I love the guys in this group. I got to know them last year and I was impressed with both their musicianship and the quality of their humanity.
I was in the green room just as the singer was leaving. I told how good I thought she was...she gave me a big hug, overflowing with warmth and an earthy smile. This woman got the crowd going in a big way, then blew us away with her vocals.
The last picture is of a 17 piece local (David) Big Brass Band. They were the closing act and they brought the house down with old, 40's style swing music. Not bad for a group of music professors from the local university! Rock on dudes!
It is now Monday and I couldn't help but notice the smile on my face.
Wow, am I inspire!
Can't wait till next year...
Oh, I almost forgot.
I was one of the stage hands. I helped set up the sound checks and reset the stage between acts. Long 12 hours days. But so worth it!
Friday, March 2, 2012
The Jazz Festival Is Here!!!!
I love the Jazz festival! It is inspiring, entertaining and just plain wonderful.
The photos are of the opening day parade, New Orleans style. Complete with a New Orleans street band including dancers.
That evening was the first concert with Betty Bryant, the Grand Dam of the LA's jazz scene.
They had to help her onto the stage...she is 82 after all...she shuffles, hunched over, with thinning, short nappy hair, a purse on her shoulder...it takes a couple of minutes to get her seated.
She appears to be so feeble and fragile.
Until she puts her hands on the piano. Right before our eyes, she sheds 40 years. Any notion of senility is shattered.
A Jazz master is now on stage.
Just to see the transformation was worth the price of admission.
She has a self deprecating affect, a wry sense of humor, always laughing at herself, somehow including us, the audience, in on her joke.
She plays as if she could play in her sleep, and maybe she does.
Hands flashing across the keyboard, a solid voice full of character.
She sang a typical blues song about stealing another woman's man. She didn't do it in a normal rendition with either sassy sexy or wounded woman or mucho attitude. She did it with a lopsided grin, tongue in cheek, twinkle in her eye...like 40 years ago I could have done it with your man but now it's a little ridiculous...or maybe not.
What a class act! We loved her! She was taken back by the affection and love from the audience, a trademark of the people here.
I have rarely had the privilege of witnessing an artist this seasoned and intimate with the audience.
We get to see her again tomorrow when the full outdoor mega concert starts.
I am volunteering as a stage hand so I get to see and hear it all up close and personal.
Whoohoo! What a trip!
P. S. In the second picture, the girl on the left dancing, is from David, a neighboring town. She now lives in New Orleans and performs with the New Orleans street band.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Carnival
Even though the talks with the Indians have started to unravel, they are smart enough to not push their luck during Carnival.
Carnival is the biggest, drunkest, hose-the-people-down-with-fire-hydrants party in the country.
No one screws with Carnival!
Even the Indians, who are madder than hell at the way the talks are going.
So, new protests will be held off until February 27th.
Meanwhile, we enjoy a respite.
One of the ways to tell it is Carnival is by the enormous number of passed out Indians and Panamanians in the ditches beside the roads. Several people have had trouble getting into their houses because passed out drunks block their driveways, front doors and side streets.
As I have mentioned in the past, these people can PARTY!!!
It is not unusual to see a party still going at 8 AM the morning after. And Carnival is a four day long celebration. So why stop partying night or day?
How do they do it?
Our little berg of Boquete is know for a peaceful, quiet, tranquil place to weather the Carnival storm. Most Panamanians do not party at this level and they too try to hide from the major partying.
So Boquete is full and overflowing with Panamanian tourists escaping the party.
Even so there are enough people celebrating Carnival to litter the roads with passed out drunks.
In a rare display of planning, Romaro's (our major super market) is fully stocked throughout the fiesta. You can imagine my surprise! This culture is without the planning gene. Maybe they brought in a Type A westerner to pull this off.
We are enjoying abundant food, the most pleasant weather and a few days of relaxation and fun.
What you say, aren't we already relaxed in retirement? Ah, there are new levels of relaxation available.
Tonight we go to a New Orleans style, Fat Tuesday party. This is known as the most decadent gringo party of the year. Drunkenness will be resplendent tonight!
Not my favorite thing, for sure. We will have to go early and leave early, trying to avoid the worst of the mess.
Tonight, Gringos Gone Wild!
I plan on watching from the side lines.
Friday, February 10, 2012
The Beach
We drove to the beach yesterday for a day trip. Daniel and Lily stayed overnight and returned this evening.
We had postpond the trip because the turn off for the beach was at the location of the biggest and most vigorous Indian demonstration. Obviously, this delayed our trip.
On our way to San Felix, the town with the demonstrations, we had clear sailing with no delays or crowds of indigenous people...
Until a few miles before San Felix where a large, friendly group of Indians were standing by the road.
Why?
Well, the truce is contingent on the legislature being in session and negotiating a solution.
Clearly, on very short twitter or text message notifying a suspension of the negotiations will result INSTANTLY in a renewal of the demonstrations.
I believe the Indians have a realistic view of "white man's" petulance to screw them. So they are ready!
I can't blame them.
Meanwhile, a wonderful day at the beach was enjoyed by all!
Ah, the beach!
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Update
For now, the indigenous people have suspended their demonstrations. All has started to return to normal.
We are traveling to the beach today with our son and girlfriend. We don't anticipate any problems which is good because we will go through the town with the most violence.
Until later,
Hasta Luega!
Sunday, February 5, 2012
Third Indian Update
We went to David even though there were reports of road closures on the highway to the airport.
We got through, no problem.
As we saw the entrance to the airport, a large number of soldiers and police were screening the cars being allowed into the airport. There was no problem getting in, just some delays.
On the highway just before the airport, about 100 cars loaded with local Panamanians were parked watching the airport grounds.
Why?
I don't know. Probably Saturday night entertainment.
The airport was even more crowded Saturday evening than Friday. A line snaked out the door and down the parking lot for about a block. These are the tourist stranded and looking for one of the free flights. Good luck...it seemed to be hopeless.
Soldiers were at the doors prohibiting anyone from entering unless you had a ticket. So we waited outside.
Our son's flight was only 30 minutes late so everything worked for us.
Much of the information I wrote in yesterday's blog turns out to be inaccurate. The newspapers are having trouble getting the stories right. Understandably.
The Indians are still in control. No progress yet.
The general consensus is that there will be violence tomorrow with the soldiers and police breaking up the blockades.
We will see.
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Day 5 of Indian Blockade
All parties are at a impasse.
The Indians definitely have their back up. And they should.
Why is it that the indigenous people always get the shaft?
Here's how the story goes...
The president said he would talk to the Indians in Panama City. They want to talk at an old cathedral out in the Camarca, otherwise know as the boondocks.
The President got in his trusty helicopter and visited the Indians out in the country at a couple of the road blocks. They don't want to talk to the President because it is the legislature that is screwing things up. (Who knows who is really the fly in the ointment)
So they give the Pres the boot.
Needless to say, this is not moving things along nor is it making any friends.
So the president is loading planes in David with produce for Panama City. There are a string of barges headed to the port of Pedregal, see previous post about this "charming" little berg, which is near David and will be loaded with mucho food for Panama City.
Is anyone thinking about getting fuel to Chirqui? Hey, dumb shits, you can't get food to the markets without fuel!
In addition, the cell phone service to the road block areas has been cut. The Indians say this is a strong arm tactic by the government and the government says it was sabotage by the Indians.
How many fingers do they have to point?
Panama has also added 5 FREE flights, round trip, between David and Panama City to move the tourists along and out of the country so they are no longer stranded.
This is a good thing. I was at the David airport yesterday picking up a friend and it was mayhem. The terminal, which is small, was packed with almost no place to stand and wait. The outside was populated with milling groups of disgruntled, waiting people. The terminal is designed to handle about 100 people at time and there were about 500 people in and around the terminal.
Not a good thing.
And we are picking up our son and his girl friend this afternoon at the David airport.
This is a sidebar...
We know several drivers in Panama City. If you visit us, an English speaking driver that I set up, will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel or the in-country airport. These drivers are wonderful! I called to confirm that our son was in Panama City. Then the driver called back an hour later and said that Daniel was now at the in-country airport, in the correct line to check in and all was well. These guys go the extra mile to make sure that your safety and well being are cared for.
Back to the mess...
We are getting international pressure to resolve this stuff because tourists from various countries are stranded. Those stuck at the airport are moving along but all the people in cars, taxis and buses are stranded out on the highway...and have been for 5 days.
Tell me that doesn't get old.
I know of pressure from Costa Rica and Argentina now. I am sure that other countries are in the mix too.
The US State Department has issued a travel restriction for US citizens.
What a mess!
In the end, I find it hard to criticize the Indians. After being fu#$ed over in almost every country in the world over the centuries, I suspect that they should escalate the fight.
Because we all know how this will turn out.
You know where the term "Indian Giver" comes from.
Friday, February 3, 2012
Circle The Wagons
The Indians are coming.
We have 5 indigenous tribes in Panama. The local tribe is called Ngobe Bulge.
They are protesting the governments willingness to mine their lands. These lands have the largest deposit of copper in the world, not to mention gold, silver and many more precious metals.
Capitalists around the world are salivating over the not-quite-dead, Indian nation carcass.
In the grant fashion of contemporary imperialism, the government has awarded the mining rights to a Canadian firm.
Finally, something gives the "Aren't-They-So-Nice" Canadians a black eye. I have been waiting for this because Canadians are actually nice. Are they the next British? Or simply relying on the US for an exemplary example of "How to Screw The Indians Royally."
In the glowing fashion of governments steeped in the rich heritage of the northern barbarian hordes of Europe, with brilliant follow up by the British and Americans, the Panamanian government first wrote a law that awarded the Indians what they wanted; then, when the legislature was going to pass the law, they stripped the important paragraph awarding the rights to Indians from the law.
Brilliant!!
I can tell the Panamanians have been studying American politics. Where else in the world can you can you vote both for and against a law by first voting for the law, then voting down the funding for the same law.
Magnificently brilliant.
So now the indians are protesting.
And they are so good at it...after all, they have had plenty of practice.
They blockaded the roads, in this case, the all important Inter American Highway, or the life blood of the country. Only one road connects the entire country. They might want to re-think this for the future.
The blockade has been going on for 4 days.
We in Chiriqui (Boquete) are out of fuel. No gas, no diesel.
Ah, but we have food because we are the bread basket of Panama.
Panama City, on the other side of the blockade, is out of food. But, of course, they have plenty of fuel.
I want to see them try to eat that!
Our stubborn president has refused to talk to the Indians.
Triple brilliant!
Not to worry. When the pissed off citizens start to roast the politicians for breakfast, I firmly believe the president will talk to the Indians.
In the mean time, we are hunkered down, trying to conserve fuel...not something we know anything about, of course.
I will give you an update later.
Sunday, January 29, 2012
The Fish Monger
When we first arrived in Panama, 2 to 3 fish mongers would park across the street from the supermarket. This was wonderful for us locals but the supermarket didn't like it. The mayor threw them out so no more fresh fish in Boquete.
Big disappointment.
Now I have to drive to David to the fish market. Not a big deal except the market may or may not have what you want, depending on the catch of the day. So a 2 hour trip can be waisted.
There is a fish monger, Miguel, who delivers to restaurants and individuals who ordered fish directly from him. I have tried to find out how to hook up with him but I got no where.
Until last Thursday.
I had parked my car and was walking to the supermarket when a friend scurried across the street to chat. I noticed he had been with a fish monger.
Wow! How did that happen.
I crossed the street and met Miguel.
What a find!
He had 5 pounds of Mahi Mahi, one of my favorite fish.
He dressed it while a waited.
This took 45 minutes. Why? Miguel likes to talk...and he knows a little english.
So he would make a cut, sharpen his knife, stop to talk. And talk. And talk...
I noticed that he had rheumy eyes. And he talked about hitting people and knocking them down.
Apparently the port city of Pedragal is a tough little town. There was a big disturbance the night before where several people were battered and a couple knifed. He was regaling us with his part in breaking up the fight.
All the while masterfully dressing this magnificent fish.
He has slow, unhurried hands...beautiful hands. Man, can he dress a fish.
His gentle hands and soft personality are inconsistent with his rhetoric about hitting people... What the fu#$#!
I think he was drunk too. It was 3 PM so maybe it was time to start the party. I got his last fish so it was quitting time.
Now I have a way to contact Miguel.
Let the fresh fish roll!
Oh, there is more to the dichotomy of Miguel. He is an electrical engineer and certified Microsoft and Apple technician. Yet he finds a great life for himself being a fish monger.
Makes one think about living the career life rather than one closer to the food chain.
Sunday, January 22, 2012
The Fair
Until yesterday, I have avoided the fair.
The Boquete Flower and Coffee Fair is our village's biggest event of the year. About 30,000 Panamanians come to Boquete for the fair. They come in droves.
Most people, locals included, dread the fair.
The name of the fair is misleading. Yes, there are flowers and vendors like any fair around the world.
But there is another thing that dwarfs the flowers.
Latin American discos!
It is impossible to articulate what one of these behemoths really is.
They are similar to traveling rock shows only louder.
This is a big business in Latin America. These touring shows move from one fair or event to another. They are multi-floor, mega sound system, meat market things.
I really don't know what goes on in one because I can't get close enough when they operate to see. They are so loud that I fear for my hearing and sanity just getting within a few blocks of one in full flight.
We can hear them at night, FIVE miles away!
The real purpose of the fair is the disco.
They fire up about 10 PM and go till dawn at 6:30 AM.
The mayor gets more complaints about the noise than any other thing during the year.
But they still go on.
Why?
Because it brings in a ton of money. And notoriety. The fair puts Boquete on the map...in Panama.
So it goes on.
Many people, gringo and local, leave town for the 10 days of the fair. You can't possibly sleep if you are within a mile of the disco which includes the entire village of Boquete.
We live out in the country, 5 miles from the fair, and we can still hear it.
We attended the fair during the day. It is a lovely event with some amazing flowers.
And it is also "shit pickers paradise." Booth after booth of the same trinkets that seem to appeal to, I guess, someone. Not me for sure.
We strolled around for about an hour. That was enough. It was a beautiful day so all was well.
I don't think I will go back.
I will just grit my teeth every year during the fair, when we actually have traffic jams, and the food stores have bare shelves, and people meandering around clog the streets.
Who am I to deprive a city of their heritage?
Let the fair roll on!
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Our Casita
We've had several guest stay in our casita.
They have been some our best friends plus our son (and Lilly) so they have been at the top of our list of great people.
After a guest leaves, there presence lingers on.
As I look down on the casita or I walk by on my way to my car, I have the urge to look in and call out there name, just like I do when they are here.
When this happens, there is a pleasant glow tinged with melancholy.
The warm memories of their visit produce the glow.
And there absence after the visit brings on the melancholy.
Our oldest, best friend, who we have known for 42 years, left yesterday. It was a lightning quick, 4 day visit packed with conversation and fun.
And discussions of his possible future move to Boquete with his family.
We met him in Kansas City before we were married. We were so young then...oh we were young. Many, many memories of those carefree days without obligations and responsibilities, plus a wild abandon for partying way beyond sanity.
We went on the road playing music with him, touring all over the midwest and even a stint in Vegas. Those were simultaneously the best and worst days of my life.
It is impossible to continue living life that fast and survive!
And strangely enough, our days in Panama resemble those earlier days. Well, without the insane partying for sure.
He hasn't been here for 3 years so his impressions of the area were interesting. He commented many times about how much more developed and beautiful Boquete and David are now.
I forget how much has changed with our current President who is pro-gringo and development.
They are widening the highway to 4 lanes, They have paved the main street as well as 5 side streets in Boquete...we only have about 5 side streets. David has several new hotels and commercial buildings. The mayor has upgraded the town square by closing 2 streets that border the square and converted them to beautiful walk ways, and there is a new fountain in the square.
So, his comments were insightful. We don't notice the changes because we are here all the time and acclimated to them.
His impression was that Boquete is on the verge of another boom. Who knows, if the world economy creeps toward the better and all those retiring boomers need a cheaper place to retire, he could be right.
It sure was good to see him and hang out!
Even with Skype, I miss my old friends.
Monday, January 9, 2012
Football at It's Best
I know, most of you aren't football fans and, if you are, you don't follow the Denver Broncos.
Doesn't matter.
The Broncos pulled off one of the biggest upsets in professional sports last night when they beat the Steelers in overtime.
What a game!
And I didn't get to see it...
We were at a birthday party for a really good friend. Anyone else and I would have stayed home and watched the game.
One of the big changes in our lives are the number of social engagements that we attend in paradise.
In Colorado, we might go out to dinner or a party 4 times a year. Here, we are out probably 60 to 80 times a year.
What happened?
Well, the obvious thing is that we are retired and have a lot of time on our hands. But it is more. This community is special. There is a sense of relationship that is rare, and precious.
It can be traced back to 2 very special people who I have written about in the past.
Amazing that one or two individuals can have such a big impact on a community.
So, there I sat before the game, debating on what I was going to do. Watch the game or attend the birthday party.
Back and forth, back and forth, back and forth.
Finally, the value of being related won out.
And I missed watching the game of the decade.
That's alright. I got to see the video clips of the best plays and I spent 2 hours reading about the game on the internet.
The party was worth it...in a quiet, warm, close way...the best way...it was not a loud, screaming at one another party...just 6 people having a wonderful time.
And, I felt like I was at the game by reading all about it the next day.
Saturday, January 7, 2012
Little Things Make It All Worth It
We have a 5 to 6 foot vertical dirt bank next to our driveway. On top of the bank is the concrete box to house our generator.
The generator has never been in the box.
Why?
We can't lift the generator up the bank without throwing someone's back out.
In addition, our dogs, who effortlessly jump up the bank, have worn the dirt down 18 inches and undermined the bottom of the fence.
When our male dog sees another dog, he jumps up the bank and rakes his feet on the ground thus digging out the soil.
Some kind of ancient male dominance ritual, I think.
I asked our gardener to build stairs up the bank. This will do 2 things: stop the undermining of the fence and provide an easier way to lift the generator to it's rightful place in it's box.
I explained what I want to him and then I let him do it his way.
This takes tremendous restraint on my part because he seems to be doing in WRONG. For once I kept my mouth shut. As he progressed, I could see that he actually has a wonderful design for the stairs.
I am so glad I let him do it his way!
It order to finish the project, he needs to cut a 6 inch metal stud off the bottom of the box.
So off I go to find hack saw blades.
This is where the "little thing" showed up that I mentioned in the blog title.
I walked into a chino hardware and construction supply store. These chino stores are scattered along the highway every 2 or 3 miles. Always owned and operated by a Chinese family.
The Chinese have a stronghold on this type of store throughout Panama.
Everything is behind the counter so you have to ask for what you want, thus the problem...insufficient Spanish!
I pull out my hack saw and I point and say, "Tiene este?" "Este" is a wonderful word meaning "this" so it covers all those things that you don't know the Spanish word for...Yay! (Tiene este means, Do you have this?)
Now an interesting thing happens.
The Panamanian customer next to me tells me the Spanish word for "saw blade". Panamanians are very helpful. I try to pronounce it and get it wrong, of course. He repeats. I screw it up. He repeats it. I screw it up. We go back and forth about 6 times until I get it.
Now everyone in the store, staff and customers, start to smile and laugh because I finally got it.
It amazes me how little it takes to be related to people when they are so accommodating.
I go to the cash register to pay and the chino owner asks me how to say it in English. I tell him "blade".
Now he gets to try and fail about 6 times. When he gets it, everyone smiles and laughs for him too.
Here is an interesting aspect of pronunciation in Spanish.
They do not pronounce "d" as a hard "d". No such sound in Spanish. It is more like the softer sound of "th". The chino owner was struggling with the hard "d" at the end of "blade".
Ah, the trials and travails of learning a new language.
It made me feel great that the locals enjoyed my learning process and that the owner reciprocated by learning the English word.
I do dearly love this culture.
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