Some thoughts

First, Kate´s photos are wonderful. The interesting thing about that sloth she posted is that they usually stay high in trees and don´t move much, eating leaves and having a very slow life. We were surprised to see this one so fardown the tree trunk, bt Patricia at Tree of Life Wildlife Rescue told us this happens, that they are comfortable around people. This sloth was gone a few hours later, that surprised us. One of those mysteries. Our departure day is coming, we feel sadness. We love Central America, the people, culture, nature history are wonderful, and the slow, simple pace of life is very fine. Still, there is a lot of poverty and deep sadness here. There is a long history of difficult struggles here. Today, many of the businesses are foreign owned, and money is taken from the countries. It is difficult to come with the best of intentions, as many people do, and realize that our perceptions of ourselves and the region are very difficult from Central Americans´. Much to ponder and reflect on here, which I may do in this blog when we get back to the U.S. One thought re Panama, it is a beautiful country, with friendly people. The government has a policy of attracting retirees from the U.S. and other developed countries, offering them discounts on things like restaurants, movies, and much more. I am sure the idea is to bring money into the country. I wonder how poor Panamanians, who have to struggle for simple necessity and do not have support see this policy. Anyway, much to consider here. Tomorrow we hike on Volcan Arenal ' more after that.