Scott in Costa Rica

Scott K Wimer Gallery - galería arriba

2012-01-16T22:11:00.035-06:00

I found a hidden away spot for a small gallery.

A central location for people to find easily. Just around the corner from Cafe Mundo. Between the Railroad tracks and the main entrance of the hospital Calderón Guardia. It is not a store front gallery where people will pop in. It an upstairs spot well hidden from the street. Not my plan originally but I like the feeling of quiet,peace that the location provides. You forget that the street is busy with activity. Cabs lined in front of the hospital on one end and ambulances at the other of the adjacent street. Cafes and bakeries mixed in with stores for medical supplies.

In this location I will have a large number of unframed fotos in smaller sizes. Prices ranging from $5- $20 depending on the print type and sizes. This is also a good way to see my work besides the website view.

I am also able to print on the spot in some cases if what you want is not on display.

Having a downtown San Jose location location to keep and show my work is necessary for me. With my workshop studio way up in Coronado, it is always a challenge to transport pieces from various locations in the country. All roads lead to San Jose. I have been looking casually for a little storage space if nothing else in the city. But this place I found is a new construction clean box added to the back of a historic building. Below is a restaurant serving typical Costa Rican plate lunches. Soda Durama.

Some of the places of interest on my block

The blocks around are catering to the medical needs of the hospital Calderon Guardia. It is also sprinkled with funky artsy cafes and close to many of the serious San Jose galleries and museums. I am happy to now have a location where people can meet with me to see my work or discuss mural projects. I will not be having walk in traffic but will have my telephone number if someone see's my work hanging at the entrance downstairs and they can call to be let in or set a time for me to come and meet with them. It is a simple space .Sometimes I allow the space to be used also for meetings, language classes and Reiki sessions.

Embrujarte Art Show in Escazu

2011-11-25T22:01:00.014-06:00

This year the Embrujarte art fair was better for me. I had learned from last year some things that are necessary for a successful show. I have also met many new friends and have a little more grasp on the Spanish language. Well ¡un poco!

I made even more friends this year at the show and feel like I am not a lost gringo in the Costa Rican Art world anymore. My work is changing. Developing into the love of my life. My enthusiasm is at an all time high as things keep happening and my life in Costa Rica is becoming what I had envisioned.

Last year was my first art show-fair in Costa Rica. It was a real challenge and a great experience. I was clueless what to expect. I shared a space with my good friend and fellow artist Kay Black. We shared the good and the bad of the whole experience. Bottom line we had a great time and met many new friends. Other artists as well as clients. This year we will do it again. But this time we know to expect no electric power for the first couple days. Straggler artists parking their van in front of our exhibit as they set up two days LATE! The gates not open on the corners. I will be ready and waiting even if the rest of the them are not. Also possible weird weather. So basically the first day Nov 30 is set up day. It is open to the public though and fun to see the chaos of the set up dramas.

This year we had different dramas and problems but more fun than ever! Cant wait til next year! jejeje I was able to stay closer to Escazu too. I was working on the sign for Casa Orleans in Rohrmoser, so was able to sleep there as well during the art fair.

I painted this sign during the show and stayed at this lovely home. Worked out very well!

Getting into the groove

2011-09-29T19:01:00.013-06:00

As things are falling in place I feel I AM TRULY GETTING INTO THE GROOVE.
My comfort level is improving as I learn to speak more Spanish. I will always be the gringo

to the ticos but at least they say it to my face and include me in their activities. I ride the buses and ticos like to practice their English and it forces me to try out more Spanish as well. The neighbors are insisting I speak Spanish more and it is happening, but slowly! You can could say I ride the short bus to Spanish school.I have an artist brain, not designed for gathering and holding facts and figures or new words. But I am making more friends. They are patient! My internet friends are becoming real life friends.Costa Rica has a definite assortment of people. Many different reasons why people settle in Costa Rica. I live among Costa Ricans being only one of the few gringos in the town of Coronado.

Since January 2011 I have stopped returning to the USA to replenish my bank account with jobs there. I gave up my home and car. Literally walked away.
Giving away my belongings. I had brought some things that meant something to me here over the years. But for the most part letting go of personal possessions is a liberating thing to do. Re thinking the importance of THINGS in your life. I live WITHOUT HDTV now. Yes it is true and I am literally OK with it! But I refuse to be without my i phone. It is not easy starting a new life here without a big roll of money to back you up while things slowly happen. The economy in the States forced me to take the final plunge without the money I needed to bring with me. Artist are the first to be scratched off the list. So I am busy making my mark here in Costa Rica. Sink or swim! I am still not swimming but managing to dog paddle at least. I have a Costa Rican wife and have been waiting for my permanent residency to be approved for 2 years. It took a little longer because my first lazy incompetent idiot tool of a lawyer

lazy-moron retard abogado

had forgot to give Immigration office my documents. That is all he had to do! I had acquired all my documents on my own. So I found that out when I went in to immigration myself to check on the progress. So I had to go through the laborious process again of acquiring my Birth Certificate, Police Report and hired a new lawyer who was not a lazy-moron retard. A new really great lawyer who was recommended by facebook friends. managed to finish my passport copies and translations for my documents in a couple days. No muss no fuss all done online and delivered via messenger to my house.

I brought the docs in myself !!! As of June 2011 I was approved as a permanent resident of Costa Rica. Of course I did not know until I went in myself in September because they faxed the first lawyer retard , lazy ass , moron the news! grrrrrrr So the next surprise was the final fees needed to actually receive my Costa Rican Social Security card. First lawyer was given that money.....oh well over $400 more out of my empty pockets and I was getting my pic taken at Immigration office by a large woman who was truly in a bad mood I think. I am still traumatized by her.I should mention though that everyone at immigration before that point were very nice, and very helpful.

At the time I received my cedula card I was also showing an art piece in the Valoarte exhibit. My first real Costa Rican Juried Show. Now I am recognized in the art community as a legitimate artist. So needless to say I am very pleased to get off to such a prestigious start. Still depending on my online sales of my art and my foto prints though for now.

The murals I have done here are only a few. I have been lucky to get some interesting commissions so far and I am getting busier as my name is becoming more known in the country. I am looking forward to becoming busier. I do have some murals coming up that will be a different style I am used to. I will be blending my style to become more tropical and colorful. I will also be doing several murals in Atlanta ,Ga in November 2011. Nice to know I am still able to get some jobs in the USA even though I no longer live there.

I have also started a new walking tour business in San Jose.
Not sure what it will actually end up being! Geared more towards people who are interested in urban history, architecture as well as the Art Galleries and interesting funky spots not to be missed. Many people avoid time in San Jose. Some or forced to endure a day or two in San Jose only because they are in transit to some resort or jungle tour. Horror stories of unchecked crime and bad experiences are highly exaggerated. Like any large city anywhere. Beware! Don't be a target for petty theft. I have learned myself the hard way. Never be to careful with your belongings. But San Jose is a great city with many museums,parks and just cool stuff. I will eventually open a art space in San Jose. I am looking for the perfect spot and possible partners to share the space. Life is a process. Just do what you can and see what happens.

Valoarte Art exhibit

2011-09-11T18:03:00.009-06:00

I am very excited to be taking part in this important art event put on by Voloarte 

This show will run til September 29th.  It is a great show and for a worthy cause!  

I painted onto my large foto on canvas. It is a mixed media piece from my original foto that I took at the Clinica del dolor. The dramatic lighting in the waiting areas creates a very dramatic theatrical feel to the location. Appropriate for the venue. many people suffering as they wait in the long lines to see the Dr or get their meds. The main subject in my foto seems to have escaped into her own world free of pain at least for awhile as she gets engrossed in her news paper of gossip and sensational news.

This event is a big deal and an annual fund raiser. For those of you who do not recognize the woman in these pics, this our President of Costa Rica - Laura Chinchilla.

I feel very honored to have one piece for this show. Many of the artist are asked to show by the Valoarte organizers. These are established and well known artist. They also allow lesser known artist like me to submit two pieces to a jury to be possibly chosen for this exhibit. From 400 entries they picked 40 to put in this show. Mine being one of them. The 3 jurors were from Costa Rica, USA and Guatemala.

So the who's who in the Costa Rica art world were in attendance. It was a great opportunity for me to meet some great new people.

As an added bonus during this time I was approved as a permanent resident of Costa Rica and received my Cedula . (Costa Rica Social Security card)

With the participation of over 150 national and international artists, on Thursday held the opening of the 2011 edition of the exhibition Valoarte, an activity that takes place during the months of September and October in the Art and Technology Center Customs . The event aims to benefit the Hogar Siembra, an institution that has 28 years of existence and provides comprehensive care for children and adolescents at risk. The opening activity was done by the president Laura Chinchilla who commented that “human Valoarte represents a strategy and creative bridges between artists who exhibit and relieving human suffering.” For his part, Minister of Culture and Youth, Manuel Obregon, said that the Ministry has supported proposals as VALOARTE to that through art education we democratize culture. The old customs will exhibit about 250 artistic proposals, which will be available to collectors and art lovers who tend to acquire them, while working with the charity Home Siembra. Costa Rica News Online

Me!

My Studio in Coronado and Places I am showing my art

2011-07-08T05:28:00.018-06:00

I made my first attempt to have my gallery and office outside of my actual home. It was really a nice location and place for quiet working. Unfortunately the people did not come like I had hoped. The expense was not justified for the amount of traffic. I did meet some new friends and had a nice time while it lasted. So I am back working from my studio in Coronado.

My studio in Coronado is not big enough to have a place to show all of my art .

If clients want to come and visit I meet them at El Encanto. They have parking and great coffee and food! Most of my work is in there as well.

18 x 24 canvas $150

Cafeteria El Encanto

18 x 24 canvas $150


At El Encanto Cafe -Coronado 16 x 16 on Canvas $55.00

18 x 24 canvas on harboard gallery wrap $200

For now I place things in restaurants around Costa Rica.Most of my bigger pieces are on display at

El Encanto canvas $150

El Encanto Cafe 3 x 3 ft
on canvas $300

Cafeteria El Encanto in Coronado.

El Encanto Cafe 3 x 3 ft
on canvas $300

It is my favorite hang out and a 10 minute walk from my home and studio. Neighbors have become used to seeing me carrying paintings down the road.

Atelier Diseño Orgánico

Atelier diseno organico-Escazu-$600

is a small gallery and shop in Central Escazu. next to the Buena Tierra cafe.

Atelier diseno organico-Escazu $150

Atelier diseno organico-Escazu-$30

Robins Cocina in Central Escazu
RobinsKitchen --La Cocina de Robin
I am showing some smaller framed fotos at Robins place.

I am now a permanant Resident of Costa Rica

2011-07-05T19:57:00.002-06:00

After a couple long years of jumping through hoops and gathering documents, and RE gathering documents I am now approved as a permanent resident in Costa Rica. I still need to pay about $500 more though to receive my cedula.( The social security card for Costa Rica) UGH! So what this means to me is I am legally able to work here and I have no need now to leave the country every three months to renew my travel visa. Despite horror stories from some about the process involved.

I found it was not so bad. The first lawyer was responsible for all of the delays and confusion, but once I took control and finished things myself with the help of my friend Rene and another capable , responsible lawyer, things went well. It seems that a fax was sent to tell the previous lawyer that the application had been approved back in March. In true form of this loser, brainless slug of a lawyer he did not let me know it was approved. So...needless to say I am relieved I am finished with this waiting process and the fear of being denied. Documents being lost AGAIN. etc. But over all the people working at the Migracíon office are very nice and very patient. Feel free to ask me about the good lawyer if you are looking for one.

Finding my THING

2011-06-06T10:41:00.004-06:00

Going from a mural artist-faux painter to a ?ummm ??derrr? mmm... That is the question. Trying to hone in on a more refined , defined, and focused art form. Being an artist with many options. I need to stop spreading myself thin. I need to focus on a definite type of art to specialize in. My true passion comes from photographing life. The detailed images are instant and mine. The creative process is endless from this initial point of image capture. No longer limited to darkroom techniques alone. Digital manipulation and enhancement is beyond the imagination. My past career as a fashion photographer has been an important background in the development of my new work. I am falling into a definite pattern that is becoming my trademark style. Brighter than life colors and defined textures create a strong image that evokes emotions and feelings from ordinary subjects.

Crossing over pulling my fotos into the art category. My larger fotos are being printed onto canvas and taken to the next level with paints and pigments.

It has been a long road so far as I transfer my life to Costa Rica. My immigration progress is slow and sometimes frustrating. I am slowly learning to speak and understand the Spanish language. The economy has thrown another wrench into the works as well. As the new guy in town it is a slow process of paying my dues.Counting on any income from the USA is only a distant memory. People in general that would normally hire me or buy my fotos etc online have put on the brakes as they struggle themselves with the reality of the economy and realizing living within our means is a necessary fact of life these days. YUK!!

Full time in Costa Rica

2010-10-29T19:57:00.011-06:00

 Back in July I decided to abandoned my life in Florida and go for broke in Costa Rica. Broke being the key word! Business in Florida had been slowing to crawl. It seemed like a good time as any to shift my life to Costa Rica. I still return to the USA for jobs but gave up my permanent address.Now I live in Costa Rica and occasionally work in the states instead of the other way around. needless to say it has been a challenge, but I have building to this point for a few years and was prepared to give up some things as well as enjoy the benefits of others. Readjusting.For now at least I am doing without a car.This has relieved me of a large expense and has given me a strange  inner peace. Not worrying where I park, will my car be burgled or ticketed. The list goes on and on. Costa Rica has a very efficient bus and taxi network. A few trains with more being planned. The benefits of an urban life with the advantages of a more rural life. Every town is connected to San Jose. 
          
    Ok San Jose is not perfect! Pick pockets make a good living on and near the bus stations.I have been relieved of my passport once while walking to one bus from another. In this case I had shopping bags in my hands and my shirt tucked in. Add my silly gringo face...I was a target.  I was squeezed between a young couple holding hands as out on a happy date. I realized when I was being squeezed between them as they passed that I needed to check my pockets. All seemed to be in place. They made a quick grab and missed my phone, cash and other stuff. It wasn't til later that night did I remember I had my passport on me that day.

  On the bus you will be squeezed while standing in the aisles. It is hard to realize what is happening because you feel every part of your body being pressed against people and things. All part of the experience. Just be careful that nothing is in your loose -baggy pockets. I recently had my i phone pulled out of my front pocket as a guy left the bus. Turns out his hand was literally in my pocket the whole time I was standing near the exit.I only felt pressure on my leg from another body. Impossible to see or really distinguish  the feel. As the door opened he ran out and my earphone cord was left dangling.. Live and learn. I didn't react or run after him as he disappeared quickly into the crowd at the Coca cola station. Not worth getting hurt. So I must remind myself each time I feel too comfortable and let my guard down. Professional thieves are always waiting for their moment.

   I am living in a high altitude city known for its cold weather and dairy cattle. At 4700 ft elevation it is always cool. It seems most everyone has yappy dogs, loud dirt-bikes and full knowledge of what every neighbor has been up to each day. I  walk down hill into town everyday to get to the bus station, post office and assorted shopping. Walking back up is another story all together. It is great exorcise as long as you watch your step and don't fall into one of the zillions of potholes, cracks and literal holes left unprotected. If I have a lot of things to carry I will take the local bus that goes even further up the mountain to smaller farm towns. The people are farm folks with the younger crowd dressed for the bus out of town. Some obviously destined to leave for the city as soon as they get the chance.

Scott K Wimer GALLERY

2010-10-25T07:28:00.004-06:00

Update on my cat box alternative

2010-10-01T10:39:00.006-06:00

In July I decided to get rid of the gross cat box with the clay litter. I have three cats and they would make it nasty very quickly. Also in Costa Rica cat litter runs around $20 a container(fresh step). Not having an actual garden and dirt I decided to build a raised planter of sorts and make a drain through the existing concrete floor in the back semi outdoor area of the house. The idea was to make it a compost type system. Complete with redworms to help digest the cat doodoo and also table scraps . Ok I built the box with concrete blocks. lined the bottom with plastic with an opening at the low end and the access to the real soil beneath the slab. The ammonia smell is the biggest problem for me. I discovered by adding a vinegar-water solution to the mix it neutralized the smell instantly. I was able to get top quality red worms from a friend that has an organic coffee farm. I emptied all the pots I had with dead plants into the new planter. they were totally contaminated by cat pee and smelled awful. The plants too were dead as can be. A heavy treatment with the vinegar water removed the smell completely. next step was to add some vegetable waste from the kitchen and add the worms. After this I needed to go to the USA for a month and was unable to maintain a close watch on the progress. When I returned I found no worms. I assume they exited out the bottom to less hostile environs, but that the soil was naturally composting all the materials. Now I basically cover the top layer of cat doodoo with a layer of potting soil to reduce any odor and keep it clean for the cats. I haven't needed to add vinegar again. But have a solution of vinegar and water and the waiting. I water the whole lot once a week enough to encourage drainage out the bottom. I stir things up a bit every few weeks. So far a success. I will have some rich dirt to use in more pots soon and I am not adding nasty shit to the landfills! I can add more blocks on the sides too as the bed gets filled deeper until I really need to haul away the dirt.

Clic HERE to go to the new improved BLOG I have for limited edition prints

2010-09-08T07:59:00.108-06:00

image 39

Bus to Dulce Nombre

voyage into my past, seeing my life flash by, feeling distant familiar times and places.

2010-08-12T20:38:00.014-06:00

I have set out this August to pull things together. See family and friends, work on some art projects and gather more documents to present to Migracíon de Costa Rica. I had finally let go of my United States address this July. Days later I discovered Immigration had misplaced some of my key documents necessary for my permanent residency to be approved. I had gone in to immigration to check up on the progress. I had expected to get an assurance that it will be approved soon , but instead was told my Birth Certificate and my Florida Police report were missing. Ok...no explanation, No need to to panic, get angry or blame anyone responsible. I have grown into a more patient and flexible human being from my times spent in Costa Rica. I have learned that to relax and enjoy the journey is the Central American way of life. Honestly...I am still working on this transformation of my thinking and am not all the way there yet! Things are falling into place with my journey and I have never been more relaxed. I am very busy creating my new art and forming some better habits and lifestyles. But first things first. Just as I am ready to stay in Costa Rica and not run back to Florida for work and my OTHER life, I must return and get things in order.

First stop is Florida to deliver my 6 year old nephew in law Alejandro to his parents in Tampa. He traveled with me to Costa Rica and stayed for 5 weeks with us in Coronado. Game plan was for Alejandro to learn to speak more Spanish. Instead he taught his cousins to speak English and to always add the word poopy in each sentence! Happily reunited with his parents , I mailed of my requests for another Florida Police Report and a copy of my Birth Certificate from Florida before taking off for Chicago. I hope to pass these documents back and forth in the mail until they are notarized,certified authenticated and legalized and maybe even pasteurized and tenderized. I am becoming rather efficient at this process. It is the third time for my Police Report to be processed. It takes about a month to send them through the gamut when done in the States. I have heard up to 6 months when mailed back and forth while in Costa Rica. I am again doing all this my self because I would hate to pull my lawyers head out of his ass. So here I am in my place of birth. 5 weeks of time to make the best of my stay. August in the midwest! Staying with my mom in her apartment in Valparaiso ,Indiana the first week. She is so happy I am here and can see her happening bachelorette pad! I will use her address as my new USA address and expect to receive my documents here and while I am at it get an Indiana drivers License.

First event! off to the Porter County fair with Marc and Lily. Marc is my friend I met in Chicago who has become married to my other friend Suzy who lives in Valparaiso. They have a daughter Lily and Marc has accepted the fact that he is now a Hoosier. The fair was THE EVENT of the summer for me and my sisters! We would work summer jobs to save up our cash to blow on rides and food and games. Very nostalgic for me despite it is all new and in a different location. But the sounds and smells and the people are all the same. Deep fried everything and the 4H barns filled with distinctive smells of farm animals and teenagers.

I have been visiting with an assortment of cousins, friends and family. Taking my mom along when I can and having a really fun time. My mother had 15 brothers and sisters. So I am related to many people!! Facebook has allowed me to keep track and sort out a few. I have met with a few so far and have been eating even more than usual in the name of socializing.

So far I have visited all the towns I had lived in as a child. Seeing the location of my memories in a new perspective from the outside. Some familiar things but seemed almost like only wishful imaging. Like seeing a movie and not being sure if you had seen it before. LaCrosse, Wanatah and Kouts are the towns off my youth. I am a farm kid.
Driving past our farm in Wanatah I was remembering walking or riding my bike on these roads. I also couldn't help feeling as if it was exactly the same and amazed how big the country blocks actually were. My house was replaced by a new larger house. Nothing like the little house I remembered. I was able to recognize the trees that lined our lane and the ditch we spent so much time playing in. The name Wanatah is translated into English from Native Indian means " Knee deep in Mud". Half of the farm was ultimately just that! Lots of fun for us to play in but not great for farming. The town of Wanatah has not changed much except some of the older landmarks just lay empty and decaying .

I spent my High school days in Kouts. The Koffee Kup was always the center of activity. Not much has changed.

La Crosse was where I spent my early days as a pre schooler. The house was an old funeral parlor. It was a showplace in its day,but now I see a run down place that seems totally displaced. The restaurant Ray's Grill was my favorite place to go. We would get to eat there sometimes and I remember the tubular shaped ice cubes. Totally amazed me and I was baffled how they were made! I was surprised it was still there but it looked like it had been held together with elmers glue and even more surprised it was still in business.

Great coffee, fabulous worms and super people

2010-07-19T18:04:00.022-06:00

Today was my adventure to "Finca Cristina" just outside of Paraiso on the way to Turrialba. My friend Rene and I boarded the bus to Paraiso from San Jose this morning after eating slices of Pizza for breakfast at the nearby pizza place.

After we arrived in Paraiso we hired a taxi to take us the rest of the way to the Finca. Linda from the Fica gave me instruction how to find the place. Landmarks and approximate distances. The cab driver found it easily and we hit the bumpy stone and rock roadway. We were greeted by the friendly dogs and lots of barking. Linda came out with a bag of prize redworms that I have been searching for for my compost.

I am experimenting with my super dooper kitty do-do eliminator compost solution to replace throwing un natural and possibly dangerous cat litter into the landfills.

Linda prides herself on raising some really super worms. Although not in the worm business she was kind enough to let me partake in her worm bounty! With her coffee business she is able to grow everything organically and use all the by products otherwise wasted to create super planting mixes and fertilizers for the coffee plants.

I have heard rave reviews about these fine coffees produced here. A small operation and Linda's attention to details in growing and roasting is evident. A naturally shady location and perfect cool mountain climate. Great Coffee!!! Linda being from Connecticut seems to be a natural coffee producer. Who would of thought?

Move over Juan Valdez jejeje http://www.cafecristina.com/

Seeing between the lines

2010-07-03T07:09:00.013-06:00

In order to see the true beauty of the Costa Rican landscape..you must learn to see between the lines...The Power lines. I find this the biggest challenge of taking a beautiful landscape foto in Costa Rica. But this is the price we pay if want to live in a rural area and also enjoy Cable TV, internet ,phones and electric.
I went for my early morning walk this Saturday morning.
The sun rising as I started up the mountain.
Destination San Pedro de Coronado.

Unpacking and getting my act together

2010-06-29T20:39:00.010-06:00

From my heavily thought out packing and my well organized system I am left with a giant storm of a mess of tangled cords broken monitor, misplaced papers and all around chaos. I have three sets of traveling baggage. One set arrived with me this trip. Also my six year old buddy, Alejandro was part of my caravan. I was able to use him as a mule for extra carry-on bags filled with my electronics! Another is stored in Tampa to be taken to Chicago with me in August. The third set is waiting at my sisters home back in Florida. I will drag this load back with me to Costa Rica in September. So at this point I dont really even remember what else is out there.
This is the ending point for all my wires and STUFF that will be dealt with last. It maybe awhile for this after foto.

I have at least got Command central all organized.

Also my art studio was all set to go from my last trip, so I was able to get started on my current paintings I need to finish ASAP for my upcoming exhibition.

I have also been to the Hospital Guardia to get my health care in gear. After quite few buildings, lines and windows I now have my appointments made for my initial blood tests and Dr appointments. My friend Rene was super helpful with this. He knew where to go and also speaks Spanish! Muy importante.

Getting settled

2010-06-27T07:33:00.011-06:00

This old guy with the machete on my road is a possible glimpse into my future.

I set off early this morning to go to the Coronado farmers market. Fresh cheese, and assorted veggies and fruit. A large bag of star fruit $1. A bag of heart of palm $2. It is very possible to eat well and not spend alot here. The Super market is kind expensive. It is similar to the USA, but when you factor in the much lower income of the Costa Ricans it is VERY expensive for them. Walmart of course has bought out the majority of the super market chains (but they keep the original names, Pali ,Mas x Menos , Hypermas ) and this has been bad for the local farmers economy. They import cheaper fresh veggies. I like to walk back home too. It is an uphill 2 mile hike with a heavy load of produce. Eventually it will be easy as I get into some sort of shape other than out of!

My new sofa-sleeper is here and will serve as a guest bed.I found this on Craigslist a little over a month ago while I was still in Florida. The lady in Costa Rica brought it from the USA a few month earlier and decided she had no space for it. Sop I paid online and had her hold it for me. When I arrived here she had a delivery guy meet me at the big church in Coronado. I could tell him how to get to my house. Ya know..the no addresses and street names thing! It seemed his mobile phone wasn't getting a signal either so he wasn't able to call when he arrived. But I spotted a truck with a frustrated guy on a cell phone. It was him and I was able to ride in the back of the truck on my new sofa! Felt kind of like Granny from the Beverly Hillbillies. It didn't take long for the three cats to fight over ownership of the new couch! Simone won the first
round and has been the reigning queen of the sofa! (for now
at least)

Also trying to work on my new paintings that I will show soon in an exhibit in Escazu. I am still unpacking and trying to make all the pieces fit. I will need to do some serious shelving and rearranging.

It feels like I have never left and things just picked up where I left off.

Goodbye to Florida-Costa Rica is now my home base.

2010-06-25T18:26:00.008-06:00

This is a foto of me at My Florida outdoor studio completely hidden under bougainvillias and plumbagos. As much as I loved Florida and the things that come along with it
I have finally made the break from the security of my living in the USA. The economy is bad and my business has been steadily dwindling in Florida. It seemed like now was the time to make the jump. A little sooner than I had originally planned.
I have moved out of my place in Florida. Carrying a few things with me on the flights a little at a time over the past few years. I am not shipping all my things. What didn't sell in my craigslist offerings was left behind for my nephew to use. He had bought my house a few years ago anyway and I had been planning to move all along. So I leave my pets and gardens in good hands and I move on. Less stuff, no debt, more freedom, and endless possibilities.

"Izzy "My cat becomes "Norman"Their cat.

2010-05-24T04:16:00.010-06:00

Izzy is my Flame Point Siamese cat. He entered my life about 6 years ago. When my previous cat, Pickles of 18 years was in the process of shutting down, I left him at the vets office and met Izzy on my way out of the vets office. Someone had brought in a litter of assorted colored kittens that were orphaned the day before. I lingered at the desk as I payed my bill as the one white kitten was focusing his attention on me. The girl at the desk seeing me as an easy mark , set him on the counter in front of me. The little cross eyed varment responded to my voice and allowed me to snuggle. After that he followed me as I moved about the room. It seemed to me that this cat had already picked me. I had no choice in the matter. It was obvious to me that this was now my new cat.

He was the replica of Pickles now resting in peace. Pickles was also a flame tip Siamese, but with longer hair.

Izzy was now exploring the grounds and winning the hearts of my friends. Free to roam and explore he was a happy and curious cat. Soon after he had settled into his new jungle home, three hurricanes in 2 months devastated my property. Fences and trees down and any previous boundries were all now gone. Needless to say Izzy expanded his horizons into the neighbors properities. I am gone for weeks at a time as I traveled for my business often. Izzy soon was making him self at home at a few neighbors homes. In the last few years as I have been staying in Costa Rica more and more, he has been renamed "Norman" at one house and "That Cat" at another. My neighbors in Florida are animal lovers and Izzy is welcomed as part of their lives.

As word travels fast in this neighborhood, news that I would be permanently staying in Costa Rica had spread. Yesterday I stopped in at my Neighbors home Fifi and Louis to chat as I rode my bike by. Izzy was relaxing in their drive way. Fifi looked concerned and panicked . She had heard I was already gone and Izzy was abandoned. Louis was already busy installing a pet door into their garage. They had already become his home away from home. Louis gives him canned food treats everyday and can hold him like a baby. I am the only other person he will allow to do that. They also call him Norman. Not sure why...jajajaja I am very happy to know Izzy (now Norman) will be loved and well cared for. I brought over his dry food tower and his flea contol meds. Now he will visit me as before and when I am gone forever he will really hardly notice.

Preparing for my permanent move to Costa Rica

2010-05-22T19:10:00.007-06:00

I have begun my packing and sorting for my moving out of Florida and the USA. A couple more trips back and forth to Costa Rica and I will staying in Costa Rica permanently. My goal is September to be my one way trip back to Costa Rica. My new home base will be there. I will still be flying in to the USA for jobs sometimes and will keep people posted of my schedules. Meanwhile I am working on a few commissions on canvas in Florida. Sorting through my things and selling many items.
I had an offer on my van and let it go this last week. I will be riding my bicycle and renting a car for jobs as needed. I plan to only bring what I can carry. Of course I have hauling many items often for the last few years. Much of my important things are there already. I am looking forward to staying in Costa Rica and not having two households to worry about. A simpler life. More time to focus on my art and my friends.

Taxis to mural jobs

2010-04-23T18:24:00.032-06:00

One of the things I like in Costa Rica is not having to own a car!
The expense and hassles of parking repairs, fines, rules , taxes inspections blah blah blah. No thanks. So..what do I do when I have jobs? Planning and streamlining equipment are first on the list.

Calling Sergio my favorite, trusted cab driver. And off we go!
He is fast , efficient , always on time and knows all the back roads. I still have no idea of the route from this week. It all happens too fast for me to keep track.
Lots of turns, hills, cows and pot holes.

Zig zags, pull overs, turn arounds. I have come to realized that horns are only used for honking at friends and neighbors. Happy , smiling honking and seemingly unnerved at the high speeds and the speed bumps that require a near stop every 1/2 mile. Having a knowledgeable taxi driver is a great thing.

If you didn't know already,

Costa Rica does not have addresses or street names.
So it is a real challenge for an outsider to find places on their own. My current mural job was described to me by landmarks and Kilometers. The client also having no car was not sure where she lived exactly. Only having lived here for a few months herself. So...no problem ! Sergio found it. Across the street and up a ways from the blue store, after the new shopping strip with the funny sign. Where the new Vet office is. OK!
Oh and 8 gates up the hill, pull in and call the house. My work day begins setting up a space for my paints and brushes. Getting the feel of the place.
If I am lucky I will be working with a delightful client.
In this case I was :)

Lunch is not always part of the deal but much appreciated. I think it adds to the overall good energy of the project! Highly recommended practice!

Eat and get to work!
Before

and after. .

Then back in the taxi.
Home to Coronado.

And finally home La casita blanca

A day in Coronado

2010-04-16T20:37:00.008-06:00

Just some of the sites today as I walked into town to get my Id card from the Clinica de Coronado.

Re: paper cutter

2010-04-14T19:14:00.001-06:00

Well....If you get on the pista to San Jose. Either go right around to San Pedro mall and up to Guadalupe. Right at the Hyper Mas and go forever always staying right until you see the Zeus Institute sign on a building corner. Make a left from the turn lane and that will take you into Coronado. You can probably see the famous church. If you park around there ,I can come down and meet  up with you.   The other direction to Uruca is a shorter route to the hyper mas but turn left or straight I am not sure where you come out and then go on the same as I instructed. The uruca route is a little more confusing to me though. Just follow the crowd for the most part but it winds ,,turns and does weird stuff and never seems clear where you are going. I attached some images from the google earth map. That might help clear it up. It is hard to tell people here where to go jejeje  Good luck  !!!    Best regards,   Scott K Wimer   http://scottkwimer.com

Joining the caja

2010-04-13T22:40:00.009-06:00

The time had come, I needed to join the Caja. I am waiting for the approval of my permanent residency status now in Costa Rica. One of the new requirements of being a Costa Rican Resident is the Caja(social security program) is now mandatory. I had planned to join anyway, not having any health insurance in the states, I will be happy to join in the health care system here. I am not allowed to work until my residency is approved, so my monthly insurance rate is low because I have no reported income. When I do work I will be paying 10 % each month. The employers are responsible for paying this. So meanwhile I will be paying about $25 a month for completely free $ health and prescription drug coverage. And into my retirement fund too. My friend Rene has been a ginormous help being responsible for helping me get through the steps needed to get my Caja ID card and register with the appropriate clinics and hospitals for my area. Many lines and taxis back and forth needed to complete the necessary steps. The language barrier is still a problem for me especially for technical forms and instructions. Having a printer copier at the house is a real good thing. No government offices seem to have a copier. Bring your own copies and hope you have enough, or come back again another day and in another line.

Blue Crayfish rookery

2010-04-03T05:22:00.004-06:00

A couple years ago I bought a Blue Crayfish at the pet shop. It seemed unreal. So intensely blue!
How could this be? As a young kid in the rural Indianafarm where I was raised. I would spend many days in the summers collecting normal brownish red Crayfish from the local stream.Pulling a wagon filled with glass jars behind the John Deere riding lawn mower. (My means of local transport as a 10 year old) Even then I was impressed with such an interesting and exotic creature living in my own back yard. I imagined they had crawled from the distant ocean, starting as a large lobster and shrinking along the journey. The point being they were just too cool to be in Indiana. I would keep them in aquariums and watch the intricate movements of the legs and arms all working in unison to deliver tiny bits of food to the nearly invisible mouth. Massive claws that seemed to be in the way. So you can imagine my thrill when I discovered the Blue version . I added him to my fish tank along with another basic natural colored Crayfish. I enjoy creating habitats for captive animals. I always wanted to be a zoologist and a habitat designer when I grew up. In this case I provide many places where they could back into their secret places and not be seen for days. One day I noticed the blue was harboring a solid mass of eggs on her underside. To make a long story short. Out of the many new babies were a few more blues and even the browns had a hint of blue in the light. Soon having too many crayfish in the tank I added them to my ponds outdoors where they can continue the Blue Blood line in safety from predators. My ponds appear as inches deep and shallow, but under the veneer of stone are a couple feet deep of water. Guppies and crayfish can venture out into the shallow later to sun and feed or retreat into their safe caverns. The initial reasoning for the shallow appearance was to protect my redfooted tortoises from drowning in the ponds. They can venture through water and not need to swim. As tortoises are not equipped to swim, they risk rolling over and drowning.

Pictures of Typical Dishes by Costa Rica Photos

2010-03-29T19:05:00.000-06:00

Pictures of Typical Dishes by Costa Rica Photos

Feast or Famine, Floods or drought, I am here,have no doubt!

2010-03-21T19:46:00.009-06:00

My art business is a like a roller-coaster. Just when I think the ride is over it will turn a corner and fly full speed ahead. The thrill of the ride is far worth the slow segments of the track! Actually the slow periods allow me to regain my energy and enthusiasm and rethink my directions. As well as my murals and paintings on canvas, I have began to develop my photography into a new direction of availability to the public. Risking my serious artist image (in my own mind!), I have been selling prints online and enjoying reaching a broader audience worldwide.

Surprised daily at the response and acceptance I have received from people all around the world. The online galleries handle the business and shipping. I am free to create and occasionally keep track of viewings and purchases. Now I receive ongoing feed back and inspiration to keep going forward! Full throttle! Also Costa Rica has been very accepting of my foto styles and art. Making me feel welcome and part of the Tico community.

I am excited and enjoying my journey. Like the roller coaster. The journey has its twists,sharp turns and sometimes I find myself upside down!
But what a ride!

New National Stadium in San Jose,Costa Rica

2010-03-12T08:19:00.003-06:00

New National Stadium Costa Rica in Central America

For more details read the article in Inside Costa Rica newsletter

Spring clean up in Florida

2010-03-10T07:13:00.013-06:00

This year Florida has set records for extended cold temperatures. Florida is considered a sub tropical zone. However there are coastal areas and pockets that rarely get close to a freeze.So we Floridians are planting tropical plants to have the more tropical feel that we expect here. An occasional frost or freeze can cause some light leaf damage for the most part. Usually after a cold night the day quickly regains warmth and all is forgiven. Theme parks such as Disney World (my neighbor) keep green house filled with extra tropical trees and plants. If they have cold damage, the crews quickly dig out and replace the damaged plants before the gates open to the public. But for the most of us we wait for the plants to get new undamaged growth and groom the dead leaves. This year my gigantic Bougainvilleas have suffered the most. The fotos show the happily over grown Bougainvillea over my buried workshop. The other shows the same view after the extended deep freeze has killed it off! I will wait awhile longer and see what parts may spring back to life if any.

The Bougainvillea next to the pool also is in bad shape. I built the curving wall specifically to hold it back from climbing into the pool. All in all a very high maintenance specimen. Trimming is on going and the thorns are seriously dangerous! I have the scars to show for it! So it seems the pool side monster will be removed and replaced with less showy but easy,frost and freeze resistant Yucca trees . It will take a couple years until it has a strong impact
So every chance available we are cutting down dead parts of the garden and dragging it all to the road pick up area. Because of the current state of overall disaster zone look going on, it has inspired other projects that require creating some mess and damage. The had the Big Oak tree in the back cut down last week. Also it was a great time to look for the septic tank for the guest house that was somewhere in the jungle I had created over the years. Success! My nephew Andy found it and dug up the area to get to the access. Only having to remove the deck area under the outdoor shower. The septic guy came out and cleaned it out . It needed a 200 foot hose from the street to get to it.

T shirts and jobs

2010-02-27T16:55:00.005-06:00

I have been busy the last few weeks with painting jobs around Florida. The cold spell has kept me indoors more than usual as well. I have had more time at the computer to create more things for my online galleries. I have also started to design and sell T shirts. I Rarely buy T shirts when I travel because I simply cannot find something that I like! If I do buy a T shirt anywhere it is because it is a bit weird or unusual. I also look for something understated and simple. Hard to find some times. So my designs are basically what I would buy if I saw them somewhere. Well....I am actually buying these for self as well. I want to see the quality for myself too.

Make a personalized gift at Zazzle.

I feel I have just scratched the surface as far as ideas. I want to create T's that are something that non tourist would like as well. For example Costa Rica T's for hip Costa Ricans. Don't expect to see cute frogs saying Save the Rain forest. Please take the time to look at some of the designs up close. Leave feed back or share ideas how I can improve.

My pets and the Florida cold spell

2010-02-15T07:16:00.026-06:00

It has been unusually cold this winter in Florida. A few cold nights and possible freezing temps briefly are what are to be expected here in the SUB tropics. But extended periods of below freezing temps and weeks of cold days has forced my pets inside. Ziggy is my adopted Iguana. He lives outside in a large cage that we built around the rear and side of the Iguana Bar by the pool.
For average chilly nights the heated perches and sleep shelf keep him from becoming too cold. We also installed a retired sauna room behind this walk in enclosure and connected it with a large tube. The heated sauna works as a warm room for Ziggy to go when the weather is cold. He is not totally understanding of why he goes into this sauna. In nature cold nights do not exist for Green Iguanas. But he has seemed to go in on his own on occasion. But usually we need to coax him in by opening the window in the sauna and calling for him. Not always easy! He is too big , stubborn and clever to be physically carried or led in.
This week he is locked into the sauna until the day temps rise to an acceptable level. Days have been peaking in the low 50's. He needs to get his body temp up to 80 to digest food and be a normal iguana. So he is very restless in the sauna, not understanding why he cant go out and bask in the sun and enjoy a normal day. I have placed a plastic bucket to block the tube access.

Bob and Dot are our Red footed tortoises. They are also tropical and not equipped for cold weather. They live in the courtyard of the house and we built a Thai style Spirit house where they can go to escape weather. I installed a heated floor in side the spirit house which helps keep their undersides warm on chilly days. Freezing temps required us to bring them inside the house the last couple weeks. They are staying in the inflatable kiddy pool. Dot has layed a couple eggs and we have placed them in an incubator.

Izzy my cat has decided it is better to stay inside too. My office is now his home base and he allows me to sometimes use my desk and chair.

Work Work Work

2010-02-13T07:23:00.004-06:00

Work Work Work hmmmmmmmmmmmm Why do Americans feel the need to work very hard and long. OK...I understand having a strong work ethic is a good thing! Do it right and get the job done. But I feel most Americans have their priorities out of balance. Stress rules and health suffers. In my travels and experiences with other cultures I have realized that the majority of the rest of the people on earth have a life outside of their jobs. I would go as far to say that they enjoy time to pursue life's pleasures. Hmmm Imagine that! They can be living in a simple house with out all the things we think we need. Unfortunately many people all over the earth are trapped in a dead end working existence. To escape this situation, working extra hard is necessary for survival and possible route to a better life quality. But when is enough enough? Ambition is a healthy motivating force. In my opinion, the finish line is an adjustable variable. Is it necessary to go the extra mile for the extra money at the cost of quality of life? I see people that are so busy with maintaining all their gizmos and accumulated possessions that they are in a constant grueling challenge to get through each day.
I for one am in a downwardly mobile mode. I have been shedding possessions, responsibilities and have made my goal to live a simpler life. This was not exactly my plan all along. The economy, and my work slowing down has led to the gradual shift in momentum. As it happens I can adjust . I can see many people being forced into lifestyle changes due to unemployment or economic realities coming to a head! Life as we know it is being adjusted to a healthier balance, but only after we let go of our hourding habits. Americans are taught at an early age to work for your future, buy the best, and you need to own it! This is Ok for some. Great if you have a decent job and you live within your means. Just working harder to accumulate more stuff and debt I feel is the trap many fall into. I find I am always on the edge of being penniless. It really doesn't matter what my income is...I will spend myself into a corner. This is me. I understand this and probably will not change. Less to lose is less worry. Less Stress!
My point is ...We all need to get our priorities straight. Learn to be satisfied. Enjoy and appreciate what we have instead of only looking towards the big pay off. You maybe unable to enjoy the big payoff! So many people wait to travel and enjoy the simple things. They have NO time for this and that! We need to create time for things! I see too often retired people that are unable to do anything due to health restrictions,usually caused by stress to work for retirement!
Ok ...It is easy now to see things as they can be. I have no kids that expect everything handed to them. I answer to myself when I am with out certain luxuries. I don't complain (much). I am lucky in this way. But we all need to back up and get it right. My advise is : Do not live to work! Work to live! Enjoy what you have and stop lusting for more more more! It may take the economic meltdown to allow us all to get back on track. Ok ! I am glad I got that off my chest!

Photomanipulation

2010-02-04T20:09:00.015-06:00

I have been busy this week and most of last week transforming my fotos into my new format of Manipulated Fotos. Losing track of time and working into the wee hours. I have not been this excited in awhile about my art and the direction I am heading. Combining my tranquil and documentary style into exciting and vibrant images. Keeping the mood but adding color and energy. I have also learned to restructure the images pixels and allow for larger printing. 3 ft x 4 ft. Perfect for needed scale in larger spaces. The images need to be seen full screen on the computer to see the effects.

One formula results in intense color and posterization from several layers of manipulation. This effect reminds me of the days of POP art and timeless classic poster styles. In a simply , modern style environment these pieces pop and have the attention they deserve.

The other is an impressionistic feel. Less detail and the digitally altered image is made up of many areas of color, placed to create the recognizable image of the original foto. This is a softer feel and creates a more painterly style. More likely to fit into a more Modern design home but also with more traditional framing can be at home in a traditional setting.

New direction with my art biz

2010-01-30T11:37:00.002-06:00

In the beginning of my life as a professional artist, I sold in Galleries and did the Art fairs. This was alot of work and expense. A serious struggle to maintain a steady income from this. I began painting Murals for clients as commissions . This lead to faux finishes and plaster techniques also. 15 years of staying busy with this. Now it seems the interior design industry fashion has changed direction. Combined with the horrible economy, my work has slowed. My interest in photography has always been my passion. I love capturing images and making them mine. I have been spending more and more time in my home in the mountains of Costa Rica. This leaves me with time to spend on my fotos. Trips in Central and South America provide endless foto opportunities. From my documentary style images I am able to transform them into breathtaking art with the computer. I now can sell my foto art as well as promote and sell my Paintings online with a couple carefully chosen Online Galleries.

Tope in San Jose,Costa Rica

2010-01-17T19:16:00.011-06:00

Tope- San Jose by Scott K Wimer

tope 1 (tp)
tr. & intr.v. toped, top·ing, topes
To drink (liquor) habitually and excessively or engage in such drinking.
[Possibly from obsolete tope, interjection used in proposing a toast.]

tope1
vb
to consume (alcoholic drink) as a regular habit, usually in large quantities
[from French toper to keep an agreement, from Spanish topar to take a bet; probably because a wager was generally followed by a drink]
toper n

A week in Managua, Nicaragua

2009-12-24T10:13:00.035-06:00

I have just returned from my first trip to Nicaragua.I am not sure what I expected of Nicaragua. I had a vague picture in my head of Bianca Jagger, Old churches and men in military uniforms. I was not too far off. I didn't run into Bianca. Maybe her life in NYC and Berlin, Paris and her involvement in serious World issues may have kept her from having fried chicken at the TIP-TOP restaurant when I was there.
Tip-Top is a Nicaraguan chain of chicken places. Their version of KFC. Very good although I preferred the Polla Estrella's seasoning in their breading.

I was not disappointed with the beauty and warmth of the people. I felt a positive vibe and optimistic attitude. Taxis pick up people along the way if there is room. I jumped into a cab sitting next to a woman nursing her baby. Fares are negotiable and the driver decides the amount. No meters. Kids make pretty woven animals out of palm fronds and give them to you as a gift! But will follow you around til you give them a gift of some coins.. I gave my palm frond grasshopper to the lady with the baby. She laughed! The lady selling hot dogs tells us even a maid only makes $15 a month. I replied saying" Bianca Jagger did well then!" She thought that was funny and agreed!
The poor are really poor and the middle classes are growing.The rich are a few elite who own it all. We hired the Hotel owners son one day for a tour out of Managua. He is almost finished with law school. His parents own properties. His father also a Lawyer and his mother sells real estate. His comment about the shanty towns and the super poor was..Lazy people live there! Not a lot of sympathy for the less privileged. Managua has been able to plan the new city center fairly well. A series of expressways criss cross the whole city making getting around very easy and traffic was not bad at all compared to the mess I see in San Jose,Costa Rica.

I was sitting on a park bench in front of the current Presidents home.
A young boy on a bike stops in front of me and simply stares me down. I spoke to him in English...He laughed hysterically. He thought this was really funny! Later I saw him with his mother at a food stand in the park telling her about his big conversation with someone speaking English.

For the most part people seem happy and it is not uncommon to see people laughing ,smiling and dancing for no seemingly good reason. Mind you beer makes things better and there is plenty around. The night crew at this tire store drank beers and eventually stripped off the shirts and danced in the dark. We watched this routine every night from our favorite restaurant. Meanwhile at the restaurant the owners son danced around the tables like a twirling top. His older brother of 12 was the one who drove their car to the store to get supplies every now and then and at Nascar speeds. To me I was observing a modern day Fellini movie! Lots of fun!

We arrived in Manugua via Transnica Executive bus service from Costa Rica. Very much like a flight complete with steward, drinks,meal and movies. The usual throng of taxis drivers and kids selling stuff waited at the exit.The Hotel Cisneros picked us up at the station. It was dark when we arrived and did not see much around . The hotel was nice and also quiet. In the morning we set out on a walk. The location we stayed is Barrio Bolonia. A new area created after the earthquake of 1972 ruined the original downtown Managua. It seemed very scruffy and lots of dirt instead of landscaping. It seems to change from Nice to not nice randomly as we walked. As we headed to the historic district ,it was filled with abandoned neighborhoods, Shanty towns and a few high rise office buildings sticking through. We took a taxi further into to see the old cathedral ruins and the National Museum. Like a ghost town with a few street vendors and lots of police wandering around. One officer warned us to not go beyond certain areas, seemingly anywhere beyond the one block we were in! And hinted he needs money and asked if we could help him out. The area was determined unfit to build after the quake tests determined uncountable fault lines. The new Managua is modern and all up the hill away from the depressing remains of a thriving city and the shany towns filled with the very poor. During the revolution in the 80's The place of the dictator was destroyed, leaving the front porch basically and all the property was made into Militery facilities.

The reason for this trip to Nicaragua was to attend the 25 highschool reunion for Rene. His family was living in Managua during the Revolution. The event was held at a swanky new club built within walking distance from his school. El Colegio de Centro America. This is still one of the top two private schools in Nicaragua. Me being a farm kid from Indiana, found it all very interesting. The classmates all seemed happy,successful and happy to see each other. Long winded stories on the microphone and lots of laughter. The slide show of the guys in school was funny and also revealed the reality of the times then. War a part of everyday life. Classmates on opposite sides of a revolution but still attending school and sitting next to each other in class.

A walk in the mountains around my house in Coronado,Costa Rica

2009-12-14T17:34:00.005-06:00

This is a funny little angel I cant help but notice everyday walking down to town.

Unfortunately I live on the busiest, loudest street on the way to this pristine landscape. I have toyed with the idea of renting the little cottage up there for my art studio. We will see when the time comes.

A Sunday walk in La Sabana Park

2009-12-06T17:56:00.006-06:00

The new National Stadium is coming along nicely. A gift from the chinese government and built by Chinese crews. They are housed on site.

I also noticed an outdoor roller rink. I hadn't seen it before, but it looks new.

Costa Rica Getting ready for Christmas

2009-12-05T19:17:00.013-06:00

Christmas is a big deal here in Costa Rica. People have started decorating, buying trees and putting up twinkle lights. I stopped into Hypermas today to find a sun visor and was greeted with an insane shopping cart traffic jam and unbelievable lines at checkout. When I noticed Rene and some elderly French guy having not so pleasant words and banging carts head to head I thought it was best to ditch the cart and escape to the outside! Ahhhhhhhh The good cheer of the Holidays.

Many towns have Holiday fiestas with rides and food and gambling type games. Any unclaimed spaces are rented to Christmas vendors for trees and decorations.

Mural at Hospital Calderon Guardia

2009-12-05T15:38:00.005-06:00

I noticed today that a crew of artist were restoring the 1/2 block long mural leading to the Hospital. This was nice to see! It was looking dirty and had some graffiti.

Another day another bunch of stamps

2009-12-01T15:00:00.019-06:00

On the way into the Registro Civil to get a copy of my marriage certificate I was observing a TV news segment being filmed. A puppet used to parody politics and elections was being interviewed. I was asked to wave a flag and look excited to see him.I appeared briefly on the TV segment. fast forward to 150 to see me in my big film debut!!

Today was the day I went for my finger prints. One of the last steps needed before I submit my application for residency. My friend Rene went along and helped me through process today. I would have been a bit lost and clueless with out his help! It is on the grounds of the Police Academy in Descamparados. There are well marked signs at the gate entrance at least. I was not aware I needed a passport foto. Across the street at the shopping center there was a quick foto shop $2 and I was back again with the foto in hand. Passport, Foto and marriage certificate and I was ready and waiting in line

My Police report had expired from Florida. While I was back in Florida I was able to go through the process AGAIN of getting the document from Tallahassee and then sent on to be certified at the Florida Sec of State and then finally off to the Costa Rica consulate in Washington DC to be certified as legal. All in all it takes a month of mailing back and forth and around $100 with overnight postage etc. Final certification is done at the Casa de Amarilla in San Jose. I went there today and was told I needed to buy the stamps at the Banco Nacional a few blocks away on the second floor. Before I was able to simply hand over the $1 and go to a desk with them to be affixed to the document. OK This is silly! I return from the banco to the Casa Amarillo with my receipt for 620 colones (about $1) and it is attached to the document and rubber stamped all over the edges. Done! Did I mention Rene has a crutch from his disability and this allows us to cut in lines. Saved lots of time. I need to bring him to Disney world !!

Changes in Coronado

2009-11-28T09:55:00.027-06:00

Over the years I have witnessed positive changes in my town of San Isidro de Coronado. Much of the ancient charm of old building seemingly standing by the grace of mother nature is being replaced with new modern buildings. The greenery and trees along the Bus Station wall have been removed completely. Now the ugly wall is no longer obstructed by the pesky natural cover.
Unusual for towns in Costa Rica, Coronado has installed street signs in the downtown.

The stately row of 100 year old royal palms in the downtown have been cut down and along with my favorite fruit shack are being replaced with a new strip mall of sorts.

The old pet shop has been replaced with a new and improved structure that is much more modern and large.

The use of the existing exterior building frame as a construction wall is common practice here in Costa Rica.

As much as I hate to see the charming, ramshackle buildings go, it is a good thing for the town to get new and improved facilities. What may seem charming and magical to me in fact maybe seen as a sign of poverty and bad times for the residents here.When in fact Coronado is a vibrant and thriving business community.

Wilson's gallery

2009-11-25T06:45:00.004-06:00

I have basically finished the Wilson's gallery project in Mountain Lake Golf Club , Lake Wales, Florida and will be getting back to Costa Rica on Thanksgiving morning with a can of Cranberry sauce in my carry on. Christine and Steve have invited me to their home in Escazu for an evening Thanksgiving dinner. I am looking forward to meeting them and their friends.

This Beatles remake is magical

2009-11-17T18:39:00.003-06:00

I hope to buy this song but it does not appear on i tunes and Shazam does not recognize it!

I turn 50 today!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-10-04T10:02:00.023-06:00

I am really not sure how to feel today. On the one hand I am thrilled to be alive and somewhat energetic. I sincerely did not expect to live into a responsible older age. It seems to just be getting better and I feel I am a lucky man to have many more opportunities out there waiting for me to partake in. Well I am now planning my future and trying to find a way to survive and thrive in an unconventional way.

Back in Florida for work.

2009-09-27T11:21:00.007-06:00

Well, I am back in Florida and prepared to work hard and fill the coffers. uhhhh I am here.... ummmmmmmm Hello!!!!! Oh well, it seems things are still slow and I really should have stayed in Costa Rica!! Ideally I will travel to the USA for jobs occasionally and supplement my lower income that will be had in Costa Rica. I truly hope I can do this.
I am a step closer at least to becoming a permanent resident in Costa Rica. Meanwhile I noticed my Police report from Florida needed for immigration has expired. I am glad I noticed it, because obviously my lawyer did not. It takes a month of mailing to three different locations in the USA for the series of authentications necessary and the final stamp in the Casa de Amarilla in Costa Rica. Then my lawyer will present the pile of Docs and we wait. Jet Blue airways has been a God send. The low cost direct flights from Orlando to San Jose have made it possible for me to commute back and forth like a old dog chasing a bone! It will get even more fun when I help my wife get her USA travel Visa at the USA embassy. Now she is not allowed to come with me to USA. All in good time. Although it should go smoothly.
Meanwhile I will try to not lose my patients and enjoy life and its simple pleasures.

Independence day in Costa Rica

2009-09-15T16:05:00.002-06:00

Independence Day in Coronado was filled with drums and families in the town square. The church steps act as a grandstand for the crowds to gather. Any event on the square the steps are the best seat for the shows. Many children are dressed in traditional Costa Rican costumes for Independence day. The boys also have mustaches and beards painted on their faces. Very cute!

The bus I was riding today was hit by a car !

2009-09-14T18:27:00.002-06:00

New roads, services going underground, and more projects making San Jose ready for the future

2009-09-14T09:49:00.005-06:00

Street in front of the Public library and the train station along Parque Nacional is being replaced with a new concrete street complete with proper drainage underneath. I assume they have also layed the services for Cable ,Internet etc under the new construction.

La Sabana Sur, the entire outer road has been replaced with a new surface over a new underground services system. The amount of high rise office and condo projects is booming here. It needs a new infrastructure for phone ,internet and sewers to accommodate the new growth.

Coronado home makeover 2007 2008

2009-09-07T07:17:00.019-06:00

When I first came to Rene's house in Coronado I was not sure what to think. No hot water. Mildew smell. Rusty fridge,

The bathroom was Ok but had a electric shower head for hot water and if touched an electric current made your shower much more interesting. For me the pipe brought the shower head complete with un protected 110 wires directly even to my chin .

I installed a water heater and changed the shower system to rise above my head. Of course there is still only one water control, on or off . So you simply turn the knob until the correct temperature is achieved. I also decided to make the walk in shower into a tub A standard tub would not fit into the space, so I built it with concrete blocks and glass pool tiles.

I filled the tub the first time only to discover the cold concrete tub would quickly turn the hot water into cold water. So I did a layer of foam board to insulate the concrete from the tile and concrete board. This did the trick. The pool tile was a bad choice as far as the ease of installation. The paper that held them together was on the outside ,so it was impossible to assure a clean and even adhesion . Basically when paper was removed most of the tiles fell off with it. So alot of hand placing and gluing. Next time I will check that the tile is attached from the rear with mesh!!! Live and learn.

I also installed safety bars and covered the old tiles with concrete stucco. I had planned to use the pool tiles all the way up all around. But I opted for the easier stucco. My mental health was in jeopardy. The ugly dark green toilet and sink were replaced with a mint colored set! I actually loved it despite the limited choices at the local building supply The old Toilet and sink were happily passed on to a friends mother who had hers stolen from her house!

Getting Married

2009-09-04T14:59:00.009-06:00

Taxi to my wedding!. A million dollar taxi ride (courtesy of Dressed Up Diego) from Coronado to Barrio Rohrmoser . Driving around in the land of no addresses in circles while on the cell phone receiving directions from the lawyer, during rush hour traffic. To add to the experience the Taxi picked up an extra passenger in Coronado that squeezed in the back with us.

A less than romantic , but pleasant session at my lawyers office with my new spouse.

Colonoscopy y mas

2009-09-03T09:42:00.022-06:00

I was hoping to avoid an unpleasant experience,

So I went to Clinica Biblica this morning for my colonoscopy with Dr William Perez Martinez.

I had gone to him a couple years ago also. My Dr. in Florida discovered a few red flags in my pap from my routine yearly checkup.

I am uninsured in the USA. So I was not able to fork out a few thousand bucks minimum for a colonoscopy. Today I spent $250 for the colonoscopy. Dr consultation ( $50). Each Biopsy is $50 . I received a color foto page of the pics ,results and comments from the DR.

It is Tuesday now and I have gone back to get my biopsy results. Good news is everything was benign . Dr. Perez recommended to go directly to a Proctologist in the same hospital to have look and decide if removing more tissue would be neccessary. I was able to walk over and request an appointment. I waited 30 minutes and they worked me in. Another $50 Dr visit and he did a thorough exam and assured me everything was well enough to leave as is. I will return in 6 months for him to check again.
OK! Grand total of $400 and had a colonoscopy as well as a proctology exam. I am lucky enough to have the services of Rene , my friend and professional interpretor to help me through the steps in the day. But in this case both Dr's spoke perfect English. The nurses and office staff, not so much.

The ride to the hospital passes through unsightly and seedy
looking areas in San Jose. Dont worry ,the cab is not taking you away to be mugged. If you have been to Costa Rica before you understand. how buildings look sometimes . Curb appeal is not of foremost importance here.

Work schedules and wasting time.

2009-08-27T13:24:00.009-06:00

I am heading to Costa Rica in a few days. I will have a colonoscopy at the Clinica Biblica in San Jose. My friend Rene has arranged the procedure for me. I just need to show up for my Dr appointment. Directly after I will have my colonoscopy procedure. I am not sure what it will cost. A couple years ago I had one at the same hospital and it was $250. Add $50 per biopsy. My Dr. in the states told me I needed to have one again ASAP because the routine yearly check up turned up something of interest. Hopefully it will not be too interesting. I only have so much money to spend!!

Later in the week I plan to get married. It has been a few years we have been together and it is time we think to make it official. We have been waiting for our papers to be approved for the Permission to Marry. I am a foreigner and they have made me jump through the same hoops I need for immigration. I needed my Birth certificate, Single Status Affidavit and current Police report from Florida. Notarized, Authorized and Legalized. Then take the documents to the Yellow House in San Jose. Here the final stamps are placed. And things are official! So...I think it is a GO! The last two trips I expected to come back married too! BUT NOT! Wait

Meanwhile I am twiddling my thumbs because jobs have been slow and planned jobs are postponed.. Very frustrating considering this my only source of income. I had planned to make the money I need for the surgery. I am uninsurable in the USA, so I travel to Costa Rica for health care. At the best private hospitals it is basically about what a copay would be at the hospitals in the USA. I was lucky to sell my Eames Chair and Ottoman last week on Craigslist. This should cover my expenses this time. The economy has really hurt everyone. My art business has always been feast or famine. But now it is terrifying! I fantasize about staying in Costa Rica and opening a little hot dog joint, or selling tacos out of our garage! This is not so far fetched! Up the road a couple opened a terrific bakery in their garage. The best baguettes outside of Paris. Anyway the point I am making is I want to keep it simple! Time will tell what destiny has planned for me.

First trip to Coronado

2009-08-23T07:11:00.005-06:00

Rene had invited me to his home in Coronado. I accepted and we took the local transit bus that was actually very close to the apartment in Barrio California. I am getting a taste of Costa Rica public transportation and am on my way out of San Jose and through the suburbs. I was thankful Rene was with me to ensure I was on the correct bus and to know when to get off! I have issues about travel. I get very nervous if I am not sure where to go or to get off. Especially when I cannot see out of the buses if I am standing. I get a great view of the space above the window and the sidewalks below. I rarely can sit because I always give up my seat for the elderly. (yes..I know I am old too!!!) Soon I was getting very warm and sweaty. Any open window had been slammed closed after the bus gained speed. The ladies Hair-dos were in jeopardy from the dreaded breeze! Vanity wins out on comfort! After 45 minutes or so riding up hill. Rene pointed out a church visible in the distance. It looked like a ancient gothic church that had been placed in the foggy movie set! The air temperature coming into the bus from the opening doors had chilled. Clouds were visible just behind the trees and covering what might have been a view of more mountains. Definitely a crisp cool atmosphere here! Another world away from the city.

Staying in Barrio California

2009-08-23T06:34:00.007-06:00

I have returned now for my 3rd dental implant. I have become bolder this time and rented an apartment further away from the Dental office. Barrio California is a nice area that connects San Jose to San Pedro. The University of Costa Rica. Less tourists and more typical, middle class- to upper class. A short walk to San Pedro and the university area shopping malls .
Food courts and megaplex movie theaters. Now I am seeing a whole new view of life in Costa Rica.

I stayed at the Scotland Apartments. It was on a quiet street and tricky to find the first time. The Dentist had sent a guy in a pick up truck to get me from the Airport. This guy was really struggling to find this place and drove round and round. He spoke no English and I no Spanish. Did I mention before the lack of addresses???? street signs????

I basically had a pleasant trip....no tours or sightseeing. I just lived and shopped and cooked like a local. Exploring San Pedro and Los Yoses and more of San Jose. I had tried to arrange a dinner with Rene, an internet chat buddy. We had been chatting more than a year or so and I wanted to meet in real life. A few days before I left we met and formed a strong bond that still continues to this day. He invited me to his home in the mountain town of Coronado. Rene used a crutch to get around. He has ankylosing spondylitus, a disease that makes getting around difficult and painful.

Pedestrian Street projects in San Jose

2009-08-22T07:14:00.012-06:00

It is exciting and encouraging to see the improvements that are happening in San Jose. Following the example of European cities.New pedestrian only streets are replacing traffic jammed, loud and smelly streets. It is already possible to do a loop walk on pedestrian streets around central San Jose. The big change has brought new shops and cafes and people are all out in force. Central Avenue has been going many years from the National Theater area to the central market. Now it has been expanded a few more blocks to the Coca Cola Bus terminal area. It makes that stretch of street feel much safer. It has always been a seedy link from the pedestrian mall at the market to the San Juan de dios hospital. I had my passport stolen in this location . I have also noticed more of a police presence walking and keeping an eye on things

The commuter train from San Jose to Heredia is now in service. The old station in San Jose is getting an update and the area repaved with concrete pavers.

Fourth trip to Costa Rica- Installing second tooth

2009-08-21T13:04:00.000-06:00

Ok...Now I am feeling like a regular pro coming to San Jose. This time I rented an apartment for two weeks in Barrio Amon. A small place that is rented to tourists basically. It is completely funky (in a good way)! The stairs up to the second bedroom and bath were uneven.Each step was different size and height! So it was a precarious trip up and down. Drinking was completely out of the question on this trip. But now I could invite friends over, cook some meals. Freedom to do what I pleased. I am also one of these tourists who gets a real thrill from doing local grocery shopping and pretending I am a resident of where ever I travel. I love establishing a mini routine of chores, shopping and mingling with neighbors. I guess it is the ultimate escape from my real life, that has more responsibilities that have built up over time. I am living a fantasy life. My style. I am not a fan of club med, gated resorts. I want to be among the locals. I occasionally give some shirts away to some of the kids in the streets that are bothering tourist for handouts. I had seen some of my clothes sported around a few times. I am sure I cannot even imagine the reality of their conditions. I have seen some parts of San Jose that are truly slums and streets that are loaded with homeless people ,drugs and filth. Many tourist avoid San Jose because they here there is nothing to see and it is dirty and dangerous. I personally do not agree. I love it and simply avoid the scary areas.
A Tico friend I met invited to take me (via Public bus) to Poas Volcano. It was a complicated and I was happy he knew what he was doing. We took a bus from San Jose to Alajuela and then transferred to a bus that only goes to Poas. It was a trip through the cloud forests and the air was cool. When we arrived to the top of the volcano it was downright cold! I had a sweatshirt and hood though! I was happy about that for sure.

I have had my tooth installed now and it is bugging me. The bite is off a bit! But I had planned a trip to go Zip lining. I took a tourist van tour to go to San Lorenzo cloud forest. This was a very well known zip line that boasts the largest expanse of zip line. It was truly amazing. All afternoon starting with small areas to cross to the end what was the scariest thing EVER! Look closely at the speck on a string!!!!( clic on the image and it will get big!)
This is a group shot of me with the other touristas! The Japanese girls giggles and shrieked the whole time. The lady on the end was recovering from plastic surgery and was attacked my fire ants that day. The other two guys are brothers from Canada..and NO...I am not holding his hand! Great experience! I won't do it again though! ehehe I had the tour van drop me in La Sabana Park instead of the hotel, so I was closer to the dentist for the final visit where he would improve the bite for me.

Curbs, gutters and other good intentions

2009-08-21T05:40:00.000-06:00

One thing that is noticeable in many areas of the Costa Rica cities is the sometimes dangerous and deep gutters that run along the streets. First thought upon seeing this, one thinks...This would never be allowed in the USA! OMG! From what I can guess...Due to lack of funds, the gutter systems are literally a trench along the street. I can see in some cases where they were designed to be covered with steel covers that were perforated and strong enough to be driven on. But not present. Maybe they were stolen or not installed. Adding to the fun, The pavement becomes higher with each resurfacing. Properties are responsible to bridge the gap with what ever means available. Concrete slabs placed here and there, some spaces for car tires . In the years I have been coming to Costa Rica I have noticed positive changes with the gutters. Where possible the streets are being redone with drain pipes under the pavement and drain grates installed. A slow but sure progress. In my town of Coronado the main street from Moravia to Coronado has been fitted with new sidewalks and under street gutters. About 5 miles length. Very nice!!! Coronado has also installed street signs!

3rd trip to Costa Rica

2009-08-20T17:53:00.000-06:00

Early Spring 06 My 3rd trip to Costa Rica and another implant. Feeling more comfortable and planning more activities. I stayed at Hotel Joluva in the Barrio Amon neighborhood of San Jose. This is a historic area with old colonial architecture hills and near the downtown museums, zoo and restored classic theaters. I was able to explore some new areas and feeling more like a local. I rented a Costa Rican mobile phone this trip. It did not get a good reception in the hotel, so I would need to go out to the street to talk. I was expecting a friend to pick me up at the hotel and we were going to San Pedro for dinner. So when he called I had to run out to the street and try to tell him where I was. One thing I should mention about Costa Rica, there are not any address's. Building have no numbers and most(99%) of the streets have no signs at all! So you need to describe the landmarks. After 20 minutes of arguing on the phone and he is saying I don't see you. I realized he was one block away. I walked up hill to the following block where he would surely see me. I was greeted by two transvestite working girls. So I am trying to talk on the phone and watch for him ,meanwhile they are feeling me up and hands are in and out of all my pockets. So I see his car and say to him, look straight ahead at the gringo getting mugged by the transvestites! OHHHHH I see you now,he says. I thanked the girls for the attention and jumped into his car! I never have anything in my pockets, so they molested me for nothing! Well a few cheap thrills at least were had .

I was going to see my friends in Manuel Antonio again but for a few more days than before.
To save money I decided to take the public bus instead of flying. The guy at the desk in the hotel agreed to write a note for me to help me get the proper bus ticket at the station. He also was helpful in drawing a map how to find the bus ticket location. It is hidden among 200 stalls at a market at the Coca Cola station. ( it is the location of the old Coca Cola plant) Of course no sign either to help you spot it! This is also one of the seedier areas of San Jose. People always warn about pick pockets etc...so I believe them! Long story short...I went the day before and bought the ticket. Advisable because the buses are always sold out. When I boarded the bus the next day I was confused by all the numbers on my ticket. I was helped by a nice lady who could tell I was a total inept gringo. The seats were obviously designed for peoples of a smaller stature than I. I am couldnt even bring my knees straight ahead. I needed to straddle the seat in front of me. It was a completely full bus and the seat next to me was still empty. Now the bus started out from the station. Every seat taken and a girl standing in front by the driver. I am thinking that no one wanted to sit my the tard gringo! geesh I am humiliated. I am nervously looking at my ticket awaiting someone to come by to check it. Then I realize that I had bought two seats! The note from the hotel must have asked for two seats! Assuming I was traveling with someone. So I am now thinking this was a gift from God! I am now feeling good and spreading out to fill both seats! First Class!

The trip to Manuel Antonio was a nice ride through a variety of scenery. One pit stop at the halfway point was my first Costa Rica rest stop. Many types of homemade foods and candies. I was really excited to buy up what I could carry back to the bus! Did I mention I gain a bit of weight after every trip to Costa Rica? This trip I was able to ask the bus driver to drop me at the school near Bill's home and walk up the hill. This time in was sunny and beautiful in Manuel Antonio, not like my rainy first trip.

2nd trip to Costa Rica included a trip to Manuel Antonio

2009-08-19T18:43:00.001-06:00

My second trip to Costa Rica trip was in the fall of 05. I had my crown applied to my now healed in titanium post. I needed to wait a few months to allow the implant to become part of my jawbone. Next step was screwing in the post into the implant and installing a new tooth. This foto is the Dentist Office in San Jose.

This trip I had arranged to go to see a friend in Manuel Antonio. I booked a small prop plane for a short flight. The airstrip in Quepos was carved out of an oil palm plantation.

Bill moved to Costa Rica from Boston . He was able to show me around the area and take me to some of the local places that are not to be missed.
Bill has a couple other houses on his property for his housekeeper w/ son as well as a local familywho can make life a little easier for the non Spanish speaking gringo! I must admit I was a bit envious! Quite the set up! His view of the ocean had been blocked though by the new condos at the main road!

The neighbors roofs seem to be one long continuous snake of tin roofs! I guess they all can visit and stay dry!

The beach was spectacular and the National Park

Local talent

2009-08-19T12:30:00.001-06:00

Wandering around on my own in a new place is great for people watching. In this case I have encountered some friendly Nicas (Nicaraguans). Obviously used to paparazzi and knew all the latest poses. I am thinking they were on their lunch break. Possibly from a distillery, judging by the aromas.

Non professionals can be a great source of talent as well!

First trip to Costa Rica

2009-08-18T21:11:00.001-06:00

The summer of 2005 I began coming to San Jose, Costa Rica for dental implants. I had seen a program on TV talking about Americans who travel the world for medical procedures and dental work. This launched my web search for Dental Implants. I was excited to see the results and realized how over priced health and dental care is in the USA. Costa Rica was at the top of the dental list. I contacted the dentist Arnoldo Anglada and he called me on the telephone later that night. He explained in perfect English the procedure and costs. Basically I needed dental implants. A false tooth permanently mounted on a titanium post that is placed into your jaw bone. My old crowns were falling off from my old dental work and taking tooth parts with them. Not much left to work with. So instead of a bridge or dentures I chose this procedure. The costs was around $1300 for the implanted screw surgery and the crown. I am self employed and have free time to travel when I want. So I planned my trip to San Jose. I made it a mini vacation (5 day) and dental work trip.
It seems I had arrived in the rainiest week possible. Actually it did not stop raining! This does occasionally happen in Costa Rica. I still managed to walk all around San Jose and explore. I am by nature an urban dweller. I am fascinated by the interesting ways people live and adapt to surroundings. San Jose was a treasure trove of unexpected sites, smells, delights and fears. I found the people to be warm and friendly. Except the people driving cars and trucks. They were trying to kill me. Crossing a street was nearly impossible at a couple points. I do not have the facts to back this up...but I hear pedestrian deaths due to accidents with vehicles is ranked high on the list of causes of death in Costa Rica. Despite the traffic I felt a great vibe and a strange connection as I wandered and hiked around the city. The funny side walk configurations made perfect sense to my version of logic and off beat sensibilities.

I was becoming aware that I was developing a school boy crush on this city. The gritty charms and noise. The glimpses of the more glorious days peeking out from behind corrugated tin and razor wire.