What did we do on Christmas day here?

First, some housekeeping. Joel cleaned the bathroom with the power washer. It’s all tile and cement, so why not, and it does a fast job.

Then some Boquete friends invited us to their traditional Christmas afternoon at the beach. I knew we would be passing another friend on the way, so we picked him up and brought him along.

There is a large area with benches and thatched roof which was cool and comfortable, and out of  the sun (I burn too fast). Usually the beach is very quiet but today there were lots of people enjoying the day. Of course, on a beautiful day at the beach, my camera will be used!

In the last photo you can see the new condo building, and the police who were wandering around along with some Sinaproc guys (emergency services). One of them went to the water once whistling loudly when someone got too far from shore. This beach has a strong undertow and riptides so one must be very careful when swimming and not get too far out.

After a wonderful, relaxing time at the beach with good friends on a beautiful day, we decided to head home. By the time we left people were arriving by the dozens and cars were parked everywhere along the road. Word is that at night there is a huge beach party with a big bonfire, fireworks, and lots of fun. Maybe next year we will have to book a room at the hotel down the road and check out the party.

When we got home the sun was lower in the sky and it was very pleasant outside, so I worked in the yard until it got dark. My neighbors think I’m a bit odd for doing my own yard work since you can easily hire someone for little money.  I explain that it’s my therapy, that I love listening to a book while I enjoy the outdoors.

I spent the rest of the evening on Facetime and I think I talked to everyone! I felt like I was right back in the house of my daughter’s in-laws where we all spent Thanksgiving together, and I got to see and talk with everyone. Next I talked with my other daughter and my granddaughter showed me all her gifts, the favorite being a potty chair 😀 Then I talked with my sister and her family. I often think about how different it must have been in the past when communication was difficult and slow. I wouldn’t be as happy here if I felt like I was cut off from my family. But, thankfully, now we have the technology to make it feel like you are almost right there.

The dog wouldn’t have the same Christmas report though. She is still totally upset by the fireworks. There were only a few going on yesterday but she refused to go outside, and she didn’t eat anything all day either. I finally carried her outside last night to enjoy our usual before bed time on the terrace, and she seems calmer today but she still stays within a few feet of me wherever I go. I don’t know how she managed to live in the street for three years. I’m sure she doesn’t want to know that even more is coming for New Years.

But, other than the upset dog, it was a perfect Christmas Day! I think we will make Christmas at the beach our new tradition too.