Sand in My Shoes (Part II)

Let's wake up and greet the day in Cali, peeking out the window in Auntie A's house and saying good morning to the little stray cats playing on the parched grass in the early morning coolness.  Today, we are heading off into the mountain jungles, climbing in elevation along the switchbacks winding among the coffee plantations and cane fields.  Would you like to come aboard?!

And when we arrive in Santa Rosa de Cabal, off we go along the path, letting the warm, humid air wrap around us, breathing in the spicy scent of the jungle.  Let's meander along, following the stream, marveling that such places of absolute wonder and peace really exist in our world.

Around each bend, we'll be even more amazed at how alive the environment is.  The edge of the jungle is home to flocks of fluttering white butterflies, while scarlet and blue dragonflies patrol their aquatic turf and little ferrets bustle along the water's edge.  Could you ever have imagined so many types of flowers, the infinite variety that infuses ever step along our path?

And then, following one more bend in the path, you'll catch your breath in wonder as the falls come into sight.  It's a life-affirming moment when you know that no matter where you are on the planet, this pristinely beautiful place will exist in all its peacefulness and wonder.

We'll spend our afternoon soaking in the thermal springs under the gentle rain, snuggled into the base of the mountain, eating tostones and empanadas with family in the rain.

And then, when the rain lifts and the skies clear, we'll tiptoe down to the very base of the falls, slip over the sandy pools and along the jagged rocks to stand directly below plunging water.  Lifting your face toward the sky, watch as the innumerable droplets fall through time until they reach you and cover you in warm, pure water.

What an extraordinary blessing to exist as a little creature in this gorgeous place.  What I wouldn't give to be able to stay here forever.

Lots of love,
~Mersydotes