No Pain, no gain...

At least that's what they say.   I've had two surf lessons now and been in the water surfing the last five days.  Today I'm taking a day off.  Not to complain but my knees hurt, my arms and shoulders are sore, and I have a couple of new bruises, not to mention my ears need to dry out a little.  Still, I'm having a blast and can't wait to get back to it!

My surf instructor, Nelson, has been great.  He works at Coconut Harry's Surf Shop and is a 25 year old Tico (Costa Rican) who started surfing at age 12.  He speaks quite good english, is friendly and patient, and tries to make sure you are having fun.  That's what it's all about, right?  My first lesson with him on Monday there were two others in our group - a couple from Vancouver, Canada.  We started with some stretching and a talk on the beach before hitting the water.  All of us stood up and I found that all the things Michael had taught me served me well.  In a sense I already had a leg up!  I signed up for another lesson the next day and this time there wasn't anyone else, so I got a one on one lesson.  I used a different board and it was harder, but Nelson was very patient and was able to tell me every time where things went wrong and what I needed to focus on.  Now I just need to practice a bunch and then I'll go back for another lesson.  The surf is still very small here which is a bit disappointing for Michael.  However, any day surfing, no matter how small the waves, is better than not!  Here I am making an attempt!

Michael took some photos during my second lesson.









This weekend is the Fiesta de Nosara.  It starts tonight actually and goes until Monday.  There will be bull riding, concerts, and a big parade of horses and riders in finery.  It's a big local event held in the town of Nosara and lots of people are expected.  We plan to go probably on Saturday for the parade, which is called a Tope.  I'll let you know what we see!

Pura Vida,

Sojourner Sarah