Costa Rica

Joe and I were able to quench our travel bug with a "work trip" to Zancudo in Southern Costa Rica. Once we arrived in San Jose we took a jumper plane which allowed amazing views of the Pacific Coastline. Our little plane landed on a tiny strip of runway deep in the jungle. As we stepped off of the plane the humid air was like a warm, welcoming hug reminding me that Southern California is definitely a desert. From there we took a taxi to a dock where we got on a boat which would take us to Zancudo Lodge. Compared to much of the traveling Joe and I did in our earlier years this trip was proving to be simple and luxurious. Check out Joe's website for more on our trip:
www.supthemag.com/features/notes-from-the-field-costa-rica
www.supthemag.com/features/notes-from-the-fiel-costa-rica-2/

My afternoon siesta spot, reading by the pool.

We started our days at 5am with the sunrise, ate breakfast, then met up at the boat which would take us to surf, paddle, fish, and explore the many things to do in the area.

The crew: myself-female support, Joe-writer, Sean-professional surfer, and Rob-photographer

Evening Bocce Ball

Joe riding a nice one.

Thanks again G&G Carberry for watching the little guys. I hope you're all finding some reprieve from the winter greys. Love and miss you all!

Christmas Past Due Post

Although we missed being in Idaho with our families over the holidays, we enjoyed not traveling and having a quite, yet still exciting Christmas in California. On Christmas Eve we took a family bike ride up to our friend's pool for an afternoon swim which proved to be an excellent way to burn off some of the boys' energy. That evening Joe treated us to his delicious Chicken Parmesan and I contributed to the feast with homemade Tiramisu for dessert. We continued the Blackhurst tradition of toasting someone at the table. Sam and Evan loved to do cheers and recognized our "special dinner" with candles, music, and flowers. We let the boys open one present that they had given each other. Then they set out the cookies, milk and carrots outside so they were ready for Santa. Once the kids were in bed, Joe and I had so much fun getting everything ready. It really felt magical! Below the boys are in their Christmas jammies from Grandma Sue.

Let the fun begin!!!! Legos, motorcycles and Scooby Doo.

A look from above at the mess.

Now it's time to play!

We celebrated Christmas Dinner with our friends Jeff, Nysa, Amelia, and their grandparents. It was another warm, sunny day so we barbecued steaks and salmon at their house. It was a special season and Sam is still wondering why it can't be Christmas all the time. We love and miss all of you very much!