My friend Lindy gifted me this keychain recently and I had to laugh because it matches well with my motto for 2019, which is “Say yes!” My mantra was a challenge to myself to be more open to new experiences, to dare more, and to live closer to the edge.

So far, this mental shift has served me fairly well, though there have been a few hiccups along the way. Case in point, my gig to volunteer at a wildlife rescue down here in Costa Rica fell through for a variety of reasons this week. So much for best-laid plans! Thank goodness for technology as I was quickly able to rent an affordable casita near the beach in Santa Teresa.

The little hardships, inconveniences, and disappointments have been softened by the kindness of new friends, the sound of the ocean, and the incredible scenery. All of which I would not be here to experience if earlier I hadn’t said, “Yes!”

The Gaff, a fun little dive bar in Port Aransas, has several claims to infamy* but perhaps the most interesting is that belt sander races originated here. It began in 2005 after a couple guys argued over whose belt sander was faster/more powerful. What better way to decide the disagreement than to build a special racetrack and pit them against each other? Yet another great example of, “Here, hold my beer…”

I was delighted to finally catch one of the biweekly events. The competitors are fierce, the belt sanders are decorated and named, and the crowd is enthusiastic.