Upon my arrival, I quickly realized that while in La Flor, I would be treated like family. My first full day was filled with introductions to members of the host community, most of whom were Johel’s siblings and their children, a walk-through of the property including the Casitas while being extensively informed on the naturally grown produce and wildlife inhabiting the area, getting my hands dirty because Sara and Johel’s kids convinced me to do yard work with them (which was fun for someone who doesn’t do a lot of yard work), and becoming familiar with La Flor as a welcoming and beautiful remote area of Costa Rica. 

My favorite part of that day and possibly the rest to follow, however, was waking up to the roosters (yes, I mean literal roosters calling) and walking out to the patio to sip my morning coffee while observing the most breathtaking view of the mountains and a rising sun directly in front of me.  My close-second most cherished part of each day was joining all the tias in their chit-chat while they watched their kids playing in the street in front of the setting sun. Something about this interaction, and as they patiently helped me converse and participate in their conversations in Spanish, made me feel so at home and welcomed into the community. 

Coming from a hectic and busy college-student schedule that entails minimal sleep, constantly experiencing high-stress/anxiety-filled emotions, and little time for self-care, it was a complete 180° to visit Costa Rica. In this setting, I was able to detach from my daily stressors and experience a culture so rooted in its natural landscape. 

Every day through each excursion, discovering spectacular views of various natural sites such as waterfalls and mountains, enjoying delicious home-cooked meals, and interacting with Ticos all helped me find my center

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 I was grounded by the activities I failed to cherish or take part in back home including appreciating nature, spending valuable time with loved ones (without the imposition of technological devices), and embracing a new culture through shared activities. 

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As La Flor was my first pocket of the world waiting to be explored, I was reassured that there is heart and home to be found anywhere, and I did not have to look hard here to find it.