on becoming a latitudinologist

One of my foremothers traveled from her hometown of Blintz to the Manhattan area. This was in 1728. Being latitudinal in her attitude, she viewed living abroad as a rare yet challenging experience. (yes, I read word-a-day)

Her influence propels me daily as I prepare for my Central American journey. C4 revealed the truth today — the howler monkeys really do sound as if they guard the gates of hell. Apparently one of these primates settled down in her next door neighbor’s yard last night and commenced howling. For a very long time, it seems. And these monkeys are large, much more so than C4 previously believed.

It is too hot in Samara, Costa Rica for anyone to function outside of an A/C - enhanced atmosphere after 7:00 a.m. in the morning. Unfortunately, not many people have A/C, so not a damn thing is accomplished other than profuse sweating and conspicuous consumption of whatever cold beverage is available. C4 also tells me — if they leave the windows open too far, dogs and cats come in and eat their food. Living as a beachfront tico is difficult, to say the least. Especially if you don’t speak Spanish…

All of the environmental concerns will be addressed by the time Rob and I arrive. An apartment with pool and air conditioning is to be acquired by next week. The LandCruiser will be fully functional. And the howler monkeys will all be tame and we’re taking them iPods with Mariah Carey CDs pre-installed. Dogs and cats will learn to sit at the dining room table and eat like civilized pets they must be — I mean, my dogs can sit at the table and eat off plates, why can’t the Costa Rican dogs learn the same?

Okay, enough of that dribble. I am contemplating getting a radical haircut because of the heat factor. Rob has already done his Sampson to my Delilah. Perhaps I will follow in his footsteps.