Costa Rica Cost Of Living Update: 1 kilo (2.2 lbs) potatoes- $1.25

Today we have an appointment for a follow-up visit with Rob’s surgeon. His hernia has healed but he is getting some discomfort near the incision. Rob feels that he should have no pain and be able to go back to his Herculean work-out regimen.  Even though other people have said it will take a while, my husband believes his superior Italian genetics should allow him to heal faster than the average mortal.

It’s no surprise that when we arrive at the hospital the waiting room is filled with people.  However, today I come prepared with a few things to keep me busy: Sudoku puzzle, WWII history book, and a roll of toilet paper. I have learned all three are invaluable while visiting this Costa Rican hospital. (more…)

Costa Rica Cost Of Living Update: 8 ounce package of imported mushrooms-$6

After a couple hours of waiting on the side of the road, a woman dressed in white scrubs opened the gate and we all filed in. We started forming a line directly in front of the reception window.  I glanced at a piece of paper taped to the wall which said the doctor would only see six people today. Our lack of Spanish made it difficult to understand why there were 35 people sitting here totally unfazed by this news.

“That can’t be right,” I told Rob. “What doctor treats six people a day?” I pointed to the sign and asked the person in front of me if that was true. The woman nods her head in agreement. “That sucks, there are already six people in front of us.”

“I don’t care, I’m not going anywhere. We’ve been through stuff like this a dozen times. You can’t give up right away,” said Rob. And he is right. It’s amazing how often I want to wave the white flag. But people immediately like my husband and hopefully the doctor remembers she told him to come back today. (more…)