Burn, Baby, Burn Pt. 2

A bottle of Colonel E.H, Taylor rum with a fire in the background, framing it.

As wildfire flames neared our Airbnb in Costa Rica, we considered evacuation. Despite the locals’ nonchalance, the fire crept closer, threatening our escape route. Forced to leave, we spent hours at a sports bar. Upon returning, we watched the flames dance, unsure if we’d make it through the night.

A Terrifying Trek Around the Back Roads of Guanacaste, Costa Rica

A very steep laneway going upwards. A sign is posted at the base saying entry prohibited.

We set out to visit Castillo de Lilo, a mountaintop restaurant with breathtaking views, but the journey quickly became a terrifying adventure. With steep, gravel roads and a compact car, we found ourselves stuck—twice—before finally making it to the base, only to be stopped by “No Trespassing” signs.

Friendly and Not-So-Friendly Costa Rican Wildlife

A very green iguana with large spikes down its spine on paved stones beside a pool.

In Costa Rica, we found ourselves surrounded by creatures: monkeys howling in the trees, geckos darting by, and even a scorpion chilling out with us for a drink. Read about our encounters with snakes, toucans, iguanas, and a feisty little cat we named Sparky Joan.

Ferryland, Newfoundland: A Lighthouse, A Wedding & A SingSong

A lighthouse on a large hill is half-covered in fog. Several people, barely discernible, gather in a group around one another near the base of the lighthouse.

Hiking to the Ferryland Lighthouse in Newfoundland, we unexpectedly witnessed a wedding. Surrounded by fog, tide pools, and retirees singing Irish tunes, we couldn’t help but reflect on what makes a place sentimental. A moment of serendipity with my teens, as we discovered more than just a wedding.

The First Time I Felt God

Mauritius Underwater Waterfall, Photo by Xavier Coiffic, Unsplash

In Fiji, while exploring ancient villages and hiking through jungle trails, I unexpectedly felt a profound spiritual connection. Amid stunning views and challenging hikes, God slipped into my soul, overwhelming me with joy and tears. It was a moment I can’t explain, but I knew it was real.