I am an American who moved to Colombia to find peace after the devastating loss of my daughter. I bought and renovated a Villa, am learning Spanish, and writing as catharsis. This blog will be like a book with chapters. Each blog will be about my life in Colombia and my adventures. I hope you will enjoy the many new discoveries I am making every day about myself and another culture.
Every single day my sunsets change at Villa Migelita. If you look at a map of the Equator you will see the line goes through Colombia. The shifting of where the sun goes down is small, but occurs daily. I took these photos in a succession one day. From around noon to the night-time sky looking out over the Valle del Cauca, Colombia. If you look up the weather systems in Colombia you will see that we do not have seasons. We have rainy and dry times. The same with the sun, it shifts like nowhere I have lived before in my life. At certain times of year the sun goes down right in the center of my balcony, but then as the days and months change it goes to the right little by little. It is fascinating. It is living in the tropics. It is Colombia. Watch this video I took at night one evening. This sunset personifies peace.
If you love adventure, if you love nature, if you love the outdoors then Colombia is the place to visit. As I become more fluent in the language of Spanish I have joined groups that go on great explorations of natural reserves, parks and protected areas in Colombia. My most recent hike was an 8 hour walk up a waterfall. It included wading in water up to my waste, climbing up areas washed out by rain and water, and making sure I didn’t step on slippery rocks. Was it worth the time? Most definitely! I felt very accomplished when I finished. It was a day I can cross off a bucket list of things I have always wanted to do.
It started with a bus ride that was 2 hours from Cali to Quebrada Perico a natural reserve on the way to Buenaventura, Colombia. Buenaventura is a Pacific coast town where all the goods that are shipped into Colombia from the Pacific enter. When I moved to Colombia this is where my shipped items arrived. This town thrived after the opening of the Panama Canal in 1914. It is a bustling town that serves the best seafood you will ever taste.
Looking out at the coast of the Pacific in Buenaventura, ColombiaAll Smiles and Clean on the beginning of the adventure
The bus ride was so comfortable and it seemed so quick. We left early meeting in Cali, Colombia at 6 am. We stopped once so everyone could get coffee and breakfast at a small roadside shop…and then I reclined my greyhound size seat and watched the scenery of beautiful huge mountains and rivers on the way to our destination. We all got our gear together and met in front of our bus to get a “talk” about safety and believe it or not, a short exercise segment which included Yoga moves and stretches. Then we all had to count off in numbers so we knew exactly how many were with the tour and no one would be left on our adventure into the Rainforest. We were like soldiers marching in single file as we started. We all looked so fresh and clean. That would change. The first thing I noticed is the path is very narrow as we started our journey. I really had no idea about this hike except that I would see waterfalls, which I love. I did not know I would be hiking through many small waterfalls or in Spanish cascadas, which means cascades.
Smaller waterfalls and natural pool to swim, look closely and you will see a snorkel
We all were trying to keep up with each other as there were many of us….but that changed a bit as it got more difficult. The guides spaced themselves evenly throughout our group to help those having difficulty. I was very happy to have my hiking stick! It became slippery and dangerous at spots. I realized some of our group were out of their league quickly. I am very cautious because I was diagnosed with Vertigo two years ago. I am much better (thanks to a lot of therapy and YOGA) but I still need my hiking stick for security and especially on a hike this extreme. I wore loose, baggy clothing and my hiking shoes meant for water. There is an absolute need for the correct equipment on hike like this, and that includes the right clothing, and backpacks with all the necessities. Some people wore swimsuits under their clothes, however not necessary nor needed…just jump in and keep going was the way to be on this fun hike. I became more secure as I walked because I was taking my time. I realized not every person was on the same level, and I surely was not trying to prove anything to anyone! As my friend and hiking buddy has always said to me ‘we are not in a competition” and that is the truth. I took my time and I stopped when I wanted to take photos, and when I needed to just look at the beauty of the Rainforest. The most amazing photo I took was of these leaves from the plant called Christ’s Tears here in Colombia. The flora in Colombia is amazing and miraculous!
These leaves almost do not look real, but they are. In Colombia they are called Christ’s Tears
The fun of swimming in the natural pools along the way up was so much fun. We would just jump in and swim. The water is crystal clear and the temperature of the water perfect. Then to sit on a rock and have lunch while watching butterflies and birds fly by is surely what being one with the Universe means. I have never seen lava rock like there was along this journey. This hike was Paradise for sure. When we reached the top we all had our picnic lunch with us in our backpacks, and we ate with gusto. Then we swam some more in the natural pools surrounding us while hearing the gushing of the waterfalls that fed them. We had a nice break and were ready to head down. The walk down was not bad, and then the last waterfall came into view. A spectacular flowing splendor of nature that took my breath away.
This is Living!Me with a lot of mud in front of the waterfall that was the grandeur of the day!
Twisting vines in the dense jungle
Ant’s nest in a tree along the hike
I had my canteens with me, water in one and wine in the other. The perfect spot to sit and sip wine and have the spray of this fall hit my face. A point in time that will be forever in my soul. I was one with nature and my surroundings, in a place of peace and contentment. When we continued I felt sad the day was almost over. We progressed down the skinny path, stopping to look at trees with huge roots, nests made by ants, tree formations that you can only see when immersed in the Rainforest.
As we became closer to the end of our hike, I could hear the sounds of civilization again. I was sad to leave the wonder of the jungle, but happy to be able to change into dry clothes and get comfy on the bus ride back to Cali. The bus ride went by quickly, and I was home to Villa Migelita and in bed by 9:30 pm. Not bad for a day that felt like I had voyaged to another dimension. Anyone who visits Colombia can partake in adventure like this. It is part of the magical realism of the country. There are so many undertakings I have yet to experience! I can’t wait until my next one!
In response to The Daily Post’s weekly photo challenge: “Ornate.”
La Basilica de los Milagros in Buga, ColombiaLa Basilica de los Milagros in Buga, Colombia
I like the thought of ornate but it just isn’t my style. When I think of what most people consider ornate I think of churches throughout the world with gorgeous architecture. When you go inside, you find a history surrounded by great artistry. To me this definition of ornate is history, past times, over zealous art work that has no place in my world. I am a minimalist, a person who doesn’t like clutter of any sort clouding my space. I love to look at old architecture, to visit, to imagine, to reflect on the lives lived when these lavish churches were built with such great care. I don’t care for it in my own personal space.
To me ornate is a great photograph of nature, a display set with care of the product being sold, gorgeous flower arrangements, and lovely sunsets. Fruits arranged just right, a lot of color with the beauty shown without too much fuss. A smiling face, an animal that is running, playing, or exploring. That is the ornate I like. It comes down to a person’s viewpoint and taste.
The photo gallery below shows elegance in a way that I can relate to. Uncomplicated, but resplendent. Colorful, but not over-elaborate. My taste, which certainly will be different than others. Therefor, it is just a matter of perception.
Two young girls ready to go on stage in sparkly costumes
An opulent display of vegetables
Color brings this juice bar into a flamboyant display
Mixing plantains with heliconias give a bit of glamour to this scene
The cloud formation with the sun setting is luscious
A clever boat of fruits and veggies draws my eye because it is not fussy but extremely clever
Organic honey make at the farms here in Colombia is perfect symmetry
In response to The Daily Post’s weekly photo challenge: “Treat
When I think of a ‘treat’ I just need to look out side my glass-walled bedroom at the beauty that surrounds Villa Migelita. I have a blend of rural living along with the luxury of a home with beautiful views and comfort, a lifestyle I would love to share with others in the world. I wake up and do Yoga while looking out over the Valle del Cauca, Colombia. I go for bike rides while passing cattle grazing and horses wandering in their fields, I hear birds calling and my heart is set free of any anguish it might be carrying. More than the scenery draws me in, it is the authenticity of my surroundings. There is no pollution, nor disturbance of any habitats that are necessary for the survival of the creatures around me. I can walk or ride for hours without encountering any noise but that of nature. A very genuine way to live.
The Valle del Cauca can be seen from the mountains of La Buitrera de Palmira, Colombia
In response to The Daily Post’s weekly photo challenge: “Careful.”
On New Year’s Day 2013 my goat Mona had babies. We were not even sure she was pregnant, and she had twins! You can imagine the surprise around Villa Migelita when she went into labor. The following photos encompass how special the birth and the subsequent days were. I ended up donating the mother Mona and her two babies to a Senior Center and Drug Rehab Home. I got very tired of them eating my flowers! They also got into everything! The Home was very happy to take them as they would have fresh goats milk. I have found I have to be quick with my camera set on rapid shots in succession to get a good shot when I photograph any animal.
First baby goat is born and second is coming out into the world
In response to The Daily Post’s weekly photo challenge: “(Extra)ordinary.”One day I was visiting another farm near Villa Migelita and I hiked around their property. I took the most amazing photos. They were of a family having fun, doing what they do here in the Valle del Cauca. They fly kites in the summer when the breeze is just right, because families in Colombia don’t sit in front of a computer or a television. They do not have the money for that. They go out and do things with their families. This is a perfect photo depicting just that! I have lost my phone habit since I moved to Colombia. It is the best thing I have ever done. I still am able to run my business, and go on with my life. I don’t need to be connected to everyone all the time. This photo shows that. Go out and enjoy your world, wherever you may live. Look around and take in the beauty. Stop worrying about the little things, because they are not important. Take a breath, look around, and think I need to change from this circus of social media and go to a new place of minimalism. Even my clients who visit me at Villa Migelita enjoy the simplicity of my farm and the way I have nature as the focus. Simplicity speaks volumes, and this picture is a perfect example of just that.
We are not alone on this planet, us humans. We are part of the planet, we depend on the trees, the insects,the wildlife, the flowers and the atmosphere to live. So I ask; why such indifference from so many about what is happening with our planet? I know I am not young anymore but my son and my granddaughter will be living on in this world. I hear politicians say constantly “we need to save this or that for our children and grandchildren” but these are just words mouthed with indifference. If we really cared we the world, all the nations, we would join to save this planet. CHANGE. It needs to start now, not tomorrow, not the next generation, NOW. I would wish this blog would be shared over and over to make a difference. I have a Facebook page which I share videos of my life at Villa Migelita and fun videos of animals and nature. However, the truth is harsh. We are seeing the animals die needless deaths by our hands, or the insects die
Colombian traffic jam
Butterflies puddling
Looking up while he looks down
Our lions
Our butterflies
Our tarantulas
Our flowers
Our birds and fruits
Our trees
Our flowers
Our birds
Our hummingbirds
Our rare species
Flowers
waterfalls
Corazon
May God Save our Planet
from pesticides that are put on food we consume. We the people can stop this. But when will we? Do we care enough for the next generations to keep this planet going? My only hope is enough of us will protest, write, report, draw attention and keep sharing our thoughts on what we should do to stop the destruction. Stop the poaching, stop the murder of innocent animals, stop the pesticides that kill our bees and butterflies, stop it now. That is what I wish would go viral. The love of all creatures, not just us humans.
Just checking out the cattle, and enjoying my view
In response to The Daily Post’s weekly photo challenge: “Happy Place.” This photo captures all about Colombia and how nature lives with man so peacefully. This is an American Bald Eagle who for some reason has made its way down to Colombia. I will never forget stopping quickly and getting these photos of nature interacting.
My real love in life is animals in the wild. I love to see the birds that fly outside my panoramic view windows that surround my suite every morning. The sounds of their calls carry with me all day. My happy place is Villa Migelita. I worked my entire life to have this beauty that surrounds me. It is always there, I don’t worry it will leave me like it has in the USA. Colombia is still fresh with nature and rainforests. If they start building like I see in the United States, it won’t be for a long time. So, I leave you with a photo of my home. Come visit us here. We offer peace, nature, tranquility, luxury rooms, and wonderful food at amazing prices. I am on Instagram now too. Please follow me there for photos of my life as I enjoy my days. Life is amazing, I have found nirvana. You can too. Just give Colombia the chance it deserves. I have lived here for almost five years now without problem. Come see the Magical Realism of a country that is undiscovered by most travelers. You will not be disappointed.
Villa Migelita
My final thoughts on this little eagle, he left the USA because all of his natural areas are being taken from him. Let us appreciate our wildlife; let us save the environment.
Villa Migelita stands out as the mountains surround her.
When I moved to Colombia I left a lot of baggage behind. By baggage I mean: “intellectualbaggagethatkeepsonefromthinkingclearly”, it seems I was always fighting conflict before I moved to Colombia. By moving, I sought a new lifestyle free of conflict, negativity and chaos. I wanted to live in nature with my animals, to wake up and hear birds sing, write, hike in the mountains, swim under waterfalls, find a style of living that brought me to a place of peace. I have found this way of living in Colombia, although I have had some bumps along the way, for the most part it is a peaceful lifestyle and certainly adventurous. I live in a home that is beautiful and simple, and I no longer have the need for a lot of ‘stuff’ including the constant connection with others by having a phone in my hand every second of the day. Nor do I have a credit card for every store, nor a mountain of debt just because I must have the latest phone, computer, clothes, electronic devices and decor of the moment. Let’s face it; I am un-prepared and sorely behind this fast growing world of technology, the way people don’t interact with each other anymore, and I can’t find my way anywhere. I still keep my passwords written in a book. I am really lacking in many areas of social media advancement. I am not sure I care. I love my simple lifestyle. I was so grateful to return to Villa Migelita and my life of peace.
My most recent trip to the United States started off with the car rental place telling me I could no longer leave the airport without a sun-pass so I needed to buy the 13.99 a day option they were offering at a discount of 8.99 a day. I laughed so hard when he said that. I hardly use 25.00$ in tolls when visiting Florida. I told him that was ridiculous, and asked would it be possible to pay 8.99 for one day (even though that in of itself was stupid as the toll is 50 cents to leave the airport) until I could get my sun-pass from my Florida residence. “No, if you do that you will be charged 13.99 for the entire length of your car rental agreement” and he offered me the advice to go down the road a bit into Miami and buy a sun-pass at CVS drug store. He gave me directions. So after getting up at an early hour and taking a flight from Colombia, going through customs and then arriving at the rental place with my ears hurting because of my vertigo, I got in my rental car to buy a sun-pass at a CVS. I found the CVS without problem (a miracle actually if you don’t have GPS which I do not as I have a pre-paid phone in the USA) and entered and asked for the sun-pass from the cashier as it is sold behind the counter. She just looked at me as if I was speaking a strange language. I guess I was to her as she called over a co-worker who spoke to me in English, because she could only speak Spanish. Wow. So I then speak to her in Spanish and she made a face, and she acted like I was annoying her more. Great start to my vacation in Florida. So now I have the sun-pass and no way to activate it because my phone does not have media. I called a friend and thank God she answered and did this for me. I finally made it to my residence 4 hours after landing in Miami!
I am a person who treats others with respect, but I found the rudeness during my stay by many people I encountered unsettling. I go out of my way to be polite when I buy anything, anywhere! Where does this disrespect come from? Especially from employees? I seriously find that the most disturbing! When talking with the doctor’s office that had me in collections I spoke with a woman whom I knew. She said the employees who charged me the wrong price were not at fault. I asked “then who was at fault?” The answer was nonsensical as it could only be them and lack of training, so was it the superiors? I heard her say under her breath as she hung up the phone “jesus” like I was the problem! Was I the problem for trying to correct a situation that I didn’t cause? As a retired flight attendant from Delta Air Lines, I couldn’t get away with speaking to a customer that way! I would be fired. I am serious. So is this the new normal? Is it typical and I am just living in my jungle in Colombia with the birds and butterflies, no idea of the reality of the world anymore? I also found my lack of a ‘proper’ phone which everyone seems to have in their hands all the time an impediment. I have phone and text. I can also hook up to internet when available but I don’t. I really don’t care about it. I have no need to look at the darn phone all day! Am I a weird because I have no wish to be connected all the time to others on the internet? I really have no desire to see my email nor others photos and thoughts around the clock! UGH but I will say a GPS would be nice to have, but I probably couldn’t figure it out if I had one! I need to buy an old style GPS for my next trip to the USA. I got lost so much while driving I know that it is my only choice. I write directions but this seems to be a lost habit and it no longer works with all the huge expressways and different names of all of them! I don’t want to say I am horribly incompetent with social media; I actually have a knack for networking. I have a successful blog, a successful Facebook page, a successful website, and now an Instagram account. However, I am not up on the latest new thing with technology. I do have an iPad. I love it. I don’t know all I should about my device. I do have Yoga classes downloaded, and my Kindle app for reading. I have the Facebook, Instagram, and my email on it. I am sure that I am lacking so much in what I actually could have, but I don’t have anyone to teach me. I am now on Trip Advisor, and I am on AirBnB but it takes me a while to get these things started. So, like I said I am behind, like the last person running a marathon and coming up to the finish line last.
As I finish this blog I have one thing to say; ‘This is a distant world now.” No one really connects with each other in a personal way.They post photos and their life online and we all read it. I do the same. So I am not criticizing, I am just making obvious points. I miss seeing the people I love, but I understand it is not personal, it is just the way it is. I come home to my mountain home and I love my life of solitude. I am very happy to be writing my thoughts in my blog. I don’t miss real social interaction. I guess this is the new world we live in.
Goats checking us out as we ride by, no boundaries
In response to The Daily Post’s weekly photo challenge: “Boundaries.” When I moved to Colombia I let go of all the boundaries that I had imposed on myself for many years. Now I would never use that word for my life because I have no boundaries, only adventure. I try new things, I explore, I experience my surroundings, I do not let my mind tell me I can’t do something. Boundaries to me do not exist. I am living a scene from a movie. I do not exaggerate. My life is one I have created through perseverance. I have truly been rewarded.
