Change of Plans

My husband took the week off so we could take the kids off to explore more of this beautiful island. While kayaking a few weeks ago a kind gentlemen came up to tell us about a beautiful lake. Once we found someone to translate for us we found out the general direction of the lake and its name. So after a little research we ventured off to Lago do Guajataca.  The road there was very curvy but eventually we came to a beautiful lake. As we neared the entrance we were met with disappointment as the gates were locked and there was no way to go around, under or through.  I'm sure you are wondering why we would even consider going through a locked gate....well here a locked gate sometimes just means continue with caution.

Since we were already a way from home we decided to check out Guajataca Forest. Getting there is an adventure in itself. For starters, the road is basically one and a half lanes for two lanes of traffic with some hairpin turns. Thankfully, we have a very loud horn as we made good use of it.   Our kids have a pretty good sense of adventure or maybe the Dramamine was just doing its job?  Eventually, we came to what we thought was an information center but all the doors were locked.  Not willing to give up and with a little more investigation we found a sign for a trail head that would take you on about an hour and half hike. (We've become pretty good a translating signs.)

Originally, we decided just to walk 1/2 km to the observation tower and call it a day as we really weren't prepared to do  much hiking. However, we decided we all had on "ok" shoes and plenty of water so we continued to follow the trail that led to the cave. Remember, this trip wasn't planned so it wasn't until we were half way to the cave and one of the kids asked,  "Who has the flashlights?" that we realized how unprepared we were.  I had one flashlight on my key ring so we knew we weren't going to get very far into the cave.  We may be adventurous but we aren't crazy.

View from observation tower.

Along the trail we found various lizards, birds, fungi, some bromeliads  and at one point we thought we heard a monkey...or maybe a bird that sounds like a monkey. Whatever it was it was loud and either wanted our attention or was telling us to go away. It must be a girl thing because Bethany and I quickly moved away from the sound while the boys turned around and started walking to see if they could find it. We never did see what made that sound and once Sammy started making his own monkey noises the animal became silent.

Before entering the cave we came to a platform that leads to stairs to take you down into the mouth of the cave. Here we met a group that had just finished their adventure.  Their "guide" was very helpful and gave us a few pointers. However, without flashlights we didn't make it very far into the cave. Just exploring the first room was amazing. We discovered camera flashes make great lights but not trustworthy enough to go very deep. Without adequate lights we didn't stay in the cave for very long but it was enough to wet our appetite to plan another trip back.

We have been in several caves as a family. Some of these caves have been tourist traps,  National Parks and Puerto Rico's do it yourself trips. I'm amazed at how much the kids remember about caves. What better way to learn about stalactites, stalagmites, finding cave curtains and popcorn than hands on experience?  So while many students are on summer vacation, our little school was exploring nature and on the way back the boys had their own discussion about creation. Pretty amazing day!

Salt Water Therapy

Last night before going to bed I lost my voice. So when I woke this morning I had second thoughts about spending the morning at the beach. Knowing the kids were excited about taking the kayak out, I put on my big girl panties and off we went.

When we arrived at the beach there were a total of 12 people including my family of 6. It was so peaceful I couldn't help but immediately feel better. My voice didn't come back above a whisper but my spirit soared.

Steve and Stevie were the first to head out on the kayak. This was one of those teaching opportunities because there is nothing like having a teenager trapped in a kayak, on the ocean who has no choice but to listen. Actually, it was a great time for both of them. They went farther than I would dare go or if they had one of the younger children.  

One of the things we stress to our older boys is to guard their hearts. We encourage them to have female friends but we don't allow them to have a girlfriend. I know this may seem old fashioned but honestly, how many relationships make it through the teenage years? I know there are a few but those are the exception not the norm; and if you're one of those exceptions congratulations!!!  So while they were on the water, without any younger siblings to torment, Steve stressed the importance of  having a relationship with God and  being friends first as the foundation of  any long term relationship.  My prayer is that all my kids marry their best friends and have long, healthy, happy marriages.

After they returned I went out with our middle son, Bobby. This was an adventure since he couldn't hear a word I was saying. Bobby is naturally patient (except maybe with his younger brother) and we work well together. I love having that one on one time with the kids even when I can't talk. This gave him an opportunity to lead the kayak as well as our discussions. He was able, without interruptions, to tell me all the things he has recently created  with his Legos and what he plans to build in the future.  While we enjoyed our time together, the only thing that would have made the trip better is if we had seen the sea turtle that usually hangs out in that area.

The final trip was with Steve and the younger two. They have been dying to tip the kayak and since I'm usually with one or both they haven't been able to do it. Of course, my husband being the biggest kid couldn't wait. So with everyone wearing life vests they tipped the kayak. I think that was the highlight of the trip for Bethany. Sammy's favorite part was being dragged back to shore behind the kayak and Bethany had her first opportunity to paddle. 

We left the beach feeling ready to take on the day feeling blessed and rejuvenated.  Unfortunately, the roofers are here and are now drilling on the concrete roof/house. I think it is time to head back to the beach!