Open Toe Shoes

Take Note of the Use of Words

2012-01-30T08:33:00.000-07:00

ARTICLE 55. The special protection of mothers and minors shall be entrusted to an autonomous institution named Patronato Nacional de la Infancia (National Infancy Foundation), with the collaboration of other State institutions.

http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/special

http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shall

http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/autonomous

Take note of the use of the words shall and special. Who shall (can) get special (over and above the ordinary) protection?

Those who are entitled in article 51. Who are entitled? Those that meet the requirements. Who meets the requirements? Those that register. Who registers? Those that give their consent to get the entitlements and special protection.

http://www.law.yale.edu/rcw/rcw/jurisdictions/amc/costarica/frontpage.htm

Further to this link we can see the structure of authority. Costa Rica has given 100% of this 'special' protection to a self regulated commercial trust agency under the laws of the UNITED NATIONS. As such, the UN dictates over the matters involving 'registered' children. They cannot take control over those 'unregistered' or stateless children because to do so would force association with a civil entity, organization, group, club or other series of people who have decided to take such controls by force. This is the reason people must be registered. To be registered makes you special and entitled. To be forced to associate with any religious group of ministries such as the ministry of health etc. would be forced religion.

Remember, the Law here in CR is Spanish civil law, but its moral base is the Judeao Christioan principles written in the Bible and subscribed to in the constitution. Remember, any law not in accordance with the God of Israel requires consent, typically through a registry and numbering process. As tawdry and insipid as this is, these are not my beliefs, they are those of who authored those documents. I am simply observing them.

More on the United Nations and their mysterious autonomous control next time.

Consider This

2012-01-20T12:22:00.006-07:00

I admit; I have never actually sat down and thoughtfully read any constitution before now. In the past, I have felt satisfied simply knowing they exist. But lately, I have been sitting with the Constitution of Costa Rica and realizing how straight forward it actually is. I have also learned that each word of the Constitution of Costa Rica was chosen with great care. Considering that, it is interesting to examine the words that tie bigger concepts together. Now on to James and a look at rights vs. entitlements...

Article 51 of the Constitution of Costa Rica:

ARTICLE 51: The family, as a natural element and foundation of society, is entitled to State protection. Mothers, children, the elderly and the destitute infirm are also entitled to such protection.

Conversely when an entitlement is NOT requested, that the family is protected FROM the state. Rights come from nature/entitlements come from government. Rights are inalienable, whereas entitlements are applied for. Rights do not degrade others' rights, whereas entitlements allow for economic redistribution schemes. No individual has a right to force others to pay for their health care. That is an entitlement and you are entitled to apply for such benefits.

http://www.lectlaw.com/def/e081.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Entitlement

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narcissists

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narcissistic_rage

http://breckshire.wordpress.com/2007/03/18/rights-vs-entitlement-and-privilege/

http://www.thefreemanonline.org/columns/rights-versus-entitlements/

An entitlement must be applied (meet requirements) amongst others who have registered for similar benefits and that the other entitles have agreed to support your claims and demands as an entitlement. If those who have not consented are forced by the collective to pay or support those who have claimed an entitlement, then that is equal to slavery (involuntary servitude) which no person has the right to enslave another.

http://www.auburn.edu/~johnspm/gloss/entitlement_program

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P9RYh40wwrI

http://www.etalkinghead.com/archives/the-difference-between-rights-and-entitlements-2010-01-22.html

Would Anybody Be Opposed to This?

2012-01-12T05:21:00.003-07:00

That no one can force anybody into any association whatsoever.

Freedom of religion or to practice no religion at all.

That sovereignty exists within the nation (the people), not elected groups which may be lobbied for special interests.

That public servants are public SERVANTS and as such are bound to preordained law via oaths that they may not exceed their mandates.

That public servants (officials) have a duty to answer to any request even if that answer is that they are unsure and offer their supervisors as a potential next step in order to clarify and answer the request.

That foreigners may exist under the same prime protections from government as nationals.

That no such group of public servants may alter the prime directive given them.

IF YOU BELIEVE IN THE ABOVE STATED PRINCIPLES, THEN YOU CAN FAVOR THE FOLLOWING: http://www.costaricalaw.com/legalnet/constitutional_law/constitenglish.html

Ask Yourself Again

2012-01-08T19:56:00.005-07:00

DO YOU BELIEVE IN THE FOLLOWING:

peace, honesty,

hardiness, bravery, strength, valour,

vigilance, truth, loyalty, perseverance and justice.

If so, then you can agree to support the following symbol:

http://www.flags-flags-flags.org.uk/costa-rican-flag.htm

More to come on this ideal. Much more. Stay tuned.

2012

2012-01-01T10:35:00.000-07:00

With sips of introspection and bites of comfort, memories have been tucked away. A new year begins. I offer simple words for this next bit of the journey: fortitude, accountability, freedom, love, health, contentment. Happy New Year!

Anonymous Nonsense Vs. Cold Hard Facts

2011-12-19T08:08:00.000-07:00

The purpose of publishing all of the affidavits, constructive notices and events involving the interaction between our friends and the Ministry of Health and PANI in Puriscal, Costa Rica is strictly for the transparent documentation of facts. However, there have been several anonymous comments left to one blog post in particular which dwell on opinions, fairies in the clouds and other off point topics. Curiously, the comments focus on my own editorials and are ripe with conviction; yet no one has uttered a peep regarding the work that James has submitted to the courts and ministries. Admittedly, my writing demands very little and is much easier to attack. I do hope that thoughtful readers as well as off point, anonymous individuals are taking the time to absorb James' research and presentation of law and facts.

My objective in writing today is not to partake in virtual opinion ping pong, but to hopefully establish more facts. An anonymous commenter has claimed to be living in Costa Rica with their family and publicly choosing not to vaccinate their children or send them to public school. Still another anonymous commenter has claimed to know hundreds of families in Costa Rica who are openly foregoing vaccinations for their children and choosing to home-school. I do not understand why anyone with such valuable information would choose to publish opinions and experiences anonymously. I urge the commenters to present the laws and facts that support the claims they have made. This information may not help our friends, but would undoubtedly aid other families living in Costa Rica who are struggling with these same issues.

The suggestion that the Ministry of Health and PANI are in accordance with hundreds of families living in Costa Rica without injecting their children with mandatory vaccines contradicts the testimony of Dr. Cerdas who, in the driveway of our friends on June 30, 2011, read from the General Law Health book the exact articles which require contracted residents under the age of 15 to vaccinate and re-vaccinate. It is difficult to believe that Costa Rica is in any way disregarding its own mandates. Inside Costa Rica published an article on January 26, 2010 regarding the mandatory H1N1 vaccine for selected high risk groups in Costa Rica. According to that article:

"The vice-ministra de Salud, Ana Morice, explained that the CCSS will be compiling a list from medical records of persons that are required to be vaccinated,...The vice-ministra said that those people on the list who do not want to receive the vaccine, will be obligated to do so. "The idea is not use force, even though we have the right to go with the police to pull people from their homes and take them to a medical centre to be vaccinated", explained Morice. The mandatory vaccination is based on government decree 35703-S of the Ley General de Salud published on January 21, 2010 in the official government publication, La Gaceta."

What an eerie contemplation that you too may be obligated to be injected with a substance that you may or may not philosophically agree with and that your eligibility to be on the list is based on your personal medical records. If we ask the government to protect us, we can't cry when we don't like their approach.

I suspect that the numerous anonymous comments which suggest that our friends are only having trouble because they have not contracted with the state of Costa Rica and that it is possible to refuse that which public ministries deem mandatory and necessary is only a repeated desperate attempt to divert the focus away from the fact that not only is it impossible to refuse the mandated gifts from the State, but should you ever have trouble in Costa Rica, don't count of due process of law either.

Perhaps these numerous anonymous comments are made by individuals who have financial interests which are dependent on a positive image of Costa Rica. My opinion, your opinion and other irrelevant references to mythical creatures do not dilute the fact that our friends have not committed a crime; there is no habeas corpus. If anyone believes that our friends did harm by not soliciting social contracts with the state of Costa RIca, just ask yourself why our friends have yet to be presented with any charges against them; why, if they were not contracted with the state, it was the ministry of health and not immigration to storm our friends' sanctuary; and why due process has been completely denied to our friends?

Our friends understand and follow the laws. Without lying or cheating or doing any harm to anyone, our friends live, committed to personal responsibility so as to never add to the great burden of so many needy people who choose to contract and benefit from the generous social entitlements of a struggling, developing nation. Our friends are not jealously demanding that anyone think or live as they do. It is shortsighted to protect fragile interests by trashing victims. Why not, instead, stand tall and demand due process to prove that the product you are selling lives up the glorious image you promote? Pura Vida.

Constructive Notice

2011-11-29T09:09:00.014-07:00

The following constructive notice was submitted to the court in Puriscal, Costa Rica by our friends on September 5 ,2011 the day after our friends were given the citation to appear in court.

Constructive Notice

I, the bearer of this notice, in the flesh and blood, hereby make the following declaration of truth, acts, testimony, and understanding of circumstances for the purpose and intent of seeking a remedy and cure for any tort, complaint, allegation or breach of contract presented to me. Matthew 5:25; CR constitution article 30.

I am of sound mind and although I may seek council of my choice, I do not seek, require or demand a state licenced attorney, nor will I accept any appointment of representation nor waive any rights.

In no way should the intent of this notice be vitiated by way of lack of form, lack of state approved notary signature, lack of state approved stationery as I wish to recieve no state benefits nor create reciprocal obligations for recieving any benefits. As such, this notice will be made as any common man can state his truth. Just as any judicial writ does not fail through defect of form. The intent and facts herein this notice shall not be degraded by clerical error or use of form. 'Breve judicial non cadit defectu forme'.

Although I have made my best effort to offer clear translations; any mistranslation or nebulous term shall not be used to semantically alter the substance of my intentions. 'Mala grammatica non vitiat chartum'.

I speak for my family in this document and as such may use the term "we", being myself, my wife and my children where appropriate.

In this notice I make many references to Biblical Law as we have been made aware by public official that the Laws of Costa Rica respect the Law of God. Thus I recognise the Laws of God to be antecedent, thus supercede the laws of the state unless I expressly consent otherwise to re-liege. 'Nunquam res humanae propere succedunt ubi negliguntur divinae.' Acts 5:29; Constitution CR Article 75.

Although I do make many references to the Constitution of Costa Rica, these are observations and merely corelative or coincidental and for purpose of cognitive awareness only, as I make no constitutional applications or claims nor desire to use the constitution as protective mechanism as the constitution is not a covenant made by me but made by and for its authors. 'Leges suum ligent latorum.'

I make many references in Latin as this language is immutable and not subject to semantic manipulation, thus offers a clear undertanding and path

My children are my property and their lives are entrusted to me. I am charged with the responsibility of protecting those lives that they be as I train them in the ways of proper service. C.R. Const. article 45; article 21; U.N. article 17(2); Psalm 127:3-5; Genesis 33:5; Isaiah 8:18; Proverbs 22:6.

Any actions of the state to damage those lives either physically or psychologically will be viewed as a tort. CR article 45; article 21.

In no way do I relinquish authority, custody of my children to the state and in no way is the state to assume my children or other properties and chattles are salvage or maritime prizes for the purpose of confiscation. Any such act will be viewed as an unlawfull taking. Article 45; Ephisians 6:1-4; Exodus 20:15, 21:16.

Any use of my children for the purpose of coercion or enhancing the state's bargaining powers will be viewed as an act of terrorism. Article 11

We ask NOTHING of the state.

I do not purport to be a 'sovereign'. CR Article 3

I recognise the sovereignty to the state of CR as well as the sovereignty of the God of Israel. CR article 2.

I am attempting to conduct myself and arrange the conduct of my family in such a way as to follow the rules of both sovereigns for the purpose of being in accordance with rules of peaceful conduct and submission to well behaved government as well as faithful servants to the God of Israel. 'Qui jure suo utitur, nemini facit injuriam.' Acts 5:29.

I do not vote or seek to be involved in political issues.

We do not practice idolatry nor seek involvement in religious assemblies and/or controversies. Exodus 20-3; article 19.

We do not seek/demand the state to be responisble for our health care, education, pensions, insurances, security, for these are matters of strict liability. As such the state shall make no assumption that they are to force us to limit that which God gave us as positive Law responsibilities. As such we are strictly liable for these social imperatives under the Laws and guidance of the God of Israel. Galatians 6:5, Timothy 6:5.

I, in no way purport to be in perfection of following all law, for I am in constant state of learning new facts. Although ignorance of the law is no excuse, the law favors the ignorant of facts. 'Lex succurit ignoranti'.

I have no knowledge of any contracts or quasi contractual obligations that were not made out of duress, coersion, or uneven bargaining power which bind me lawfully. 'L'obligation sans cause, ou sur une fausse cause, ou sur cause illicite, ne peut avoir aucun effet'.

I have no intention to make CR my permantent residence or permanent habitation.

I have no intention to make covenants with, or beome contractually obligated with the state's social programs which limit my liabilities and responsibilities by way of article 25 of the Consitution of CR. 1 John 5:21.

I am an Israelite practicing Israelite law as permitted by article 75 of the constitution of C.R.

I do recognise the requirement to submit to the government and Laws of CR when they are in accordance with God's Law for the purpose of peace and order. Romans 13; Acts 5-29.

I do recognise my obligation to follow God's law over man's law when government statute are not in accordance with God's law. Acts 5:29, Daniel 6:13

To contract, or make covenant (pledge alliegance) with a foreign god to engage in activities such as usury, is prohibited by the God of Israel and considered idolatry, thus waives His protection. However, I freely submit to authority on matters criminal and or civil/private contract law. 1st Corinthians 10:12-14, Romans 13:1, Proverbs 22:26, 1 Samuel:8.

We would be in violation of Gods idolatry laws (First commandment) if we were to pledge allegiance to a new liege (King or rule maker) or contract with a new sovereign which would in effect replace God's social covenants with new political social policies that burden other men by shifting my responsibilities to other men. Galatians 6:5, 1 Timothy 5:8, 1 Corinthians 3:8.

If any man or officer of the body politic is damaged by my application of Law, please allow that individual to make claim and that any writ of habeas corpus be satisfied, so that I make immediate offer to re-concile voluntarily, for I am unaware of any such complaints or charges. If any corporate entity, juristic artifice, group, or association of men is claiming a breach of contract in equity, please allow that entity to bring forth the contract in question, that it may be examined, and that I may offer voluntary opportunity to respond for the purpose of just reconciliation. If such claim is made, but not volunteered to me that I may understand, and observe the lawfullness of such claim, a subponena duces tecum and plea in abatement and general demand for a bill of particulars will be my only recourse. Article 48.

Be it known that we have acted in accord and attended promptly to any charge, citation or summons presented to us. In any controversy present ourselves voluntarily and with out prejudice that the matter may have a swift resolution. No undue force will be required in any dealing with us. Article 37.

I have no knowledge of damaging any entity, real or artificial.

I have no intent to damage any entity, real or artificial.

I object to any summary judgement that damages me and/or my family prior to my making first opportunity to excercise a reconciliation through due process, in the form of verified complaints, writ of habeas corpus, knowledge of jurisdictional venue (civil/criminal), and the just examination of any presummed contracts.

I understand the State of CR is a man made association empowered by the consent of the people of this nation to carry out the laws of the state and such an organization cannot have more power than that of its individual creators. 'Derivita potestas non potest esse major primativa'.

If no damages to a man in the flesh are presented, then I can assume only damages to an artificial entity are available to pursue and that such damages are civil damages and the result of broken covenants.

I understand that the government is charged with the responsibility of adjudicating both criminal and civil breaches.

I understand that damages to a man in the flesh or violations of God's Law are crimes 'mal en se' and no contracts may be involved. However crimes 'en prohibita' or crimes against stautes where no habeas corpus is evident, result in civil (private law) adjudication. If a breach of a public code is the case, then such application requires that contract is involved.

If the public code is in violation of Gods Laws, then the code must be consented to by way of covenant and agreement, allowing the creation of a superior covenant with a new sovereign understanding that the state codes may be in effect. Article 75, 19, Acts 5:29.

I recognise the residency contract violates several of God's Laws, primarily the first Commandment as well as God's laws involving social security, health, surety, usury, and theft via limited liability.

I recognise the general use of undue influence by the state to 'encourage' foreigners to re-liege or waive exisiting rights for no consideration. 'Nullus jus alienum foris facere'. Article 19-20-25.

I recognise the state may use the constitution as an 'illusory' consideration if indeed the constitution is unaccessible by a foreigner if the constitution is waived. 'Nuda pactio obligationemnon parit'.

I recognise that article 19 has limitations set by other laws, which in effect may nullify and make 'illusory' the constitution for practical purpose of the intent of the document, yet article 20 has NO such limitation prescribed by law.

I recognize the state and officials are under prior constitutional duties that cannot be construed or sold as consideration. They exist as law prior to the creation of an immigration contract. 'Omnia quae jure contrahuntur contrario jure pereunte. CR article 11.

The immigration/ visitor visa contract is summarily a naked contract. 'Nuda pactio obligationem non parit'. There is no apparent consideration that is not already a constitutional right to which immigration officials are previously bound, article 11, article 19.

Any contract that voids a right (particularily under color of law) by virtue of duress does not create equitable consent. 'Nihil consensui tam contrarium est quam vis atque metus'.

Hence the recipricol duties in the visitor visa contract that do not detract from law such as forcible exit every 90 days beome an exercise in vanity as the contract lacks consideration. 'Quad vanum inutile est, lex non requirit'.

To freely reject association with any assembly does not suffer restriction as any forced association might imply coersion which the state regards as 'illegal'. Article 25, article 11.

There is presumption prior to entering CR that the constitution of CR applies to foreigners as there is reference to foreigners receiving said rights in article 19 and that vitiation of article 19 by limitations set therein that have in effect the diminishment of said article, violate article 20.

Understanding that slavery (involuntary servitude) is phrohibited with no limitations, voluntary servitude via covenants and agreements are a normal everyday activities limited only by the rule of contract law. Hence if the state immigration authorities claim limitations inside article 19, such limitations reflect back to the validity of the originating entry covenant and consideration therein. Articles 19, 20.

Any action of the state to force performance of an invalid contract created out of deciet and duress would be INVOLUNTARY servitude or slavery and tantamount to theft of life, time, liberty, and pecuniary interest. Article 20, deuteronomy 24:7.

If indeed the state understands its own rules, then a foreigner has both the right to practice his religion and reject association, particularly one that both offends God and is not law properly given to government except when authorised by the consent of the governed via contracts. Articles 11; 25; 75.

It is presumed that there is an pre-existing duty that officials of the state are bound to their constitution and thus cannot use the constitution as an 'illusory' benefit.

If indeed the constitution is illusory, then this in not disclosed in any evident methods for the ease and promotion of clear understanding such as at the borders and immigration windows.

In the event the constitution, which binds the officials of the state to Gods laws, is rendered ineffectual by virtue of immigration contracts, then several other points of law come into effect to ensure state power is not morphed into something larger than what constituted it as clearly given in article 25 so that the power of the individual is not subjugated beyond what has been ordained by God in Romans 13:1. Article 11.

A contract cannot be enforced which forces another party to waive constitutional rights.

I believe it to be a fact that the constitution of Costa Rica is not subject to random manipulation or exclusion by officials under article 121(7), when the issue does not involve "crimes in se", or breach of Biblical law, but conversely, the adherance to Biblical Law. Article 11.

I believe it to be a fact that the functionaries and officials are bound to obey the rules set forth in the constitution as a prior condition to any subsequent new agreements or contracts. 11;18.

I believe it to be a fact that I cannot be randomly deprived of a pre-existing duty owed to me by officials under article 121(7) without a public dissemination of two thirds the vote of the legislative assembly. Articles 11, 18, 19, 25.

I do believe it to be a fact that I will suffer a loss of undeterminable magnitude if these duties are denied.

If indeed a prommisary estopple is granted and I am indeed denied the law as purported, the resulting damage to me would be of unconscionable loss.

If indeed the claimant (immigration officials) is damaged, please make that damage known, for it would appear as the lack of contract performance does no harm to the claimant. 'Actio non datur non damnificato'.

Based upon the gravity of the consequenses, it would seem reasonable that the immigration contract must disclose and express clearly that every contractee waives constitutional laws and God given laws to which all public officials are bound. 'Deceptis, non decipientibus, jura subveniunt'. Constitution Article 11.

The constitution of CR and laws of God make it impossible to follow certain immigration statutes and codes. One law is inconsistant with another. 'Impotentia excusat legem'. Articles 11, 19, 25,75.

The immigration contract and subsequent visitor visa statues presume to negate the preordained Laws of God and preexisting duties to the constitution by a fraudulent principle of causality. 'Post hoc ergo, propter hoc'.

The fact that these immigration codes are imposed in virtually all situations and are considered the 'normal' modality of enforcement suggests that the implied force is due to impunity. 'Impunitas continuum affectum tribuit delinquendi'.

If the continuous normal operation of a governmental department is the only reason for a decision in favor of prommisory estoppel, then the adjudication is inconsistant with law. 'Ab abusu ad usum non valet consequentia'.

I made no waiver of judicial contract enforcement and , although the state would have to take notice of such waiver under articles 27; 11, no such demand to take notice or act accordingly was made by us for fear of creating a reciprocal obligation as the state (or officials) would have to expend energy and time on behalf of my notice. I have no expecation for the state or state officials or citizens of this country to be burdened by my actions.

We rigidly adhere to non-political , non religious activities espoused in articles 28, 19, 75 and a notice of the aforementioned doctrine may have been construed as having an agenda or political influence on other people. As such, we made no prior notice to avoid demonstrable political /religious agendas.

If I err on these issues, please I beg of the court to bring forth the error, for I insist it is not an error in law, but an error in fact and my ignorance is not any form of negligence or lack of adhereance to laws and duties and I wish reconciliation based on correct facts. Matthew 18:15.

Response to article published in A.M. Costa Rica

2011-11-26T11:27:00.003-07:00

The Table of the Steadfast

On Wednesday, November 23, 2011 an article was published on the front page of A.M. Costa Rica about Nikoline’s death and the “long-running dispute on vaccinations” between her family and government officials in Puriscal. My hope, is that anyone aware of this tragic saga will take the time to read more than just that article published in the daily English publication, or the easy introductions on my blog. My hope is that everyone will take the time to read the work that James has tirelessly researched, drafted and submitted to the ministries and courts. It is all here on this blog.

I am disheartened to see that the focus of the article in A.M. Costa Rica is on the actions and ideals of our friends. I would wish that an educated journalist writing a story about the tragic passing of a young girl, would take the time to analyze the actions of the officials who issued and carried out the order to raid our friends’ home and forced them to seek refuge at a safe distance. I am perplexed by the choice of the word, “stubborn,” to describe parents who honorably answered to each and every offer, request and order submitted to them by the representatives of the ministries who brought claims against them.

The article in A.M. Costa Rica loosely ties facts, inaccuracies and opinions together to paint a picture void of opportunity for readers to question the actions of the public servants involved in this case. The article fails to question why the home of our friends was raided. The article fails to question the jurisdiction of local health ministries over undocumented foreigners. The article goes as far as suggesting that the determined spirit of the father to battle injustice played a part in the passing of his daughter. I beg of you, readers, to remember that the only reason Nikoline was navigating unfamiliar terrain was because her family had been driven out of their sanctuary by an order from a judge; the same judge who refused to present charges to or acknowledge our friend in the flesh who had been summonsed to his chamber.

With minimal effort of traveling to Puriscal and interviewing any one of the local people, the writer of the article published in A.M. Costa Rica could have learned and shared that this family was a loved and respected part of the community; a family who “properly schooled” their children to speak three languages, understand economics, production, science, history, law, appreciate literature by authors from across the globe and spans of time, and whose children have the manners and self discipline which allowed them to sing at the National Theatre with the highly acclaimed choir of Don Carlos Luis Fallas. With minimal effort the writer could have also shared that the oldest daughters traveled to nearby schools to aid local children with their English lessons.

That this family lacked modern transportation and relied on their own horses or hired taxis is a small testament to their unyielding dedication to abide by law. Included in the constructive notice submitted to EBAIS #4 in Puriscal, and published on this blog on July 2, 2011:

“I recognize the sovereignty of the state of CR as well as the sovereignty of the God of Israel. CR article 2.”

“I am attempting to conduct myself and arrange the conduct of my family in such a way as to follow the rules of both sovereigns for the purpose of being in accordance with rules of peaceful conduct and submission to well heeled government as well as faithful servants to the God of Israel. ‘Qui jure suo utitur, nemini facit injuriam.’ Acts 5:29”

The writer of the article in A.M. Costa Rica notes that our friends made repeated inquiry to the government officials to whether they are subservient to the God of Israel. That was just one of four questions that our friends repeatedly asked.

In the constructive notice, which was published on this blog on July 2, 2011, our friends also state:

“Be it known that we have acted in accordance with all laws and attended promptly to any charge, citation or summons presented to us. In any controversy, we present ourselves voluntarily and with out prejudice; that the matter may have a swift resolution. No undue force will be required in any dealing with us. Article 37”

I have just highlighted a few of the many pertinent points made in just one of the several documents that our friends have submitted to the ministries and courts. Our friends’ defense was replied to with coercion, threats, intimidation, denial of charges, and UNDUE FORCE.

Interestingly, an anonymous comment was posted to one of my blog entries by a member of a family living as residents in Costa Rica. Included in the lengthy comment left on November 24, 2011- “Our family lives in Costa Rica. We are residents, and we also homeschool and refuse vaccinations. Not only has this been 100% okay with the Costa Rican government they are fully aware of what we are doing and have no complaints.”

In which direction will the people point fingers of blame? At the family who is diligently asserting their right and duty to practice personal responsibility and follow God’s law, or to the moody tyrants who need to be reminded that they are in fact public servants under the scrutiny of the masses?

A Letter of Appreciation

2011-11-09T09:34:00.001-07:00

I had not expected to return to Costa Rica so soon. I am grateful that for as impossible as it seemed to jump on a plane with my girls and be with our best friends, that we were able to. My only regret, one I share with my husband, is that it was, in fact, impossible for him to be with us. You see, our family has shared an incredible journey over the last seven years with James and Birgitte and their outstanding kids. Our friendship and experiences together are beyond words.

At the memorial service for Nikoline, we were overwhelmed by a sea of familiar, loving faces. The community came together to grieve, to heal, to support the family who needed it most. Unfortunately, Nikoline's mother, father, sisters and brothers were unable to shed their defenses and let their bodies drink love and healing from the friends and family who had gathered to hold them. Even in the most intimate of circumstances, the threat of continued harm was lurking in the shadows with the uninvited. The potential that the government officials could potentially issue another lawless order could not be ignored.

What I realize, from hundreds of miles away, is that the memorial is not over. The closure is not complete. I hope that everyone reading this will understand that our friends still need that strong, healing support. They still need all of us standing beside them, holding them up. This is no time for should or ought to. This is only the time for love and solidarity. If we all stay strong and recognize that law trumps opinion then our friends, the victims of this injustice, will have a more solid bridge to cross.

Here is a letter of appreciation from Nikoline's father, first in English and then in Spanish:

To the readers of this blog, I would like at this time to offer a word of appreciation to our friends and supporters during our most difficult times. We would like to thank the following people:

Connie and Dick for courageously witnessing, providing shelter and delivering documents in the times we needed those things most, as well as taking the great care to keep Nikoline's pictures fresh in everyone's minds.

Fred and Mary for witnessing and dealing with confrontations with government and PANI officials, as well as keeping our cats and dogs fed and an eye on our house.

Sorayda, Luis Diego and their family, Lise Schafer, Gloriela and Daniel for looking after our dogs, cats and house in our hastened absence.

Gustavo Rojas for his nexus with the courts.

Rick for his information connections and bridging of financial issues.

Witnesses and supporters; Tu Anh , Athena and Eduardo for their delivering of documents and witnessing.

Lise and Asger for their continuous offer of safe housing and Lise's special trip to CR to assist where she could.

Don Carlos for his discipline and care in music classes and choir. Our family loved the presentations and practice. I considered these music classes and Don Carlos' ideals as an intergal part of our home schooling. My girls adored Don Carlos and he encouraged my girls to prepare and be at their best.

Patricia and Roberto for opening their house for us during our worst time after Nikoline's death, that the family may congregate and grieve in security and privacy. I wish to offer Pat and Bob further thanks for establishing a safe house to make plans, preparations and not be worried about lesser matters as they provided food, shelter and unlimited transportation and support.

Uncle John for watching over the children and financial support. Next time we stay up till 5:00 am John, I do hope it is under better occasion. You will always be a hero to me and my family.

Auntie Laurie, for her no nonsense approach to getting things done at any cost. Laurie is one of the few people I know of in life who has seen it all and from her experiences is the least judgmental and most pragmatic individual in my camp. That clarity and unbiased nature is refreshing and productive and kept us rolling.

Lisbeth and Svend Erik for securing my affairs in trust for my daughters and providing them a nurturing environment when I must be allowed to focus on the security of my wife and boys. All of my girls are safe with them and that provides Birgitte and myself great relief and ability to concentrate on that which matters most.

Joshua and his 'tribe' for bravely housing us fugitives and helping us find Nikoline in the river and helping us through the worst night of our lives.

Elizabeth, Steven, and Brenda, Abel and their families for their warm support and use of their vehicle while my family was in need. Elizabeth has offered ongoing assistance involving our horses and other matters. I wish to also make a special thank you to Steven for his fabulous work with our drama group. These presentations gave the children excellent public speaking skills and expressive abilities. One of my most valued memories of Nikoline is of the Scare Crow in their brilliant presentation , 'The Wizard of Oz." When I remember our Scarecrow, I will think of Steven.

My Mom and Dad (I know he is still with me,) for their unquestioning support , stable influence and as usual, financial assistance. They never questioned, they only gave, unconditionally. If I could only give back a fraction, but alas this is what Dad privately wished me to do. Never, ever cave in to bullies when so few could see them as clearly as I could. Giving in to lawless people for personal relief only makes life worse for the next generation.

Michael, Maiken, and Chris and Luisa for opening their doors to us and sheltering us in safety, privacy and security for the time needed to plan our next moves. They offered counsel, but mainly offered the chance for us to grieve our loss in privacy whilst renewing our ordnance in response to those who have so recklessly abandoned the Law.

Tulio and Amparo for their love and generosity over the years. They opened their house to us and to all our friends to meet and hold a funeral service for Nikoline. Nikoline was well honored and Tulio and Amparo's house was the perfect setting. They are the 'heart ' of Barbacoas.

Juan and Zeidy and Eliezer for their absolute support and help in dealing with authorities during the first few days after Nikoline's death. Eliezer spoke with people in Puriscal and their generosity was astounding. Juan and Zeidy were our first friends in Barbacoas and our children grew up together and we had many fiestas together. We will always have them with us.

To all of our friends and neighbors in Barbacoas and Puriscal. Our clients, taxis, pirates, street people and others who have given our life meaning and value for the past 11 years. Our children felt complete as part of the real people in society when we sold our cakes, cookies and bread, or simply riding through town in our micro family 'cavalgatta'. We will never forget you, the real people. The workers and producers, not those with letters of self importance after their names.

And I would like to extend a very special thank you. A level of appreciation rarely earned. I know that Alison will find it difficult to post this on her own blog, however she has always given me full final authority on the content and spirit of the messages. That being the case, I am exercising that privilege at this time, above her comfort. The reason is clear. For what I am about to say is true and factual just as everything else I have presented in this blog.

Let me tell you of two people who have earned the truest badges of my highest honor. Alison and Miguel's undying support has walked us through the thick and thin of our life here in CR. They serve as my closest counsel and most powerful aids d'camp. Alison's artistic genius blog puts thousands of my words into ironic clarity with her illustrations. Miguel's research , translations and ideas have proven effective ordnance in exposing that which the 'public servants' wish to remain unknown. Alison and Miguel are my right and left arms in the triumph of truth and justice. The courts may believe they have control through the repository of the collective's force. I submit that courage will outweigh the court's usurped power and with people like Alison and Miguel in our camp, we shall illustrate that the application of truth is superior and shall prevail over licentiousness, cowardice and naked force. Alison and Miguel shall always have a special seat in my inner chamber even when I am busy putting out other fires.

In closing, I wish to make an observation regarding the above mentioned people (which involves hundreds.) Not all, in fact few of these people share my geopolitical beliefs. That in itself is the great hope that keeps me believing that good wins over evil. These above mentioned people set their ideals aside to help a family in need. Thats means that they all recognize and are in favor of a great simple truth and most unalienable right. The right to one's own life. Everyone recognizes the simplicity of personal choice when those choices do not harm others. Everybody has the inalienable right to one's self and that which one creates. This action of creation includes that which we create with our own genes with our mutual partner to create another in our likeness (children.) I see in all of these people's unbiased generosity the simple recognition that we have the highest claim to that which we create, so long as our creation does not harm others or be involved in mischief. We do not force, or even suggest that others live as we do because that may nullify their choices. These above people recognize through the blur and haziness of what is construed as 'law,' the real truth and that gives me the most light to focus upon.

To those above mentioned people:

I remain in your service when and where any of you believe you are in need of my arcane and unusual work.

Humbly yours,

James

~~~~~~

A los lectores de este blog, quisiera en este momento ofrecer unas palabras de aprecio para nuestros amigos y personas que nos han soportado durante nuestras épocas más difíciles. Quisiéramos agradecer a las siguientes personas:

Connie y Dick por valerosamente atestiguar, proporcionar el refugio y entregar documentos en los tiempos que más lo necesitamos, así como tomar el gran cuidado para mantener las imágenes de Nikoline frescas en las mentes de todos.

Fred y Mary por ser testigos y por ocuparse de las confrontaciones con los funcionarios del gobierno y los del PANI, así como cuidar por nuestros gatos y perros y su alimentación y por mantener ojo en nuestra casa.

Sorayda, Luis Diego y su familia, Lise Schafer, Gloriela y Daniel por ocuparse de nuestros perros, gatos y casa en nuestra ausencia inesperada.

Gustavo Rojas por su nexo con las cortes.

Rick por sus conexiones de información y por el enlace en cuestiones financieras.

Testigos y partidarios; Tu Anh, Athena y Eduardo por hacer entrega de documentos y por ser testigos.

Lise y Asger por su oferta continua de ofrecer la vivienda segura y por el viaje especial de Lise al Costa Rica para ayudar en cuanto ella pudo.

Don Carlos por su disciplina y cuidado en las clases de música y el coro. Nuestra familia amó las presentaciones y las prácticas. Siempre consideramos estas clases de música y los ideales de Don Carlos como una parte integral de la educación que dimos en nuestro hogar. Mis niñas adoraron a Don Carlos y él las animó a prepararse y a ser lo mejor que ellas pudieran.

Patricia y Roberto por abrir su casa a nosotros durante nuestros peores días después de la muerte de Nikoline, en donde la familia pudo juntarse y poder velar con seguridad y privacidad. Deseo extender aun mas las gracias a Pat y Bob por establecer una casa segura para hacer nuestros planes, preparaciones y por no preocuparse por materias sin importancia ya que proporcionaron comida, refugio, transporte y ayuda ilimitada.

Al tío John por vigilar los niños y por su ayuda financiera. La próxima vez que permanezcamos despiertos hasta las 5:00 de la mañana John, espero que sea bajo una mejor ocasión. Tu siempre serás un héroe para mí y para mi familia.

A la tía Laurie, por su no absurdo empeño a hacer las cosas a cualquier costo. Laurie es una de las pocas personas que conozco que en su vida con sus experiencias, lo ha visto todo y que ha sido lo menos posible crítica y la más pragmática de mi campamento. Su claridad y naturaleza imparcial fue refrescante y productiva y nos ayudo a continuar adelante.

Lisbeth y Svend Erik por asegurar mis asuntos en confianza para mis hijas y proporcionarles un ambiente consolidado mientras me era permitido enfocarme en la seguridad de mi esposa y mis niños. Todas mis niñas están seguras con ellos y esto proporciona a Birgitte y a mi un gran alivio y la capacidad de concentrarme en lo que más importa.

Joshua y su “tribu” por valerosamente contenernos siendo fugitivos y por ayudarnos a encontrar a Nikoline en el río y por apoyarnos en la peor noche de nuestras vidas.

Elizabeth, Steven, Brenda y Abel y sus familias por su calurosa ayuda y por el uso de su vehículo mientras que mi familia estaba en necesidad. Elizabeth ha ofrecido su continua ayuda en cuanto a nuestros caballos y en otras materias. Deseo también hacerle un agradecimiento especial a Steven por su fabuloso trabajo con nuestro grupo de drama. Estas presentaciones dieron a todos los niños una excelente capacidad de hablar en público y de habilidades expresivas. Una de mis mas valoradas memorias de Nikoline fue la interpretación del "espanta pájaros" en la brillante presentación, "El mago de Oz.” Cuando recuerdo a nuestro espantapájaros, pensaré en Steven.

A mi mamá y papá (sé que él todavía está conmigo,) por su ayuda incondicional, su estable influencia y como de costumbre, su ayuda económica. Ellos nunca cuestionaron, ellas solo dieron incondicionalmente. Si tan solo yo pudiera devolverles una fracción. Pero lo que mi padre en privacidad deseaba que yo hiciera fue de que nunca, nunca diera a ceder a los que te quieren empujar ya que muy pocos pueden ver a estos tan claramente como yo lo puedo. El dar a ceder a personas que actúan sin ley por solo su alivio personal, solamente hacen la vida peor para las siguientes generaciones.

A Michael, Maiken, Chris y Luisa por abrir sus puertas a nosotros y abrigarnos seguros, en privacidad y seguridad por el tiempo necesario mientras planeamos nuestros próximos pasos. Ellos nos ofrecieron consejo, pero principalmente nos ofrecieron la ocasión de poder velar nuestra pérdida en privacidad mientras que renovábamos nuestra lucha en respuesta a aquellos que han abandonado la ley tan irresponsablemente.

A Tulio y Amparo por su amor y generosidad a lo largo de los años. Abrieron su casa a nosotros y a todos nuestros amigos para hacer frente y para llevar a cabo el funeral de Nikoline. Nikoline fue bien honrada en el hogar de Tulio y de Amparo, su casa fue el lugar perfecto. Tulio y Amparo son el “corazón” de Barbacoas.

A Juan y Zeidy y Eliezer por su absoluta ayuda y soporte haciendo frente a las autoridades durante los primeros días después de la muerte de Nikoline. Eliezer habló con la gente en Puriscal cuya generosidad fue asombrosa. Juan y Zeidy fueron nuestros primeros amigos en Barbacoas y nuestros hijos crecieron juntos y tuvimos muchas fiestas juntos. Los tendremos para siempre con nosotros.

A todos nuestros amigos y vecinos en Barbacoas y Puriscal. Nuestros clientes, taxistas, piratas, gente de la calle y otros que nos dieron un significado y valor de la vida por los últimos 11 años. Nuestros hijos se sintieron completos al hacer parte de la gente real de esta sociedad cuando vendimos nuestras tortas, galletas y pan, o simplemente cuando montábamos a través de la ciudad en nuestra micro-familia “cabalgata”. Nunca les olvidaremos, la gente real. Los trabajadores y los productores, no a ésos con sus letras de presunción detras de sus nombres.

Y quisiera ampliar un agradecimiento muy especial. Un nivel de aprecio ganado raramente. Sé que Alison encontrará difícil fijar esto en su propio blog, pero no obstante ella siempre me ha dado la autoridad final y completa en el contenido y el espíritu de los mensajes. Al ser este el caso, estoy ejercitando tal privilegio en este momento, sobre su comodidad. La razón es clara. Lo que estoy a punto de decir es una verdad efectiva al igual como todo lo demás que he presentado en este blog.

Déjeme decirles de dos personas que han ganado las verdaderas insignias de mi más alto honor. La inmortal ayuda de Alison y de Miguel nos ha llevado por entre lo grueso y lo delgado de nuestras vidas aquí en Costa Rica. Ellos nos han servido como mi consejero más cercano y la ayuda mas potente del campamento. El blog artístico del genio de Alison pone millares de mis palabras en claridad irónica con sus ilustraciones. La investigación, las traducciones y las ideas de Miguel han probado ser eficaces en exponer lo que los “funcionarios” desearían que fuese desconocido. Alison y Miguel son mis brazos derechos e izquierdos en el triunfo de la verdad y de la justicia. Las cortes pueden creer que tienen control a través de su depósito de sus fuerzas colectivas. Someto que el valor sobrepasará el poder usurpado de la corte y que con personas como Alison y Miguel en nuestro campamento, podremos ilustrar que el uso y aplicacion de la verdad es superior y prevalecera sobre licencias, cobardía y la fuerza desnuda. Alison y Miguel tendrán siempre un asiento especial en mi cámara interna incluso cuando este ocupado apagando otros fuegos.

Como cierre, deseo hacer una observación con respecto a las personas mencionadas anteriormente (que implica centenares.) No todos, de hecho, muy pocas de estas personas comparten mis creencias geopolíticas. Esto en sí mismo es la gran esperanza que me guarda el creer de que lo bueno triunfara sobre mal. Estas personas mencionadas han dejado sus ideales a un lado para ayudar a una familia en necesidad. Esto significa que todos ellos reconocen y están a favor de una simple y gran verdad del derecho más inalienable. El derecha a su propia vida. Todo el mundo reconoce la simplicidad de opciones personales cuando esas opciones no hacen daño a otros. Todos tienen el derecho inalienable a su si mismo y al tal cuál el crea. Esta acción de la creación incluye la cual creamos con nuestros propios genes con nuestra pareja mutua para crear otro de nuestra semejanza (nuestros hijos.) Veo la generosidad imparcial de todas estas personas y el reconocimiento simple de que tenemos la demanda más alta a aquellos quienes creamos, siempre y cuando nuestra creación no sea daño para otros ni estén implicados en hacer maldad. Nosotros no forzamos, ni siquiera sugerimos que otros vivan como nosotros lo hacemos pues esto anularía sus opciones. Éstas personas mencionadas anteriormente a pesar de la borrosidad y nebulosidad qué se interpreta como “ley,” reconocen la verdad real, y esto me da la mayoría de la luz a la cual me puedo enfocar.

A las personas antedichas:

Permanezco a su servicio cuando y en donde alguno de ustedes crea estar necesitando de mi arcano e inusual trabajo.

Humildemente suyo,

James

For Nikoline, from Her Mother

2011-11-05T00:03:00.002-06:00

My Dear Bub,

My wonderful angel,

You graced us with your presence, you enriched our lives for 13 years, from the day you were born, and now forever in our hearts. You quietly made everybody around you happy, and nobody could help being affected by your lovely spirit.

You filled every spare moment with creativity, be it painting or inventing dialogues between your horses with a multitude of accents and personalities or even designing clothes for your huge flock of toy animals. You loved reading so much and when you'd go missing I'd often find you in bed with a good book.

Your love for your animals was imense. From all the horses and your goats to even the smallest and ugliest little chicken. The uglier the better. When one of your chickens would get eaten, your sorrow was profound and we never did manage to get rid of any of your "favourite" 20 roosters.

You were such a good friend to your sister, Linnea, with whom you shared work and play. I know that she misses you so much, so please provide her strength to go on without you. And help your other siblings and your father and myself become whole again, because losing you has made us feel broken.

My little angel, you were beautiful in every way. Your life was so full and everyone loved you. You brought me so much happiness. All I ever wanted was for you to be happy, and you were. Maybe your days in this dimension with us were not cut short to take you away from us but to keep you with us, forever perfect.

Translated into Spanish:

Mi querida Bubba,

Mi angelito precioso,

Nos diste gracia con tu presencia, nos enriqueciste la vida durante 13 años, desde el momento de tu nacimiento y ahora por siempre en nuestros corazones. Tu siempre trajiste felicidad a todos en tu alrededor en una manera tranquila y nadie se escapo de ser afectado por tu lindo espíritu.

Tu llenaste todo momento libre con creatividad, fuese pintando, o inventando diálogos entre tus caballos con una multitud de acentos y personalidades o hasta diseñar ropa para tu cantidad de animales de juguete. Te encantaba leer tanto, que cuando desaparecías, muchas veces te encontraba en tu cama con un buen libro.

El amor por tus animales era immenso. Desde todos lo caballos y las cabras haste el pollito mas pequeno y el mas feo. Entre mas feo aun mejor. Cuando una de tus gallinas fue comida, tu dolor era profundo y nunca pudimos liberarnos de tus 20 gallos "favoritos."

Tu fuiste tan buena amiga para tu hermana Linnea, con quien compartiste trabajo y diversión. Yo se, que a ella le haces mucha falta, por favor ayudadle a conseguir fuerza para seguir adelante sin ti. Ayuda a tus otros hermanos, a tu padre y a mi a volver a ser todos en uno, pues el perderte nos ha hecho sentir quebrantados.

Mi pequeña angelito, eras bella en todo aspecto. Tu vida era llena y todos te amaban. Tu me trajiste tanta felicidad. Todo lo que siempre quise es que fueras feliz, y lo fuiste. Tal vez tus días en esta dimensión con nosotros no se corto para que nos fueras quitada si no para guardarte en nosotros, por siempre perfecta.

Nikoline 1998-2011

2011-10-27T13:54:00.008-06:00

The following is the eulogy written for Nikoline, from her father.

On Thursday, September 29, 2011, Nikoline Hill was tragically killed in a horse riding accident. The family was seeking refuge when they were crossing a river which swept away the horse carrying Nikoline.

Nikoline's family moved to Costa RIca in 2000 seeking a safe refuge at that time to raise their family in peace, safety and harmony with their environment. We found that sanctuary here in Barbacoas, Puriscal, where we were met with wonderful friends and neighbors and a safe haven to raise our children in the ways of proper service to God, man and our environment.

Nikoline was 2 years old when we brought her and her two sisters into Barbacoas. Although we were peculiar and different even from other foreigners, the people of Barbacoas and Puriscal adopted us into their hearts and accepted us despite our differences.Our family had found a home in the minds and hearts of our new community. Our family soon fell in love with our new life and people. As our family grew up, we felt safe and secure knowing our friends accepted our differences and protected us from violent minds.

The people of Barbacoas provided an environment where our family thrived and grew. In our new freedom, our ideas and ideals were safe and allowed us to mature into who we are today. In 2000, Nikoline was too young to remember any life before we moved to Barbacoas. Barbacoas became her only home and the people of Barbacoas became her life and family. As we watched Nikoline and her siblings grow up, it was clear to us that choosing Barbacoas as a safe haven to raise our children was a good decision.

Nikoline's smile and happiness encouraged people to see the good in everything. Nikoline grew, learned to speak three languages, ride horses, work and live in harmony with her surrounding people and environment. Nikoline and her sisters, Linnea and Camilla, learned to be productive contributors to their community by providing for themselves through honest, productive work. Our family provided baked products, cakes, cookies and bread. Nikoline and her sisters learned to milk cows, goats, make cheese, raise chickens and look after many animals including their beloved horses which we used instead of owning a car. Their environment established solid work ethics and Nikoline and her siblings became brilliant in the discipline of problem solving, diligence, respect of others as well as understanding the logic and reason behind God's laws.

With her principles firmly rooted in an environment without violence and terror, Nikoline's world was blooming into a garden of Eden. Nikoline excelled in horse back riding and "bare back" jumping with her beloved horses. Nikoline spoke to all her animals and they spoke to her. Nikoline loved her chickens, goats, cats and dogs and they loved her and miss her as much as we do.

In the fresh air of freedom, Nikoline became skilled in the arts of painting, literature and languages. With the help of her professors, Nikoline learned ballet and modern dance.Under the discipline and love of her music professor, Nikoline became a stellar singer in choir and musician.

Nikoline's ability to grow and bloom in this environment free of violence and malice was forming Nikoline into a self sufficiant adult prepared to lead, solve problems and live in the ways of Lawful service.

Nikoline's happiness was never interrupted even when our family was under duress. Her envionment in Barbacoas cultivated a young lady who was full of courage and valor. In days of difficulty, Nikoline provided strength and stability to our family. Her discipline for work and chores was steadfast and never with question or complaint. Nikoline loved to serve people and the health of her environment.

I now wish to thank God for sending us this angel to love us and teach us how to serve Him.

Translated to Spanish

El Jueves 29 de Septiembre del 2011, la niña Nikoline Hill murió en un trágico accidente mientras montaba a caballo. Ella y su familia estaban buscando por un refugio cuando cruzaban un río el cual arrastro el caballo que llevaba a Nikoline.

La familia de Nikoline se vino a Costa Rica en el año 2000 buscando un refugio seguro en aquel momento para criar y levantar a su familia en paz, seguridad y armonía con el medio ambiente. Nosotros encontramos ese santuario aquí en Barbacoas, Puriscal en donde llegamos a encontrar amigos y vecinos maravillosos y un asilo seguro para criar a nuestros niños con las maneras y el servicio apropiado a Dios, al hombre y a nuestro medio ambiente.

Nikoline tenia 2 años cuando le trajimos a ella y a sus dos hermanas a Barbacoas. A pesar de que fuéramos peculiarmente diferentes incluso sobre otros extranjeros, la gente de Barbacoas y Puriscal nos adoptaron en sus corazones y nos aceptaron a pesar de nuestras diferencias. Nuestra familia encontró un hogar en las mentes y los corazones de nuestra nueva comunidad. Muy pronto nuestra familia se enamoro con nuestras nuevas vidas y con su gente. Mientras que nuestra familia creció, nos sentíamos a salvo y seguros de saber que nuestros amigos nos aceptaban aun con nuestras diferencias y que nos protegían contra el mal.

La gente de Barbacoas nos proporcionó con un ambiente en donde nuestra familia prosperó y creció. En nuestra nueva libertad, nuestras ideas e ideales eran seguros y permitió a que maduráramos a quienes somos hoy. En el año 2000, Nikoline era demasiado joven para recordar cualquier vida antes de que nos trasladáramos a Barbacoas. Barbacoas se convirtió en su única casa y la gente de Barbacoas fue su familia y su vida. Mientras vimos Nikoline y a sus hermanos crecer, fue claro para nosotros que la elección de Barbacoas como un cielo seguro para criar a nuestros niños fue una buena decisión.

La sonrisa y la felicidad de Nikoline hizo que la gente viera lo bueno en todo. Nikoline creció, aprendió a hablar tres idiomas, montar a caballo, trabajo y vivio en armonía con su gente y con su medio ambiente. Nikoline y sus hermanas, Linnea y Camila, aprendieron a ser contribuidoras productivas a su comunidad proveyendo por ellas mismas a través de un trabajo honesto, productivo. Nuestra familia proporcionaba productos horneados, tortas de dulce, galletas y pan. Nikoline y sus hermanas aprendieron a ordeñar vacas, cabras, aprendieron a hacer quesos, criar pollos y se ocupaban de muchos animales incluyendo sus queridos caballos los cuales utilizamos en vez de poseer un coche. Su medio ambiente estableció solidas éticas de trabajo y Nikoline y sus hermanos llegaron a ser brillantes en la disciplina de la solución de problemas, la diligencia, el respecto hacia los demas así como entendían la lógica y la razón detrás de las leyes de Dios.

Con sus principios arraigados firmemente en un ambiente sin violencia y sin terror, el mundo de Nikoline florecía en un jardín del Eden. Nikoline sobresalió en el montar a caballo "al pelo" y al salto con sus caballos queridos. Nikoline hablaba con todos sus animales y ellos le hablaban a ella. Nikoline amaba a sus pollos, sus cabras, los gatos y los perros y ellos la amaban a ella y ahora les hace falta y la estrañan tanto al igual que nosotros.

En el aire fresco de la libertad, Nikoline llegó a ser muy hábil en las artes de la pintura, de la literatura y de los idiomas. Con la ayuda de sus profesores, Nikoline aprendió ballet y danza moderna. Bajo la disciplina y amor de su profesor de música, Nikoline fue estelar como cantante de coro y como músico.

La habilidad que tuvo Nikoline de crecer y florar en este ambiente libre de violencia y maldad, la estaba formando en una adulta auto-suficiente preparada para guiar, para solucionar problemas y para vivir de una manera de servicio legal.

La felicidad de Nikoline nunca fue interrumpida incluso cuando nuestra familia se encontraba bajo duras situaciones. Su medio ambiente en Barbacoas cultivó a una señorita joven que era llena de coraje y de valor. En días de dificultad, Nikoline proporcionó fuerza y estabilidad a nuestra familia. Su disciplina para sus obras y sus tareas siempre fueron firmes y nunca dudó o se quejo de ello. Nikoline amaba servir a la gente y amaba la salud que le proporcionaba su ambiente.

Ahora deseamos agradecer a Dios por enviarnos este ángel quien nos amo y nos enseño a cómo servirle a el.

In Loving Memory

2011-10-04T16:52:00.000-06:00

This beautiful drawing was lovingly made by Nikoline, a pop up birthday card to my oldest.

Our friends in Costa Rica have suffered an unimaginable loss. On Thursday, September 29, one of their beautiful young daughters, Nikoline, died in a tragic accident.

Nikoline loved her family and the life they shared. She loved her horses and goats and each one of the jardinera hens and roosters and the countless chicks which were named upon hatching. Nikoline grew up pushing the family dog around in a doll stroller and cleverly figuring ways for him to haul sticks for the cook fire. She delighted in tea parties with her sisters and dressing her little brothers for after supper theatrical productions. She savored every moment she had with her grandparents learning new tricks in the kitchen, trying new artistic techniques, playing cards and taking long walks through the cloudy hills. Nikoline was just a girl, but even at her tender age, her being was defined, her path clear.

Nikoline was an artist. While she dabbled in dance and song, her gift was in the creation of beautiful images and stories. It is a loss shared by the whole world that she was not able to spend decades producing drawings and paintings, imagining clever narratives. Even at her tender age, Nikoline had a distinct artistic style. Her countless drawings and paintings told the story of her beautiful life. Vivid colors and confident lines captured horses and chickens and tree lined hillsides filled with flowers and songbirds. Nikoline loved life and she brought joy with her where ever she went.

All of her treasures have been packed in boxes. Little china tea sets and figurines, hair clips and necklaces, birthday cards and family photographs, school books and sheet music, fancy dresses and favorite jeans, everything packed and ready to join her family again, where ever that may be. Soon, sorrow will drain and the pure essence of joy that always radiated from Nikoline will fill the hollows of everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. That beauty will make us all stand taller and more courageous, never forgetting to live each day to the fullest and each action we make, with great care.

Ask Yourself

2011-09-23T07:11:00.009-06:00

On September 6, 2011, one of our friends in Costa Rica punctually honored an order to appear in court. Our friend, however, was denied the hearing she was called to due to the fact that she appeared in the flesh without any sort of government issued number or identification. Since the very official who had brought the complaint against our friend was in the same room and could easily confirm her identity, it may only be concluded that the court was unable to proceed with the hearing because our friend lacked the contract which would enable the courts to speak to our friend at all.

On that day our friend was even denied the knowledge of what charges had been brought against her.

On that day, representatives of the government broke through the locked gate to our friends' property, invaded their home and confiscated their property.

According to the constitution of Costa Rica:

ARTICLE 25. The inhabitants of the Republic have the right of association for lawful purposes. No one may be compelled to form a part of any association whatsoever.

Not forming association with the Republic of Costa Rica is not a crime.

To this day, our friends have not committed a crime. No charges of any crime have been brought before our friends.

Our friends in Costa Rica have been forced to seek refuge to protect themselves and their children from the lawless actions of officials from the Ministry of Health in Puriscal and PANI. These officials have made it clear that they intend to take possession of our friends' minor children by force.

From afar, we have been able to confirm that the case number which was included in the order to appear in court is in fact a public record. There is a computerized system in Costa Rica where any individual may research any public record. Unfortunately, Puriscal lacks this sophisticated technology and so it is necessary for the public to retrieve public records in person. The charges should be made available to anyone, with association (government issued identification), no questions asked.

I challenge you to test this process.

The expediente, or case number, is 11-400185-197-FA.

Find out what the charges are specifically. Then ask yourself, how great is a country whose officials use coercion, intimidation and force against people who have not been presented with charges of any crime; whose officials deny those people due process; whose officials disregard the constitution they claim to be subservient to and whose officials inject terror into the same children they claim to be protecting?

Cautious but Free

2011-09-08T06:57:00.006-06:00

On Tuesday, September 6, 2011 our friend in Costa Rica arrived early to a scheduled hearing at the Civil Court in Puriscal, Costa Rica. Unable to establish any charges against our friends prior to the scheduled hearing, our friend who was served, arrived at the Civil Court under the impression that the case involved the issue regarding the vaccination of our friends' minor children. Our friend brought with her two witnesses. Also in attendance was a legal representative for PANI, the agency for the protection of women and children, and Dr. Cerdas, director of the Ministry of Health in Puriscal, Costa Rica who arrived at least twenty minutes late.

Once all attending parties had finally arrived, our friend was asked by an assistant to the judge for her identification. Our friend answered that she was the individual to whom the order had been addressed and delivered. Our friend offered that her two witnesses could testify to the fact that our friend was the individual who the order had been issued to. Our friend also suggested that Dr. Cerdas, the individual who had accosted our friend at her home previously, could testify to her identity. The judge looked out from the court room on more than one occasion but did not address our friend. Finally, the judge's assistant delivered a message to our friend that without our friend providing identification deemed satisfactory, there would be no hearing. Our friend was, in the flesh, answering to an order presented to her. No charges were disclosed. There was no hearing. Our friend and the two witnesses with her left.

Later that day, an uncounted number of officials forced open the locked gate to our friends' private property, invaded and ransacked our friends' personal sanctuary and confiscated our friends' personal belongings including a computer. Dr.Cerdas was one of the officials present. It is critical to state the obvious fact that no crime has been committed by our friends. There is no harmed body. Our friends have not so much as acted in contempt of court. In contrast, our friends have made great effort to point out the constitutional laws which define the parameters of authority of the Ministries which have issued complaint against our friends. Our friends have very respectfully and patiently defined our friends' status and have expressed willingness to listen to the court objectively.

I would have expected more from a person who calls himself 'Doctor.' I have always looked upon doctors as servants of the health and well being of those around them. I imagined that people who call themselves doctors held a higher level of integrity and followed a certain sophisticated code of conduct. I never would have dreamed that someone who calls himself a doctor would so brazenly use intimidation and coercion to get his way. I would have thought that someone who calls himself doctor would have been eager to establish dialogue in order to communicate the benefits of his offer. I realize that language is often convoluted and that I have, perhaps, been mistaken to the purpose of the title of doctor in this case.

Included in the Dictionary.com definition of 'doctor,'

Doctor- (5) Machinery- any of various minor mechanical devices, especially one designed to remedy an undesirable characteristic of an automatic process.

I believe the above definition more accurately explains the role that Dr. Cerdas has played in this unraveling drama. Our friends clearly qualify as "an undesirable characteristic of an automatic process." As I have stated from the very beginning, this situation is not about vaccines; it is about law. This case is about perceived authority and enforced compliance.

The function of our friends' lives has been deconstructed. The community has been spared no threat of harm. Instead, the community has been robbed of some of its productive and contributing members. The community has been drained its resources for the sake of terrorizing educated, responsible individuals. Collectively, the community has financed the terrorization of innocent children. Our friends, with their children, have looked on their home, which once was their sanctuary, one last time and gathered what little they could and walked away, cautious but free.

A Meeting is Called

2011-09-05T07:46:00.010-06:00

On September 2, 2011 an order was served to our friends in Costa Rica to appear in Civil Court in Puriscal, Costa Rica on Tuesday, September 7. The order did not detail any charges presented against our friends. Our friends in Costa Rica presume they are answering to a complaint initiated by the Ministry of Health and PANI (the agency for the protection of women and children) regarding the vaccination of our friends' minor children.

Since May 13, 2011 our friends have been accosted by the Ministry of Health in Puriscal, Costa Rica and PANI numerous times. The representatives of these agencies, who claim to be public servants subservient to the Costa Rican Constitution, have acted with intimidation, coercion and threats of physical force. This order is the first indication of an answer to the many documents that our friends have respectfully submitted to the Ministry of Health, PANI, EBAIS #4 and the court which illustrate our friends' lawful status. All of these documents and the sequence of events can be read in previous posts on this blog.

Three Weeks Later...

2011-08-22T07:29:00.001-06:00

On July 26, 2011 representatives from the Ministry of Health in Puriscal, Costa Rica threatened to take our friends' children by force. Since then, all has been quiet. Quiet is not at all the same as calm. During this time, our friends have been living with total insecurity; they have no sanctuary. Eager to engage in a dialogue, our friends have submitted another document to the Ministry of Health....

Submitted August 19, 2011 Translated to English:

Attn: Mr. Cerdas , Sra Fernandez, Ministry of health officials, Sra. Duran, PANI officials, and other interested parties;
After our dealings with the Ministry of health officials , we have in good faith presented prompt written answers , affidavits and constructive notices to remedy the Ministry of Health's grievance by providing proper legal venues and reasoning for them to rest their issue. These officials have put us under a great deal of duress and coercion. However, after seeking counsel on the matter we have overcome the fear of physical threats imposed by these officials and their associates and recognize that further attempts at open dialogue must be re-established in order to offer forgiveness to these officials for their transgressions of law.
We do recognize that these officials are paid to follow their mandates created by their superiors. Following orders faithfully and undauntedly with complete obedience to the employer is the sign of a good and faithful employee. Possibly it is not part of these officials' job descriptions to understand greater law such as Biblical scripture and constitutional law. We recognize that all of the officials we have dealt with are 'just doing their jobs'. By his own admission, Mr. Cerdas is a ' public servant' and the ministry he represents is under constitutional law. This admission goes far in the establishment of a proper remedy at law.
The nature of the encounters with these authorities has reached levels of gross intimidation and lack of of proper process. The officials have refrained from answering to any affidavits or constructive notices by written account in regard to the nature of the God of Israel's commandments and superiority over them . It is typical in constitutional republics that any governing ministry must act in accordance with the Law of God. and as such requires consent via civil contract. In this way the individual in question permits government to act outside of God's instruction regarding matters of limited liability and insurance programs. It is common in constitutional republics that a ' religious exemption' be made available to those who have otherwise contracted with the government.
'Impossibilium nulla obligatio est.'
We take the opportunity to ask the ministry whether such a ' religious exemption' exists. This would go far in supporting article 75 of the Political Constitution of Costa Rica.
We understand that in Costa Rica anomalies such as us are so rare, that a 'religious exemption ' may not be widely understood by ministry officials. We would like to take this opportunity to make well known publicly and to the ministry that we already have expressed Biblical prohibitions by way of constructive notices and other communiques on the matters of vaccines and other ' free' health care offers. (Entered May 23rd, June 29th, June 30th, July 11th, and July 28th, all of 2011).
Such an exemption would provide remedy for the officials in question , that they would be able to return to their normal course of duty without defect on their record if such protocols are enacted.
I trust that this opportunity remedies the ministry officials' grievance in favor of a lawful resolution over intimidation and force. I further trust that these officials who serve their ministry, recognize that the constitution ( articles 11, 25, 27, 75) are rules that apply to the ministry and its members. This has been stated repeatedly but obviously not superfluously. ' Non sunt longa ubi nihil est quod demere possis.'
The answer to this inquiry should be respectfully available to me at your office within a reasonable time of three working days, when I will have them picked up.
If Doctor Cerdas, Sra Fernandez, or Sra Duran require more time to answer, an extension may be granted upon your request.

Answers by Phone

2011-07-31T16:20:00.009-06:00

The phone call that our friends made to Dr. Cerdas, director of the Ministry of Health in Puriscal, Costa Rica, was a call made at Dr. Cerdas' request. This request was delivered to our friends' neighbor. To paraphrase, Dr. Cerdas told our friends' neighbor that it was urgent that our friends call Dr. Cerdas. Dr Cerdas also added that the next visit he made would be one in which he would take our friends' children by force and make decisions for our friends' children as if they were his property.

Dr. Cerdas has made it clear that he intends to make display of his authority and deny our friends due process. Neither Dr. Cerdas nor PANI has answered in writing to the four simple questions that our friends addressed to both the Ministry of Health and PANI. However, when our friends placed the call to Dr. Cerdas, at his urging, our friends were able to ask him those same questions directly. Our friends made a record of this conversation and we have added a dramatization of it to our friends' You Tube video catalogue. Ironicly, as you will note, Dr. Cerdas has no urgent message to give to our friends after all.

Force and Intimidation

2011-07-28T07:09:00.005-06:00

Dr. Bear made it clear to the Fox family's neighbor that he and his associates would forcibly take control of Mr. and Mrs. Fox's kits.

Puriscal, Costa Rica. On July 26, 2011 Dr. Cerdas and eleven other officials, some with handcuffs, arrived at the top of our friends' driveway in three vehicles. Our friends were away. Dr. Cerdas spoke with our friends' neighbor and said that our friends needed to call him, immediately. Dr. Cerdas told our friends' neighbor that the next time he and his associates visited, they would break our friends' gate down, take our friends' children, register our friends' children, vaccinate our friends' children and send our friends' children to school.

Our friends, especially their children, were terrorized by the news of this visit.

Terrorism-

1. The use of violence and threats to intimidate or coerce, especially for political purposes.

2. The state of fear and submission produced by terrorism or terrorization.

3. A terroristic method of governing or of resisting a government.

Instead of engaging in a lawful dialogue, Dr. Cerdas and his associates have resorted to threats, intimidation, and coercion in order to induce fear and submission of our friends. This is a terroristic method of governing.

The following is the affidavit that our friends submitted in response to the visit they missed while they were away.

Delivered July 28, 2011 to the Ministry of Health and PANI and the prosecuter's office as directed by Dr. Doctor Cerdas to obtain the name of the judge and relevant information. When our friends approached the prosecuter's office, the representatives of the office of the prosecuting attourney refused our friends' testimony which indluded their request for infomation.

Translated to English.

Attention: Mr. Cerdas and the Ministry of Health , PANI, and other interested parties.

On July 11th, these ministries were presented with questions regarding their constitutional relationship in order that we assist them in creating an amiable solution. On July 15, when returning to the ministry of Health , they refused to answer the simple questions and did not request an extension.

On July 26, 2011, Mr. Cerdas along with approximately 11 other individuals bearing handcuffs, driving 3 vehicles answered to those questions by accosting my home when I was not present. My neighbor attests to talking with Mr. Cerdas, where he indicated that when they return they will break down the gate, remove the children, register the children, vaccinate the children and put the children in school.

Mr. Cerdas also insisted that I call him immediately and that it was very important that I call him as soon as possible.

We have not received ANY written answers to our questions and we have not received any intelligent approach to Law or respect of Law. Mr. Cerdas answered to our many inquiries with naked power, force, intimidation, and terrorism.

Why is it that Mr. Cerdas attests that we refused vaccination orders on the Orden Sanitario when indeed we never refused but conditionally accepted bearing that the facts on the order were incorrect?

If it was indeed an order under lawful dictate, why did Mr. Cerdas need me to agree to the order by signing?

Has Mr.Cerdas used an abuse of process by telling the court that we refused, when in fact we have not, so that he can begin the process of a malicious prosecution?

Did he indeed request that his associates (driver and policeman ) purge a document in order to allow a process to start which in fact has no basis in the claim that he makes?

Is it possible that indeed Mr Cerdas cannot answer the questions we asked , because if he addressed the questions , he would find that he and his associates lack the jurisdiction over the persona?

And is that the reason why they need information, cedulas, and other civil nexus, just as the prosecutor in 2002 needed the same in order to establish a persona and civil nexus or contract?

Why?

Is it possible that Mr. Cerdas is not operating within the constraint of the constitution of Costa Rica; Under article 11 , and 27?

How is that possible?

Later in the evening of July 26, 2011, I did respect Mr. Cerdas' wish and I called him as he requested.

I asked him the same series of questions submitted on July 11th of this year on and he answered affirmatively to the questions indicating that he is a 'public' servant under the restrictions of the constitution, that the vaccines were 'free' and that he supposed the government of Costa Rica was subservient to God of Israel.

Romans 13 and Acts 5:29 provide that the government has been authorized to create a judiciary capable of adjudicating criminal matters as well as matters of equity (civil matters involving contracts).

I then asked if he brought a court order to my home earlier in the day. Mr. Cerdas then indicated that he had brought a judge to the scene. I asked the name of that judge and Dr. Cerdas replied that he did not know. He responded that I would have to receive that information at the prosecutors offices. I further asked him how they could be granted a court order when I have never even been summonsed to court? The phone call was then promptly terminated and no further calls could go through.

Mr. Cerdas had asked me to call him, and I did for the purpose of establishing a lawful remedy. Mr. Cerdas clearly is not interested in establishing clarification of facts, but instead is focusing on an agenda that he has not divulged to me.

Being that we were never served with a subpoena , summons or citation to show up in court and give our testimony, and based upon Mr. Cerdas' lack of 'knowledge ' about the judge's name , I can assume that the ' judge' was a tribunal judge party to a private court which was to be held in my driveway.

For the record, Mr. Cerdas and his ilk have disregarded the nature of all lawful communication for the purpose of a lawfull remedy. Mr. Cerdas affirms that he is a public functionary in accordance with the constitutional laws of this country , yet he refuses to follow the constitutional laws (11, 27, 19, 25, 75 and others) by which we can establish a non threatening dialogue via written correspondence that would permit time to access counsel and intelligent responses that are not based upon intimidation and fear.

For the record, Sra. Duran of PANI, Sra Fernandez and Mr. Cerdas have not answered to our contructive notices in any detail, and instead of constructive dialogue, Mr. Cerdas, Sra. Fernandez and Sra. Duran of PANI resort not to law but to threats of coersion and terrorism.

The conversation with Mr. (Dr. Cerdas ) affirms that he is a public official acting in the public domain. As such, this testimony is the record of his public activities which will be made public for the purpose of transparency to those he claims to serve.

The Difference Between our Friends and Others Opposed to Vaccines

2011-07-27T11:02:00.009-06:00

"The Other Approach"

In the last request our friends submitted to the organization for the protection of children, PANI, in Costa Rica, they site article #55 of the Constitution of Costa Rica. It reads, "Article 55.- The special protection of the mother and minors will be in charge of an autonomous institution called National Patronage of the Infancy, with the contribution of the other institutions of the State."

Autonomous -self-governing; independent; subject to its own laws only.

PANI is the autonomous institution in charge of the special protection of mother and minors.

PANI has the authority to take people's children away.

PANI has "the contribution of the other institutions of the state,"(ie:health nurses and cops) yet

PANI is not bound to the laws of the state.

This is alarming.

Our friends pointed out in their request which they submitted to PANI that, "PANI is a construct of men, including a board of directors and as such requires nexus through contracts of consent over those whom it governs."

Nexus- a means of connection; tie; link.

The following work is offered by one of our friends to explain this relationship more clearly.

When we contract with government entities for the purpose of recieving the bounty of government handouts such as free health care, free schools, employment insurance , pensions and a plethora of other wonderous free gifts, we enter an area of law called civil law. This is the law of societal contracts and statutes. This mysterious world is adjudicated in courts of equity and as such require that contracts are bonafide and have all the elements of proper contract. We are born with unalienable rights of common law, which has limitations to strict liability , meaning we must pay for our own health care, education and financial well being. These unalienable rights are not given by men , but given by the God of Israel and agreed to by republics that are chained by consitutional restraints in nations that purport to follow the basis of Mosaic Law.

The result is that governments , such as the Costa Rican government as well as the US government has been created by men desiring to rule, but restrained under prior laws for the purpose of well heeled government , and good order within the the context of those prior lawful principles.

As such when government officials seek to enlarge their powers beyond the simple purposes originally espoused, they may need to create special contracts with those that desire the benefits from such 'new deals'.

If the offers made by government officials involve insurance for health care, or 'free' education , or any such schemes to 'limit' liability, we must create an official act of re-lieging. IE we must divorce the king of the common law in order to accept an new king to rule over us because we cannot serve both.

However it has always been our choice and is the corner stone of freedom in any republic. People broadly understand this as freedom of religion. But it also includes the freedom NOT to re-liege or make a new king to rule over you. To engage in limited liability we must make a contract with those making the offer. Since this is an operation outside of the ordained priniciples of the purpose of the government we must prove that we are in agreement to leave our common law behind on the land and venture out to sea in the law of contracts. The contract we establish with government is typically encapsulated in a card called a cedula or SS number. This card and number establishes that a comprehensive insurance contract exists somewhere in the government archives and you agreed to it. As you are not forced into an association by Law, (such as article 25 of the Costa Rican constitution) it must be agreed to voluntarily. This is where the concept " by the consent of the governed" originates.

Our Box

2011-07-20T06:00:00.004-06:00

So many of us like to imagine that we think outside of the box. We watch independent films, listen to NPR, recycle, eat free range and organic foods, buy the boots that will last ten seasons and tattoo our passions across our backsides (well, maybe yours, not mine!) But, while we are so busy in our bubbly independent brains outside of the box, we pay no attention at all to the fact that our beings are swaddled in a box that few of us can even define. Seriously.

The situation that our friends in Costa Rica are facing right now is all inside the box. The You Tube videos that they shot during the visit from the Ministry of Health are translated now into English. If you take the time to watch the four videos carefully, you may observe that the official is simply attempting to deliver an order to our friends and has asked them to sign as proof of receipt. However, if you watch more carefully, the official is actually requesting that our friends sign the actual order in addition to the document that would prove that our friends received it.

From all of the great films we've watched, each of us can likely recite our rights when placed under arrest. "You have the right to remain silent, anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law..." Now, our friends were not being arrested, but the official came down their driveway just itching for signatures and information to use against them in a court of law. There was no other reason for this official to not leave the order with our friends. This official had two witnesses with him who could have testified that the document was delivered. How many of us independent thinkers would have stood our ground and not signed away our rights in our own driveways just to get our mitts on that document?

Our friends are truly wonderful people whose daily lives epitomize our independent fantasies. Their multilingual kids grow in a loving environment with chickens and goats and horses, music classes and visits with grandma. Now their rural farm bliss is being rototilled by bureaucracy. The peace of their harmonious lives has been jolted by the individuals who can't handle the idea that there are people out there who function without the box.

Someone mentioned that our friends actions are selfish. For those passing judgment on this family who abides by law more than any other people I know, imagine if some official demanded something of you which compromised your moral convictions. What if, to lift the burden on society, the elderly were subject to be euthanized? When we contract with governments, we commit ourselves to the scrutiny of individuals who dictate what is good or bad for society as a whole.

All of us independent, "outside of the box," thinkers will do well to pay attention to what is going on here. You never know when an agency may knock on your door with an offer you don't really want to take.

Last week, our friends submitted a short request with four pungent questions to the ministry of health as well as the organization for the protection of children (PANI). Representatives from the ministry of health have answered our friends with silence. Representatives from PANI, however, have requested that our friends provide them with their name, cedula number, birthday, nationality, income source, address and marital status. The representatives have stated that it is necessary to have this information before they can answer our friends. In response to the request for that information, our friends submitted the following document to PANI on July 18, 2011. Below is that document translated into English.

In answer to the request for information of Mrs Duran of PANI.

I excuse myself for the direct nature of the previous request delivered to PANI secretary by me, Monday, July 11th, 2011. I assumed that Mrs Fernandez, official of the department of health in Puriscal would have shared the information that she demanded that I produce inside a time limit of 48 hours, June 27th, 2011, when you, Mrs. Duran and other associates accompanied Mrs. Fernandez to my Home in Barbacoas.

The department of health answered this request of 4 questions with silence and with no comment. As such, I only can assume that Mrs. Fernandez has not shared with you, the information demanded for me to provide within 48 hours to meet with Mrs. Fernandez' panicked schedule.

I responded with great effort and cost to help Mrs. Fernandez in her lack of organization that put Mrs. Fernandez in such difficult limitations of time. The Ebais #4 had received our answer to their offer of services some 6 weeks prior. Nevertheless, Mrs. Fernandez waited till the last moment to permit us to explain in more detail.

Nevertheless, it seems that you, Mrs. Duran, lack details of my identity, although you had sufficient information to come to my home, to accost me, and to explain to me the power that you have with your business consortium, (PANI), to take physical control of my children. I find that very intriguing. As Mrs. Fernandez seemed to be the official in control of that visit, due to the fact that she has all my previous history involving these vaccination issues, I would have expected that Mrs Fernandez would have shared with you the information (priority and current) that would establish the necessary facts that you request.

If communications with Mrs. Fernandez have lapsed with you as with me, I humbly apologize if you do not remember me or the events of June, 27, 2011, and thus my request for the information requires a civil nexus.

Therefore I offer you, Mrs. Duran, the history and documentation received by Mrs. Fernandez, that obviously was not shared with you.

This documentation is the result of Mrs. Fernandez' demand for information within 48 hours. As well, the original statement offered to the Ebais #4 May 16th, 2011, in regard to the matter of vaccinations.

I trust that you, with counsel will take the time to consider your position in taking physical control of my children above and over my objection.

PANI, under article 55 of the Constitution of Costa Rica is described as a trust or legal business consortium that operates autonomously, signifying, that although it operates with the cooperation of the government of CR, PANI is an autonomous business consortium that operates outside of the control of the government of Costa Rica.

Article 55.- The special protection of the mother and minors will be in charge of an autonomous institution called National Patronage of the Infancy, with the contribution of the other institutions of the State.

PANI is a construct of men, including a board of directors and as such requires nexus through contracts of consent over those whom it governs. PANI requires representatives or physical humans to physically remove children. As such it is the individual man or the individual woman that is responsible if the action lacks habeas corpus, mens rea or a bona fide civil contract. The fact that you cannot answer to my simple request for information, delivered to you Monday, July, 11th, 2011, without a 'persona' involving numbers, implies that PANI operates under civil law and requires consent and contract in spite of its autonomous relation with the government of Costa Rica. PANI is not under the mandate of Costa Ricans or their electoral bodies. PANI is under dictate of the United Nations through a ratification in 1990. The United Nations is another man made legal artifice with which we do not we have a contractual nexus, neither do we authorize the UN to rule over us in the form of a deity. In essence, we do not practice re-legion and we do not place foreign gods over the God of Israel, as that is the practice of idolatry.

Thus I ask these questions;

Are you, Mrs. Duran, a public official?

Are you subservient to the constitution of Costa Rica, or an individual, employed by an autonomous entity (PANI), with sufficient information about me to accost me in my sanctuary implying threats to take my children (property) over and above my objection?

Are you subservient to the laws of the God of Israel?

Please leave me the answers for these questions in your office within 3 days.

Thanks.

Request Submitted to Health Department in Costa Rica

2011-07-13T07:30:00.002-06:00

On June 30, 2011 our friends were visited by Dr. Cerdas of the health department in Puriscal, Costa Rica and two witnesses, including one police officer. Dr. Cerdas brought with him documents which he expected our friends to sign. One of the documents was an order that made reference to our friends position regarding the vaccination of their children. The body of this document contained some statements that were untrue. The second document was one that would act as proof of delivery and receipt.

Considerate of the time and attention put into these documents, our friends wanted to receive the documents so that they could review them, with counsel, and reply. However, Dr. Cerdas would not release the documents to our friends without their signature on both the order and the proof of delivery. Our friends clearly understood that signing both documents would affirm the statements in them and essentially strip our friends of their lawful position on the matter. Our friends attempted to compromise by signing the order document with a note on it of certain conditional acceptances. However, Dr. Cerdas would not permit this. Dr. Cerdas and his witnesses left with the documents neither signed nor delivered. Dr. Cerdas refused to leave a copy of the order for our friends to review.

Representatives from the department of health (Ministerio de Salud) and the agency for the protection of children (PANI) have each made clear that unnamed persons from these agencies have issues with our friends, yet have not exchanged in a lawful dialogue regarding the matter at hand. In response to this silence, our friends have presented another, more straight forward document to both the Ministerio de Salud and PANI in Puriscal, Costa Rica.

Delivered on July 11,2011- Translated to English

Attention Dr Cerdas, Sra Fernandez, Sra. Duran:
I understand that the constructive notice I entered , may have been lengthy and confusing. Therefore , I offer once again the opportunity to clarify the vaccination issue, so that I may offer you a remedy and cure of this grievance and that you may resume your normal operation. In order to offer that remedy and cure, I require certain facts to be known as a point of law.
I beg of you to answer the following basic questions that will go far in us reaching an accordance.
1) Are you public servants?
2) Are you subservient to the constitution of Costa Rica?
3) What is the cost of the vaccinations?
4) Is the government of Costa Rica subservient to the God of Israel?
The answers to these questions should be respectfully available to me at your office within a reasonable time of three working days, when I will have them picked up.
If Doctor Cerdas, Sra Fernandez, or Sra Duran require more time to answer, an extension may be granted upon your request.
In the spirit of truth and pura vida,

A Visit from Dr. Bear

2011-07-11T06:35:00.003-06:00

Though Dr. Bear assured them there was, "no problem," the clever Fox family found Dr. Bear's associates to be intimidating and his urging to sign the document from the health department, suspicious.

Ministry of Health Visit

2011-07-05T08:02:00.011-06:00

Our friends in Costa Rica are currently affirming their position of not being lawfully obligated to vaccinate their children. It is easy to focus on the controversy regarding vaccinations and site research and testimonials on both sides of the debate; however, this is not about the personal and social benefits of vaccinations. The point here is a process of Law. The following video was made by our friends in Costa Rica as a summary of their encounter with the ministry of health in Puriscal, Costa Rica on June 30 2011.

It is important to note that our friends are respectful and cooperative. Our friends have published the actual videos of the event on You Tube. These videos will be published on this blog once they are subtitled. For record, here is an English translation of the actual addendum that they tried to submit so that they could sign for the receipt of the document the official, Dr. Cerdas, presented to them.

I conditionally accept receiving this document, if I can first bring this to counsel, and respond within a reasonable time of three days. My signature affirms, that the director of the ministry of health has performed his duty and presented his offer. The director affirms, that his document has been received. However, the offer, and the subject matter of the offer, require clarification of facts and law. As such, my signature only affirms receipt but in no way do I affirm, agree with or contract to perform upon the wishes of the ministry which the director represents. My signature in no way contracts me to the ministry which the director represents.

The following is the English translation of the latest affidavit submitted to the Health Department, Ministerio de Salud:

June 30 , Dr. Cerdas accosted me at my home, insisting that I sign a document that explains that Ebais #4 says that I refused vaccinations for my children.

For the record, Ebais #4 is a building and legal artifice. Only individual men and women could make such a claim. Thus, as encouraged previously , if any of these individuals have a claim or wish to make claims regarding my performance or lack of performance according to their belief schedules, please state their names so that we can offer an immediate offer of remedy to these individuals.

For the record, we do not refuse vaccines, we simply do not find mandatory vaccines part of Gods Law. In fact to the contrary , there is prohibition to such religious (ministerial) rituals and practice of idol worship.

For the record , Dr. Cerdas REFUSED to allow us to keep a copy of their offer to treat. Dr. Cerdas and his witnesses alleged that we "refused' to accept his offer. As such we were not able to bring the offer and subject matter of the offer to counsel for proper understanding before I agree to sign and accept the conditions and subject matter of the invitation.

For the record, I did not refuse to accept the copy of the offer for the purpose of reception of an offer to treat. I conditionally accepted the offer for the purpose of examination with counsel, however, Dr. Cerdas made the executive decision that we were not 'permitted' counsel for the purpose of agreeing to the subject matter of the contract.

As such, to remain in honor and assist dr. cerdas in the performance of his duty as a public servant, I conditionally accepted the offer by underwriting the contract with the following:

- Non assumpsit contract

- without prejudice,

followed with my signature.

Dr. Cerdas REFUSED to accept my signature with these conditional acceptances and refused to allow me a copy to have without signature for the purpose of proper assesment with counsel before signing.

Dr.cerdas also implied other threats of other state ministries in order to coerce me to sign , thus comply with the subject matter of the offer.

For the record, Dr. Cerdas' facts ( as we recall) in the document were incorrect.

Dr. Cerdas did mention that he saw the Constructive Notice presented to Sra. Fernandez at the ministry of health June 29, 2011, but again misinterpreted it to suit his and the ministry's agenda when he said that “ you did not want to vaccinate” . The constructive notice specifically explained a prohibition of such medical rituals, but that we did not refuse upon the condition that the ministry can offer proof that the God of Israel requires me to take part in these medical rituals.

Dr. Cerdas REFUSED to allow us to inspect his document with counsel nor allow us the basic courtesy of a copy for our records. Instead Doctor Cerdas simply had his witnesses (driver, Rodrigo Cerdas Fernandez and policeman,Carlos Aravia Marin) sign his document to attest that I had indeed refused his invitaiton to treat.

For the record , both driver and policeman's signatures do not reflect a fact of our refusal to conditionally accept Dr. Cerdas’ invitation to treat, but attest to Dr. Cerdas claim that we refused his invitation to treat.

Mandatory Vaccines In Costa Rica

2011-07-02T15:12:00.014-06:00

There is no illustration today. Just black. This is how I feel. I am low. I feel dark, sunken, sad. Our friends are facing darkness and not being able to physically aid them in their time of need, as they did in ours, absolutely crushes me. The best I can do for them is to tell their story. Please read on, and on. This one is long and important.

In Costa Rica, we became very close with this extraordinary family. Our kids have grown up together, our families mutually intertwined. In our darkest hour, while living in Costa Rica, they gave us support and counsel. They are multi-lingual, eco-friendly, resourceful, capable people who cultivate the land, look after their animals, and live peaceably among their neighbors. Not only are they warm and genuine people who are greatly admired among the local community in Puriscal, Costa Rica, they are independent, innovative, productive members of that community who hold the highest respect and understanding of the law.

Like many other families in Costa Rica and around the world, they choose not to vaccinate their children. Recently, they have been approached by the health nurses regarding a law in Costa Rica stating that registered inhabitants under the age of 15 are obligated to receive certain required vaccines. In respect to the law, our friends have answered, formally, with a constructive notice stating that they share no contractual obligation to the man-made agencies that have approached them. In other words, our friends do not have government issued identification numbers, cedulas. Cedulas in Costa Rica are the equivalent of SS numbers in the United States or SIN numbers in Canada.

What ever your opinion may be regarding this situation, the important detail here is the fact that this family is undocumented. They are the only people I know in this position. As you can imagine, there are many inconveniences that result from their commitment to adhere to the biblical laws they are obligated to.

Now, step into your own convictions for a moment. I guess that there are a solid percentage of people who, for moral reasons, refuse to do business with national chain super stores. These are corporations, made by men and women. These entities cannot force you to do business with them. It is not mandatory that you accept their products and services. However, if you were to solicit, for example, a super saver card from the establishment, you would sign some sort of contract that would detail the terms and obligations associated with your acceptance of such a card. By holding this card, you could accept certain benefits and promotions that non card holders could not.

Governments are a form of corporations and when we register with them, or when our parents register our births and solicit numbers on our behalf, we become contractually obligated to the all of the agencies that have been created under that entity. Without registration or solicitation of numbers, however, these corporation-like entities cannot demand that we do business with them. Likewise, by not holding proof of registration or assigned numbers, we cannot seek to participate in public programs such as health care, schools, libraries, etc.. We would not have the right to ask the state of anything, at all.

Our friends, for moral reasons, are unable to contract with governments. Respectfully, they ask nothing from those same governments. They live very responsibly and independently. They are not outside of the law, mind you, only the contracts specific to the man made entities. The decision to live this way, without exception, is not an easy one to stand by. But they do, asking for nothing from the state and living with respect to the lives and property of those around them.

Our friends have been dealing with the Ministry of Health in Costa Rica since 2002. Recently, the pressure has escalated. The Ministry of Health from the local district in Costa Rica has visited their house, again, with another Ministry, PANI (this is the agency for the protection of children) They have implied that they have the power to take away our friends’ children if they do not comply. Our friends have repeatedly been pressured to sign documents and respond to demands without sufficient time to prepare their defense. They are savvy enough to understand that anything they sign will in some way create a quasi contractual obligation with the state. Our friends only wish a logical response to the variety of notices that they have made. All they expect is an acknowledgement that these public servants are under law and submissive to the constitution.

What is important to each of us, does not have anything to do with whether or not we agree with the moral convictions and subsequent decisions of our friends in Costa Rica. But it is critical to pay attention to situations such as theirs to see that the individuals who act as public servants are in fact following the law without prejudice. As one of these friends so perfectly pointed out to me today, it is not the law, be it biblical or constitutional, which defends us. It is us who must defend it. Ignorance is not bliss. It is only ignorance.

The following is an English translation of the affidavit delivered to EBAIS #4 in Puriscal as well as an English translation of the constructive notice that has been submitted by our friends to the Ministry of Health in Puriscal, Costa Rica:

Affidavit:

On May 13, 2011, public health nurse, Cristina Ruby , of Barbacoas Ebais #4 offered her services to my family. We were not able to receive her, as we were departing.

On May 16, 2011, I visited the Ebais #4 and was greeted by Ebais officials; Cristina Vargas Ruby, Rolando Aguilar Diaz and Sally Hidalgo Arias.

Rolando explained in great detail the various services offered by their Ebais office.

Rolando and Cristina expressed that their offer of services to every household was mandated by their supervisory body, the Ministry of Health.

Above officials briefed us that they were obliged to offer the services due to their relationship with the ministry of health, and were required to make a statement that certifies to the ministry that they made all attempts to provide us with their services, but that we demurred.

After a cordial dialogue with the three officials , I became similarly aware that as issues that involved nurse Mireya Madrigal Cordero in 2002, and Dr. Rodriguez in 2008 both representatives of Ebais #4, who approached me offering similar services, officials Rolando, Christina and Sally required absolution from their employer , the ministry of health.

Rolando expressed that they needed a written proof of offer that they had administrated to the best of their ability , their services for the purposes of limiting their liability with their employer the ministry of health.

Above stated officials affirmed the need for me to sign a statement relieving them of reprisals from the ministry of health for my non acceptance of their offer to perform their employed duties.

As a commoner under the Laws of the Bible, I have no capacity nor authority to protect the officials of Ebais#4 from their employer or any other collective entity.

Based upon the above fact , I cannot contract with intent or implication to absorb or accept any reprisals arising from Ebais #4 officials lack of capacity by Law to enforce their employed duties.

I do have the moral obligation to offer these above mentioned facts by affidavit in favor of Ebais #4 officials’ absolution from reprisals arising from their duties to the Ministry of Health regarding this matter.

My dialogue with Ebais#4 officials; Christina , Rolando and Sally proved that they were courteous and professional. Their concerns were presented in detail with genuine candor and respect.

In respect of the nature of this affidavit, this notice shall serve as prima facie evidence of a constructive notice stating that:

By law, if my actions or inactions have harmed, damaged or caused concern to any man in the flesh and blood, allow that man to make his claim and present me with such claim, that I offer the notary opportunity to remedy and cure the basis of that charge or complaint.

And, or, if my actions or inactions have offended any legal artifice or collective entity by way of civil breach, inadvertently, or by coercion, obfuscation, machination , or otherwise forced by waiving my God given Rights, that such entity bring forth the original intent of the contract, that such intent and contractual format and construction be weighed under Law so that we may have opportunity to offer reconciliation.

Constructive Notice:

Preamble:

I, the author of this document, in the flesh and blood, hereby make the following declaration of truth, facts, testimony, and understanding of circumstances for the purpose and intent of seeking a remedy and cure for any tort, complaint, allegation or breach of contract presented to me. Matthew 5:25; CR constitution article 30.

I am of sound mind and although I may seek counsel of my choice, I do not seek, require or demand a state licenced attorney, nor will I accept any appointment of representation nor waive any rights.

I make many references in Latin as this language is immutable and not subject to semantic manipulation, thus offers a clear undertanding and path of intent.

As a point of semantic awareness, Patronato Nacional de la Infancia (PANI) , is a man made legal artifice or trust. As such any such legal artifice can only excercise legal action by virtue of lack of performance with contractees. The trust (Pani) is a man made creation which requires grantors / settlors in order for the trustees (PANI officials) to have authority over the beneficiary.

Record of Events:

On June 27th, 2011, a director from the ministry of health, Norma Fernandez, and two officials from Pani, Annia Lorena Duran, Isabel Cristina Videl, accosted me in my home.

As a matter of good record and as a part of insuring correct facts, I videotaped the encounter.

Official Sra. Fernandez explained, as we have been told before on multiple occasions, the benefits of vaccines, and that the vaccines are a matter of public code.

Pani official Annia Lorena Duran further implied that she and other Pani officials would take control of the children above my consent and over my objections, if she and other officials decided to do so.

I asked if they had received the affidavit that had been provided to Ebais #4 in May of this year. Sra. Fernandez confirmed that they had indeed received this document, but either she did not understand it or she believed it did not furnish the ministry with sufficient information or remedy.

I asked the ministry official, Sra. Fernandez, what she failed to understand or what was deficient about my affidavit. Ministry official Fernandez explained that the ministry needed to gain more information so that they could initiate action.

From previous encounters with ministry of Health and Ebais officials, a position of confidentiality and respect of law has been maintained. As such, no dialogue with ministry of health doctors, nurses, or officials has been made public as a point as respectful confidentiality on my part.

However, on this day Pani official Annia Lorena Duran conveyed a deeply disturbing statement of potentially assuming physical control over my children.

As such, I have little choice but to make public all communications, dialogues , and encounters with the ministry as a point of having proper witnessing and transparency of all dealings with said ministries.

Caveat;

Consider your actions after you have been made publicly aware of the following;

I am not aware of any contract with, or legal conveyance of my children to any religious body, corporation or ministry. My children are not registered in any 'Cestui que' trust or ministry of any religious body. My children are not registered with any governmental body and I reserve the right not to be forced into a contractual relationship with any manmade legal artifice. Constitution articles 25, 75, 19, and 11

My children are not numbered nor have I sold them nor conferred them to any religious body whereby any ministry can assume any lawful power over them outside of the powers given to civil authorities in accordance with the authority of the God of Israel.

In effect, my children have been given to me and their lives have been entrusted to me by the God of Israel. I am charged with the responsibility of protecting those lives that they be as I train them in the ways of proper service. My children are not property of the state or any religious body or ministry, nor are they in a state trust or registry. C.R. Constitution article 45; article 21; UN article 17 (2) ; Psalm 127:3-5, Genesis 33:5, Isaiah 8:18, Proverbs 22:6.

I reserve the right of self regulation and responsibility and I do not practice idolatry, nor do place man made gods , idols, democracies, over the God of Israel to govern over me above the authority the God of Israel has bestowed upon them. I do not and cannot practice state religious rituals conducted by its various ministries such as pledges of allegiance and alchemy medical practices such as vaccines.

I do not purport to be a 'sovereign'. CR Article 3

I recognise the sovereignty of the state of CR as well as the sovereignty of the God of Israel. CR article 2.

I am attempting to conduct myself and arrange the conduct of my family in such a way as to follow the rules of both sovereigns for the purpose of being in accordance with rules of peaceful conduct and submission to well heeled government as well as faithful servants to the God of Israel. 'Qui jure suo utitur, nemini facit injuriam.' Acts 5:29.

We do not seek/demand the state to be responisble for our health care, education, pensions, insurances, security and other such social security insurances for these are matters of strict liability. As such the state shall make no assumption that they are to force us to limit that which God gave us as positive Law responsibilities. Therefore, we are strictly liable for these social imperatives under the Laws and guidance of the God of Israel and these responsibilities shall not be confiscated by the color of law. Galatians 6:5, Timothy 5:8.

I have no intention to make covenants with, or become contractually obligated with the state's social programs which limit my liabilities and responsibilities by way of article 25 of the Consitution of CR. 1 John 5:21.

I am an Israelite practicing Israelite law as permitted by article 75 of the constitution of C.R.

I do recognise the requirement to submit to the government and Laws of CR when they are in accordance with God's Law for the purpose of peace and order. Romans 13; Acts 5-29.

I do recognise my obligation to follow God's law over man's law when government statutes are not in accordance with God's law. Acts 5:29, Daniel 6:13

To contract, or make covenant (pledge alliegance) with a foreign god for the intention of engaging in activities such as usury, is prohibited by the God of Israel and considered idolatry, thus waives His protection. However, I freely submit to authority on matters criminal and or civil/private contract law. 1st Corinthians 10:12-14, Romans 13:1, Proverbs 22:26, 1 Samuel:8.

I refuse to covet other peoples property or wealth by demanding the state become responsible financially and redistribute my neighbors wealth for my benefit. Exodus 20:17

If any man or officer of the body politic is damaged by my application of Law, please allow that individual to make claim and that any writ of habeas corpus be satisfied, so that I make immediate offer to re-concile voluntarily, for I am unaware of any such complaints or charges from any individual man. If any corporate entity, juristic artifice, group, association , or body of men is claiming a breach of contract in equity, please allow that entity to bring forth the contract in question as subject matter jurisdiction, that it may be examined, and that I may offer voluntary opportunity to respond for the purpose of just reconciliation. If such claim is made, but not volunteered to me that I may understand, and observe the lawfullness of such claim, a subponena duces tecum, plea in abatement and general demand for a bill of particulars will be my only recourse. Article 48.

Be it known that we have acted in accordance with all laws and attended promptly to any charge, citation or summons presented to us. In any controversy, we present ourselves voluntarily and with out prejudice; that the matter may have a swift resolution. No undue force will be required in any dealing with us. Article 37.

I have no knowledge of damaging any entity, real or artificial.

I have no intent to damage any entity, real or artificial.

I understand that the government is charged with the responsibility of adjudicating both criminal and civil breaches.

To freely reject association with any assembly does not suffer restriction as any forced association might imply coersion which the state regards as 'illegal'. Article 25, article 11.

I believe it to be a fact that the functionaries and officials are bound to obey the rules set forth in the constitution as a prior condition to any subsequent new agreements or contracts. CR articles 11;18.

Previously I made no waiver of judicial contract enforcement and , although the state would have to take notice of such waiver under articles 27; 11, no such demand to take notice or act accordingly was made by us for fear of creating a reciprocal obligation as the state (or officials) would have to expend energy and time on behalf of my notice. I have no expecation for the state or state officials or citizcens of this country to be burdened by my actions.

I rigidly adhere to non-political , non religious activities espoused in articles 28, 19, 75 and a notice of the aforementioned doctrine may have been construed as having an agenda or political influence on other people. As such, we made no prior notice to avoid demonstrable political /religious agendas.

At this time I wish the court to take notice that I waive all rights to use the court to secure contractual agreements in commercial or civil matters as this is the nature of God's will over me. However, as a point of transparency and decency , this notice will be issued to the court for the purpose of allowing the court first opportunity of heeling, educating and controlling public servants. Matthew 5:39

Sra. Fernandez affirmed that she had indeed reviewed the history of, and was cognitive of our previous encounters with the ministry of health.

After reviewing previous declarations and dialogues , ministry official Fernandez and Pani official Sra. Viquez expressed intent to expand their authority beyond constitutional limitations and under the color of law proceed to harass and coerce.

When public officials display such behavior of incorrigibility, commoners such as myself must view this with extreme caution and take steps to protect both the Law as well as the people in danger.

As such, any actions of state officials operating outside of constitutional or Scriptural limitations that potentially disrupt the lives of me or my family, either physically or psychologically, will be treated as a tort. CR Const. article 45, article 21.

In no way do I relinquish authority, nor custody of my children to the state and in no way is the state to assume my children as chattles for salvage or maritime prizes for the purpose of confiscation. Any such act will be viewed as an unlawfull taking. Article 45; Ephisians 6:1-4; Exodus 20:15, 21:16.

As all ministries are legal artifices and non self referencing entities, the ' ministries ' have no power to act in the physical world without representation and offices of human intervention. Thus, any 'official' acting outside of constitutional or Scriptural authority will be acting as a private individual making the personal decision to self appoint themselves above and beyond their position as 'public servant'.

As a point of further clarification, I wish to make the court and the ministries aware in plain language that they lack jursidiction in personam. My family and I have no personas , cedulas , nor contractual obligations with the state of Costa Rica.

For the record, I DO NOT REFUSE the vaccines, I am prohibited from the use of such, lest the ministry can offer written verification that the God of Israel mandates the use of these chemicals in lieu of His Law. (Arguementum ab possibili plurimum valet in lege. Impossibilium nulla obligatio est.)

This notice and a complete record of events from 2002 forward now sit in trust at various points in Costa Rica as well as world wide. It has been CC'd to the local civil court as well as various other interested parties in confidence.

If due process is not observed, this document as well as a complete compilation of history of event will be released to media outlets world wide as a point of public service and transparency.

I believe that due to the unusual circumstances involved, the officials in question lack mens rea, due to their dramatic ignorance of facts . Although the ignorance of Law is no excuse, the ignorance of facts is excusable. ( Ignorantia excusatur non juris sed facti.)

I offer first opportunity for the ministry officials in party to this notice to recant their positions , that we all live in peace and harmony under Law.

Hats

2011-06-24T05:46:00.002-06:00

Equal to the intensity of the heat in Arizona is the brightness of the light. The radiating sun is akin to one of those heating lamps placed over pet iguanas. It seems as if it has been put directly over you and it reflects off of every surface. Needless to say, hats here help.

Some people have the gift of great style. These people would have one of those perfectly neutral straw hats with a slightly floppy wide brim. This hat would never fly away and it would pair perfectly with some stylish sun glasses. I am not one of those people. At age eleven, my daughter has already pinned me as a nerd; who I am I to contest.

My new hat is perfect proof. It was in front of me the moment I decided to look for a hat, and I bought it. It is robin egg blue and minty green, reversible. It matches nothing in my wardrobe. This hat is a larger version of a baby hat, all cotton and practical. The only thing it lacks, luckily, is an under the chin elastic strap to keep it from blowing off my head.

Stylish or not, hats are a must in Arizona. Maybe one day I'll find a cool one, but for now I'm just happy to put a little shade over me. Now, I just have to remember to put on some sun glasses. That way I can avoid looking like I'm scowling as I squint my eyes. Watch out for that mad looking lady in the baby hat. It's bright out there!

108

2011-06-17T21:02:00.002-06:00

Every place has something. Snow, rain, tornadoes, earthquakes, UFO's. Arizona has heat. It is mid June and seeing 108 as the temperature when we get into the car is normal. Recently, every day is over 100 and the talk about town is that this year is cool. Seriously. The real heat has yet to come. I can't say that I am a fan of hot, but I think the idea of 108 in the desert is worse than it actually is and the intensity is actually intriguing.

The only way to survive the summer is to be in the water, they say. I openly admit that before opportunity called us here, Arizona was firmly on the bottom of my list of places to live. If anyone had told me that I would be regularly hanging around my new social group sporting my swim suit, I would have said they were nuts. But guess what? It is part of my new summer wardrobe and unlike the cat of my former self, I immerse myself.

I am all about cool and fun, but I can't help but think about the people who have lived here for centuries. It has always been hot here. I think that there is something to say for adjusting to one's environment and somehow I don't see that happening with sparkling pools and climate control. I am a fan of adaptation. There is life out there; a whole ecosystem that sustained ancient cultures. Some deep research and observation is in order and the immersion shall go beyond the kiddy pool.

My Kitchen Inspiration

2011-06-10T23:49:00.000-06:00

I happily call myself a from-scratch-kitchen-witch. I am not afraid to try anything. I can make it boil and bubble and rise just right, even with a little trial and error. But let me make one thing clear, this witch needs a spell to follow. I am great at improvising, but without the start of a recipe, it is not at all magical.

My sister, on the other hand, is a sorceress in the kitchen. When we lived close to each other, her house was my favorite place to go "out to eat" and after she moved to the West Coast and I moved to Central America, a good number of our conversations included me asking for her recipe for this, that or some other thing. Tapping into her collection of all things fabulous is magical indeed.

Now, I am happy to say, I can share. My multi-talented sister, Danica Waters, has a fantastic blog: Allspice Chronicles. It is full of enchanting narratives tied to ultra magical recipes that are sure to satisfy all cravings. She also shares ever so helpful entertaining ideas, etiquette reminders and great eco-friendly cleaning tips.

What I love most about Allspice Chronicles is that ties sheer elegance with total practicality. Danica brings glamour to all occasions and reminds me that every moment is worthy of celebration. Trust me; this is not another cooking blog. It is much, much more. Check it out!

Bliss

2011-06-03T17:45:00.003-06:00

This is my life. My girls. There is not a day that goes by that I do not enjoy being a goof with two of the coolest human beings on the planet. Life is good.

Survival Skills

2011-05-27T21:36:00.008-06:00

It was probably when I was six that I stored the common knowledge (among Wile E. Coyote fans)that cacti retain water and can help you survive if you are ever stranded, and facing certain death from dehydration. Over the years I have carried this and other tidbits of survival know how around with me, just in case.

Now, I am living in the desert. All around me there are assorted cacti possibly bursting with water. For the first time in my life, I have had a chance to get up close to them and contemplate their life saving potential. Looking very closely, or even from five feet away, it became obvious that my survival skills need a little brushing up.

Last I checked, I hold no machete in the mom bag. I don't think that even in a do or die scenario, my tender mitts could get past the seriously wicked thorns and break through the tough skin of a cactus. Like any good mom, who has moved her kids into the desert, I decided I should read up on Sonoran survival skills.

Turns out, most cacti are actually quite toxic and should not be relied on as a source of fluids. From what I read, your best bet is collecting condensation, or simply, never lose sight of civilization and carry your own water just like a camel. I've decided to stick with that bit about civilization.

2011-05-19T22:03:00.004-06:00

MY NEW .COM

2011-05-13T13:09:00.000-06:00

I would like to invite one and all to check out my new website: alisoncastro.com There you will find a virtual gallery of assorted illustrations from this blog as well as many recent drawings. Visual expression has always dominated my free time; and I am pleased that, thanks to the technical wizardry of my husband, I have a platform to display my art. I hope you enjoy the look around.

Salsa Festival

2011-05-06T08:49:00.013-06:00

My dream of being crowned the Salsa Queen of Maricopa dissolved the moment I read the entrance rules. First of all, there was no crown; worse, the required quantity I would have to prepare for the event was a whopping eight gallons. Having only cup experience in the cooking department, I decided I should get a few more potlucks under my belt. Still, there was a party to attend.

The afternoon was cool and breezy and the salsa was hot and tasty. Festival goers were handed generous bags of fresh tortilla chips and invited to taste each of the fabulous competing salsas. The grand prize of $1,000 cash easily outdid a silly tiara. My favorite was Mamma D's "unusual" entry, a grape salsa that was 100% fresh with just the right kick.

The spice of the evening was not confined to the culinary arts. Live performances by various musicians, baile folklorico and the budding talents from local dance studios filled the hours. To round it all off, cleverly designed bounce houses satiated the active needs of the many kids. There was even a rock wall to challenge the more adventurous spirits.

At the end of the night, we made our way home with a feeling of total satisfaction. It was nice to be part of a small, community scene. A local charm is something we have gotten accustomed to over the years and it was refreshing to get a "taste" of this small Arizona town. You can read more about the Salsa Festival and other fun events here in Maricopa.

A Day at the Races

2011-04-29T19:48:00.001-06:00

Some girls are satisfied with plastic replicas, but our two need the real deal. Horses. Right behind missing their friends, they miss the horses they used to ride in Costa Rica. Naturally, when we heard about the race track in Phoenix, we set aside a day to check it out.

Turf Paradise was established in 1956. It is a handsome, retro facility with modern upgrades and ultra plush grounds set against rugged mountains. While there are club areas and finer dining, we were completely satisfied with the grandstands. The girls were able to see the live action right off the track and enjoy the pre-race viewing where they each picked their favorites to win.

Of course, lots of people were there, studying the statistic books, eager to bet on a winner. For us, watching the animals and taking in the views was a perfect way to spend an afternoon, no cash prize required. I imagine there is a certain thrill added when you've placed a bet, but our experience proved you certainly don't have to be a gambler to enjoy a day at the races.

My Costa Rica: For Sale

2011-04-22T15:01:00.001-06:00

One of the best decisions my husband and I ever made was to move to Costa Rica. We set out to dive into a new culture, broaden our worldly vision and expose our girls to a life completely different than that of Suburban USA. We did just that. Our expectations of growth were shadowed by our real life experiences and the education we received by living in a foreign country.

After seven years, opportunity knocked on our door and our dreams and desires for the futures of our two maturing girls led us back to the US. We came willingly, but with a door open to return. Even though it has been just a short time since we left Costa Rica, being back in the US has assured us that this step we have taken will continue to take us forward. The reality of ever returning to Costa Rica is that when we do, it will be to visit all of our amazing friends there.

That said, our beautiful, tropical abode is officially for sale. We are ready to pass our eco-pad on to new adventurers. It is a place that totally syncs with nature, where trees take the place of wallpaper and birds are the surround-sound. If I only had two lives, one of them would stay in that house and made good on all of the gardening plans and art projects I had envisioned.

Nearly three acres are a ready canvas to someone else's master plan. If fresh mountain breezes and ocean view sunsets are your idea of perfection, then maybe you are just the person for our very unique home. Check it out and drop me a line. Lots of beautiful photos and all of the details can be seen right here: Tropical Eco-House.

New Surroundings

2011-04-15T08:30:00.007-06:00

Aside from a layover once in Phoenix, I had never been to Arizona before now. There is nothing quite like walking off a plane into a new life in a new land. I would like to suggest that our move was one of venturing into the great unknown, but let's face it, from North to South, East to West, life in the United States is fairly homogeneous. Same set, different backdrop.

Still, stepping off of the stage and looking beyond the chain stores, fast food pop ups and strip malls there is a world that is totally unique. Now that we are here, we are eager to explore. Our first outing into the backdrop of nature was to the Lost Dutchman State Park near Apache Junction. Nestled in the Superstition Mountains, the desert landscape provided views that were completely surreal.

The beauty of the desert is subtle and dramatic all at once. At first everything seems a monotone hue and could be written off as quite drab. But that impression is akin to sudden light after darkness. When your eyes adjust to the surroundings, colors seem to pop up out of nowhere. Greens glow and reds radiate. Each hour brings its own intensity and details abound in textures seemingly out of this world.

2011-04-08T23:54:00.000-06:00

It's Not the End of the World

2011-04-01T18:29:00.000-06:00

How many times have you used the expression, "It's not the end of the world?" I can guess that everyone reading this has at some point felt better about something awful because it would be worse if it was the end, of the entire world. Lots of people say the end is near. Just the other day, I had a conversation with someone dear to me who expressed that I will probably see the end in my lifetime.

Sure, the thought does not thrill me. I would rather suffer through that which is not the end, than the end. But just as I enter the dark space in my being that dreads the end of all, the part of me that could stop everything and sit petrified waiting for the actual end, I remember that literally, in my life time, my world will end. So what is there to worry about?

Art Filled Days

2011-03-25T23:33:00.008-06:00

A few weeks ago, a new friend invited the girls and I to join her and her daughter for an artsy homeschool excursion to a temporary installation up in the parking lot of the Mesa Arts Center. I did not realize what a day it would turn out to be. Starting with the fantastic hand sewn archetectural marvel of Amococo, the five of us entered the world inside our heads that only art can awaken.

After we had our fill of the colorful tunnels, we watched an impossibly limber arial dancer while we picniced on the beautifully manecured lawn. Just after we brushed off the crumbs, we took in a remarkable collection of Chicano art, Chicanitas, on loan from Cheech Marin. There were so many concepts in those rooms, I could have stayed and absorbed it all for hours.

Finally, we unwound by the center's water feature while listening to the musical talent of Zubia + De Guvera.The familiarity of the tunes made me feel warm inside. Days like this were what I most looked forward to in moving back to the States. Costa Rica had lots of art and dance and music, but taking it all in was never so effortless.

Thinking of Japan

2011-03-18T11:09:00.000-06:00

A Whole New World

2011-03-11T06:36:00.000-07:00

My youngest daughter was born in Costa Rica. Aside from a baker's dozen worth of excursions to San Jose and two trips to Colorado, the entirety of her whopping five years has been spent in either mountainous or coastal, rural bliss. That is, until our recent move to Arizona. Let me tell you, the SIMPLEST details are a thrill for this kid. It is a lot of fun to go places with her, especially given her trusty tendency to express everything she feels.

When I say simple thrills, I am talking about door bells, side walks, vending machines, automatic doors at grocery stores, safe playgrounds with big slides and believe it or not, the trash truck that faithfully passes through our neighborhood twice a week. It uses a claw to pick up our big plastic can and dump the garbage inside. A one man operation. This is all very impressive stuff. Her transition has been a mild version of plucking someone out of their jungle tribe and plopping them into the city.

I love to see her reaction to everything. When we got a soda out of a machine, she said, "Wow, it just pooped it out." The huge overpasses on the highway are, to her, roller coasters for our car. While at first she felt a little betrayed by the slide when she felt the shock of static electricity, it has become just one more marvel from life in a new world. Nothing has ever given her hair so much lift before.

We've Moved to the Moon

2011-03-04T07:14:00.001-07:00

Some weeks ago, I corresponded with a good friend about our big move from Costa Rica to Arizona. "You may as well be moving to the moon," he wrote back. Quite true. We have moved from the jungle to the desert. From developing to over-developed, rugged inclines to paved flats, Spanish to English, the list goes on.

When we first arrived, it felt a bit like we had landed on another planet. The monotone theme of the houses around us set against the stark desert landscape with clean, orderly streets is totally different from the random, green world we left. For as many houses there are in our neighborhood, it took a while to see any signs of life at all.

They say that culture shock goes both ways. After living outside of the United States for seven years, I admit that stepping back in certainly felt forein at first. This place has a totally different rhythm to it than Costa Rica. It feels good to settle in though, even though it seems a little like we've landed on the moon.

Looking Back

2011-02-25T08:57:00.006-07:00

Just like that, our seven year tropical adventure ended. Looking back on life in Costa Rica seems to me much like reflecting on a long vacation. We spent a lot of time getting to know a foreign country. It became quite familiar, but it was always foreign. When I moved to Puriscal my deepest desire was to shed my identity as a foreigner and blend in completely with the locals. Instead, we were fortunate to have become a welcome part of the community, but we were always foreign to it as well.

Costa Rica is like a revolving door to expats. My family was no exception to the rule. While we lasted a lot longer than most and faced challenges far greater than a language barrier, we entered a place called Paradise and realized that it was a great experience but not home. Just like a vacation, I am happy to have gone, and I am happy to be home. Being back in the United States now feels perfectly natural in the most pleasant ways.

In Costa Rica, I continued my education. I feel like I got my masters in the Good the Bad and the Ugly of the world. My family experienced the beauty of a simpler life, one that seemed to go back generations in time. That was the good. The bad and the ugly involved con artists and really corrupt government officials. We fought against them and learned a lot about the world. It was hard but I am grateful for the growth.

Moving to Costa Rica made me appreciate where I am from. While scams and corruption are certainly not scarce in the United States, there is a lot of good here too. My family is off to a fresh start now in Arizona. There are so many wonderful things that we are excited to expose our girls to. There are also many more opportunities for their future as well. I may not feel completely at home until I have the great Rocky Mountains framing the setting sun but I am happy to explore a new place and I'm still sporting my Open Toe Shoes.

2011-02-18T05:16:00.000-07:00

Manny and Cecilia

2011-02-11T04:36:00.000-07:00

Wouldn't it figure that just as I pack and weed out in preparation for our big move back to the US, I meet an incredible pair of artists who have been living just minutes away from me for over a decade. Manny and Cecilia are an extrodinary team. Together, they have been carving and cutting and building and creating with glass and wood and steel and concrete and over the last eleven years they have made a little castle in the hills. One that is still a masterpiece in progress.

Manny and Cecilia take their inspiration from nature and light, found objects and DaVinci. Around every corner in thier amazing house are stunning stained glass doors and mosaics, beautiful carved wood pieces and whimsical muses. It is impossible to see everything in one visit, let alone take time to appreciate the intricacies of each piece and listen to the stories behind the work. You can see by the photo my husband took here of this peacock door, their work is saturated in originality.

Meeting them was a bitter sweet introduction. I am elated that I had the opportunity to meet two people who dedicate their lives to their art in a way I only wish I could. At the same time, of course, I am terribly disappointed that it has been at the very point at which I exit. It is always a pleasure to come in contact with artists. We share this need to create and take inspiration from the smallest details of the world around us.

If I had known, I would have opted to include some of their work in our home as we were building. The doors and windows that they have for sale are beautiful beyond words. Their home and gallery is open for business. Anyone who has some details to wrap up on their tropical home will find inspiring options from their remarkable collection of work. Even if you just want an accent piece, there are many wall pieces, scultpures and fantastic lamps to choose from. The scenic drive also makes for a great little road trip.

You may have read about the very well known mosaic crucifix which is visited by bus loads of people every year. It is a moving piece made by Manny and Cecilia that sits just beside their home. Just another reason to pay a visit. For information about how and when to best make a visit, call Manny directly at 2416 1170

What a Great Experience

2011-02-04T00:43:00.005-07:00

So, yes, we are moving away from Costa Rica. I am happy to move on, to begin a new adventure. However, I am really glad we came here. This beautiful country has become home to us, and stepping out of it makes me aware of how beneficial it was to our family unit to have such a broadening experience, for so many years.

As we pack and weigh and parcel our lives into containers, I am reminded of how much effort is involved in moving such long distances. It has all been worth it. I feel incredibly fortunate to have gotten to know Costa Rica so intimately. My oldest has performed at the Teatro Nacional, my youngest was born here. We have strong ties with good friends. We will be back.

Leaving the Past, Behind

2011-01-28T04:54:00.002-07:00

I tied myself to a tree today.

With my dad.

I left there the memories that never were.

Idle pass-times.

Introspection.

Indulgence.

A duet of unknown potential, countless what-ifs

bound to the trunk that itself sits silently

observing the world passing by.

2011-01-21T05:36:00.000-07:00

Foreign Fruit

2011-01-14T05:31:00.000-07:00

A funny thing about moving from one geographical region to another is that the stuff that grows is different. No matter where you happen to be, chances are that you will have the choice of incredible fruits that could grow in your own backyard. So why do we try forcing pineapples to grown in the arctic tundra and blueberries in the tropics? There is just something about foreign fruit.

Really Great People

2011-01-07T04:52:00.000-07:00

It may be that we have decided to shift our surroundings to a place where there are more opportunities for our girls; but that doesn't mean we haven't had a lot of fun while we've been here. Many exquisite things have satisfied our senses over the last seven years, enriched our bodies and minds. Of everything wonderful that we are saying fair well to here, it is the good people who we will miss the most.

The cultural side of Costa Rica that we will cherish having had the opportunity to live in is the hard working agricultural side. We have met some sensational families here who we admire greatly. They are humble people who know how to work the land, how to raise coffee and cattle, commute on horses and can ward off the danger of the deadliest serpents with one quick swing of their machetes.

It is always nice to see a pretty view and play at a gorgeous beach. But those things are all over the world. The reason we will return to Costa Rica for a visit is to stay connected with the special people we have had the honor of acquiring as friends. They are exceptional individuals who have graciously welcomed us into their community and who have made this journey totally worthwhile.

Happy New Year

2010-12-31T04:19:00.000-07:00

That temptation to commute over the river and through the jungle to all of the culture and worldly happenings of the city has resulted in something pretty big. We are moving. The destination this time is much closer to Grandma's house, our time living permenantly in Costa Rica is ending. When we first moved here I told my mom that I would never leave. I couldn't imagine being satisfied with life anywhere else. The gentle temperatures in the mountains, the mystic clouds hanging in my yard, the access to beautiful beaches and the thrill of having just moved to a foreign country all assured me that I was home, forever.

What I have found, in the seven years since our Costa Rican adventure began, is that I love life here, but I do not belong. I feel what many other expats feel. Once you uproot yourself from your homeland, you are a free ship at sea. I may drop anchor here and there, but the sails of my being remind me that there is a big world out there to explore. I want my girls to know more too. I am grateful that they have spent so many of their tender years in an agrarian community. The rural, natural, simple side of life in Costa Rica is what we came here for, and what we have enjoyed. The urban side of this country has simply never captured me the same way.

So, I welcome a new year with a new adventure ahead. I love change. I am really excited to give the opportunities of life in the United States to my girls. I am grateful for the last seven years and all of the memories we will take with us. In that bag of keepsakes is a deep understanding of the good, bad and ugly side to this beautiful, tropical country. I would never have chosen to live through some of the ugly details of our journey here, but they have made my family unit stronger. The good people we have encountered will carry with me much longer than the evil ones. Good does triumph over evil, and there are many dark souls here who I pity. For all of the good ones, and there are plenty, I wish you continued success in this fabulous journey through life. Happy New Year!

2010-12-24T04:18:00.000-07:00

My "Dingo"

2010-12-17T04:51:00.000-07:00

In Costa Rica, finding a dog is like eating at a buffet. There are dogs here for all tastes. When we wanted another dog, we had the fantastic fortune of finding Thor, our giant "dingo." He is big, beautiful and most importantly, a super friendly dog. I feel a deep connection with Thor. He has a sensitivity that I have never observed in a dog before. Remember, I am a cat person. Thor is special.

We found Thor a year ago, while we were in transition to our new house. He was on the edge of belonging only to himself. We introduced him to belonging to a family. Thor is big and strong and agile. He is protective and loyal. I am not only writing about Thor today, to brag about what a great dog I have, I am also making an appeal for him. Transition has knocked on our door again, and we can't keep him.

Dear readers, if you or anyone you know and love is hopelessly in search of a big, energetic boy with tons of heart and personality, please consider Thor. He needs space with defined boundaries. Love from an alpha soul. It breaks my heart to continue without him, but he needs more than what we are going to be able to provide. To learn more about Thor, and meet him, please call me 2416 4259.

Waiting for a Prince

2010-12-07T05:50:00.000-07:00

Fairy tales are the best at suggesting that pretty girls lying around with bouquets of flowers have a good chance at being picked up by a handsome prince. I guess if you are five, this might sound pretty romantic and even a little thrilling, but let's face it, the reality of hanging around waiting for somebody to start your adventure is pretty dull.

Raising little girls in a rural environment can often feel like waiting around for opportunity to sweep them off their feet. Sure, we could drive over the mountains and through the jungle to many sensational things going on in San Jose and Escazu, but that is not why we moved here. We specifically transplanted ourselves to a small, rural town in Costa Rica because we wanted something different than the busy commuting lifestyle we were living in Denver.

It has been great, for our kids, so far. But kids have a habit of growing up like they are part of a circus side show, stuffed into little animation flip books. Seeing our girls mature tempts us to make that drive to get them to all that is going on. We want them to be broadened by culture and reach adulthood equipped with life experiences that ready them to choose their own adventures, with or without a charming prince.

Spring

2010-12-03T07:53:00.000-07:00

"Green" is a clever name for the rainy season in Costa Rica. It makes the risk of spending a vacation under the wrap of an unsightly plastic pancho a little more enticing. However, green takes on a whole new meaning once the vacation turns into permanent residency. Green is the color of mold that grows on shirts I should wear more often. Green makes my salt turn to sweaty chunks and keeps my bed in cool dampness.

There is a mystic beauty during the rainy season that I really do love. It's cozy to be in out of the rain and watch clouds drift over the hills. Still, when the "spring" flowers bloom and tease of "summer," it is with no hesitation that I bid farewell to the enchantment of the "green" season and embrace the dry, inside and out.

So, here we are at the beginning of December, waiting for the last drop of rain to fall from the sky. For green to turn to brown. I am ready to call off the seasonal affair I have with my dryer. To wear shoes with less of an inch of mud clearance. I am ready for the freedom to make plans outdoors without the threat of a downpour. So let the wind blow these soggy clouds away. I'm ready to play.

Gratitude

2010-11-26T09:13:00.004-07:00

Thursday, my family and I had the opportunity to celebrate Thanksgiving with some very dear friends of ours. I have so much in my life that I am grateful for including my awesome husband and fantastic daughters. Our little four pack has picked up some incredible friends along the years as well, and I am forever grateful to know each and every one of them. This journey of life is truly a gift.

It's Different

2010-11-19T16:18:00.007-07:00

So why would I choose a dirty, stinky, drunk guy sleeping on the curb next to the mangy dog town to call home? Because I only have to be in town when I need stuff, and living in rural Costa Rica requires very little stuff. When I am not in town collecting the stuff I need, I am home, drinking the landscape that surrounds me. Clouds float in and out of my world and the sun heats the fresh laundry that I've just hung on the line. I am perhaps busier here than ever before but time is mine to spend.

Life is Sweet

2010-11-12T17:03:00.004-07:00

In the down economy, it is great to see new jobs being created for people who could otherwise probably die of uselessness. Even here in Puriscal, opportunities have opened up which don´t require many skills at all. I am talking about the new parking cop jobs. If I sound bitter, well, maybe I am, just a little. After all, these guys are sucking all of the fun out of living in the funky, stinky, drunk guy sleeping on the curb next to the mangy dog town I call home.

When I moved to Puriscal, Costa Rica nearly seven years ago, we could park in the middle of the road. People did. Slowly, town has gotten more crowded with more and more people driving cars all around. If I try hard, I can see the logic behind paid parking. It should serve to discourage people from parking on the streets all day while they are at work, thus opening space for people wanting to do business with local merchants.

What I take objection to is the way it has come into effect. It is terribly inconvenient to buy paper parking vouchers to stick in your window and these guys offer no mercy AT ALL. Like flies at a picnic, they are on to the tiniest morsel of a violation and the result is that hardly anyone in town is parking on the streets. I have noticed most recently that all they have to do is stand around and look tidy, and important.

Life is sweet like that for some. A couple of weeks ago, I noticed one of them enjoying an icecream cone as he checked out the well shaped backside of a woman passing by. Just yesterday, one was standing idle watching as one of his "inferiors" painted the no parking side of the curb yellow. I wanted to go and grab him a brush of his own. At least he would be contributing to his cause. Of course, his polished shoes and starched duds might have gotten dirty. That would have been a pity.

Grateful

2010-11-06T20:19:00.005-06:00

I am posting quite late this week. All of our services have been off and on for the past couple of days. Yesterday, the faucet of torrential rain was shut off and today we had our first sight of sun in nearly a week. I am not complaining about anything. This storm took lives, neighborhoods, roads and bridges. Not knowing when it would stop put everyone on edge.

Costa Rica suffered, but we were only enduring the side action of a pretty large storm. Reading the news this week was sobering. People are dealing with disasters all over the world. It just makes me grateful to have shelter from the elements. A home I feel safe in. It is a luxury to never take for granted. Disaster could knock on anyone's door.

2010-10-29T21:08:00.000-06:00

Pretty Inside and Out

2010-10-22T17:34:00.003-06:00

Hands down, my favorite part about having a yard in Costa Rica is cut flowers. At any given moment, I can walk a few feet away from my house in any direction and cut away at gorgeous plants that I can arrange in a vase and stick on my table. The best part is that everything I cut just grows back stronger. That is fabulous.

Something in the Air

2010-10-15T10:45:00.000-06:00

Costa Rica sits just above the hem of the Northern Hemisphere and even though our tempatures here are constant year round, the seasons are dramatic. Each brings relief of the other and each has something that makes it my favorite. The charm of the rainy winters is in the cozy of books and soup and mystic little clouds drifting around. Summers brings warm, dry air and clean shoes. It gifts the liberty to play outdoors until after dark and make umbrella free appointments.

The past few weeks have been a mix of exausting amounts of rain and teasing hints of what is to come. The transition from rainy to dry arrives with a tinge in the air that envelopes your senses. It is as subtle as the secret in an heirloom recipe. It took me a while, but I can finally detect it. Like the rule of 6pm darkness, the equatorial seasons have become something that I can anticipate. Light and then dark, wet and then dry. The rumbling of the Earth comes when the winds begin to pick up speed. It is all a cycle.

Museo de los Niños

2010-10-08T09:46:00.000-06:00

Last weekend my husband and I took our girls to the Children's Museum, Museo de los Niños, in San Jose. Imagine that in the nearly seven years we have been living in Costa Rica, this was the first visit to what turned out to be a very worthwhile destination. Just one of many in the bustling capital city.

We had a lot of fun touring all of the interactive exhibits. Room after room offered worlds of science and culture and acted as a springboard for the imaginations of our young girls to go wild. Not wanting to miss a thing, we energetically moved from one fun activity to the next. It took a whole day and we could go back again and enjoy it just as much.

While the mirrored disco dance floor and airplane topped the list of the girls' favorites, the best part for me was the building itself. It is not often that I experience that feeling of age and character in a structure in Costa Rica. The brick walls alone made me feel good, but on top of that they were once the walls of a penitentiary. The omonous aesthetic has been cleverly maintained with documentary photographs, a small historical museum and in the details of an art gallery that sits on one side. If you find yourself with some kids and nothing to do, this is a must. Especially on a rainy day.

2010-10-01T21:10:00.000-06:00

Video Me

2010-09-24T16:41:00.000-06:00

I was born late. I'm not talking like a couple of weeks past my due date resulting in me being cut out of the womb. I'm going way back, to the pony express. I remember my husband encouraging me to get an email address long ago. At the time I was sure I would never stoop to such an impersonal form of communication. I stuck to licking envelopes as long as I possible could, but finally surrendered to the obviously more efficient form of communication.

Since, I have sailed along the high waters of technology rather gracefully, I think. I take for granted that I am living in the sticks and most of the world is texting in place of talking. I guess I could adapt to that too. Cud u plz pass da salt? It is appalling, but I bet I could catch on. There are, however, certain aspects of this whole great marvel in how we communicate that I would probably pass on. Namely, live video feed.

I know that it is really special for aunties, including myself, to get to see darling nieces and nephews instead of just talking to them, but the thrill in seeing how much Auntie Alison has changed is one I would pass on. It's sheer vanity coming from a girl who has taken dress and go to a whole new level. I can't remember the last time I wrote a paper letter. Just yesterday I chatted it up "live" with my sister and her family. It was great. I may be a mule, but I do keep going.

Frog Girl

2010-09-17T18:01:00.002-06:00

Inspiration for this blog comes in odd forms. Recently, I was browsing the great online forum, Costa Rica Living, when I came across an odd bit of information. I can't remember why, but someone shared that Poison Dart Frogs get their deadly venom from the insects they eat. As far as I know, we do not live around any poison dart frogs, but they are in Costa Rica and the random fact stuck with me.

So, I read more about it. It is suspected that the beautiful little frogs derive their toxins from the plants that the bugs they eat eat. That makes sense. After looking at some beautiful photos of these exquisite creatures and learning that some types have enough venom on them to kill ten grown men in one go, I went back to my chores. That was when my mind started to wander.

What if I ate the ants that eat the plants? Now, I don't have a mean streak or anything. I am thinking more on the lines of Frog Girl, the superheroine. Yes there could be more flattering alternatives, but none would pack such a punch. Of course, with my luck, Frog Girl would live in a laboratory somewhere. I hate bugs anyway.

Bruce, El Gato Malo

2010-09-10T06:52:00.000-06:00

Every neighborhood has one or two. Tough old cats that pick on pampered housecats and steal their food. Our girls have named the one around here Bruce. Our neighbors call him El Gato Malo, the bad cat. He is a grimy looking Black and White tomcat, the kind with a neck as thick as his shoulders and his face is pocked with battle scars.

Bruce fights with the neighbor's cats, but not ours. Our cats mingle with Bruce, and take no objection to him coming right into our open air kitchen and enjoying their food, or ours. Recently we woke to a package of crackers opened and munched on by Bruce. We have taken to using our oven for night storage of things which would have been placed on our open shelves. But there is Bruce.

Talking with a neighbor, I learned that Bruce has been a problem in the neighborhood for years. Twice, Bruce has been given a ride and dropped far away from here. Evidently he was taken as far as Parrita and it only took him three days to get home. Home, even without a family, Bajo Murrillos is his home. My oldest jokes that he must have a built in GPS.

When I was 14, my mom let me feed the strays in our apartment building on the condition that they stayed outdoors. At one point we had 13 cats. I remember befriending some of the scruffiest cats you can imagine. There is something different about Bruce. Like the dog Crispin's Crispian from the story Mr. Dog, Bruce is a cat who belongs to himself.

Just Drifting Around

2010-09-03T14:16:00.004-06:00

While I do get impatient at times, overall, I really love the way life is so unpredictable. Sure, I have some basic control over it, like when I go to town, and how often I eat cheese, but the big stuff is quite beyond me. My Yoga instructor always brings tidbits of wisdom to class with her. One that struck me recently is to basically live in the present. To enjoy "now" for all it offers.

I know that the things I wonder about the future are like pieces of driftwood at the mercy of the ocean's tides. I have no idea when opportunities will come up or on what shores I will find them. I do know that I am open to anything. I will not overlook the tiniest twig and I am strong enough to take on the gnarliest branches.

Letting go of the wonder and really settling into the now is a tricky thing to do. It is looking out at the horizon without searching for what is coming in. When I look around the here and now, I see two little girls who are growing at lightning speed. They make each moment savory, and for them I will take every opportunity that drifts in.