My Tico family is preparing me for slaughter. That's the only reason I can think that they are feeding me so much. We eat 4 or 5 meals a day. Each one involves at least rice, beans, and/or bread. Today, for example, I started my morning with coffee, pineapple, gallo pinto (black beans and rice), bread, and sour cream. The sour cream here is different - it's almost like cream cheese, but softer. Hard to describe, but absolutely delicious on bread. They didn't think I would like it. Since I do, they've decided I eat like a Tico. Then we had an early lunch since I had a job interview at noon. This time it was just sandwiches and a refresco made from fresh fruit (pineapple, banana, papaya) - a quick snack. Then when I got back, we had our real lunch. It was a stew of beef, rice, and various root vegetables (yucca, potatoes, cheyote, and other things I can't spell). They also made one of the veggies "con dulce" - with sugar (and vanilla and spices) - for dessert. So good. Muy rico. I managed to skip the afternoon coffee (which involves more bread and cakes) since I had a late lunch and wanted to walk to the internet cafe. But when I get back, I am sure there will be food. And then around 8 we will eat another meal.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining. It's all wonderful. I am fat and happy. But at this rate I'm going to have to buy new pants.

When I'm not eating, I've been looking for a job. I'm trying not to stress out about the fact that I've been unemployed for almost two months now. I'm reminding myself that there is no rush to find a job here. I need to take my time, weigh my options, and find the best situation. Part of me is still clinging to the notion that my job is my identity, that I must work work work. But that's not why I'm here. So, this weekend, I'm going to take a break from the job hunt and go to the beach with my Tico family. They kindly invited me to go along with them to Jaco Beach for a few days. Their hospitality, like a bowl of gallo pinto, is never-ending.

I may be jobless, but I feel like a king. So, for now, life is good. What more could I look for?

Labels: costa rica