After the Coconut

I found this in the street of Punta Arenas, Costa Rica and was curious as to what it was. It took a while but I finally figured out this is what a coconut is attached to in a palm tree.

"After the Coconut" © Kathy Dunham 2009

Tiger's Claws

I found this spectacular flower in Costa Rica last month and it took me a while to track down it's botanical name, but thanks to my gardening friends I now know it's called a Gloriosa superba "Rothschildiana". That's a mighty big name for this stunning member of the lily family. Native to Africa and Asia, this tropical flower resembles a burning flame. It's also known as Tiger's Claws; why, I'm not sure.

"Tiger's Claws" © Kathy Dunham 2008

Sunset - Punta Arenas

We were headed back to the ship from our day's outing in the hills of Costa Rica when we noticed the sky sporting beautiful colors. Our guide said "looks like it's going to be a beautiful sunset". And under my breath I said "only if we get to the dock on time". I took this shot as we were driving onto the dock headed for our ship. It was beautiful but I wish we had been there sooner. Sunsets like this are so fleeting.

"Sunset - Punta Arenas" © Kathy Dunham 2008

One Big Ox Cart

Today we toured an ox cart factory in Sarchi, Costa Rica. This one sitting in the town square is the biggest ox cart in the world. I wonder if it fits "Babe", Paul Bunyan's big blue ox. He would certainly be a colorful addition to this beautifully decorated cart. Ox carts came into use at the beginning of the coffee trade in Costa Rica before the railroads and current day 18 wheelers. Lovingly hand painted, these colorful carts are now decorator items. And yes, I did buy a small one.

"One Big Ox Cart" © Kathy Dunham 2008

Almost There

We just departed the dock in San Diego and are almost to Pt. Loma as I write this. Yes, I'm on another cruise. This time to the Panama Canal. Tomorrow we'll be at sea. Our first port of call is Cabo San Lucas. Pictures will follow. This shot is from another cruise I took a few years ago, just to whet your appetite. It's Punta Arenas, Costa Rica. We'll be there in about 5 days.

"Almost There" © Kathy Dunham 2008

Big and Green

I love plants and flowers. I paint plants and flowers. But for the life of me, I haven't been able to figure out what kind of plant or flower this is. I spotted it in Punta Arenas, Costa Rica and loved the bright tropical colors. I've seen this in other tropical locations but none had an identifier on it. I'm still working on solving the mystery and won't give up until I do. Help anyone???

"Big and Green" © Kathy Dunham 2008