Upcoming Book Reading and Signing

Dear friends,

I will be reading and signing SHATTERED PARADISE at the beautiful Upstart Crow Bookstore and Coffee House on August 8th, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Hope to see you there :-)

Upstart Crow Bookstore and Coffee House
835C West Harbor Drive, Seaport Village
San Diego,CA 92101. 619-232-4855

Shattered Paradise: Memoirs of a Nicaraguan War Child

                                                                                        Now Available at Amazon! Click on the cover!

“Wonderfully evokes Nicaragua’s enchanting beauty and the enormity of its loss.”—Kirkus Reviews

"Descriptive and compelling, Shattered Paradise brings the reader to this magical land, its folkloric culture and its diminishing wildlife." —Maria Beltran, Readers' Favorite

WHEN  I LEFT NICARAGUA, I swore never to return. Twenty-four years have passed since I left my native land. “Someday, you will return,” Mama once said.  Her words were prophetic. Twenty-four years later, I found myself alongside Mama boarding an airplane to Managua, Nicaragua, and by sunrise I fell asleep. In my dream, I saw a little girl. She hopped over colorful frogs in the lush Nicaraguan rain forest. Howler monkeys swung from vines as the melody in my headphones rebounded off their cries—scattering leaves.  “Fasten your seat belt,” a gentle voice interrupted as we arrived to the land of my dreams. 

My hazed eyes turned to the window as if expecting to see what I’ve dreamt. Instead I saw volcanoes, remnants of the 1972 earthquake and a land, which appeared as viewed from a map: triangular, verdant, cooled by the Pacific Ocean and cradled by the waters of the Caribbean Sea. “We’re here!” announced Mama as we exited directly to the outdoors of the airport. The heat and the humidity of Managua seemed worse than when I left the country and my silk dress became one with my skin.  As we traveled away in an air-conditioned shuttle, I saw beautiful landscapes, murals painted with faces of heroes and graffiti that read “Patria Libre—Free Nation.” The streets were different from my new homeland; they lacked signs and names. But somehow, the third world country inspired tranquility, as smiling vendors pushed wooden carts and children played soccer in the streets with a deflated ball.

Later, when we arrived to our destination, I stood before the Mere Pacificum as bestowed upon it by Ferdinand Magellan to denote the peaceful sea of the Pacific Ocean. Its gentle waters wickedly hypnotized me into a tsunami of memories and as the sun settled, I saw hues of red, orange and yellow seemingly merging from the magnificent sky into the vast sea. The sea appeared calmer than usual and the sand caressed my bare feet as if loving me again, as if to remind me that my life wasn’t always a sad story. And to make matters worse, my skin failed to distinguish between the smooth sand rubbing against it and the velvety touch of the scattered leaves back home, the isolated cabin amid the cloud forests.

It was on that beautiful day, that I was forced to remember through the ripples of the water, how as a child in that heaven; I once enjoyed a world most could only dream of: endless days of riding horses through forests of warm rain and adventures on moonlit nights to the sound of distant jaguar cries. And as I closed my eyes, I could still see her, the rebellious curly haired girl running freely through the fog, rolling from the top of verdant hills that were scented by coffee blossoms and pungent orchids.

Desperate to cool off, I further immersed my body into the gentle waters of this peaceful sea. But the sand continued to impersonate the leaves of my beloved forests, delivering an electrical current throughout my bare feet, tickling them—the way the leaves used to feel when I removed my red water boots. To add to my moment of bliss, the warm breeze of the sea whispered into my ears—that all had ended. But as I recall, it was Mama who insisted that it was never my fault, but rather the curse of my elephant’s memory, the type that never forgets.

It felt strange to be back. I no longer felt at home and the natives saw me as a tourist, for I was disguised as one. I spoke with an accent, not native to Nicaragua or my naturalized home back in California. I wore the look of a Californian girl: Billabong sandals, Rip Curl shorts and a tank top covering my neon swimsuit. My mother in the other hand, attempted to give me away; she wore a white kimono with colorful embroidery and plastic sandals. For sure, they thought of us as tourists attempting to assimilate into their culture. If only they knew the truth, that I’ve known this land earlier, when the forests were denser and the towns were speckles in between the mountains—silent. If only they knew...that I once killed the spirit of a little Nicaraguan girl, but had returned to revive it once more.

Shattered Paradise: Memoirs of a Nicaraguan War Child was inspired after this visit.  I couldn't keep the memories of this beautiful country all to myself.   

The Irony of Life

The irony of life: a game of chess guided by predictions, choices—the element of time. What makes us interesting beings is the ability to go through life unnoticed, to blend amongst the ordinary and the grand, and to camouflage a past to where no one can tell it ever existed.
 
--Excerpt from Shattered Paradise: Memoirs of a Nicaraguan War Child

At last, I have found the courage to click on the "submit for publication" button and share my childhood with a world of wonderful strangers.  Cheers to life, friends and the excitement of the unknown.  

Share your greatest achievement with me...or adventure!  It will certainly soothe my nerves :-)

Winter Getaways

Big Sur, California

Happy 2013 everyone! Now that the holidays are over and a new year has begun, hopefully we have renewed our hopes and aspirations.  As many of you already know I strive to live life to the fullest —however long that life may be. Therefore, I set out to explore two of my most favorite places in California: Big Sur and Yosemite. After a few days of exploring Yosemite, we cut across the state and headed to the majestic coast of Big Sur, California, one of those seascapes that can remain forever in your mind. 

MacWay Falls and the Sun Setting by Highway 1

Driving along such an awe-inspiring landscape, I understood why the first settlers fell in love with this enchanting land.  From Yosemite, the landscape transforms into an Oak-filled landscape that stretches all the way to the sea. You can see how the land and the sea appear to meet in an almost primitive and  rhythmical way. The scenic highway 1 offers many turnouts to enjoy the scenery and plenty of opportunities to photograph its beauty.   By the time we approached our destination, we nearly stopped at every turnout!

The Purple Beach at Pfeiffer Beach

Although Big Sur offers many lodging opportunities, for years our family tradition has been to stay at the historic Big Sur River Inn, www.bigsurriverinn.com, a hidden jewel in the popular Big Sur, strategically located on Highway 1 and right next to a beautiful river.  Perhaps, the small lodge attracts many tourists from all parts of the world because it has been around since 1888, which was then named the “Apple Pie Inn.”  I happen to love apple pie!  When we first discovered this place, it was during the summertime at midnight.  My husband and I were so tired that all I remember was checking in and waking up with a million dollar view!  From there, the rest was history!  

A hearty breakfast or a romantic dinner by the large fireplace was ideal to mend all your worries. If that isn’t enough, you can have lunch on the wooden lawn chairs by the river or directly on the river.  The simplicity of the inn allows you the luxury to do whatever you wish, from sitting at the bar or simply sitting on a bench with your significant other to enjoy a glass of wine.  For families, the inn also offers a heated pool and an outdoor barbecue.  It is also the perfect place for an unforgettable dream wedding.

The beautiful ray of sunlight from the sun setting on Pfeiffer Beach

But for writers like me or those seeking to escape from it all, the inn offers the ultimate perk: privacy along with the serene sounds of the river—or better yet, a disconnection from civilization! As a frequent traveler, I have experienced many high-end resorts but the simplicity of this little inn is often hard to find.  But the thing I love the most from the River Inn is that it is my central point in which I use to explore the many natural wonders around that area. Big Sur is a photographers' and a writers' paradise and I indulge selfishly on the scenery.  The breathtaking coastal landscapes, such as Pfeiffer State Park, Pfeiffer Beach and Los Lobos State Park, are just some of the many places you can go to in order to absorb the best that nature has to offer.  This photos are for you to enjoy!  Cheers to a new and inspiring new year!  

A little time to meditate and enjoy the scenery

Yosemite: My Winter Wonderland!

A glimpse at Mirror Lake

If telling you that Yosemite is an awe-inspiring place is an understatement, that’s because it is just that. After fourteen years of not visiting this majestic place, I decided that it was time to visit once more with my husband and two preteen kids. While most people visit the park during the spring and summer, a rare wintery wonderland beckoned all of our senses.

A walk on the Merced river

Many know Yosemite National Park as the home to the world’s largest granite monolith, El Capitan.  It is also home to one of the tallest waterfalls in the world, Yosemite Falls.  As you enter the park, you are quickly absorbed into winding roads that are contoured by a variety of pines, oaks, firs and cedar trees to name a few. There is even one lone Elm tree in one of the meadows in the valley floor. The elevation ranges from 2,000 to 13,114 feet!  I traveled during the month of January in the New Year and it was a beautiful winter wonderland to say the least.  The snowcapped landscape made the geological landscape all the more incredible.  The snow covered the meadows but the waterfalls were still flowing from the immense cliffs.  If you pause to admire the wintery waterfalls, you could see the cold water transforming into snow while piling up at the foot of the waterfall, which then it turns into ice.  

Beautiful Landscaped Mountains 

A beautiful 600 foot drop at Bridalveil Fall 

As a writer, I wanted a one-on-one experience with nature.  Therefore, I contacted a couple of good friends that have vast experience all through out the park.  I explained to them my many restrictions and my endless wish list.  John and Gabe at www.yexplore.com, listened and for the next couple of days, showcased without reserve the beauty of Yosemite.  

A Mariposa Grove of Sequoias 

The only Elm tree in the Yosemite valley floor 

Bridal Veil Falls 

They first took us on a gentle hike, into a wintery landscape along the Merced River.  As we hiked and stopped to take photos of the beautiful snow capped mountains above us, they enchanted us with the history of the park by telling us the many stories of the Native Americans, John Muir, the Gold Rush, the glaciers and the first pioneers that helped protect this park from the pillaging of the land. Their expertise in the region was priceless as they are very aware of the weather and its patterns.  To make a long story short, we were caught-up so much on the place that we even forgot to eat!  Now, that’s a rarity. But as the old saying goes: a picture is worth a thousand words…here are some more landscape photos, courtesy of Joseph Gutiz.  Enjoy!

Majestic Sequoias

The Yosemite Chapel in the valley floor 

Pursue your dreams like an olympian!

Pursue your dream with a heart like an olympian! It is often easier to give up and accept what is closer and more feasible to achieve—the smaller or short-term dreams.  But what about the long term ones, are they too far fetched? Do they involve other planets?  The inspiration for this blog came from watching the 2012 Olympics, so many stories, heartbreaks, inspiration, and focused hearts and minds.  No matter how many times I see the Olympics, I’m reminded quite often that champions are not born; they are made out of determination, discipline or simply by allowing yourself to dream.  Every person is wired to do or at the very least attempt at accomplishing a dream or goal.    However, success comes with a price.  Take for example, the gymnast and gold medalist, Gabby Douglas who left her own family to pursue her dream.  Her capturing smile reminds me that once you choose to follow your path, there is no time for regrets or what ifs.  Should the dream crumble or a new one cross your path, perhaps you’ll be left with a smile and a fulfilling peace that at least—you gave it a try. Pursue your dreams my friends, you deserve it! I know, I will!

Southern Hospitality Part II: The Big Easy Way!

New Orleans instantly brings Mardi Gras and Bourbon Street to the minds of many. But my southern California family thought about exploring The Big Easy, in a different way.  First we stayed at one of the unique boutique hotels located in the heart of the French Quarter—The Mason Dupuy.  From there we boarded and immediately indulged in fine Creole dinning on a Mississippi River Cruise—The Natchez Steam Boat River Cruise. The next day, we ventured into the French Quarter for more fine Creole cuisine tasting and other indulging experiences. Finally, we finished our Big Easy trip in the alligator-infested swamps near Slydell, Louisiana!

Our trip first started from Southern California and was supposed to end in Florida. But we first had to get from San Antonio, Texas to New Orleans in about 8 1/5 hours (depending on how many times you stop by the roadside).  We drove past a few other great American cities like Houston, Beaumont and Baton Rouge to name a few, before getting to the Big Easy.  The road to New Orleans is a breathtaking one.  It is landscaped by marshes, lots of vegetation, bird life and alligator infested swamps!  At first I felt a bit hesitant about seeing or even interacting with the alligators—who are the real owners of the swamps. But upon admiring the scenery, I embraced its beauty and geographically important location in the history of the United States.

As we drove past Houston on the ten freeway towards New Orleans, we noticed a swampy area with a small bridge and stopped by to see if we could spot our first alligators.  We parked and walked through a small wooden bridge that would lead us to a view of the swamp.  At first we marveled at the murky waters, bromeliad, and moss covered cypress trees with a large Heron sanctuary full of nests.  We also listened to the cacophony of frogs and the buzzing of insects under the unforgiving warm and humid temperature of the Eastern most tip of the state of Texas.

Nonetheless, we were determined to see alligators, and sure enough it wasn’t long before we spotted a pair of eyes just above the water line--quietly looking at us.  It was then that behind the shield of the wooden railing, I began to take some pictures, recording the magic of the swamplands through the lens of the camera.  That was the first time we saw alligators in the wild--an absolute thrilling moment!

As we continued our road trip, we kept talking excitedly about our first encounter with the alligators and before we knew it we had arrived at New Orleans. A new world came to sight!  We could still see the remnants of hurricane Katrina but with a surprising touch of steady rebuilding and at times some fast growth of renovations of the historical buildings in the French Quarter.  At first, The Big Easy appears like no other with its buzzing nightlife, vibrant restaurants, world-renowned Jazz concert halls, and it’s famous party atmosphere.  But upon arriving at our hotel, I immediately felt the years of history and tradition apparent through the iconic walls of the French Quarter hotel-The Mason Dupuy.  The boutique hotel is in a class of its own. It offers a classical blend of history, mystery and sophistication along with the pleasant touch of the much talked about “southern hospitality.” Surely, there are many other choices, but the boutique hotel with its lush and tropical courtyard and balconies offered me a direct view of the quieter side of the French Quarter, igniting another great inspiration.

Jazz! New Orleans without jazz would be like the ocean without water.  I couldn’t wait to hear some of the fine musicians that are said to perform at the French Quarter.  From my hotel room I had choices to make:  I could sit and absorb the view from my balcony, go for a stroll and engulf into the New Orleans ambiance of the French Quarter in less than five minutes, head down stairs for a much needed splash in the hotel’s outdoor saltwater pool or simply relax listening to jazz at the casual Bistreaux!

Well, as the curious explorer that I tend to be, I ended up doing a bit of everything!  I spent some time sitting in the balcony reading pamphlets and traveling materials, and then stepped out into the cobblestone streets to explore the unique architecture and historical buildings of the French Quarter.  An artist's paradise if you have an eye for details and colors!  Strolling through those very old streets, I felt as if suddenly, I had landed somewhere else in the not so distant past. When done and tired from exploring, we returned to the hotel and immersed into the cool waters of the pool.  The weather in New Orleans was warm and humid!  But then again it was the start of summer and most of the United States, including New Orleans, was experiencing a record-breaking heat wave. The day ended at the hotel’s Bistreaux, where we spoiled our senses with great food and jazz music from the hotel’s resident jazz musician Paul Longstreth. Later, I would visit Preservation Hall for yet another enchanting evening of more jazz.

Up and ready to discover more of New Orleans, we boarded one of the Mississippi River day cruises: the Steamboat SS Natchez, which was built in 1975.  We were welcomed by a very hospitable staff and even shook hands with the captain! Once onboard, we indulged on a delicious Creole dinner, explored the port of New Orleans, wondered on the decks and eventually allowed for the current of the Mississippi River to take us into what would be another splendid sunset—all while listening to an amazing live jazz band. 

The call of the wild!  It’s either I seek nature or nature seeks me.  The next day, we were heading for more gators just a few miles outside New Orleans.  We booked a swamp tour with the great guidance of The Cajun Encounters.  Once there and as we waited for our tour, I enjoyed the landscape filled surroundings with a constant flow of dragonflies and a surprise sighting of wild pigs!

We were rounded up by our guide and escorted into our aluminum build swamp tour boat. At first, the boats made me a bit nervous as they appeared rather small and the tour guide shared a few funny jokes about gators enjoying tourists' flavored meals, LOL!  But the further we ventured into the swamps; all we could do was shoot with our cameras at the moss draped cypress trees, awe-inspiring wildlife such as a Great Blue Heron accurately spear fishing with its gracious beak, snakes hanging from tree branches and other birds roaming cautiously through the embellishing water lilies of the swamps. Then, came the moment we had all been waiting for and for a while I couldn’t tell who were the main attraction: the tourists or the alligators who came up close to our boat?  “Alligators love marshmallows!” Announced our tour guide as we giggled nervously.  Then, he began throwing a few in the water and like children, the alligators devoured them.  Until the big ten foot female alligator came up next to our boat towards the tour guide. He immediately took out a hot dog while petting her in exchange for more treats. Amazing, that’s all I could say!

As if that wasn’t enough of a fill of gators, we managed to head on down the road for a second fill of gators at this awesome Insta-gator Farm.  Unlike the swamp tours, the Instagator farm offers hands-on Eco-educational tours that explain the preservation of the species and its environment more in depth. Some of the tours even let you interact directly with alligators by holding them while their mouths are taped.  I learned so many things about alligators: from how they build their nest to even what frightens them!

There was so much more to see and do in New Orleans like:  the French Quarter haunting, its famous cemetery tours, Creole cuisine like Gumbo with delightful hot Beignets to complement the meal, beautiful neighborhoods, museums, art galleries, bars in nearly every corner—and of course, Mardi Gras in the Spring.  But the most valuable thing that will forever remain in my mind and heart is the highly spirited people we met while visiting New Orleans. The voices of New Orleans echo a strong history and whisper an unbeatable and unrelenting human spirit.

Until next time New Orleans…special thanks to the city of New Orleans, The Mason Dupuy, Cajun Encounters, Instagator Farms, and of course the gators who entertained us with such scaly hospitality! 

Southern Hospitality, San Antonio Style

Besides writing, I love traveling and exploring other worlds. This year, I wanted to do something different: perhaps with a bit of excitement, relaxation and some time to reflect on my next inspiration. This yearning led to a four thousand mile road trip to the southern states! My first destination ended up being San Antonio, Texas. My itinerary for San Antonio was a highly ambitious one: The River Walk, The Alamo, Museums, Sightseeing tours, a River Walk Cruise, Botanical Gardens, Zoos, Caverns, A Water Park, Market Square, Restaurants, Parks, the San Fernando Cathedral, Sea World, and not to mention the historical and cultural richness throughout the city.

The Alamo at Sunset

Being a writer and a photography enthusiast, I love taking road trips whenever possible.  Therefore, without much hesitation, I ventured from beautiful Southern California on a family road trip at about 2:00 a.m. For some people, this long road trip through most of the U.S. southern states could be considered a punishment, but to me, it was the opposite. The solemnity of the desert and the mystery of its living things opened the gates of our imagination. I’ve always wanted to visit San Antonio, the second largest city in Texas. Its rich history and cultural diversity, the home style cooking, and of course its well-known River Walk all appealed to us.

Beautiful city lights are abundant

As soon as we arrived, I immediately sensed a different charm to what I have experienced in other cities. As I began to explore downtown San Antonio, I could not help to see the resemblances between the lush waterways of the River Walk and it’s beautifully assembled architectural buildings to the waterways of Venice, Italy and the 1930’s style buildings of New York. I was also hungry, and the abundance of inviting restaurants with seating next to the river nearly became overwhelming. Nonetheless, I chose one of the Tex-Mex restaurants I thought had the greatest view by the river. We sat there like all the other tourists, slowly savoring a cold drink while at the same time enjoying a traditional San Antonio Tex-Mex meal.

Rio Cruises are a must

I eventually found the courage to leave the confines of the restaurant to embark on a Rio Cruise that is another unique San Antonio must-do experience. As I listened to the tour guide highlighting the historical aspects of the River Walk and the architecture of the buildings that are complimented by lush and exotic flora, I became sidetracked by the thriving animal life within the beautiful greenery.

The River Walk is a vibrant place at night as well

With no time to spare, early the next morning, I visited the alluring Natural Bridge Caverns. They are considered to be one of the largest caverns open to the public in Texas. Its inhabitants include bats and other small creatures of the underground world along side its most valuable asset, the limestone formations. We went through a two-hour self-paced tour marveling at how wondrous our world is. The caverns were truly another of San Antonio’s must see attractions.

The Natural Bridge Caverns are a unique place for the whole family

From there, we stopped by another particularly enticing place: The Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch. This is a rare and truly unique drive-in zoo that offers the longest running safari park in Texas with species from around the world. Upon entering the Zoo, you’re given a bag of food to feed the animals. It was beautiful to drive slowly, seeing the animals roam about as they would in their natural habitat. Then, at some point, my camera lenses detected a Llama preparing to spit into my window-but, not before I closed it!

The Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is another great place for the family

By now, I was ready to attack my itineraries some more! The next morning, we engulfed ourselves into a 45-minute IMAX docudrama entitled “ALAMO-The price of Freedom,” at the San Antonio IMAX theatre Rivercenter. The docudrama relived the history of the unforgettable Texan and Tejano defenders fight for independence. It explained the Alamo and the immense sacrifices that were made. Watching the movie helped me gain a better understanding of the meaning of the Alamo and the many people that made the ultimate sacrifice in order for future generations to live on its land freely. This is a must do attraction!

Before you go to the Alamo, the Alamo-The Price of Freedom IMAX docudrama is a must see

Afterwards, my family and I headed back to downtown San Antonio, which beckoned us to explore some of its many other attractions, like the Ripley’s Believe It or Not museum, that is located right across from the Alamo. As we visited the Wax Museum, we ended up having a few moments of fame with Oprah, President Obama and Jay Leno. But after getting spooked at the haunted house, we ended up paying a visit to the historical and breathtaking San Fernando Cathedral and the Main Plaza. The San Fernando Cathedral in San Antonio is said to be the oldest cathedral sanctuary in the United States. The famous Alamo defender James Bowie was married and buried there, Santa Ana used it as an observation post and other legends such as William Travis and Davy Crockett are also buried there! The cathedral is a spiritual experience to the soul and to the eyes as it has been breathtakingly designed. Afterwards, we returned to the reprieve of the River Walk for another Texas-size cold Margarita and the calming waters of the river.

Ripley's moving theater is a thrilling addition to its museum

There is so much to see and do at San Antonio! There is enough for the young and older who desire from: nightclubs, bars, zoos, ranches, caverns, eateries, museums, to art galleries and more. However, what makes it all the more remarkable is its rich history and memorable southern hospitality. With that being said, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the city of San Antonio for providing valuable tips and resources that made our experience at San Antonio—an unforgettable one.

The San Antonio Zoo is also a great place for the family

Stay tuned for Episode II—New Orleans and the Swamps!

Happiness

Happiness...an exquisite pursue!

Happiness is transient and is dependent on our personal aspirations and values. Our pursuit for happiness never ends, as we might find ourselves switching from happiness to unhappiness from one moment to the next. Based on my personal experience, overall happiness could be stored into our good memories, by trapping every moment of bliss-however small that moment may be.

Happiness like love, must be nourished and protected. We are the sole owners of our happiness and only we can change the things that make us happy or unhappy. Our happiness should be based on our very own feelings: our ability to love, and aspirations: our ability to dream without dead ends. As an advocate for war survivors and a survivor myself, I have concluded that in this world, there is much more to laugh than to cry about. Every day we are alive is a reason to smile, every heart beat that takes us closer to the 3 billion heart beats in a lifetime, is a reason to feel blessed, and every hug, kind word and kiss we receive from our loved ones is a reason to feel lucky and endlessly happy. Our true happiness depends on us and lies inside our own human spirit. We only need to search inside our souls. If we can’t find it, we need to just look around, particularly at the less fortunate throughout the world, and realize that if they are capable of smiling, then so can we.

Overall, true happiness lies in the essence of a positive human spirit. To me there are two kinds of happiness: 1) the type provided by material gains and 2) the type provided by spiritual, emotional and overall self-actualization gains. Both are needed to some extent. Therefore, the key to happiness is simplicity. The simpler the life style and the goals we set for ourselves, the more likely we are to accomplish our goals, and as a result we’ll feel happier with ourselves and our surroundings. This is not to say that we should have a mediocre mentality in order to achieve happiness, in the contrary, we are free to dream and achieve anything we want, just as long as we keep reality alongside.