Early this winter we went to Puerto Rico for the first time…just for a long weekend. Good timing–a nice trip before having shoulder surgery. I loved Old San Juan. The forts were just amazing–massive walls and such interesting structures, overlooking the ocean on a windy promontory.

That day there were hundreds of local families having picnics on the grounds and flying kites. Many of the kites were so high that you could barely see them. Beautiful kites in all shapes and sizes–red planes, intricate origami shapes, brilliantly colored butterflies, dragons.

The historic town was fun to visit, but the creatures on the island were interesting, too. 🙂 I loved the giant iguanas…one of which dropped from a high tree overhanging the hotel swimming pool, and landed with a huge belly flop amongst the swimmers. It was about four feet long from stem to stern, and f it had landed ON someone, it could have done some serious damage! It happily paddled around the pool for a while, then climbed out to sun itself amongst the sunbathers.

The beaches were beautiful…though the repercussions of enjoying them weren’t quite as lovely, as you can see! I love walking on beaches and wading in the waves. I was truly careful about watching out for trouble, but missed seeing a jellyfish in the waves. Above, you can see a photo of my lumpy, swollen feet five days later. Ouch! Jellyfish are now one of my least favorite creatures!