On the morning of our return trip, we had a schedule that permitted us to enjoy the breakfast buffet at the Crowne Plaza Hotel. The staff were all taken with Jack and although Nicaragua has no laws of any kind that provide access rights to perro servicio especial, Jack was permitted to accompany me without question. He posed for a photograph by the lobby Christmas tree as we made ready to leave for the airport.

The re-election of Daniel Ortega has caused speculation that political tensions in Nicaragua will plunge the country into civil unrest. We saw no evidence of that. While we were there, we made it a point to learn how people felt about the election and the country’s future. Without exception, from the wealthy businessman to the hard-working citizen, to the village inhabitant, the people of Nicaragua are optimistic and hopeful. Their lives have been positively impacted by the infusion of economic activity that foreign travelers, investors and developers bring. We felt safe and welcomed.

Rancho Santana is a gated-community with resort amenities; it was developed by American businessmen. As the first of its kind to spring up in this Pacific coastal paradise, the development has brought employment, job training and transportation to the villagers of Limon and Limon Dos. A quality-care clinic has been constructed just outside the Ranch’s gates and full-time medical staff provides immediate services to people who otherwise would have waited for buses to take them to Managua, over two hours away. We have met many of the casa and casita owners and a few who have purchased lots and intend to build. They represent a very diverse group from retired single women to couples with young children.

We have so many people to thank for our wonderful adventures. Tommy, Gloria, Fernando, Sinclair and Larissa - it was so much fun to spend time with you. Thanks amigos. Thanks chicas. Amistad es muy bueno.

Thanks to our driver, Edwin, who spoke so little English that he didn’t realize that he had made us believe that the stuffie men in Tola were security guards. Nestor gave us a day that we will long remember as he drove us from the ranch to Granada. Thanks for showing us those wondrous spots in Rivas! Your timing is impeccable, Walter; thank you for giving us the quick tour of Managua and for taking us to Sandino's feet.

At the Managua airport ticket counter, Jack's papers were stamped for the final time and we were free to go to the gate. It is obvious that the el visitar perro pocito is tired. I am always a bit sad when a fun adventure comes to an end but there is comfort in the usual, expected quality of life at home. The next time we get too bored with it though, we're heading back to Nicaragua.

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