There is no need to worry about seeing “hate” in a Panamanian’s eyes because you are a gringo. Panamanians are smart and judge each and every person separately, as you would want them to. If you greet them with a smile and a pleasant greeting, then you will receive the same in return. Bottom line is treat others like you want to be treated.

I have never heard anyone from Boquete or the surrounding area talking badly about those that lived in any of the new developments. I must also qualify my comments some, since I haven’t lived there in Boquete in over two years. When I moved to Boquete in 2003 there was only one real development and the residents of the development were not portrayed badly, but at that time the developer was not spoken well of.

When I asked about the development and what the locals thought, they typically spoke about the builder who was not well liked from what I heard. As I understood it, this was based mostly on the developer’s perceived treatment of employees. It was said that it was typical for people to be employed and to have work until the time when social security was mandated and then the employees would be released. This was told to me often and many times in harsh tones. Whether the practice was true or not I have no idea, but when there is enough smoke there must be some reason.

I also heard comments that gringos were driving up costs. Now the emphasis at time was not only on property, but also on the cost of labor. It seems that many gringos were too ready to pay higher than the going rates and that was perceived as having a negative effect for everyone.

Panama is a great place to be. You just have to realize you are in a developing country and it will take a little time to adjust to the differences. You have to understand that each day is a new day. Some days you will enjoy fully. Some days will be a pain. Most things happen much slower here. Schedules slip (this is almost a constant). Products you saw yesterday in PriceSmart will not be there today when you go to buy them and may never return.

Some people adjust to the different pace and would never want to leave. Some people can’t adjust and are miserable and make others miserable also.

you say write more!

i am sure that was written after carson’s 2am wake-up!

they are so beautiful and olivia looks so grown up in that

pic with carson! aha but mamasita tells a story of a typical

bright and”think out of the bun” two year old. treasure

these moments they are fleeting frustating and fun.lol

ellen

I see that weather in Finland is becoming more warmer each day. I hope you are enjoying each day.