The magical ending to this sensory day was dinner at Isabel’s house. A practical and spontaneous invitation from Isabel when we bought the fish. Her brother thought we should cook and eat them there at the beach. But, we weren’t hungry since papusas are very filling, and there was no oil for frying those fish. Isabel said she would cook them at home and she invited us for six o’clock. Knowing that Isabel feels her home is very humble, we were deeply honored to be invited for this meal. When we arrived, the table where Isabel sews had been cleared and six chairs placed around it. The fish were almost done, fried two at a time on the outside fire. I set the plates and forks around and we all sat down. Soon, Amadeo, his son Ricardo and Tania brought their plates already filled at their house next door, and joined us at the table. Bon Provecho! It was such a comfortable and pleasant evening as we conversed in Spanglish – with Isabel providing context in whichever language needed. One would think this family regularly gathers around the table to share dinner with each other and guests. The spacious veranda room where we ate, was added just a few months ago. We were at the first ‘dinner party’ Isabel has ever given. David and I were enveloped by the family for the day and included like family in all the conversation at dinner. Beautiful memories for all of us. By eight o’clock, we thought it time to say good night, our hosts must have been exhausted! We had brought a flashlight to find our way back along the island path by the water. Ricardo insisted on accompanying us and Tania and Isabel joined too. As most of the houses were dark, and all the dogs along the way came out to bark at us, it felt like we had broken curfew! We lingered saying gracias and buenas noches – how long could we prolong the magic?

It has taken me over a week to write about this incredible day, while I digested the glow of a special friendship.
I have posted a story about the boat excursion we made with the Arce familia earlier in the day. Just scroll down through the blog.