Dave’s sudden about-face caused the light from his phone to flash directly into my eyes. He took a step toward me and said, “There’s bats in there.” Not knowing how many bats or how big they were sent my inner Tinkerbells doing backflips midair. I retreated just as he had. A moment later, a single, small black zigzagger fluttered into view, and I returned to earth, realizing we’d only disturbed one or two — no bigger than an oversized butterfly.
Today’s highlight was Arikok National Park, with its two limestone caves and a natural pool where the ocean crashes through rocky crevices. The caves sparked that rare little-kid feeling of awe and magic — like discovering a hidden room in your grandma’s house or getting a second scoop of ice cream with every topping you could want.
Even the part where we got lost and hiked over sharp, uneven rocks with less than a quarter cup of water added a dash of survival mode to the mix. You don’t really know thirst until you’re eyeing a stranger’s water bottle tucked in their unattended backpack, while they head off toward the natural pool with their tour group of fifteen. Thankfully, I have a logical, well-reasoned husband who said no — and he was right. We made it back to the car.
Once there, I chugged warm, fizzy gulps from a two-liter bottle of Coca-Cola Classic and downed an obscene amount of the plum-like fruit I’d picked up at an Aruban grocery store. I’ve been munching these reddish-pink guys all week without a clue of what they are.
Turns out, they’re called shimarucu — also known as the Aruba or Barbados cherry. But no cherry I’ve ever met tastes like that. They’re more like a mini plum, so to me they are plumini.
We’re officially in the second half of our trip, having moved into a house Dave’s sister Cathy, rented. It’s a totally different flavor of the island — more Sprite than Dr. Pepper. Whatever that means.
Next up? Snorkeling with sea turtles at Tres Trapi, and a visit to the capital city for museum looking and shopping. I cannot wait. My only regret is that I don’t have an underwater camera to show you the magic.
Oh! Remind me to tell you about the Aruba Refinery I saw on the southern end of the island — after I look into it a bit more.
It’s been a long, physical day, so I’ll leave you with some photos to pass on the island vibes.
See you tomorrow for Day 5 in Aruba.
Love,
Jaclynn
Going On 40 