When you first arrive the whole place seems chaotic. The parking lot is jammed and the halls are crowded. But on further inspection, everything has a purpose. The five studios are holding classes, with about ten students per class plus two teachers. Each class of students has a different uniform. In the halls are ten more students waiting for the next class, along with the parents waiting to pick up the students in the present class. Every child is wearing ballet costume with hair pulled back in a bun. Tights and short shorts, leotard. The students look marvelous as they are put through their paces. And they work hard during their lessons, stretching, jumping, working on the bar.
Molly loves her classes. Her age group wear a white leotard, white tights with a short white skirt over the leotard. Her hair is pulled up in a bun. She looks the perfect little ballerina. The teacher puts them through their paces, stretching their joints and pointing their toes and moving their arms into different positions. They walk and run and jump, but not exactly the way the teacher demonstrates. In addition the teacher is beginning to teach them their dance, to be used at the big recital in May. I can not imagine how it will ever work, but I bet it does. Hands and arms were everywhere, but not any girl doing the same. But the four year old girls loved every thirty minutes of the class.
Right across the hall were the advanced students, learning their dance for the recital. They are all on point and doing fancy steps. What a difference ten years makes to a budding ballerina.
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Monday, February 27, 2012
February 27, 2012. Jackson, Mississippi. Mississippi Health.
Ken and I spent all morning dealing with the good folks at the Mississippi health officials. Every person was competent and pleasant and helpful. It was a wonder to behold.
One thin black man works as a guard at the entrance of the Medical Mall. He helps people out of their cars and directs people where to go. He comes inside to tell those waiting that their car has arrived. He greets every one coming into the Cancer Clinics. In other words, he has a perfectly ordinary low skilled job that does not require degrees or extensive technical training.
But his job is important to him and to all the patients. He knows what he is doing and why.
When I was ready to leave, I told him how well he had done all morning. I had been sitting in the waiting room waiting for Ken to pick me up, so had observed his manner. His comment did not surprise me. "I try to be polite to everyone because I know they will have a difficult time at the clinic. I want everyone to feel good when they leave here", said the thin black man at the Medical Mall. He made me feel good just watching him work.
One thin black man works as a guard at the entrance of the Medical Mall. He helps people out of their cars and directs people where to go. He comes inside to tell those waiting that their car has arrived. He greets every one coming into the Cancer Clinics. In other words, he has a perfectly ordinary low skilled job that does not require degrees or extensive technical training.
But his job is important to him and to all the patients. He knows what he is doing and why.
When I was ready to leave, I told him how well he had done all morning. I had been sitting in the waiting room waiting for Ken to pick me up, so had observed his manner. His comment did not surprise me. "I try to be polite to everyone because I know they will have a difficult time at the clinic. I want everyone to feel good when they leave here", said the thin black man at the Medical Mall. He made me feel good just watching him work.
Sunday, February 26, 2012
February 26, 2012. Jackson, Mississippi. Molly.
We arrived late to their home and Molly was asleep, but the hubbub and noise at the front door woke her up. Christina sent Kate to get her up and bring her out to say hello. At first she was shy and slow to talk so when we sat down at the dining table for a bowl of home made lentil soup and home made bread, I asked her what she had done that day. She told me all about the movie she had watched that day. Then she related all her movies, one after another.
This did not last long for soon the older girls and the four adults changed the conversation, but at any pause in the conversation, Molly quickly picked up her train of thought, returning to all her movies. This happened many times. Eventually we all laughed as Molly returned to her own conversation. By the time we are finished our meal, complete with home made baklava, Molly was beginning to tell us all the Christmas movies that we missed. She did point out to us that we had missed Christmas!! It was a bit of a snapshot of a four year old, being asked a question, then trying to keep the conversation going with her in charge. She normally is not interesting in being the focus of attention, but that night she was on a roll. I believe she could have gone on for an hour.
This did not last long for soon the older girls and the four adults changed the conversation, but at any pause in the conversation, Molly quickly picked up her train of thought, returning to all her movies. This happened many times. Eventually we all laughed as Molly returned to her own conversation. By the time we are finished our meal, complete with home made baklava, Molly was beginning to tell us all the Christmas movies that we missed. She did point out to us that we had missed Christmas!! It was a bit of a snapshot of a four year old, being asked a question, then trying to keep the conversation going with her in charge. She normally is not interesting in being the focus of attention, but that night she was on a roll. I believe she could have gone on for an hour.
Saturday, February 25, 2012
February 25, 2012. Jackson, Mississippi. Screaming.
Some people scream when anything goes wrong. There must be a genetic advantage to screaming because it seems to occur in about thirty percent of all people. Yesterday on the flight from Puerto Vallarta to Houston, the plane hit an air pocket and suddenly dropped. Cups flew, peoples head hit the ceiling, water was everywhere and of course, people screamed. The turbulence continued for what seemed a long time, until the plane went up to a higher elevation and life was again smooth. But by then, everyone was soaked, including me.
In some instances, screaming makes sense. When Gill was attacked in New York, she screamed, and sure enough, people came out of their apartments and came to her aid. But what advantage is there to screaming on the airplane? No one can help except the pilots and they can not hear the screaming. I must say though, yesterday, only women screamed. And I recall that when going through the rapids in the Grand Canyon, the only screamers were women or to be more precise, woman. Interesting.
In some instances, screaming makes sense. When Gill was attacked in New York, she screamed, and sure enough, people came out of their apartments and came to her aid. But what advantage is there to screaming on the airplane? No one can help except the pilots and they can not hear the screaming. I must say though, yesterday, only women screamed. And I recall that when going through the rapids in the Grand Canyon, the only screamers were women or to be more precise, woman. Interesting.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
February23, 2012. Playa Royale, Mexico. Birding.
I am not a birder but I like to watch the birds. Sitting on our balcony, we see the little birds as they fly in to pick up crumbs left from our sunset food. Most birds who visit the balcony are sparrows, beautiful little birds that I think are House Sparrows.
This season a much smaller bird has been a regular visitor to our seventh floor balcony. I have yet to identify this tiny bird, despite the fact that I have three books of birds. Gill decided to put out crackers to entice them to come more often, so every day, more crackers were crumbled up and placed on the outside ledge. Of course, Gill and I sat and watched them every morning while eating breakfast outside. And we poured through my inferior books.
Gill looked up birds on the Internet and finally decided that what we were looking at was a yellow breasted warbler. Pat, our birder friend suggested that warblers did not normally visit balconies to eat cracker crumbs, so we were probably wrong. At first I thought it was a wren, then a stripe headed tanager, but this bird is small. This bird has a grey back, white stripe back from the eyes, about the size of your thumb with pretty white markings on the edge of the wing.
I can see why people get involved with birds. Gill and I spent hours discussing this bird and Gill took many pictures. We hope one will turn out well. In the meantime, we need one of our birder friends tell us the name of this lovely little bird. We actually have no clue.
This season a much smaller bird has been a regular visitor to our seventh floor balcony. I have yet to identify this tiny bird, despite the fact that I have three books of birds. Gill decided to put out crackers to entice them to come more often, so every day, more crackers were crumbled up and placed on the outside ledge. Of course, Gill and I sat and watched them every morning while eating breakfast outside. And we poured through my inferior books.
Gill looked up birds on the Internet and finally decided that what we were looking at was a yellow breasted warbler. Pat, our birder friend suggested that warblers did not normally visit balconies to eat cracker crumbs, so we were probably wrong. At first I thought it was a wren, then a stripe headed tanager, but this bird is small. This bird has a grey back, white stripe back from the eyes, about the size of your thumb with pretty white markings on the edge of the wing.
I can see why people get involved with birds. Gill and I spent hours discussing this bird and Gill took many pictures. We hope one will turn out well. In the meantime, we need one of our birder friends tell us the name of this lovely little bird. We actually have no clue.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
February 22, 2012. Playa Royale, Mexico. Curling.
This is the best time of the year if you enjoy watching Curling on television. The Women's Championship of Canada, called the Scottie, is being played in Red Deer. If you are able to watch a CBC channel, you could watch the action two hours in the morning, two hours in the afternoon and all evening until the evening match is over. The finals will be held on Sunday. Every province sends one team, plus the championship team from last year. Competition has been stiff.
Then beginning on March 3, the Men's Canadian championship will start, called the Brier. The final will be held March 11. The quality of the curling will be high and very competitive. I am delighted that we will be able to watch the matches in Nova Scotia.
Shortly after the Brier, the World Championship will be held in Sweden, with the winners of the women's Scottie and the men's Brier representing Canada. It is a big deal to represent your country in any sports and the players I am watching in the Scottie are just as keen as any other athlete. I am enjoying watching these ladies curl.
Then beginning on March 3, the Men's Canadian championship will start, called the Brier. The final will be held March 11. The quality of the curling will be high and very competitive. I am delighted that we will be able to watch the matches in Nova Scotia.
Shortly after the Brier, the World Championship will be held in Sweden, with the winners of the women's Scottie and the men's Brier representing Canada. It is a big deal to represent your country in any sports and the players I am watching in the Scottie are just as keen as any other athlete. I am enjoying watching these ladies curl.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
February 21, 2012. Playa Royale, Mexico. Moving On.
I have started. While Gill was in Puerto Vallarta, being a tourist, I began the task of returning our belongings to the lockers. It is interesting to note that every time I fill the lockers, the job is done more efficiently, I suppose because I have learned from experience. Today I filled the top shelf with paper products, and began to fill the bottom. First in goes the Mexican blankets and the books. Last year we took all our books down to the lending library, so we have only four books to store.
There is something perverse in my attitude. I thoroughly enjoy the organizing and the packing. It is not that I haven't enjoyed our time here, but when we are ready to leave, I am delighted to ' pack it up and move them out'. I know friends are sad when they must leave a place that is lovely, but not me. I am ready to roll.
We will not be back to Mexico until January 2013, so no food products will be left in the lockers. But our clothes will be ready when we return. All we will need to do is launder everything to get rid of the musty smell. Detergent and bleach works wonders. By Friday morning, the lockers will be full and we will be ready to get on the plane. Today, I started my task.
There is something perverse in my attitude. I thoroughly enjoy the organizing and the packing. It is not that I haven't enjoyed our time here, but when we are ready to leave, I am delighted to ' pack it up and move them out'. I know friends are sad when they must leave a place that is lovely, but not me. I am ready to roll.
We will not be back to Mexico until January 2013, so no food products will be left in the lockers. But our clothes will be ready when we return. All we will need to do is launder everything to get rid of the musty smell. Detergent and bleach works wonders. By Friday morning, the lockers will be full and we will be ready to get on the plane. Today, I started my task.
Monday, February 20, 2012
February 20, 2012. Playa Royale, Mexico. Catherine The Great.
It is a book well worth reading. The full title is Catherine The Great: Portrait of a Woman. She was a woman of the eighteenth century and did much to begin the collection of art in Russia. Of course, she did a lot of other things of which we do not approve, such as taking over and dividing Poland into three parts, and incorporating the Crimea into Russia. She toyed with the ideas of the enlightenment but when the French Revolution began, she quickly retreated from any such radical ideas.
She believed in having a benevolent autocratic monarch and inherited positions, something which is not acceptable to our way of thinking. But she was quite an amazing lady. I knew a bit about Russian history but not much detail from the 17th and 18th centuries, so this book filled in all the gaps. The politics of Europe was important in the book, if for nothing else than for who was going to marry which prince or princess. It really was a ridiculous system, this system of inherited positions. Long term, it did not serve anyone well.
I enjoyed reading about this important lady, who was a German Princess who became the Empress of Russia. You must read the book to find out how this came about.
She believed in having a benevolent autocratic monarch and inherited positions, something which is not acceptable to our way of thinking. But she was quite an amazing lady. I knew a bit about Russian history but not much detail from the 17th and 18th centuries, so this book filled in all the gaps. The politics of Europe was important in the book, if for nothing else than for who was going to marry which prince or princess. It really was a ridiculous system, this system of inherited positions. Long term, it did not serve anyone well.
I enjoyed reading about this important lady, who was a German Princess who became the Empress of Russia. You must read the book to find out how this came about.
Sunday, February 19, 2012
February 19, 2012. Playa Royale, Mexico. Grocery Shopping.
My Mother would be mortified. My guest, Gillian, has just gone to the market to buy beer and vegetables. My excuse for having an empty fridge is that we are leaving on Friday, so we do not want a lot of food to give away. I told Gill that we would go to the market after we had finished all the beer and liquor in the apartment, and the same for vegetables. She laughed and said she would calculate the amount of beer necessary, then go to the market herself.
In my lifetime, we have hosted many house guests and have always had a refrigerator and freezer full of food with plenty of meat, fruit and vegetables ready to eat at any time. But not this time. My excuse is that I was not sure how often we would eat out so I assumed we would dine out often and need little food or beverages. If we did not, the market is just down the road. But I see I should have been prepared.
I am sure both Gill and I will regale our friends in Nova Scotia about the time she came to visit us in Mexico and was required to shop at the market before she had enough food to eat. It would be true too.
In my lifetime, we have hosted many house guests and have always had a refrigerator and freezer full of food with plenty of meat, fruit and vegetables ready to eat at any time. But not this time. My excuse is that I was not sure how often we would eat out so I assumed we would dine out often and need little food or beverages. If we did not, the market is just down the road. But I see I should have been prepared.
I am sure both Gill and I will regale our friends in Nova Scotia about the time she came to visit us in Mexico and was required to shop at the market before she had enough food to eat. It would be true too.
Saturday, February 18, 2012
February 18, 2012. Playa Royale, Mexico. Cooking.
Talk about two bulls in a china shop! Tonight, Gill and I cooked dinner together. The problem is that neither of us like to cook but each of us like to be in charge. I would suggest something but Gill would do it another way. Then I would tell her what I was going to do but she told me that it would taste terrible if I did it that way. Both of us are laughing all the while. We both know our expertise in the kitchen. Finally, Gill gave up helping and went to read in the living room with Ken. I completed the preparations and we finally ate a tasty stir fry shrimp dinner at 7:45.
This morning Gill and I walked to the Mall where Gill bought a new outfit in the wonderful Mexican cotton. She looks great in her natural color Capri pants and bright pink shirt. Look for her wearing it in Nova Scotia this summer. We were clearly going to run out of food, so we shopped at the market, then after lunch and a short nap, we spent the rest of the afternoon at the pool. The weather was spectacular. After watching the sunset and drinking a beer, we began cooking. Ken begged off because of his aching ear.
It was a fine good day for Gill. Tomorrow night we will dine out!!
This morning Gill and I walked to the Mall where Gill bought a new outfit in the wonderful Mexican cotton. She looks great in her natural color Capri pants and bright pink shirt. Look for her wearing it in Nova Scotia this summer. We were clearly going to run out of food, so we shopped at the market, then after lunch and a short nap, we spent the rest of the afternoon at the pool. The weather was spectacular. After watching the sunset and drinking a beer, we began cooking. Ken begged off because of his aching ear.
It was a fine good day for Gill. Tomorrow night we will dine out!!
Friday, February 17, 2012
February 17, 2012. Playa Royale, Mexico. Gillian.
Gill flew from Toronto and arrived at 3:45. Flight Tracker system is great. I knew her flight left late and I knew when she was expected to arrive and I knew exactly when she did arrive. I estimated her time getting through customs, then waited downstairs on the bench until she arrived. Sure enough, after ten minutes, up she drove in a taxi, all set for a week in the warm weather.
After Gill showered and unpacked, we ate cheese and crackers and drank beer while we watched the afterglow of the sunset and talked about our children and mutual friends. We had a lot to catch up on since we have not seen each other since last summer in Nova Scotia. At dinner we talked about what she wants to do here while she is in Nuevo Vallarta. We will spend time in Bucerias and another day in Puerto Vallarta, seeing the new Malecon. We will not cook much at home. But we will all have a good time, I am sure.
After Gill showered and unpacked, we ate cheese and crackers and drank beer while we watched the afterglow of the sunset and talked about our children and mutual friends. We had a lot to catch up on since we have not seen each other since last summer in Nova Scotia. At dinner we talked about what she wants to do here while she is in Nuevo Vallarta. We will spend time in Bucerias and another day in Puerto Vallarta, seeing the new Malecon. We will not cook much at home. But we will all have a good time, I am sure.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
February 16, 2012. Playa Royale, Mexico. The Aging Thing.
My brother already thinks I have lost my mind. When he hears this latest story he will certainly think he is right.
I have been telling everyone that Gill is coming on Thursday. On Wednesday I e mailed her to tell her to pack light. She was at work, but got back to say that she thought she was coming on Friday but she would let me know after she was at home. I assumed that the problem had to do with my calendars. The big one by the phone said one thing and my little pocket calendar said another. In addition, I felt sure that I put the information on the large calendar directly from Gill's e mail confirming her flights. I was sure I was right.
Gill e mailed to say that she would be here on Friday.
I then looked at Gill's old e mail and sure enough, her information was correct. And to make it worse, my large calendar says she is arriving on Friday. Nowhere does it say she is arriving
on Thursday.
My problem has to do with opposites. I switch days and dates regularly and have done so since I went loopy. Most of the time I correct myself, but had I not e mailed Gill, I would have gone down to wait for Gill, sitting on the bench wondering why she was not appearing. But don't tell my brother.
I have been telling everyone that Gill is coming on Thursday. On Wednesday I e mailed her to tell her to pack light. She was at work, but got back to say that she thought she was coming on Friday but she would let me know after she was at home. I assumed that the problem had to do with my calendars. The big one by the phone said one thing and my little pocket calendar said another. In addition, I felt sure that I put the information on the large calendar directly from Gill's e mail confirming her flights. I was sure I was right.
Gill e mailed to say that she would be here on Friday.
I then looked at Gill's old e mail and sure enough, her information was correct. And to make it worse, my large calendar says she is arriving on Friday. Nowhere does it say she is arriving
on Thursday.
My problem has to do with opposites. I switch days and dates regularly and have done so since I went loopy. Most of the time I correct myself, but had I not e mailed Gill, I would have gone down to wait for Gill, sitting on the bench wondering why she was not appearing. But don't tell my brother.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
February 15, 2012. Playa Royale, Mexico. Home Made Soup
I have made soup thousands of time, and each time the soup is different. Today I will make soup again and Ken and I will enjoy eating the soup tonight at supper. It will be good and it will be different.
I made the broth from simmering the chicken bones for several hours. Ken cooked a large chicken the other night and I rescued the bones. The pot is still sitting in the refrigerator. Soon I will skim off the fat and drain the juice, then add the leftover vegetables I have kept in the freezer. Finally I will taste it and add whatever is needed. We have only one week left in Mexico so we are trying to eat up as much food as possible, so no telling what I will put into the soup.
I always call my soup Left Over Soup, for good reason. Recipes are never used. The soup is always tasty and is always different, always prepared by Ruth, the one who doesn't cook!!
I made the broth from simmering the chicken bones for several hours. Ken cooked a large chicken the other night and I rescued the bones. The pot is still sitting in the refrigerator. Soon I will skim off the fat and drain the juice, then add the leftover vegetables I have kept in the freezer. Finally I will taste it and add whatever is needed. We have only one week left in Mexico so we are trying to eat up as much food as possible, so no telling what I will put into the soup.
I always call my soup Left Over Soup, for good reason. Recipes are never used. The soup is always tasty and is always different, always prepared by Ruth, the one who doesn't cook!!
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
February 14, 2012. Playa Royale, Mexico. The Iowa Farmer.
They are farmers from Iowa. That was enough for me to invite them to our condo for a drink. It was the Gettysburg book that attracted me at first, so I left my group to tell them of another Civil War book, and ended up inviting them over when I found out they raised Angus cattle. You can't often pick the brain of a farmer from Iowa, let alone someone who raises cattle.
Tonight, they came over for a drink. They are delightful. We talked farming and cows and calves. I finally had to admit that we read a lot of farming magazines but the real farming is done by our farmer friends The Jays. But these good folks are farmers and run 200 head of cattle, selling the calves and growing corn and grains to feed the cattle in the winter. He was involved with the political world too and is the President of the Farmers Association in their county, also serving in the state legislation for many years.
Now, their daughter and son-in-law run the farm and their three other daughters live within a half mile of each other. He still works on the farm but now they get to take a three week vacation in Mexico. We enjoyed talking with them and hope to see them again.
Tonight, they came over for a drink. They are delightful. We talked farming and cows and calves. I finally had to admit that we read a lot of farming magazines but the real farming is done by our farmer friends The Jays. But these good folks are farmers and run 200 head of cattle, selling the calves and growing corn and grains to feed the cattle in the winter. He was involved with the political world too and is the President of the Farmers Association in their county, also serving in the state legislation for many years.
Now, their daughter and son-in-law run the farm and their three other daughters live within a half mile of each other. He still works on the farm but now they get to take a three week vacation in Mexico. We enjoyed talking with them and hope to see them again.
Monday, February 13, 2012
February 13, 2012. Playa Royale, Mexico. Gettysburg.
I spotted the book as soon as we sat down. Gettysburg, was the name. We four went down to our favorite bar in the Hotel with Don and Doreen. They have Happy Hour from 4 to 7 so as this is the last evening for them In Mexico, we went out for a drink. It was fun and festive. We ate nachos and drank wine, except for Doreen who drank a virgin Pina Colatto.
The folks at the adjacent table were about our age so I spoke to them about the Civil War and told them about the book I had just read. One thing led to another so I invited them over for a drink tomorrow at our place. They are farmers from Iowa and run 200 head of cattle on their farm. They are real farmers while we are gentlemen farmers, just writing cheques when necessary, but I wanted Ken to talk to them and pick their brains. The bar was way to loud for decent conversation.
One of the charms of living in a resort in Mexico is that you meet lots and lots of very nice people. Tomorrow we will meet two more, all because I was nosy and read the title of their book.
The folks at the adjacent table were about our age so I spoke to them about the Civil War and told them about the book I had just read. One thing led to another so I invited them over for a drink tomorrow at our place. They are farmers from Iowa and run 200 head of cattle on their farm. They are real farmers while we are gentlemen farmers, just writing cheques when necessary, but I wanted Ken to talk to them and pick their brains. The bar was way to loud for decent conversation.
One of the charms of living in a resort in Mexico is that you meet lots and lots of very nice people. Tomorrow we will meet two more, all because I was nosy and read the title of their book.
Sunday, February 12, 2012
February 12, 2012. Playa Royale, Mexico. Curling.
I discovered someone else likes watching Curling on TV. Doreen does not enjoy watching football or hockey or basketball or baseball. Don watches hockey and football. I asked Doreen if she enjoyed any sports on TV? She said "I love to watch curling on TV". I laughed out loud. I thought that no one but Ken and me enjoyed watching Curling on TV. I immediately e mailed my friend Mary in Nova Scotia who hates Curling. She was unimpressed.
Ever since Doreen has been here and we had the conversation about curling, I have been trying to find Curling on TV. Finally, yesterday, the Canadian Women's Junior Championship was being played in Napanee, and it was on TV. Of course, we watched. Tonight we watched the men's Junior Championship. Both matches were interesting. Alberta won both so they go on to Sweden to represent Canada at the Junior World Series of Curling March 3 to 11.
But I won't watch because Ken and I will be in Nova Scotia. The Canadian Championship for seniors, called The Brier, is being held in Saskatoon from March 3 to 11. I intend to watch every game. I am so excited. Our TV in the US never carries these curling matches so I am pleased we will be there for the Brier. Maybe I will invite Mary over to watch.
Ever since Doreen has been here and we had the conversation about curling, I have been trying to find Curling on TV. Finally, yesterday, the Canadian Women's Junior Championship was being played in Napanee, and it was on TV. Of course, we watched. Tonight we watched the men's Junior Championship. Both matches were interesting. Alberta won both so they go on to Sweden to represent Canada at the Junior World Series of Curling March 3 to 11.
But I won't watch because Ken and I will be in Nova Scotia. The Canadian Championship for seniors, called The Brier, is being held in Saskatoon from March 3 to 11. I intend to watch every game. I am so excited. Our TV in the US never carries these curling matches so I am pleased we will be there for the Brier. Maybe I will invite Mary over to watch.
Saturday, February 11, 2012
February 11, 2012. Playa Royale, Mexico. Rain.
The forecast was correct. The weatherman told us yesterday that we would have rain all day tomorrow. I assured Don and Doreen that it had never happened since we lived here so the forecast was undoubtedly wrong. But I was wrong. All day today it rained. I am told it rained all night too. It was actually kind of nice. We sat on the balcony and listened to the rain. Don read all day while sitting on the balcony.
Way out at sea, the sun finally broke through. All around us it was still raining. We saw a beautiful sunset plus a double full rainbow on the back side of the building. It was beautiful. Did you know that when you see a double rainbow, the order of the colors are reversed? The inner rainbow was the brightest rainbow I have seen. It was an amazing sight and worth all the rain.
We ate sunset food sitting on the balcony still listening to the rain watching the afterglow from the sunset. Very nice sight indeed.
Way out at sea, the sun finally broke through. All around us it was still raining. We saw a beautiful sunset plus a double full rainbow on the back side of the building. It was beautiful. Did you know that when you see a double rainbow, the order of the colors are reversed? The inner rainbow was the brightest rainbow I have seen. It was an amazing sight and worth all the rain.
We ate sunset food sitting on the balcony still listening to the rain watching the afterglow from the sunset. Very nice sight indeed.
Friday, February 10, 2012
February 10, 2012. Playa Royale, Mexico. An Overcast Day.
It is unusual, but today the sun did not shine. In fact, it sprinkled rain for a bit. The sun lovers will not be pleased, but the four of us spent the day reading and were perfectly happy with our day. Don read all day sitting outside on the balcony and was comfortable with the weather, even wearing long pants for the first time. Doreen stretched out on the couch. Ken bounced from computer to chair to bed while I stayed in my chair reading my magazines that arrived from our mailing service this week.
For lunch we walked up to the tiny taco shop where the tacos cost one dollar each. Grace has expanded her menu so today we ate chicken soup and casadillas, which were both excellent. And the price was right. We intended to eat lunch but ended up with a full meal, costing $25. total. Don paid. Tonight we will dine on pizza from our freezer.
There will be no sunset tonight, thus no sunset food. Ken tells us that tomorrow we might even have a storm. Now one day without the sun is pleasant but two in a row is unheard of. Here in Paradise the sun should shines. It says so in all the advertisements!!
For lunch we walked up to the tiny taco shop where the tacos cost one dollar each. Grace has expanded her menu so today we ate chicken soup and casadillas, which were both excellent. And the price was right. We intended to eat lunch but ended up with a full meal, costing $25. total. Don paid. Tonight we will dine on pizza from our freezer.
There will be no sunset tonight, thus no sunset food. Ken tells us that tomorrow we might even have a storm. Now one day without the sun is pleasant but two in a row is unheard of. Here in Paradise the sun should shines. It says so in all the advertisements!!
Thursday, February 9, 2012
February 9, 2012. Playa Royale, Mexico. Bucerias.
It is quite a charming village, right along the shore from Nuevo Vallarta, where we live. We like to go there several times every year. The restaurants are excellent and plentiful, all along the shore. Today we dined at Mezzobuerno, a new Italian restaurant, so of course, we dined overlooking the Pacific.
But first, we shopped at the open market right beside the town square. It is a so called straw market, with lots of little shops all pushed in together, selling everything in sight at prices you can negotiate. They sell silver jewelry and pottery, and clothes galore, also art and glass wear. In Mexico they make wonderful silver objects, also glass products of every size. This place is a very typical Mexican market. It was crowded and fun. The interesting thing is that I never buy anything. I wonder why?
We walked right to the end of the town, ate a wonderful lunch at Mezzobuerno, and walked back through the market and across the river to the newer part of town. There we wandered the art galleries, again buying nothing. A quick drink at Karen's, again sitting just by the beach, and soon we were in the taxi home. it was a lovely day. We left at 10:45 and were home by 4:00. Next stop was the pool!!
But first, we shopped at the open market right beside the town square. It is a so called straw market, with lots of little shops all pushed in together, selling everything in sight at prices you can negotiate. They sell silver jewelry and pottery, and clothes galore, also art and glass wear. In Mexico they make wonderful silver objects, also glass products of every size. This place is a very typical Mexican market. It was crowded and fun. The interesting thing is that I never buy anything. I wonder why?
We walked right to the end of the town, ate a wonderful lunch at Mezzobuerno, and walked back through the market and across the river to the newer part of town. There we wandered the art galleries, again buying nothing. A quick drink at Karen's, again sitting just by the beach, and soon we were in the taxi home. it was a lovely day. We left at 10:45 and were home by 4:00. Next stop was the pool!!
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
February 8, 2012, Playa Royale, Mexico. Caleb's Crossing: A Novel.
Geraldine Brooks wrote this novel, the same person who wrote People of the Book. It is a book that takes place in the seventeenth century, in Massachusetts. Susan K. recommended the book to me. It is a well written and powerful book with two major themes: one the treatment of the Indians and second the position of women in The Bay Colony. I had just read King Philip's War, which was all about Indians and Settlers in the 17th Century, so much was familiar to me. But it is a good book with interesting characters.
Once again, I am fortunate to be born in 1937. Life in the early 17th century was very difficult, especially for a woman. And the early Settlers were hateful and nasty and very rigid in their religious customs. Modern sensibilities creep into the book but all in all, it is a true story, told as a novel and is well worth reading.
Once again, I am fortunate to be born in 1937. Life in the early 17th century was very difficult, especially for a woman. And the early Settlers were hateful and nasty and very rigid in their religious customs. Modern sensibilities creep into the book but all in all, it is a true story, told as a novel and is well worth reading.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
February 7, 2012. Playa Royale, Mexico. The Late Swim.
It is unusual for me to go down to the swimming pool at 5:00, but it turned out to be the best part of the day. The sun was bright and the sky was blue, so I joined Don and Doreen by the pool.
I was late because I was opening Christmas cards. A second batch of mail arrived this afternoon, so while Dan and Doreen headed to the pool, I sorted the mail, then opened and read the Christmas cards. Several friends asked me questions in the cards, such as when it would be convenient to visit us in Texas, or do we want a painting, or a suggestion for me to e mail them. Oops. I am sure they just assume a senior moment for me with my lack of responsiveness.
We were late to the pool today because we dined at a new restaurant, and took the trolley. The day was cloudy this morning, so we walked to the Mall while I shopped a bit before going for lunch. We all agreed that it was not a good day for swimming but we were wrong.
The pool was beautiful with the water 86 degrees F. and the hot tub 102. By 5:30, we had the pool to ourselves, then soon I was all by myself for one more swim. The air was warm and the sun stayed bright. It was the best time for a swim.
I was late because I was opening Christmas cards. A second batch of mail arrived this afternoon, so while Dan and Doreen headed to the pool, I sorted the mail, then opened and read the Christmas cards. Several friends asked me questions in the cards, such as when it would be convenient to visit us in Texas, or do we want a painting, or a suggestion for me to e mail them. Oops. I am sure they just assume a senior moment for me with my lack of responsiveness.
We were late to the pool today because we dined at a new restaurant, and took the trolley. The day was cloudy this morning, so we walked to the Mall while I shopped a bit before going for lunch. We all agreed that it was not a good day for swimming but we were wrong.
The pool was beautiful with the water 86 degrees F. and the hot tub 102. By 5:30, we had the pool to ourselves, then soon I was all by myself for one more swim. The air was warm and the sun stayed bright. It was the best time for a swim.
Monday, February 6, 2012
February 6, 2012. Playa Royale, Mexico. The evening.
We had front row seats, just ten feet from this new large thin television set, brought especially for the Super Bowl. Our seats, although the best in the restaurant, were not very comfortable because the chairs were actually sofas with cushions on top and back and these couches were very low. Getting up was difficult and as we drank wine and beer all evening and made frequent trips to the restrooms, we got up and down a lot. Also, our frequent trips to the Pizza table required us to get up often too. It was not easy getting up.
We had a lovely evening, sitting outdoors watching the Super Bowl, cheering for the Giants. Other folks in the restaurant were cheering for the Giants so we did too. Who cares.
I did recall, that about fifteen years ago, we watched the Super Bowl at a restaurant and Marina in Costa Rico, along with my friend Sara Lou. I had forgotten until Ken reminded me.
It was interesting. All the seats were full, watching the game, but by half time, many people had left. And the outdoor section was full of customers eating dinner, with no televisions in sight. Not everyone cares about the Super Bowl, here in Mexico.
We had a lovely evening, sitting outdoors watching the Super Bowl, cheering for the Giants. Other folks in the restaurant were cheering for the Giants so we did too. Who cares.
I did recall, that about fifteen years ago, we watched the Super Bowl at a restaurant and Marina in Costa Rico, along with my friend Sara Lou. I had forgotten until Ken reminded me.
It was interesting. All the seats were full, watching the game, but by half time, many people had left. And the outdoor section was full of customers eating dinner, with no televisions in sight. Not everyone cares about the Super Bowl, here in Mexico.
Sunday, February 5, 2012
February 5, 2012. Playa Royale, Mexico. The Super Bowl.
Today will be a first for us. We have made a reservation at the Porto Bello restaurant to watch the Super Bowl and eat Pizza. Yesterday we ate lunch there and after talking with the manager decided to join them for the Super Bowl. They will provide the pizza and we will order the drinks and we will sit in their comfortable chairs and watch on their big screen TV, brought in especially for the big event. Of course, I am sure they hope we will stay for dinner too but we will come home, either after the game is ended or sooner if it is boring, or if the TV malfunctions. It will be a first for us, to watch the Super Bowl in a commercial environment.
Ken and I watched the first Super Bowl with Lenore and Bev. Ittmann, sitting in their home in Galveston, Texas. We owned no television set so they invited us to watch the game, together with their three children. Ever since then, we have watched every game, but always either at home or in some other peoples home. We have learned not to enjoy Super Bowl Parties, as we eat too much and drink too much and don't really get to see the game too closely.
Today will be the first. We will sit outdoors beside the canal alongside other people and eat pizza and drink beer and cheer for neither team, just hope for a good tight game. And if we don't enjoy the experience, we will come home and watch the game on our own TV!!
Ken and I watched the first Super Bowl with Lenore and Bev. Ittmann, sitting in their home in Galveston, Texas. We owned no television set so they invited us to watch the game, together with their three children. Ever since then, we have watched every game, but always either at home or in some other peoples home. We have learned not to enjoy Super Bowl Parties, as we eat too much and drink too much and don't really get to see the game too closely.
Today will be the first. We will sit outdoors beside the canal alongside other people and eat pizza and drink beer and cheer for neither team, just hope for a good tight game. And if we don't enjoy the experience, we will come home and watch the game on our own TV!!
Saturday, February 4, 2012
February 4, 2012. Playa Royale, Mexico. A Splendid Lunch.
It was the best meal since our arrival in Mexico, certainly the best lunch since Don and Doreen have been here.
We walked across the road to await the trolley and lo and behold, the trolley arrived immediately, so we four jumped on and headed for the other side of the canal. We could not believe our good luck. We walked along the renovated marina and took in an outdoor art show. Four artists work was on display but we did not buy a thing, except three loaves of home made bread.
When we got as far as the end of the canal, I made the decision to dine at the Porto Bello Italian restaurant. With a bottle of wine and bruchette as an appetizer, we were ready to dine like kings and we did. We even ate dessert. Ken said that as he ate the largest meal, his dessert he ordered would have no chocolate and not many calories. When his dessert arrived, we all roared. His dessert turned out to be a large three scoops of ice-cream, loaded with caramel sauce and covered with sliced strawberries and whipped cream. Apparently, it was the strawberries that made it low calorie.
We waited and waited for the trolley home but it never came so eventually we took the bus home which took us 70 cents each. It was a wonderful meal. Good food and good company. We are returning tomorrow to watch the Super Bowl there too.
We walked across the road to await the trolley and lo and behold, the trolley arrived immediately, so we four jumped on and headed for the other side of the canal. We could not believe our good luck. We walked along the renovated marina and took in an outdoor art show. Four artists work was on display but we did not buy a thing, except three loaves of home made bread.
When we got as far as the end of the canal, I made the decision to dine at the Porto Bello Italian restaurant. With a bottle of wine and bruchette as an appetizer, we were ready to dine like kings and we did. We even ate dessert. Ken said that as he ate the largest meal, his dessert he ordered would have no chocolate and not many calories. When his dessert arrived, we all roared. His dessert turned out to be a large three scoops of ice-cream, loaded with caramel sauce and covered with sliced strawberries and whipped cream. Apparently, it was the strawberries that made it low calorie.
We waited and waited for the trolley home but it never came so eventually we took the bus home which took us 70 cents each. It was a wonderful meal. Good food and good company. We are returning tomorrow to watch the Super Bowl there too.
Friday, February 3, 2012
February 3, 2012. Playa Royale, Mexico. Modern Ordering.
It is a wonderful system. On Wednesday, I decided to read a book written by John Houseman, but was unable to find it on Amazon to down load it onto my I Pad. Ken searched the Internet and found a used but good copy, and ordered it sent to Andrew and Christina's house, where we will find it when we arrive. Just a minute ago, Ken was alerted by his phone to tell him that the package has arrived. Now that is good service. Order on Wednesday, delivered on Friday. Pretty good. Ken gets the bill.
My friend Susan K. was sending me a book with her friend Suzanne here in Mexico, but Susan was late, so Susan gave me the name and author. I promptly ordered the book on Amazon. It was immediately down loaded onto my I Pad and now I am reading the book now. Service is even better because I can read the book immediately. Ken gets the bill.
Tonight, my brother phoned and we had a chat. My sister is not reading her e mails so Dave and Irene and Ken and I are going to give Carol and Ken a Christmas gift for Christmas 2012 so Carol will not need to use dial up any more. We will not even keep it a secret. It will be yet more ordering.
My friend Susan K. was sending me a book with her friend Suzanne here in Mexico, but Susan was late, so Susan gave me the name and author. I promptly ordered the book on Amazon. It was immediately down loaded onto my I Pad and now I am reading the book now. Service is even better because I can read the book immediately. Ken gets the bill.
Tonight, my brother phoned and we had a chat. My sister is not reading her e mails so Dave and Irene and Ken and I are going to give Carol and Ken a Christmas gift for Christmas 2012 so Carol will not need to use dial up any more. We will not even keep it a secret. It will be yet more ordering.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
February 2, 2012. Playa Royal, Mexico. The Palace.
Denied due to age!! Can you believe it? Every so often, being old is not a good thing.
Right next to us at Playa Royale is a Palace Resort. Ken and I are members. Friends spent the day there, eating three meals and enjoying the pools and the entertainment and the liquor. They are also members so paid $75. each for the day of eating and drinking. Ken and I knew that if you listen to their information about becoming a member, they give you a free one day pass, so we suggested that Don and Doreen listen to their presentation, and get the free day pass. We coached them on how to say NO, and get their pass and leave. They were all geared up.
This morning after breakfast, Ken and I and Don and Doreen walked over to arrange the appointment for the presentation. As usual, everyone was polite and enthusiastic, right until they saw the age on the information sheet. Don and Doreen would be more than welcome to listen to the presentation but the Palace organization gives no free one day passes to anyone over 75. We were incensed.
Of course, we are able to use the member charge for the four of us for a day, but being cheap and having a refrigerator full of food, we declined and left. We did have a chuckle, but what a let down for Don and Doreen. Denied by age. What a thing.
Right next to us at Playa Royale is a Palace Resort. Ken and I are members. Friends spent the day there, eating three meals and enjoying the pools and the entertainment and the liquor. They are also members so paid $75. each for the day of eating and drinking. Ken and I knew that if you listen to their information about becoming a member, they give you a free one day pass, so we suggested that Don and Doreen listen to their presentation, and get the free day pass. We coached them on how to say NO, and get their pass and leave. They were all geared up.
This morning after breakfast, Ken and I and Don and Doreen walked over to arrange the appointment for the presentation. As usual, everyone was polite and enthusiastic, right until they saw the age on the information sheet. Don and Doreen would be more than welcome to listen to the presentation but the Palace organization gives no free one day passes to anyone over 75. We were incensed.
Of course, we are able to use the member charge for the four of us for a day, but being cheap and having a refrigerator full of food, we declined and left. We did have a chuckle, but what a let down for Don and Doreen. Denied by age. What a thing.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
February 1, 2012. Playa Royale, Mexico. The Yard.
Ken takes all the pictures and puts them on my little blog. This time, all the pictures were taken in the area between our condominium building and the beach. The area is well tended by the garden staff and is beautiful, not only from our seventh floor balcony but also walking the two hundred yards to the pool and beach. As you can see, we see massive numbers of flowers and fruit. Ken especially appreciates the fact that he is not required to trim the hedges or bushes. We call this large area our yard, as if the whole area belongs to us.
Our life here is one extended R&R and is the longest time we have ever experienced such a long holiday. Our life is pleasant but especially we enjoy the lack of ice and snow. It must be the aging thing but we are actually thriving during our long vacation. Neither Ken or I are bored. We have computers and I Pads and Kindles, with good friends and relatives who e mail me regularly to chat. We have stayed sane and energetic, which is a good thing.
Our life here is one extended R&R and is the longest time we have ever experienced such a long holiday. Our life is pleasant but especially we enjoy the lack of ice and snow. It must be the aging thing but we are actually thriving during our long vacation. Neither Ken or I are bored. We have computers and I Pads and Kindles, with good friends and relatives who e mail me regularly to chat. We have stayed sane and energetic, which is a good thing.
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