Thursday, May 31, 2012

Enough I say, Enough, Enough, Enough!

If one more person, on my visit to Texas, looks at me with horror on their face and asks about the dangers of Mexico, I might curse.....in my best Spanish (which would not be much).

Instead, I grit my teeth, quote statistics from the latest article by the Travel Editor of Lonely Planet and hope they get my drift.  They listen politely, sorta, and then ask things like have I seen all the dead bodies, etc.
Oy vey.

The Houston Chronicle and writer, Dudley Althaus along with Fox News have really convinced most people that life is as dangerous in Mexico as Afghanistan.  Of course nothing could be farther from the truth.  Actually the homicide rate in Houston per 100,00 per year is far higher then all the places I travel in Mexico, including Mexico City!

But their vision of me driving through gun fire and banditos is common.  In the last couple of years that is all people ask - not about the economy or the pristine beauty or the kindness and talent of the people.  It is frustrating and aggravating.......

I invite all to visit.  Or suggest books to read to give the true picture.  I'm probably talking to myself more then the people who are aghast at the very notion that someone would consider not living in the USA.

It is sad indeed that this has come to pass.  Mexico needs to mount a HUGE PR campaign.  But on the other hand, with the huge increase in tourists from Italy, German, France and China, among other countries, maybe that isn't as important as it used to be.   We'll see............


Tuesday, May 29, 2012

As the Shuttle Passes.........

There was a nostalgic article this past weekend in the Houston Chronicle about Timber Cove subdivision.  It recounted how many astronauts lived there, what transpired when the media showed up and how the families of non-astronauts carried on with their lives.

It was poignant in the stories they told of when there were disasters and how all came together to protect and assist those left behind.

That article, along with the photo posted today of the mock shuttle being brought up the Intracoastal Waterway this week to its final resting place at Johnson Space Center, brings back LOTS of memories.

Yes, we lived there in the "glory days".  The flags in each yard, almost always.  The pride at what was being done and accomplished.  The "splash down" parties.  Knowing many of the astronauts and families who were our neighbors.  My kids' school mates and some were in my Girl Scout troop.

The great thing was we were inwardly proud but we never imposed on them or invaded their privacy.  Those I knew considered it "just a job".  A funny memory from long ago is being introduced to an astronaut.  The wrong name was used.  He looked at me and said, "You meet one astronaut, you've met them all" with a smile.

It WAS an amazing time.  I think we knew it even then.  But, as time goes on and the Lunar Rendevous Festival continues, among other area events, the historical nature of it all has begun to take on even more significance.

I hope to be standing on Clear Lake on Friday to photograph this mock shuttle as it passes.  Yes, it is the end of an era. I intend to place that photo with all the others I have that I took when the shuttle used to be piggy-backed to Florida.  They would fly over JSC and our neighborhood and tip their wings.  It always made me get a catch in my throat.

"To infinity and beyond " as Buzz Light Years says, and many a future astronaut.


Monday, May 28, 2012

Bernie

It has literally been years since I've been in a movie theater.  Today I broke the spell.  Trooping off to the River Oaks theater here in Houston was a good move..........

Movies in the middle of the day always seem somehow decadent.  Today was no exception.  Surprising to me was how many people were there.

IF you're from Texas and you like "campy" films, GO!  If you like to laugh, GO!  It's a true story set in Carthage, Texas.  A small Texas town.  Oh, and if you grew up in a small town, GO!  It's a true story.

It seems that Skip Hollandsworth, a writer for Texas Monthly, wrote about this saga of Bernie Tiede, an assistant funeral director who murdered Marjorie Nugent in 1998.  The twist is that Bernie was loved by all.  When he wrote the article telling about the story, a producer named Richard Linklater read it.  About ten years later he contacted Hollandsworth telling him he wanted to turn it into a film.

A clue to the hilarity of it all is that they used  residents of the town to tell much of the story.  GO!

Jack Black is brilliant.  Shirley Mac Laine played her part to a "T".  And Matthew McConnaghey played a part unlike any other he has ever played.

I believe its the first time I've been in a movie where the entire audience was clapping at the end.  Where almost the entire audience sat through ALL of the credits.......you'll see why. Let me know what you think.........

Bernie!


Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Scribblings from Galveston

The drive from San Miguel was beautiful as always!  The deserts were green.  Evidently they have had rain.

At one point I thought it was snowing little pieces of paper.  I then looked out of the side windows and realized it was white butterflies.  Lovely fluttering butterflies.  I've had other driving experiences where there were ribbons of butterflies swirling through the mountains.  Enough to clog radiators and cover windshields.  That's usually in October.  The white butterflies in May were a lovely surprise.

Once I crossed into Texas the roadsides were covered with huge wild sunflowers for several hours.  Then the drive morphed to views of the gorgeous, large, oak trees of Texas.  Magnificent.  The amount of rain they have had in the last seven months was obvious based on the green, green fields and the Guadalupe River when I crossed was up to its banks.  Halleluiah!

The most amazing sight of all though is the amount of gas and oil wells between Laredo and San Antonio.  It is officially an "oil and gas rush" to rival the find on the Alaskan Slope.  It has been stated they'll be drilling, thanks to fracking, for at least twenty years.  The find is called "Eagle Ford".  Want to know more, google it.

And where there is oil and gas there are workers.  They need places to stay, food to eat, places to get equipment along with places to get it repaired.  New grocery stores, service stations hotels, motels and schools are all being built.  Truly the landscape of that area has changed dramatically in just seven months.  I can't even imagine what it will be like in ten or twenty more years.  A lot of farmers and ranchers are getting very, very rich.

One of the great thing about this drive is that it is all on four lane divided highway.  The other great thing is that I bypass all cities except Houston.  So traffic isn't an issue until the last hour of the trip..........thankfully.

I love road trips.  It's a good thing or I'd be an unhappy camper.  I'm a happy camper who is having a wonderful time at the "water" in Galveston.


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Sunday, May 13, 2012

Cuesta de San Jose to Tecolote


It's a hair raising turn everytime I turn from Cuesta de San Jose going downhill on Tecolote.

There is a "herd break" at that corner.  A "herd break" you say, "What the heck is that?"  It is where, when herding animals on the royal road and heading downhill to San Miguel they would turn them quickly onto Tecolote to slow them down. 

I can see this in my mind's eye as I have to creep along as I make the turn so as not to scrape either of the houses on either side.  It is VERY narrow.

Today as I was heading down that narrow street something caught my eye.  I quickly looked in my rear view mirror to see if anyone was coming down the hill behind me - nope - so I slowed down and actually stopped in the middle of the street to take this photo of the Virgen of Guadalupe.

I don't know when this was painted on the wall but it must have been recently.  Could it be out of thanksgiving or a prayer for intercession or just to beautify this little bit of San Miguel?
Who knows?  I know it stopped me long enough to get this image to share with you.

Lovely isn't it?  The shelf below it for fresh flowers is clever also.

All in a day - living in San Miguel de Allende!
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Saturday, May 12, 2012

Motherhood


I've been a lot of things in my life.

Daughter, wife, friend, companion, lover, business woman, traveler, among others.  The most precious of all though has been being a MOTHER and GRANDMOTHER.

Even though one goes through the throes of panic at the sight of a new baby.  In my case being only 20 at the time.  And one also goes through panic trying to do the right thing for all the years you are a parent.  Which I've now discovered is forever.

Even though there were times when I wanted to get in the car and leave but could only think to get as far as the nearest convenience store.  And even though I NEVER went to sleep until they got home at night as teenagers.

Even though I have smooth teeth from gritting them to keep my mouth shut more times then they could imagine.

Well, I could go on and on.

I wouldn't trade place, even for a nanosecond, with anyone who hasn't had children.  The gifts of insight, love, tenderness, tears, joy, awe, pride and that warm fuzzy feeling, only, in my humble opinion, come from being a mother.

I have had a blessed life.  Three people who came to life as a result of love between my husband and I.  Three people who grew to be kind, thoughtful, gentle, loving people who extend all those traits to their fellow man and woman. 

These three people have blessed me with seven grandchildren.  Don't even get me started on how joyful that experience has been!

To all the Moms out there tomorrow,  This one is for you.  Maybe you feel as I do that instead of thanking us for being their mothers, I want to thank them for being my kids and grandkids.

The photo at the top of the post is a Mayan woman in Merida who was breastfeeding her baby.  It so touched my heart.
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Friday, May 11, 2012

Farmacias del Ahorro


One the astounding things about purchasing medicines in Mexico is the fact that in most instances one does not have to have a prescription from a physician.  There was a change to that law last year and now things like Ambien and I don't know what else must have a prescription.

One just walks in and says, "Please give me 8 boxes of that and 4 of this and 5 of that".  They do.

When I travel to the USA, I go in and get a six week supply of whatever I need.  No one questions me about that.  Oh, and you get the pills in the original box from the manufacturer with all the instructions and information.  Not in a cylindrical plastic bottle with a label from the pharmacist.  I actually like seeing the name of the manufacturer on the box rather then a generic bottle.

The Farmacia Ahorra opened on San Francisco street a few years ago.  On opening day they had mariachis playing all day.  Right outside the door.  But, the store moved recently.  Two blocks down the street where the name of the street is Canal.  No mariachis this time, just blue and white balloons.  Now that I think about it the mariachis had on blue and white outfits.  Must be the company's colors!

They closed the other store.  Hence one must walk two blocks further.  It's not a problem. 

The same young women work at the new store.  They recognized me the other day when I went in to get my weekly supply.  In fact I had something happen that had never happened EVER in any pharmacy in my life.

The pharmacist told me that there was a generic for one of my meds.  It would effectively save me about $25 US a week if I went to generic.  After carefully checking the mg and the label etc. against the non-generic, it was obvious that indeed this was the real deal.  THEN she said she could give me an additional discount because of their new store discount of approximately $8 US.  So instead of spending $45 US for one prescription, I spent $12 US.  I was and am a happy camper.

Then she said for your other medication when you buy two boxes, you get one free.  A "regalo" a gift.  Then she smiled.  She knew I would be happy again.  And I was.

They also gave me a free box of Kleenex.  Can't beat any of this, I don't think.

I have in all the years I've been here (11 years) checked prices every few months at Farmacia Guadalajara, Mega's pharmacy and Ahorra.  Sometimes one is a little less expensive then the other on one or another med.

It's the sweetness and attention from the staff at Ahorra that keeps me going back.  Imagine that.  Many ex-pats swear that Mexicans don't understand "customer service".  I say, "Ha ha, they are learning".
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Thursday, May 10, 2012

Contentment...........and other things this week!


This is just one of the zillion photos taken of the sunset over the mountains from my roof terrace.  It's like I'm consumed with this vista.  I do the same thing at the beach.  Photo after photo of the sunset.  It is truly a majestic sight.  No two are ever alike.

It adds to my contentment with life here in Mexico.

That subject has been an ongoing discussion for some reason with friends in the last few days.  Having dinner with some new friends the other evening who have just moved here, they asked what made me content with life in San Miguel de Allende.

I answered, first and foremost the Mexican people.  Watching them living their lives provides lessons on contentment and what is important.........and what isn't.  They understood having lived for many, many years in Haiti back in the good old days of Haiti.  They understand that you can't always find that special food product that you're used to or that the electricity goes off sometimes.  But not very often any more  Or a myriad of other things that add to the "adventure" of living here.  It was such fun to talk with them.  They "get it" about what's so wonderful about living here. 

Nature and all it offers in azure blue skies, twinkling stars and clear views at night is another of the gifts of life here. .  Birds singing, the crazy squirrel in my garden who loves cat food and the enjoyment of the wildly profuse flowers in all colors imaginable.

The ability to wake up in the morning with absolutely no plans and have a complete day of nothing or a lot of something.  No need to have a daytimer here.  Life is lived "in the moment" and not on a schedule.

Then today someone asked me why I'm content and I said, "I'm grateful for every day because they are all, for the most part, stress free".  That doesn't mean that there aren't family issues or health issues or things that  we all go through, but as for "life" here, it is stress free.

Something happened today on my drive back from Celaya.  The drive to Celaya to Costco was a "spur of the moment" thing as there were a couple of things I wanted to get there.  So off I went.  As I returned to San Miguel and put my foot on the brakes there was a grinding sound.  The same sound I had in January when returning from the beach!  Uh oh, the car repairs I had done a month or so ago still need to be revisited.  Intead of getting upset though, I just thank the Universe for the fact that this has happened here in San Miguel where the car mechanic is and not on the long road to somewhere else.  I called him and he's coming to get the car.

Thank you Universe!

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Sunday, May 06, 2012

Paella Fest - San Miguel de Allende, Mexico


It had been advertised for weeks.  A Paella Fest of perhaps 100 chefs and 100 different kinds of paella.  The first of its kind here in San Miguel.  I had no preconceived notions about the afternoon but doubted it would be as fabulous as it turned out to be!

It was held at the Real de Minas Hotel.  The hotel is lucky to have tree shaded property adjacent to the hotel where the Chili Cookoff happens every January and now this event.  The hotel and the participants definitely worked diligently to provide all that anyone could ask for in a food event.......and more.

First of all they had the place to buy your ticket, register and get your plate and fork.  Lots of people to help you and greet you.  From the very beginning I was impressed.

 Here's a photo of a couple of friends that I attended with along with my son John who loves "all you can eat" events.  I of course, want the fork for outdoor art in the garden.  Just kidding.

The paellas were exquisite looking.  Amazingly, no two seemed to be alike.  Beautifully executed and absolutely delicious.  There were so many chefs and paellas that there were never lines to wait in for food or drink.

 Chefs came from the state of Veracruz, the city of Puebla, and many other locations.  What a surprise.

ALL were serious and attentive to the preparations taking place.

Making paella is about as complicated, to me anyway, as making mole.  It is a LOT of prep and work.  It was worth it for all of us that were there to sample.

Here are a group of culinary students from a school in the State of Queretaro.  Another booth was a culilnary school in Michoacan!

In addition to great food, good wine and drink there was all kinds of delightful music along with flamenco dancers.  Tables were set up all over the grounds.  Some under the big shade trees.  A perfect place for sampling, listening to music, drinking and enjoying visiting with friends.

A little "eye candy" for the ladies.

The people there were a complete mixture of Mexicans and gringoes.  Couples young and old.  Singles mingling.  Babies playing.  They even had all kinds of play areas set up for the children.

It was obvious that the hotel management had thought of everything.  I didn't see a glitch anywhere.  By my estimate I think, in the four hours we were there, we saw about 500 people.  But it never felt crowded.

The best part of all was that the event benefitted the Santa Julia Girl's Orphanage.  The thirty-five little girls were there having a great time also. 

Put it on your calendar for next year.  Hopefully this will become an annual affair.  I'm so glad I was there to participate.
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Saturday, May 05, 2012

Guest House for Rent - Long Term


The guest house is available for rent, long term effective August 1st.  This post will give some who are thinking of moving to San Miguel a head start at finding a place before arriving.  For those already here, here are all the photos to help in making a decision.

As you can see, the house is furnished with comfortable, above average furnishings.  The suede like fabric on the sleeper sofa is very enjoyable.  This is a queen sleeper for company.  The coffee table is on rollers so it can be moved easily.  The three part screen hides the refrigerator in the kitchen area from view upon entering the house.

Lots of windows add natural light.  The front of the living room and dining/kitchen area is all windows looking into the lush gardens and at multiple trees.

The house is fully furnished with everything from linens to dishes to towels - everything.  All you need are your clothes and personal items!  It's a perfect place to take if you are back and forth to San Miguel and want to have an ongoing place or it is wonderful as a full time residence.

It is a one bedroom, one bath which is on the second floor.  The rent is all inclusive and includes maid service, once a week; electricity, gas, tap water, telephone and satellite TV with 120 channels plus music channels.

Freshly painted and maintained in pristine condition, it is a place you could enjoy along with the roof terrace which is located on the third level.  Breathtaking views.

Additional viewing of the gardens can be had off the bedroom through the French doors.  Good cross ventilation also.

Comfortable seating on this old platform rocker (brought from Texas) gives you a place to read or whatever.

Two views from the roof terrace of the canyon and at the trees looking toward the mountains. 
 

The house rents for $800 US due on the first of every month.  A security deposit of $300 is required plus first and last month's rent.  No smokers or pets.  Onstreet parking.

The house is presently occupied so is not available for viewing inside.  The photos were just taken a few months ago and are a completely accurate representation.

I'm looking for a tenant who is interested in "settling in" and wants to enjoy being surrounded by a quiet, tranquil setting.  It is a 10 minute walk downhill to the centro - 5 minutes to the vegetable and fruit mercado - 10 minutes uphill to the botanical gardens.

If interested, please contact me at this post or at babsofsanmiguel@yahoo.com
Mil gracias.
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Thursday, May 03, 2012

The Joke is on Me


Yesterday I posted on the quiet in Mexico.  Today I take that statement back.  Fireworks and church bells have been making noise and ringing - day and night - since I posted that.

Yesterday was the day to honor the construction workers on all houses and buildings being built in San Miguel and throughout Mexico.  A cross is installed on the top of the building.  The workers are treated to a fine lunch brought to the job site.  I think it is a great tradition.

Today is the Feast of the Sacred Cross.  Hence around 4:30 the bombs, known as fireworks started.  I usually just smile, turn over and attempt to go back to sleep.  They usually start at 6AM and go on for an hour.  Not today.  They are still going on. 

The church bells rang and rang this morning also.

Some, on the Snivel List (a Yahoo Group chat room thingy) have complained that their siestas were disturbed yesterday.  Others wanted to know if there isn't a noise ordinance in San Miguel.  I just smile.  You can always spot the newcomers to town.

As irritating as the noise was when I first moved here, I've learned to embrace it as a sign to teach me patience, tolerance and love for the culture.

So much for the quiet.  I forgot about the fireworks in May.
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Wednesday, May 02, 2012

A Quiet Time in Mexico


From now until the "sweat birds"' start arriving in mid-June in their SUVS loaded with kids and pets, it will be quiet in Mexico.  The holidays of Semana Santa and Labor Day are behind us.

The days are warming up to about 90 although, thankfully, the humidity is below 20%.  It is time for siestas in the warmest part of the afternoon or a tall, cool, drink and a good book.

The beaches are probably empty.  They will be, more or less, until next November when the "snow birds" arrive back in full force.

It's a lovely time to be here.  No traffic.  Few people on the benches.  Only us hardy locals here to enjoy things like Wednesdays buying fresh veggies and fruits or shopping at the traveling markets on Tuesday without the benefit of crowds.

Not many events going on as happens during "the season".  Except, there will be a Paella Cook-off on Saturday that I don't intend to miss.  I'll walk over, wander around under the large trees, sample delicious paella, talk to friends and then head home before the afternoon sun starts to boil.  They expect to have 100 chefs!  It is such a time consuming dish to make that it will be fun (and delicious) to sample the fare.
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