Friday, November 30, 2012

Flags of Fall


In past years, the blooms of the aloe plants have given off about six or seven blooms, total.  This year is a shock.  Blooms everywhere.  I've noticed that the aloe plants are multiplying also and starting to take over the main garden.

The whole thing is reminiscent of the plants in the Little Shop of  Horrors.  The thought of trimming and digging out some of these plants is a daunting thought. The edge of the plants are like sharp razors.

The butterflies, hummingbirds and bees LOVE these blooms.  For a total of about six weeks there is this show.

Then,  they are quickly followed by the poinsetta tree.  It, in one week, has started blooming.  So, the blooms for the holidays have begun.

This garden is truly a living environment.  With the flowers, the birds, the butterflies and add in a few cats and a squirrel, I have the Discovery Channel each time I go out there.

What a joy!
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Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Velcro's Latest Trick!


I so regret that all the years that the kids had cats, that I didn't take the time to watch their antics.

To tell the truth, I've always been a "dog" person.  Cats, it seemed, didn't have a personality.  Well, most of them.  We DID have one cat through the years, named FC for Fat Cat, who when it wanted to come in, would jump up, stick its claws in the wood door around the window frame and look in at us.

It was startling if you didn't expect it.  Hilarious if you did.

Well, Velcro, the former feral cat, who now dominates this house hold, just keeps coming up with new tricks. 

The latest is, in the middle of the night, if she wants to go out, she'll scratch at the curtains covering the doorway and windows to the outside.  I've laid awake in bed many times and tried to ignore this.
She has now figured out though, if she comes on MY side of the bed and throws her body against the closet door, that I give up and get up. It's amazing how loud that cat can be!  In addition, she has discovered that rumpling the small bedside rug, also makes enough noise to get me up..  Darn smart cat.

Oh, and if all the above doesn't work, she jumps up on the table beside my side of the bed and carefully walks across the ledge above my head that is a shelving unit/headboard.  Now do you see why I say that she dominates the household?  At  4 AM its not very funny, but when I think about it in the daytime, it makes me chuckle.

The other NEW thing is she has discovered that if she jumps in my lap in the morning while I'm sitting with my coffee cup and meditating, she'll get her back rubbed.  It has been four years that we have tolerated each other and last week was the first time she took the leap of faith.  Obviously she liked it because it has happened a couple more times since.

For someone who doesn't talk, but does purr and also kinda chirps when I let her in, I've sure learned by observation what SEEMS to make her life enjoyable and what doesn't.

But, with a cat one never really knows.




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Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Scouring the Internet - Nancy Drew Style!


I admit, I'm technologically challenged.  However, I have a friend who does not have a computer and has never used one.  A former techie at NASA!  Can you believe?

I got a call from him yesterday, which in and of itself, was amazing.  You see he lives on the Pacific Ocean and has minimal, and I do mean minimal, phone service.  So for him to call me yesterday I knew it was VERY important.

It was.  His chainsaw broke and he needs a part.  He thought I was in Texas, could go to Sears and get a part for his Craftsman Model # 316.350220 55cc 20" chainsaw.  Surprised that I was still in Mexico, he said to forget it.  I told him I would try to see if I could find the part he needs.  He referred to it as a "puller starter wheel 1/2 inch thick by 3 1/2 inches round.

Feeling a little like Nancy Drew with very few clues, I first started by looking at Sears website.  It didn't take long to figure out that they are not in the replaceable parts business.

So then I just put in the name and model #.  Oh my, so many sites came up that I didn't know what to do.

Here's what I found.  I found the owner's manual.  I found many parts companies with photos and prices. 
I also found a Consumer Product Alert that there is a problem with the handle breaking off and lacerating hands and fingers etc.  It is to be returned to Sears for new parts!

What I don't have is any knowledge of what this part actually looks like. I'm hesitant to order something without being sure it is the right thing.  And, I do need to let him know about the product warning to see what he wants to do.

Since my friend's phone, for some reason, works best at night, I'll call tonight.  Hopefully he knows someone in Melaque or nearby that has a computer and an email address.  Then I'll email the pages that I've bookmarked.  They can all look at them and decide what to order.

Then, I'll order it, if he wants me to do so. I'll have it brought to San Miguel by a man who goes back and forth to  Laredo and take it to the beach the end of December for my friend.

That's my adventure for the day.  All from the comfort of my computer in the bedroom

Where there is a will there is a way!
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Sunday, November 25, 2012

More Thoughts on the New Immigration Laws for Ex-pats in Mexico


I've had time to let all that has happened since I began the process to get a new visa roll around in my head.  I've thought and thought about what possessed the officials in the Mexican government to make the choice to raise the requirements for residency so drastically.  It didn't make sense to begin with, but, after much ruminating, here are a few of my thoughts.  Whether they are valid or not, remains to be seen.

Since I first came to Mexico forty years ago, it has always been apparent to me that most Mexicans believe that we ex-pats are wealthy.  To some extent, that is justified.  In 1972 I don't know what the average annual income was but I know about 15 years ago, it was $2500 US per year!  Then as the emerging middle class began to happen, in great part because of NAFTA, the most recent figure I have seen for average annual income is $11,000 US per year.  With our annual incomes, even after retirement, in most instances is higher then that.

Mexican politicans are fully aware of the number of "baby boomers" that are now retiring on a daily basis.  The numbers excite the real estate industry, but, possibly not the government.

You see, in Mexico, at the present time, I, as a temporary resident, can sign up for a card that gives me discounts on meds, my water bill, entrance to museums and parks, 1/2 price bus and airfare tickets.  It is for older folks.  You don't have to prove anything other then residency.  Add to that that one can sign up for IMSS, the medical healthcare program and Seguro Popular which is for the poorest of the poor for emergency room and other medical services without having to pay.  IMSS has more stipulations but still only costs about $300 a year. 

My wonder is if possibly the officials have concern that people without adequate income would cause their systems to fall apart.  Just a thought.

Of course all they would have to do is not make those services available to ex-pats.

The other interesting thing that is coming out of the new immigration laws is the need to prove that the value of your home here in Mexico is at or above $195,000US, I believe from what I've read.  Most people here, when buying a house, have a very low valuation on their property.  A friend has a 5000 sq ft house here, but due to the valuation, pays $ 105 US per year in taxes.  Now, if people have to put the real value on the house, it is a backhanded way to raise the property values and the taxes.

It has all caused a HUGE stir. Whereas in the past, conversations were about who bought a house, who is looking for furnishings, where someone is going on a trip.  Now the conversation is on the subject of whether people are going to be able to stay in Mexico.

Because renting is so much cheaper in Mexico then paying full price in cash for a house, many people in San Miguel rent.  I am one of them.  I never could figure out how having a dead asset was an advantage.  You can't borrow against the property and in many, many instances people here who did buy and wanted to leave could not sell their property for what they paid for it.  That continues to happen to this day.

It remains to be seen what the outcome will be.  Thank goodness I don't have to prove income now for another four years.  Hopefully all of these issues will have been resolved. That is, IF I'm still alive and in Mexico!
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Saturday, November 24, 2012

It's Not Hard to Spot a Tourist in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico


These shoes were a tell tale sign.  I watched this woman crosss the cobble stoned, uneven, death defying street in these heels and was astonished that she made it across.  I do believe, however, that she was tip toeing sp as to not catch those heels in a crack between the stones.

Most of us here have forsaken sexy shoes for sturdy, safe flat shoes.  It's a survival instinct.  IF it is really important to look classy and sexy, we carry a large handbag with shoes stowed in the bag and slip them on as we exit the car or right before we go in the door.  Plenty of women do!

The other way, this time of the year to spot a tourist, is if they have on shorts.  And, usually they are Canadians!  They don't think our 30, 40, or 50 degree weather is cold at all.  We, on the otherhand, are in socks, long pants, sweaters and usually a jacket.

Last but not least tell tale sign, for me, is if they have on the straw hats that are sold in the jardin by roving vendors. 

It's fun to sit on the bench and watch all the shenanigans and the outfits.  Harmless fun.

We're happy to have the tourists all year long!
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Friday, November 23, 2012

EVERYTHING happens for a reason!


I have planned for months to head to Texas for the holidays.  I was scheduled to leave this past Monday.

After a phone call from my daughter in Texas with information on a change in their plans, I delayed my trip and intended to leave this morning.  Obviously I didn't!

I got a nasty cold on Monday or something and I'm hangin'on by a thread.  One must be psyched up to make that drive from here to there.  I'm not psyched - not one bit.

So, the decision was made yesterday evening to unpack the car, unpack the suitcases and stay put.

It's like the Universe is conspiring for me not to go to Texas.  I'm listening, just waiting to hear why I wasn't supposed to go.

The enjoyable part of this demise was that my son, John, and I went out for Thanksgiving dinner.  We were grateful that we could get dinner reservations at the last minute.

Delicious it was.  We enjoyed talking and visiting with lots of people we knew at this little private home that serves food on Sunday and holidays.

It was a good thing!

Hope your Thanksgiving was all that you hoped it would be.
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Sunday, November 18, 2012

A Stress free Existence


Life has not been stressfree for quite a while.  However, a few days ago after a discussion of a hidden bay on the Pacific Ocean known as Chacala, a good friend sent me a website for a Buddhist retreat center located in this tiny village.

I wrote about Chacala on May 20, 2008.  I had gone in search of it and was rewarded with an unblemished bay and very little development.  I've never forgotten it.

I was so surprised last week to hear of this Buddhist retreat.  A  place I would so like to be right now.
I immediately typed in the website and was rewarded by the sound of the ocean and birds.
Aaaaaaahhhh............  I've listened to it several times since.

My gift to you today is the website. You too, at this hectic time of year, can escape for as long as you want.  Listenng to  the website on your computer.

www.mardejade.com     Enjoy!
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Saturday, November 17, 2012

There's Gonna Be a Birthday!


The other day while my son was talking to someone a bit away from the children, I whispered to Matilda that I wanted to take a photo of she and Sebastian because their daddy's birthday is going to be in December.  I want to frame one of these photos  for him.

These first two photos are the result.  She smiled in such a precious way, then threw her arm around her little brother.  It so touched my heart. 

Usually they are running around and playing.  It's hard to get a photo of both of them together but thanks to Matilda, I got two great ones.  Then I noticed she was sitting with her legs crossed just like she did when she was about two years old - she'll be 5 in February. 

I remember that I wrote a blog about her crossed legs and feet when they lived in Colorado. 

 Sebastian never lets his dad out of his sight.  He's there with him walking, running, kicking the ball or watching a DVD.  Looks just like his dad when he was that age.

I am thrilled when I get these unposed shots.  Sebastian was watching a movie, but still holding on to his dad.  So sweet.

Unconditional love - it's THE best!
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Thursday, November 15, 2012

Good Morning Ukraine, France, U.K, Israel, Russia and Germany!


What the heck does that mean, you say?  Well, add Canada, Mexico and the USA to that list
and you have all the countries who read BabsBlog in the past week!

Who the heck in the Ukraine would be reading my blog in San Miguel?  Who knows!

I have an analytical page that gives me all kinds of information.  It's fun to look at from time to time.  I had not looked at it in quite some time.  So imagine my surprise yesterday when I saw this country listing. Seventeen hits from the Ukraine; Eleven from Russia; the most, over 1200 from the USA to name a few.

It is totally mysterious to me who these readers are and why.  I love mysteries!  It conjures up all kinds of scenarios.  None of the distant countries ever leave a comment.  Just so darn intriguing.

The photos above are intriguing to me also.  This is a silk kimono brought back by my uncle after WWII.  It was made in the early 40's as he brought it home in 1944.  It's close to 70 years old!

I keep it in an enclosed bag wrapped in tissue in a closet.  The only time it was worn was when I was about 10 and I wore it for Halloween one year.  The colors have stayed so vibrant!  I wish I had room to display it but with the dust and the sun here, it would not last.  The question is what do I do with it so that it can be seen and enjoyed?

I think its time to pass it on to one of the granddaughters to enjoy.
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Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Wonder what's going on in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico?


Christmas decorations going up at the mall!  What a shock.........Probably the same thing that is happening in the USA.

The reason it is a surprise and shocking is that (a) we have a mall and (b) we have traditional decorations going up.

Here's the story.

Eleven years ago you couldn't find a Christmas tree anywhere around here.  The only Christmas decorations, per se, were poinsettas (which grow naturally in this clime) planted in the jardin.  I think there were a couple of wreaths - not much.

I remember it vividly because I wanted to decorate my house with all the "stuff" that I had accumulated over all the holidays and my PARENTS had accumulated too.  Greenery was needed to complete this task.  I searched all over the place.  None was to be found.  Pines don't grow in this area. At least not anywhere that I know or could find.

In my search I discovered, at the time, that Christmas in Mexico, at least in San Miguel, was all about the Baby Jesus.  The mercados were full of moss and ferns and green stuff to decorate the manger for the coming of Jesus.  All kinds of manger animals and angels were there to buy also.  But, alas, no greenery.

So, I didn't have the fragrance of evergreen.  I cut branches off the eucalyptus trees adjacent to the property and had that fragrance.  Not exactly the same, but one uses what one has.

Fast forward to today.  Trees everywhere to be purchased.  There is a Soriana grocery store at the mall on the outskirts of town.  Also a Mega at another intersection that will have trees and decorations.  In fact when I walked into Mega yesterday there were boxes of Christmas ornaments stacked ten feet high!  There is a village two hours south of here that is the Christmas ornament capital of Mexico.  The whole village does this year round.

And now, decorations.

I'll be heading to Texas next week for the Holidays.  I'll be inundated with decorations, music, food and good cheer.  I'm looking forward to it - all except the massive merchandising of "stuff" to buy.

Thankfully, that, as yet, has not become a tradition in Mexico.  Three Kings Day is THE day for the children.  It is not as gift focused as the USA.  Christmas is all about the birth of Christ.

Viva Mexico!
 
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Monday, November 12, 2012

Tom and Dorothy - Their Immigration Document Dilemma


I took this lovely photo a couple of weeks ago of two of the most delightful people in San Miguel.  If you had to guess their ages, would you believe 86 and 87?  I certainly wouldn't.

I've known them since I moved to San Miguel.  Two of the most upbeat, positive individuals I've ever known.  Both are internationally acclaimed artists - Tom primarily as a sculptor of large site installed bronzes in zoos, parks all over the place.  In addition he is an artist, and so is Dorothy.  She as Dorothy Bell - he as Tom Knapp.  Look them up - you'll be amazed!

They have been here so long that I'can't remember how long it has been.  They have studios in their home here that are wonderful.

Since the two are getting up in years, not too long ago they signed their home here over to their son.
Now they discover that was a big mistake.

They can't prove the required new income requirements since they don't own property any more.  For the two of them it would be $3,600 a month!

They were supposed to ride to Texas with me next week.  They can't.  They can't get a renewal of their documents!

Isn't this ridiculous?  Somebody, somewhere better get busy and get this rectified before they hear the great "sucking sound" of expats leaving Mexico.

To add to the aggravation, the government is cracking down on mail services handling prescription drugs coming from the USA for retired expats and veterans.  Before, just a handling charge and 17% tax was charged - which was quite a bit.  Now, the mailing services can no longer handle the prescriptions, period.  Expats are scrambling to figure out what to do.    Most have Medicare prescription coverage so their costs are minimal.  It will be a hardship for many.

I don't mean to complain.  I just think everyone is surprised and shocked at the suddenness of this.  No warning. No chance to make future plans.  It is befudling to me why there was no advance notice.

Hopefully there will be a resolution in the near future.  However, having dealt with the Mexican court system for the last eighteen months in another matter, I can attest that nothing happens fast in Mexico!
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Sunday, November 11, 2012

TRA and CANIRAC


This morning I was thinking of the gentility and generosity of the Mexican people.  A memory came to mind of an experience I had twenty years ago that I have never forgotten.  I'd like to share it with you.

The TRA is the state chapter of the restaurant industry in the State of Texas.  CANIRAC is the national restaurant association of Mexico like the National Restaurant Association is in the USA.
I've been told, at least in the past, that CANIRAC had four times as many members as the NRA.

In the early 90's, my firm at the request of the President of the TRA, Larry Forehand, designed the logo for TRA and all of its state chapters - pro bono.  The firm was small but mighty.  I realized that this would be great exposure and was more then willing to do so.  Besides, I too served on that Board and all boards expect you to contribute something.  I could contribute talent, not money.

It was a huge project but we did in fact design a logo for each chapter in the BIG State of Texas.

Shortly thereafter CANIRAC contacted TRA to see if a joint agreement could be made to share information.  Such as sources for equipment, operating methods and business practices.  They had approached the California group and for some reason they were not interested in doing business with Mexico at that time.  WE WERE.

I was asked if, since I had designed the logo for TRA, I would consider designing the logo for CANIRAC.  I did.  Each time I see it no matter where I am in Mexico, my heart skips a beat and I'm proud of that contribution.  It too was pro bono.
Because of my past involvement in Mexico, I was involved in some of the meetings.  NAFTA was happening at the same time.  It was an exciting time.

In honor of the signed agreement, we were invited to Monterrey for their restaurant show.  I, along with a  group from Houston, and members from all ovcr the state were honored to attend.  

The first evening in Monterrey there was an elaborate and delicious dinner planned for us in the ballroom of a hotel.  At this dinner EACH member of the Texas group was gifted with an item.
Not trinkets.  Beautiful items.  I was given a malachite necklace.  I still have it.

Each day we were treated like royalty.  Even with an escort to the airport in Monterrey to return to Houston!

Fast forward.  A delegation from CANIRAC was invited to the TRA show that same year.  I think it was in Dallas, but don't remember for sure.  Unfortunately for some reason or other, no great things were planned to entertain them.  No gifts were presented.  No escort to or from the airport.  Much to my chagrin.

I'm not criticizing anyone.  Just saying, it is something I've never forgotten.

When I thought of this little memory this morning,  I looked in my portfolio for the TRA logo and for some reason, I guess because that portfolio was to market to the US market, I never put a copy of the CANIRAC logo in there.  Heaven only knows if I still have a copy. 

Again, I'm happy that I could contribute something to a people and a country that has given me so much.
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Saturday, November 10, 2012

Immigration Laws in Mexico - They are A'Changing


Just like these balloons in Plaza Civica, the bubble is about to burst for the simplicity of moving to Mexico - IF you don't own property!  Which I don't - nor do I want to........ever again.

The new law stipulating income requirements and methods of attaining documentation other then a tourist visa all went into effect yesterday.

It has many scratching their heads as they read the voluminous regulations and income requirements.

I had the dubious distinction of getting caught in this, even before the new law went into effect. The local INM (Immigration) required my income to match what the new law was going to say!

I wrote about the beginning of the process in a post on October 9th.  It is called Bare Bones Efficiency - Immigration for FM2.  (Sorry I don't know how to do this so you can just click on it)

The requirement in the new law, if you don't own property is  $2400 US individually. If you do own property, some say over $195,000 then it is half that much.  I was getting an FM-2 which has a higher requirement, since at the time, this was a permanent resident.  Now the new law, FM-2 and FM-3 have merged as an "immigrant" status.

The only way now to get to permanent resident or "non-immigrant" status is with points and time here plus income.

It is very confusing - even to the facilitators helping people through the maze. Everyone is depending on a man named Rolly Brook to interpret the regs.  He has a website, www.rollybrook.com that has everything you could ever want to know about moving to Mexico and this latest issue among others. A GREAT source of information.

Here's what happened to me over the two month period!  Usually takes a few days.........
They did require my ORIGINAL letter from Social Security showing my income from that source.
They do require a letter from  your MEXICAN bank showing your monthly deposits over a six month period - a new requirement.  They would NOT accept any documents or statements from investment accounts or anything like that. 

I provided the Social Security letter and the Mexican Bank letter.  I barely squeaked by on the income requirement of $2400.  I showed $2600 a month.  They then requested copies of my US bank statements and then requested copies of my Mexican bank statements for six months.  Then they wanted copies of all my deposit slips to my Mexican bank.  I didn't have all of them - never occurred to me to keep them after a certain time.  Then after all of that, they denied my request for an FM-2.

Of course I had already paided 4790 pesos, about $400US as the application fee for the FM-2.  When I said if I'm not going to get the FM-2, I want my money back,  I was told that was not possible as the money was in a bank in Celaya.  Then I was told I could apply to replace my expired FM-3 but would have to pay a fine and the cost would be somewhere close to 5000 pesos. 

THAT was when I balked and respectfully requested to talk to the head of the INM office.

My facilitator, Patty Garcia, knew I was not a "happy camper".  This occurred on October 26th at about 11AM.  I went home devastated.  In truth, I was now in Mexico illegally.  Oy vey!

My mind was racing as to what I could do - basically nothing but plead my case to the head of INM the next week.

Patty saved the day.  THIS is why you pay a facilitator to help you get these documents.  I don't know who she talked to, I don't know what she said, but she called me at 4:45PM that day and said "You have an FM-2"!  The relief was immense.

Patty went to bat for me.  The mere pittance of paying her 400 pesos each year to help me paid off in so many ways.  I've seen her since, when I went to be fingerprinted and got the FM-2 card.  We smiled, congratulated each other and hugged.  As I've said before, Mexico is all about relationships.

It goes without saying that the new laws are more stringent.  I don't know what will happen to the ex-pats here that are living on less then $1000 a month.  At this point their only option would be to live here on a tourist visa and go back to the border every 180 days to get a new one.  An expensive proposition also.

Hopefully this will all sort out in the next year before I have to renew this precious FM-2 that I now possess.
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Thursday, November 08, 2012

Celebrating the Victory!


Four years ago I was amazed, delighted and proud that our country had finally reached a point where skin color didn't matter anymore.  After all, its just skin.

You see, I grew up in the South with Midwestern parents who intelligently raised us with no prejudice toward anyone.  What a gift!  But, I witnessed much unkindness toward people including myself for my views.  I raised my family to be color blind.  I see the results of that on a daily basis and am so proud.

Tuesday night I was with a large group of friends to watch the election returns, with great concern.  We all knew that more money then one could imagine had been spent to defeat the current President by the Republican party and those who would gain from defeating him.

One of the joys of living in San Miguel is the HUGE contingent of Democrats, like minded people, who live here.  In fact, the Democrats Abroad chapter here is one of the largest in the World.

How refreshing to be able to express views without vicious attacks.  There are many who don't agree with each other's views or persuasions but we actually have intelligent discussions about divergent views.  It's called tolerance.  It's called respect.  It's called maturity.

All of us were surprised at how fast the whole election result process was completed.  We were prepared to be at a friend's house long into the night.

I haven't said anything about the election other then to agree with others on Facebook.  I have not made a derogatory comment against anyone.

But, I must tell you when someone asked me if I was for "free not freedom for the USA", I was speechless.  I responded by telling that person that I had never received anything free in my life, had worked 40 years, raised three kind, compassionate adult children, and now was living on social security - which I don't consider "free".  Really, how rude!

In my humble opinion, Romney's attitude that the 47% were welfare recipients, slackers and people who don't work has done a great disservice to our country. 

I sincerely hope that all people reach out to each other and embrace as citizens of the USA and the World.  After all, we are all in this together.

Congratulations to Barack Obama - we women "get it"!
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Tuesday, November 06, 2012

A Treasure from Nature


Can you figure out what this is?  It is sitting on the  seat of an outdoor chair in this photo..

I love collecting things from nature - rocks, sticks, shells, birds' nests.........and this, my first.

It was found out near Jalpa, a village about 25 minutes from San Miguel a month or so ago by my son while hiking.  He gifted me with it.

It now sits on a side table in my bedroom where I see it often.

It reminds me that pleasure comes as much, if not more so, from found objects as from things that are bought in stores.

The texture of this is intriguing to me.  It has a lacey look but is so sturdy.  I like it just sitting on the side table, but, if I wanted to make it appear really extraordinary, I could mount it in a shadow box to give it prominence.
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Monday, November 05, 2012

A New Game - Futbol!


Matilda climbed into her Daddy's lap and promptly fell asleep the other day.  That little nap helped to give her the energy to play football later on.

Usually when we all get together it is soccer. This day I brought a sponge rubber football.
Then sat back and watched the kids run and punt and squeal with delight.

They were impressed to watch their Dad kick the ball to them.  As smart as they are, they were kicking too before our visit was over.

Sebastian was really good at catching the ball and throwing it.  So was Matilda.

It's always interesting when they've had enough how they find something else to interest them.
With Sebastian, it is usually digging in the dirt.  He's a true little boy! 
With Matilda it is usually a book.  She so loves for me to read to her.
I love it too.
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Sunday, November 04, 2012

Day of the Dead in a Cemetery on Lake Patzcuaro in Mexico




To me THIS is what this day or night is all about.  It doesn't matter how many parades are held.  It doesn't matter how many altars are made.  Or how much money businesses make from this traditional day.  It is truly about this.

To me it is the most extraordinary day in Mexico each year.  The year was 2008 that I traveled with a Purepecha woman friend to the cemeteries in the hinterland that are not visited by tourists.  If I live forever, I'll never forget the feeling of reverence, purity, closeness of family, and the "other world" that I felt.  The sensuous smells of the flowers, and the copal burning,  The textures of the flowers, the turned earth, the candles everywhere were magnificent.  Although there was noise outside the cemetery, as I entered everything took on a hushed tone.  A million dollar movie production could not have been more beautiful or startling.

Women in rebozos with men in straw hats and ponchos were putting the final touches on their family grave sites.  OR they were sitting on stools in contemplation.  I so didn't want to disturb anyone that I tried to tiptoe so as not to make a sound.  Whole families.  Little ones wrapped in blankets, teenagers sitting quietly, parents and grandparents.  There for the night. The cold night. 

Since it had rained earlier, it was not easy to tiptoe, much less walk without losing your balance in the slick mud.  But, those were worldly things and I know at times I was really not part of this world in that setting.  My words are inadequate to describe the whole experience.

I have many more photos of that night.  It was beyond extraordinary.  I was honored to have witnessed such a beautiful tradition.   It is a tradition that has been carried out throughout Mexico for thousands of years.

I so hope that this tradition does not become commercialized as so many things have in the USA.  In any event, this night was a once in a lifetime experience for me.  Viva Mexico!





Saturday, November 03, 2012

One of my favorites!


This is one of my favorite photos that I have ever taken.  You just never know what it is really going to look like until you see something in large format.  And, as my friend Billie always says, "It's all about the light"

This image to me says peace, hope with the sunset in the background.
The bright colors of Mexico with all the colorful streamers say joy.

It was an unexpected gift to me that I pass on to you.

May it bring peace, hope and enjoyment.
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Friday, November 02, 2012

Dia de Muertos - An Unexpected Evening


 I was totally unprepared for all the people, fireworks, costumes, catrinas and mojigangas that I saw last evening. I had gone to a talk at the Bibliotecha and thought I would walk up to the jardin to see the finished altars.  I did.  I'll post those photos tomorrow.

The breeze was blowing.  The sun was setting.  The papel picado was making a whispering sound that still could be heard over all the chatter by humans. There is  something about that stirring breeze and those floating colorful flags that mesmerize me.  I could have taken one hundred photos!

On the ground, people were coming in droves.  Some people waiting for the earth harp to play.  Some for the catrina parade.  Families were parading with all members dressed as catrinas - male and female.

It began to become a little surreal.

The darker it got, the more people that arrived.

Fireworks were bursting overhead.  Not the pretty ones - loud ones.

 It wasn't long before the catrinas were there along with the parade with the mojigangas.  Those are big, big puppets around 10 ft high dressed to mimic and make fun of people.

A party was underway.  What?  What happened to the reverance and solemn feeling of the cemetaries in Patzcuaro.  Where were the people who remember the spirits of the dead? Who were these people that were parading and promenading instead of being at home preparing for the cemetary today?

I found it very disconcerting.

 I've traveled all over Mexico for Dia de Muertos.  Never have I seen anything like this..........And, it's not over yet.  More events tomorrow and Sunday.  Whew!  What next?
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