Focus on Mexico Blog

 Beer Garden, San Antonio Tlayacapan

Anyone who knows me knows I like to eat! :-D And, I’m blessed with a husband who likes to cook. However, occasionally we find ourselves out and about early in the day and realize we haven’t eaten anything yet. Today we found ourselves turning into the Beer Garden in San Antonio because we were hungry, we didn’t know where else to go, and it was open! Bill and I often like to say “God takes care of idiots!,” and this was no exception. Now I know we all have different tastes in food, but in my opinion, this is a restaurant I will return to on a regular basis.

The place was empty, and after eating there, I cannot understand why. It was clean, the service was wonderful, the food outstanding (and very reasonable), and the music a delight! I will admit if we want a good ol’ American breakfast, we usually go to Mom’s for eggs over easy, biscuits and gravy, etc. However, the menu at the Beer Garden was probably the most unique I’ve looked at in the area, and I could hardly decide what I wanted to eat.

I obviously haven’t tried everything on the menu, but I may work my way through the menu bit by bit. Let me give you some examples:

On their breakfast menu, I especially liked the title of their fruit section…Forbidden Fruits! The ingredients of one of their juices entitled “To diet” were “light milk, orange juice, strawberry, wheat germ, natural honey, a bit of banana and cinnamon.” The “For the Heart” juice included “Grapefruit, cactus, celery and spinach, sweetened with honey.” Can’t wait to try either of them.

However, today I was more in the mood for comfort food…I was having a bad morning, which started with getting up late and ended with a full physical before breakfast. So I immediately went to their “From the Farm” section. Reading their menu was like reading a great book with a wonderful cast of characters (did I tell you I really like to eat?!). They have unusual selections, and I’m not going to name them all, because I think you ought to go see for yourselves. Bill had Mexican-Style Eggs: Scrambled eggs with hot pepper, onion and tomato; garnished with chilaquiles and beans. He said they were delicious and the hot pepper just hot enough. I went for the Toluca-Style Eggs: scrambled eggs over a tortilla with roast chorizo, fresh cheese, avocado and cream all seasoned in a slightly hot green sauce. It was absolutely delicious…a great combination of flavors and the green sauce was perfect…not too hot, not too bland…it was just right! And, I’m very fond of and fussy about my chorizo, and this was perfectly roasted. The side dishes that came with our breakfasts were a choice of potatoes (crispy hash browns), fried beans with cheese, or cactus. And, if you want, they will use only egg whites in your selections. They’re a very accommodating restaurant.

We’ve eaten dinner at the Beer Garden with a group and had a delightful time.

I think we all had the full steak dinner (steak of your choice), caesar salad and fries for around $11.00USD. They also serve wine, mixed drinks and beer, as well as flaming desserts! They have something for everyone with a broad range of entrees including arrachera, chicken, fajitas, molcajetes, fish and many varieties of shrimp (diabla, Jamaica, tamarindo, kiwi, mango, etc.!). I haven’t eaten lunch there yet, but their menu items include Marlin-smoked taco, salmon and cheese sandwich, corned beef sandwich, shrimp burger, crepes, soups and more. The owner let me borrow a menu!

My two favorite sentences on the menu are “Dear Customer: we kindly ask for your patience in the preparation of your order as we try to provide the highest quality cuisine,” and “If you have not found the dish of your choice, please ask for it and we will do our best to put it on your plate.” Do you love it or what?

And, last but not least, let’s talk about the music. It was toe-tapping enough that I wanted to get up and dance with the owner! During the time we were there, among others, we heard the themes from “Exodus” and “Bridge on the River Kwai” as well as tunes like “Hernando’s Hideaway,” and a great Mexican dance number that we’re sure was from an Astaire-Rogers movie! Okay…it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but we loved it. After my terrible morning, it put me in an absolute euphoric mood, and you can’t ask for much more than that.

So…try it. Hope you like it. If not, please accept my apologies. If so, please let me know!

In 2006 I had to be on bed-rest for two months. I don't want anyone to worry--I am fine now! I just wanted to add my thoughts about that time because going to bed for 6 weeks to 2 months can change a person's perspective on a lot of things and I wanted to share this time with you. 

June 2006

I was about to learn what it meant to be the proverbial princess in the ivory tower with a honking fog-horn and a box of bonbons. 

Honestly, had I known the recovery time after the surgery was going to be so difficult I probably wouldn't have had it done.

The biopsy results were benign, thank God. After losing two young girlfriends to cancer in the last 2 years I'm no stranger to the realities of how quickly life can be turned upside down and end in just a few short months.

As far as it is in my control, I would be there in a heartbeat if one of my friends or family needed my help. I would insist that they allow themselves to be pampered and value themselves and their health enough to take their down-time in stride...

Why have I treated myself any differently?

Learning to value myself has been a journey for me. The past 5 weeks have taught me a lot about who I am. Life is short, this is not a dress rehearsal, blah, blah, blah. There's nothing quite like a lot of time to reflect on where you are in life. No one else can do these things for me--I have to take care of myself. Finding out who I am and what I want out of life is just the beginning. Fully engaging in every moment is my goal. 

I railed against being stuck in bed but at some point my room stopped being my cell and I began to call it my Ivory Tower. It's where I "live" for now. Occasionally the court jesters come visit me or my knight in shining armor brings me tacos. LOL 

But calling it my Ivory Tower is more than just a playful term...it reflects the change in me and what I deserve from myself in my life.

For 1 or 2 more weeks I will be up here, gnoshing on dark chocolate, watching guilty pleasure movies, playing board games with my kids, editing photos, catching up on letters that have needed to be written, talking and laughing with my wonderful friends who've been with me thru all this and then.....The Dr. imposed 'lock' will spring and I will be free to leave. But the "princess" who walks out of the door will not be the same person who schlepped in 6 weeks ago because I have realized my worth. Now, pass me the bonbons! :)

During our last dinner with the Focus on Mexico group in October, Walt thought the dessert, Flan Cake, was so good, he had three of them, and, as you can, was proud of the accomplishment!!

posted by Focus_on_Mexico | 12:08 PM
1 Comments:

Anonymous Walt said...

    And I ate all three

Richard Case from our last group turned out to be a premier haggler, and the nice thing about it was that both he and the vendor came away from the transaction smiling!

He definitely takes one of our tips to heart, "Treat haggling as part of the fun in the market place...a form of social interaction rather than a matter of life and death." As we like to say: "Keep a smile on your face. Be friendly. Don't get mad. Don't let the 'game' get 'personal.'"

After it was all over, Richard said, "I love negotiating! I thought it was a lot of fun. I like walking away with a win-win for both of us! Can't wait to move down here and start doing it on a regular basis." Our hats are off the Richard...it took about a half hour, but he got quite a bargain; however, since it's a surprise for his wife, we won't tell you what!

The Cruz Roja Picnic, hosted by GIL

On Nov 4, 2006, a group of happy contributors got together on Richard Tingen's property on the lake and danced the afternoon away for the Cruz Roja. Music by Ronnie & The Juniors, lots of food and drink, raffles and a 50-50 giveway (what more could you ask?) and a party for all ages came together for a roaring good time that Saturday. GIL, the Lakeside Realtor's Group, knows how to throw a good party, and this was no exception.

The Maestros del Arte, which runs from November 10-12 this year, is a visual feast for the eyes...so many artesanias, so many friends to meet and greet and so many bargains to be had. We headed to Ajijic early for the amazing gathering of some of Mexico's best artists. Pictured here, Jacobo Angeles Ojeda, an extremely talented young woodcarver of folk art animals and creatures called alebrijes, showing one of his most beautiful pieces.

We like to get there early on the first day of the show to grab some of our favorite pieces, which go fast. And, there's always a line at Jalisco's Centro de Integracion Tapalpa, A.C, a very special school whose children create animals and sculptures of whimsical and imaginative design made of papelmalecho (papier-mache).

The 'youngsters' Paul & Virginia quickly became a favorite of everybody. They seemed to enjoy everything they did...playing golf (Virginia was in the winning group!), shopping at the tianguis, listening to the mariachis and eating all the great food we had during the 7-day program. During our last dinner at La Bodega, Paul warmed our hearts when he said, "I read everything on the web site...every page, every word.

"I kept thinking it was all exaggeration...that it all sounded too good to be true. But, you know, since we've been here, I realize you didn't overstate anything...this really is too good AND it's true! We've had a great time!" Thank you, Paul & Virginia...we enjoyed you a whole lot too!

We had a great time dancing at La Bodega on Thanksgiving night. Ana learned the cha-cha from Steve; Karen got a great lesson in swing dancing from Rod; and the whole group got up and boogied to the song, Mambo #5, taught by Ray, Marie and our wonderful entertainer that night, Ricardo.

Even non-Focus participants decided to join the fun! That happens a lot when you have a group as congenial as the one that just left...everybody wants to have a part in the merriment! It really was a great group, and we know a lot of lasting friendships were made. Our final night was on the day of the American Thanksgiving, and the staff at La Bodega did us proud.

We had a traditional turkey dinner with all the trimmings, including stuffing and cranberry sauce. Great dancing, great conversation, traditional food and lively guests…some of whom still had the energy to go to the Plaza and watch the fireworks at the end of the daily fiesta. Our group was lucky enough to be here for the San Andres fiesta…the patron saint of Ajijic, whose party lasts for nine days!

A wonderful time was had by all.

One of the places we visit in Guadalajara is the Instituto Cultural de Cabanas, near Tapatio Plaza. It was formerly an orphanage from the 1800s. Today its domed ceilings are covered with massive murals painted by Orozco, depicting the history of Mexico.

Orozco reached the summit of his art with the frescos he painted in this building. They include a historical panorama of Mexico showing the pre-Hispanic world of the great Indian civilizations, the Conquest, visions of the downtrodden, public service as opposed to demagoguery, the perils of alienation and dictatorship, the Revolution, creative activity and a man engulfed in flames, evoking a Promethean theme which had appeared in his previous work. The twenty-foot-high figures stare down at you, including Aztecs, severe Spanish Conquistadors, innocent looking priests, and leaders of the Mexican Revolution such as Hidalgo and Allende.

When we go to the Ballet Folklorico, one of the more popular and most famous dances of Michoacan is El Baile de Los Viejitos or Dance of the Old Men.

This was a chance to mock the Spanish ruling class by doing a dance hunched over like old men with canes. They would wear a mask looking like an old European (pink face with white hair). The masks are usually gap-toothed and the dances mimic old men with hunched backs and walking canes. This stance is alternated with bouts of lively leaping and dancing, in a "world turned upside down" type of comedic presentation. The dancers leap about with little grace, which gives rise to much laughter at their manner.

Greg Ochs came out of the changing room with a pair of glasses, asking "who do these belong to?" Gary Matson had handed them to him, saying, "someone left these here."

Greg was convinced someone had accidentally picked up his glasses instead of theirs. I laughingly asked, "did you try them on just in case?" Greg said, "I don't remember my glasses looking like this." But he tried them on, and lo & behold, they were his!

We didn't let him forget it. Turns out Gary knew they were Greg's. He just needed a place to put his "unmentionables," and the glasses were in the way, so he decided to have a little fun with Greg. However, Gary did say he cleaned them first before giving them back! Wonder what he meant by that?

Our groups do have fun, and really form some fast friendships during their time in the Lake Chapala area.

Focus on Mexico's last night with the group is traditionally held at La Bodega. However, we made a few changes during this program, because on Tuesday night, La Bodega was having a Tecalitlan Female Mariachi Dinner Concert. Female mariachis? Yes, although they have been a rarity in the past, this is beginning to change. Whether performing in nightclubs or headlining in concert halls, all-female mariachis are becoming a fixture in the male-dominated mariachi industry.

These young ladies were awesome. They were not only wonderful to listen to, but quite expert at the various instruments they were playing: guitars, trumpets, violins, vihuela (small guitars), and guitarrones (large six-string versions of the vihuela). The ladies wore a skirted version of the traditional traje de charro, which is the riding suit worn by the Mexican horseman. They had great stage presence and even came into the audience to share their wonderful voices up close and personal with us. It was a great evening of listening and dancing.

Sue Ochs even had the presence of mind to grab the tip money collected by a not-so-steady-on-his-feet concert goer and deliver it to the young ladies as an extra thank you for the marvelous evening.

Focus on Mexico had a holiday party on Wednesday, December 13, as a thank you to our speakers and the staff at Vita Living Concepts. It was a wonderful party, and we had a great time.

However, I have to share with you a particularly funny and wonderful moment. At the party, Berta (our driver Manuel's wife), who is a wonderful singer, sang a couple of love songs to us for our anniversary. What luck...the party was the same night as our third anniversary!! Rodrigo, a very handsome young man with Stewart Title decided to sit next to me to tell me what she was singing to us (in Spanish, of course!).

The words were just beautiful, and if you saw all the pictures, you’d realize I got a little emotional at times! However, the funny part is that I kept leaning farther and farther over to Rodrigo as he was whispering all these 'sweet nothings' in my ear until I realized what I was doing...that's the second picture.

It was a wonderful time and a great moment..

There's more than meets the eye in a field of growing corn.

One of the experts who talks to our group at one of the University at the Bar sessions is Judy King, who speaks to our participants about the history and culture of Mexico. During our last group, she mentioned the cornfield we've all noticed on the hillside high above Ajijic. I remember looking at it, but not really thinking too hard about how it got there. I suddently realized how much perseverance it must have taken to plant and harvest that corn. First, the farmer would have to tote his seed up by his strong back, unless he was lucky enough to have a burro he could depend upon. And, you know, there probably isn't any water up on that mountain. He would either have to lug it up there or pray the rains give him a healthy crop during the growing season. Just enough rain, of course! If the corn's too full of water, it will spoil. So many things to worry about!

And, then think, when this corn is fully mature (anywhere from 5 to 7 feet tall), it would, of course, have to be harvested by hand. Anybody who plants on the side of a hill isn't going to have any machinery. So he probably just cuts it with a cane knife, and sells it with the husk on.

And, then I can't help but wonder how he gets all that corn down that steep hill. Even with his little burro, it's got to take a lot of trips. Without a burro, I can't even begin to contemplate the effort it must take. And, when he finally does get all that corn down to the village, does he get enough money for it for his family? To me...it seems like an awful lot of effort for not a lot of return. For him, it probably means a better life for his growing family. I don't know about you, but I will certainly look at that patch of land above Lake Chapala a whole lot differently now. I wish that farmer well and, you know, I see people selling roasted corn all the time in Ajijic. I think it's about time I stop and have some.

We all have special memories of Christmas that make us think about what we can give to others and not so much about what we will receive. A day or so before Christmas, we were all meeting and discussing what we were going to be doing over the holidays. Ana looked at us with that special look only she can sometimes have and said "I would like to share something with you that is very special to me."

She opened her purse and took out her wallet and went directly to a piece of paper folded very carefully in a special pocket. As she unfolded the paper, she shared with us a very special Christmas story that she is allowing us to share with you.

A few years ago she was working long hours and very hard in order to give her twin boys a good Christmas. However, even with the extra work, she had very little money to spend on presents.

She bought all she could afford and decided that it was time to discuss with the boys where the presents really came from...that it was her who bought the gifts, not Santa Claus or the Infant Jesus. Her boys seemed okay with what she told them, and they opened what presents there were, and after a while, they all went to bed. When Ana awoke the next day, she found the note (pictured above) from one of her sons. I have attempted to translate the note as best I can, and hope it conveys the feeling we saw as Ana explained what it meant to her:

"Mommy Merry Christmas

Thank you for the ball. This letter is to give something very special for you

1. You told us that we would not receive gifts if not from you.
2. The gifts are not the meaning of Christmas but the love and all that that lives inside.
3. This year I am grateful for the time you give as I know you are very hard-working, although I don't get to see you.

Merry Christmas Mommy

From Emy For Mommy"

Ana carries this note with her always to remind her that the true meaning is not what you give or can afford to give, but what is given from your heart and with your love.

We are very touched by this story, because it also reminds us of the true spirit of Christmas...that it is the love of family and friends that is the true gift of the season. We hope you have had a wonderful and special holiday this year.

and Nine Hours to get back home...

We rolled out of bed on November 24, 2006 (American Thanksgiving) at 6:00 a.m. It was the final day of our friends', Ray and Janet Gillard from Edmonton, visit and we had to get them to airport for an 8:30 a.m. flight. A quick cup of coffee and we were on the road. A mere thirty minutes later we pulled into a parking spot at the airport, waited with them through the check-in procedure and off they went. Simple enough; now it was time to head home. On the way back the plan was to stop at our new house and take some pictures of the construction. We were soon to find out that although I would definitely be taking pictures today, none would be as intended.

As we pulled out of the airport parking lot and turned the corner we could smell something burning. Before we had a chance to wonder about it, POOF! The hose belt to the radiator blew up. Great. Sunday morning on the side of the road, at the airport - half way between Guadalajara and Lake Chapala. Ray looks at me and asks if I had my purse with me. We were obviously going to be in need of some pesos. I slowly shook my head, no. He hadn't thought to bring his wallet. Who thinks of these things at 6:00 a.m. in the morning. Then I suggested he phone Bill and Karen. Whoops, we both forget the cell phones also. Great. Plus of course neither of us had any I.D. whatsoever.

While we stood there pondering our situation with the hood of the Honda in "help" position, a taxi pulled up behind the Honda and got out to see if he could help us. Within seconds a police car pulls up behind the taxi to see if he can help. Once they saw the big hole in the hose the taxi driver asked Ray "Tiene dinero? (Do you have any money?)" Ray reached in his pants pocket (which were luckily the ones he had worn the night before) and found $400 pesos (around $40 U.S.). The policeman takes a tool off his belt and dismantles the hose and Ray and the cab driver take off in search of a parts department that just might be open on Sunday.

I stay with the Honda. The cop gets ready to head off and tells me that he will be in the area if I need anything and will keep an eye on me. We both smile and off he goes. (Thank goodness he didn't ask to see our papers.)

Five minutes later, another policeman stops to see if he can help. I explain (can't believe he actually understood me) what happened and he pushes the Honda up the road a little (off the curve) as the traffic is picking up. Then he tells me that he will be in the area if I need anything and will keep an eye on me. We both smile and off he goes.

A little while later Ray and the cab driver come back with a new (generic) hose and thankfully they also bought a screwdriver (the cop with his tool back on his belt was long gone) and installed the new hose. Ray pays him $150 pesos for all this effort (we were now down to $100 pesos). With a big sigh saying "that wasn't so bad", off we go - heading home once again. Not quite so soon. One mile up the road we smell something burning. Oh no, not again. Ray pulls over just in time so at least the new hose doesn't explode again. Now what do we do with our last $100 peso note and still no phone. Up the road a few yards is an Oxxo store (like a 7-11, you know the ones that are always open.) Thank you God. We wait till the Honda cools down a bit then slowly drive it up the road and pull off at Oxxo with a wonderful phone hanging outside. Ray goes in and with the $100 peso note buys a phone card. Luck of lucks I had Bill and Karen's phone number in my head.

Ray gets Bill on the phone and asks Bill to bring his truck, pick up some rope along the way, and come out and tow us home. Unfortunately the battery is dead. Great. Bill suggests (bless his little heart) that we call the Green Angels (those wonderful mechanics hired by the Mexican government to patrol the highways). Ray explains we are a little short on money and asks Bill to call the Green Angels from his place in case he gets stuck on hold.

So for about ten to fifteen minutes we make small talk waiting for the Green Angels to arrive. A car (that had certainly seen better days) pulls up and out comes a father, mother and four kids. The kids run for the four mountains of gravel beside the store and I watch wondering what they are so excited about. Then the roar of a plane overhead (remember we are still very close to the airport). The family had come out to watch the planes go overhead. Miguel (whose name we will never forget) comes over and tells us he's a mechanic and offers to help.

Within seconds, feet off the ground and head buried in the hood, Miguel is pulling things apart and talking to himself. Then he pops back to the ground, over to his car and lifts out his tool box, a five gallon paint drum. This he turns upside down on the ground and everything falls into the dirt. He pushes things back and forth till he finds the required tools and back to the Honda.

About this time I am having trouble keeping a straight face. I whisper to Ray to ask if he thinks it appropriate if I discreetly pull out my camera and start filming this happening. I knew I had to write this up as a Blog. So out comes the camera and I start shooting.

Miguel works away happily on his own for a while, then hollers for Maria Guadalupe, his wife, to bring him a different tool. Now she is under the hood with him and he is giving her a lesson in mechanics on the spot. The four toddlers age six, five, three and two are burying themselves in the gravel as they eat their sticky candy. Yum. I get it all on film with no one really noticing. The two year old falls and hurts his finger and comes crying back to Mom. So I take his picture and show it to him to calm him down. He is fascinated.

The other kids start posing and wanting their pictures taken. Now I have a license to shoot and no longer need to be discrete.

Still no Green Angels; hey who cares. We got our own little mechanic. And I am getting great material for my Blog. Along comes a big tow truck and stops to talk to Ray and asks if we called them. Ray explains no that we had called the Green Angels but they hadn't arrived and now we have Miguel so we are in fine shape. Thanks but no thanks. The truck drives away. Ten minutes later he is back and says our friend Memo called him to come and we need to pay him. Great. Memo as it turns out is the nick name for Bill. Remember Bill was going to call the Green Angels who by the way offer their services free, courtesy of the Mexican Government. Free we can afford. $450 pesos, the going rate for the tow truck (who Bill called when he couldn't get the Green Angels), we don't have, plus Ray explains we have it under control, we have Miguel. The nice tow truck man explains that though we aren't going to use his services, our friend did call them out and we will still need to pay. He kindly offers to come by our house tomorrow and receive his fee. Thanks so much. See you tomorrow. (He came the next day and Ray paid him without complaint. Afterwards we both agreed that it was great that Bill did call the Tow Truck as they could have been our only hope. Plus we found out that Bill came out in his car to find us and we were of course long gone.)

He no sooner pulls away when Miguel shows Ray this handful of parts and says we need to go buy some new ones. Ray and I look at each other. It is quite clear by the look of Miguel's car that we certainly can't hit them up for a loan. Ray sheepishly asks can Miguel (wife and four kids) bring Ray and I back to Chapala to our house to get some money. After we get money, we will go buy the parts. No problem at all Miguel says and everyone piles on board. Lucky for Ray he gets in the front seat with Miguel. Maria Guadalupe and the four darlings and I are happily clustered in the back seat. During the trip the kids are fascinated with me and keep touching me and trying to chat with me. We all have a good laugh as we try to communicate. Little Maria (the five year old) gives me a bite of her candy sucker. You remember the one that she was licking in the gravel pile. Goodness. What could I do? Wasn't so bad.

Since Sunday can be a busy day with all the families out, there was quite a bit of traffic and Miguel wasn't too keen on driving bumper to bumper so he turns on his police siren and we careen through the traffic, lickity split with all the drivers turning their heads in question as we whiz by. I am still flashing pictures from the back seat.

We come up the hill to come into Chapala and as we come down the other side Miguel says to Ray "no frenos". Even I know that this means "no brakes". Using the hand brakes Miguel gets us to a spot where we can pull over. Under the car and he confirms, "frenos no funciono". Here we go again. No worries, back into the car and using the hand brakes Miguel drives all the way around the Libramiento and stops in front of the Refractionario (parts shop). They are closed. Of course, it is Sunday. Plus we still have no money and we are pretty sure that Miguel isn't overflowing with pesos either.

Ray is now standing beside Miguel thinking to himself that one of our friends really should drive by right about now. He looks across the street at the Pemex and there are our friends, Bev and Bruce Fraser, getting gas, bless their little hearts. Over we go and explain the situation and ask if they can run us to our house to get some money and then we'll come back for Miguel and find a parts shop that is open so he can fix his car and then get back to ours, we hope. So Bruce and Bev drive us to our house. Ray asks me if I just want to stay home and he'll go back and work with Miguel and get the car and truck fixed. I said absolutely not. I wouldn't miss this for the world.

Ray runs in and gets his wallet, and then off to the ATM machine for some money; as it turns out we don't actually have any at home either. Ray quickly runs into the ATM and just as quickly runs out. The debit card was not in his wallet. It was in front of my computer right where I left it the day before. Back to the house for the card and this time we pick up both cells and my purse. We're good for anything now. We get back to the ATM machine and there are three ladies inside (and a small line out building outside) who don't know how to make it work.

We told Miguel and Maria Guadalupe we'd be back in ten minutes and that was almost an hour before. After fifteen or twenty minutes Ray buts the lineup and goes in and helps the ladies figure out how to the use the machine and finally, after each taking their turn, they are out. After the line up fades, Ray gets some pesos and back to Miguel and his car.

No Miguel. Maria Guadalupe explains that Miguel has gone (on foot) looking for an open parts shop. We jump back in with Bruce and Bev and drive in the direction that Maria pointed. All the way through Ajijic and nothing, back to check with Maria - Miguel isn't back yet. We drove through San Antonio and back to check with Maria - Miguel isn't back yet. Bruce and Bev are thinking they could be sitting at home enjoying their Sunday so graciously offer us to drive them home and keep their car as long as we need it. We get her to give us some blankets to cover the seats, just in case.

On the way back we find Miguel who is happy to sit on the blankets as he has quite a bit of grease on his person. Miguel confirms that it is Sunday and there are no parts shops on the Lakeside that are open on Sunday. So it is back to near the airport where Ray had got the part earlier. Miguel instructs Maria and the kids to stay with his car (although we were all prepared to bring them along). Ray offers her $200 pesos (we have lots now) to buy the kids some lunch and points to the Subway across the street. She immediately refuses and Ray had to convince her it was for comidas for the kids in order to get her to accept the money.

We get to the parts shop and Ray and Miguel go in for the parts. Ours are no problem but they don't have the right part for Miguel's brakes. No problem. They get two different parts and do a Mexican fix. Sadly I forgot to take pictures for this part. Now off to the Honda and everything will be fine. Not quite. Miguel had brought from his ten pound pail the right tools for two of the parts he needed to replace on the Honda, but alas not for the third part which controlled the power steering.

Ray explains I will need to drive it back to Chapala with no power steering. After all he is going to drive Bruce's vehicle. I shake my head no and Miguel jumps in with me and drives us back with Ray following in the other vehicle. Fortunately we don't have a built-in siren but we managed to go at lightening speed all the same.

We get back to Miguel's car and the family and Miguel pulls out the necessary tool and finishes fixing our vehicle first. As his head is under the hood Maria goes over to Ray and tries to give him the change from lunch. Ray refuses and she tries again. Miguel has his back to us so Maria quickly smiles and sticks the change in her pocket. Our little secret.

Then Miguel tells us it is ok for us to head off and leave him there to fix his. Ray told him absolutely not. We weren't leaving until we knew his car was fixed and they were all right. Miguel was worried about us wasting any more of our day so he literally was running back and forth to fix his car hollering to Maria for this part or that and to try the engine while he was underneath adjusting.

I of course am still taking pictures. I notice Maria watching me and I am sure she is wondering what I am finding of such interest. So I get Ray to explain to her what I am doing. This is going to be a Blog story on the Internet. Maria breaks out in a big grin and hollers to Miguel still under the car that he is going to be a famous mechanic in Canada and the United States through our Focus Blog on the internet. That brought laughs all round.

Finally Miguel finishes and takes the water can he uses to add water to the car and washes up a bit and wipes his hands on his pants to dry. Ray asks him what we owe him and Miguel tells us nothing, he wasn't working in the shop, it was his day off so no charge. Ray asked what the shop would charge for such as day as this and Miguel quietly says $400 pesos so Ray gave him $700 and after a fashion Miguel agrees to take it. Maria is delighted. Christmas is right around the corner.

I ask if I can take their picture and Miguel, Maria and Ray cozy up for the shot. As we are saying our thank you's and goodbyes Miguel and Maria invite us to Christmas at their house. They say they don't have a lot but would be honored if we joined them for some Pozole and maybe a little Tequila. I said only if I can bring my camera for the "rest of the Blog story". They agree and we are due to go there in a few days from now. We can't wait. We bought some toys to take with us along with some food.

My heart swells with pride at our new Mexican friends and their sense of natural giving without hesitation. What started for them as a free Sunday to take the kids to see the planes ended up with Maria and the kids sitting in the car on the highway in Chapala for hours (without one complaint even from the two year old) and Miguel working all day on our vehicle. Never a thought to turn us down or that we might have ruined their day. We needed help. They were there. I truly love the Mexican people.

That night we were sitting on the terrace enjoying a glass of wine and examining our day. Ray and I both agreed; we wouldn't have missed it for the world. I said I was so happy that our car had broken down. Otherwise we wouldn't have met these beautiful people and made them as new friends. And you wouldn't be reading this Blog.

Thank you Mexico, our adopted home. Stay tuned for the "rest of the story" after Christmas!

4 Comments:

 Lisa and Andy said...

I just wanted to thank you for the newsletter. I love to read it from cover to cover.

This morning - while Andy was making egg and cheese omelet- I was reading aloud your blog about your adventures with your car, Miguel and his family. We had to laugh out loud - I know it was not funny at the time- but we were delighted with your story and your good hearts.

10:56 AM   

 Lilian and George said...

Just checked out the Monte Coxala Spa and WOW! we are so looking forward to that! We'll have to start buying lottery tickets to win enough money to stay there some day...

Also, your blog site is wonderful! You do seem to have a lot of fun - it's always a matter of getting the right people together, and I would think that anyone joining your group would fall into that category - what do you think? Automatically adventurous and willing to try new things and participate... We really look forward to exploring the area under your expert guidance.

Yes, over the years I had always experienced Mexicans as warm and loving people, willing to give you the shirt of their backs if you treat them as equals, especially when you (try to) speak Spanish with them. So it doesn't surprise me how they helped you with your car problems. But oh - what problems you had!

10:58 AM   

 Vivian and Gordie said...

just read your "car adventure" on the net and it is priceless.

Who would have imagined a day like that. I get so tired reading and hearing about the crises in the world. Stories like this leave you feeling good about man kind and the knowledge that goodness will prevail.

11:05 AM   

 Jack Morine said...

I read your car trouble story and couldn't help but think what would have happened in boston in the same circumstances. While you were gone for parts someone would have stolen the wheels off your car.

Then the cops would have come along and told you to get your car the hell off the road.

It's wonderfull how the mexican people with so little are so willing to share with others.
The way you and Ray handled your troubles that day tells me something. You're becoming Mexicans.

A comment/warning from participants on our November 18, 2006, program.

"Las Tres Pelirrojas Peligrosas (The 3 dangerous red heads) discover Ajijic and Chapala and vow to return to the land of tequila and limes, sol y jacarandas, amistad y aventuras."

Comments courtesy of Patti Kilpatrick; picture courtesy of Katie Meyer.

Ole!

I didn't think anything could beat a cold beer on a hot summer day. Hard to imagine a beer tasting better until I got to Mexico! I had my first Michelada in Guadalajara! It's pronounced (me-chel-LA-da), and translated, more or less, as ''my cold beer.'' Our friends, Peter and Elaine ordered me one. I took one sip, and was in seventh heaven. The dark Modelo Negra had hints of pepper and lime and spices along with a tomato-y, salty taste. It was yummy!

I found out a michelada usually consists of fresh lime juice, with Tabasco, Worcestershire and soy sauces thrown in, a pinch of black pepper and possibly a dash of Maggi, the seasoning usually used for soups and stews. A lot of places also use Clamato Juice or spicy tomato juice. This mix makes up two or three fingers' worth of a tall glass of ice. Then you add the beer, and rim the edge of the glass with salt.

For some reason, on this group in January, I was into a Michelada craze and tried one at several places, trying to find the best. I think I found it! I really enjoyed the michelada at El Adobe the best. El Adobe is in Tlaquepaque and is one of the restaurants we take our Focus on Mexico participants to. This particular version of the michelada didn't have salt around the rim. We think it might have been rimmed with Maggi, which gave it a wonderfully tangy taste, and possibly pepper or some mild chile. Ana's supposed to find out for me. I don't think El Adobe will give me the entire recipe, but maybe they'll tell me what it was rimmed with. It was very different and very tasty. I'll let you know.

And, I think I gained more converts to what is fast becoming my favorite refresher. Andy, Ana, Bill and Fernando have been won over to variations on the michelada. Ana and Bill seem to like theirs with Corona, Fernando enjoys his with O'Doul's and Andy added a shot of tequila to his!

As I was taking pictures and being the annoying paparazzo the participants find out I can be, one of the other diners approached me and started asking questions: "Where do you live?" I answered, "Originally I am from Kansas City, Missouri, but I live in Ixtlahuacan de los Membrillos now." She introduced herself as Marcia, and told me she was at Lakeside for the weekend. She lived in Guadalajara, and she brought her family to Quilmes for dinner. She was absolutely delightful. Her son spoke English and translated what I couldn't understand.

Marcia asked for my phone number, so I gave her one of my cards. She was fascinated about Focus on Mexico, so I explained what we were doing, and she just thought it was wonderful that we were bringing groups to the Lake Chapala area. You could tell she loved Lakeside and thought everyone, Mexican and North American, should retire here! We had an absolutely wonderful conversation and I have a feeling we will be hearing from her again. That's our new amiga, Marcia, between Fernando and Bill. And, the other picture is of her wonderful family. The son who helped translate for us is at the far left.

Yes, you read that right...an entire mall devoted to shoes...it almost took my breath away. They also had a few extraneous shops there...like pastries and cosmetics!

I mean...could it get any better than that? After Ana drove us up to see Julie, we decided to check out the shoes. It was a perfect day. I bought two pairs of shoes; Ana bought one; Bill didn't buy any! Go figure!

You ladies will have to vote...should this be on our tour or not?

Fernando happened upon a store in Chapala that sold huaraches. He tried on a few pair and finally found one that fit him just fine!

You've all heard the Beach Boys song, "Surfin USA", haven't you. Well, part of the lyrics go like this:

If everybody had an ocean
Across the U.S.A.
Then everybody'd be surfin'
Like Californi-a
You'd seem 'em wearing their baggies
Huarachi sandals too
A bushy bushy blonde hairdo
Surfin' U.S.A.

I don't know if Fernando's a surfer, but he's got the right shoes for it now. I think I even heard him haggle...it's expected, you know! Looking good, Fernando!

You can buy what in Mexico?!

I have to admit, one of my favorite parts of going to Paz (the liquor store in San Antonio Tlayacapan) is the surprise some people have in the fact that you can buy Cuban cigars in Mexico.

Of course you can! There's no embargo in Mexico against Cuba. As a matter of fact, some of the expats with immigrado status here have even used their Mexican passports to travel to Cuba just to say they did it! And, some of my friends say Cuban cigars are more than a hobby. They're a lifestyle. Who am I to argue with that? And for you information junkies out there, Wikipedia says "the English word cigar is from the Spanish word cigarro, which in turn derives from the Mayan word for tobacco, siyar." I didn't know that, did you?

When Martin Schuster realized Paz sold Cuban cigars, he decided then and there he had to have one. It was fun watching him select just the right one as we all looked on. Paz has quite a selection, and as he opened the cases, I have to admit, they smelled wonderful! Am I really a closet smoker and don't know it?

He chose the perfect cigar, thick enough to feel macho in his fingers (my words, not his!) and I'm sure he enjoyed it to the last puff. He wisely chose not to smoke among the ladies! Way to go, Martin. I wish I could have joined you just for the experience

During our first group in January, we spent one of our evenings at La Bodega dining and dancing to the wonderful music of Carol Bedford. Bill and I have lived at Lakeside now for three years, and I can't believe this is the first time we've ever heard Carol sing. That's Bill and me dancing, and Carol in the background.

I can't believe I didn't get a better picture of her! Carol is a local singing star in the area and I read on one web site that "she is blessed with "Perfect Pitch," and after listening to her this night, I DO believe! She sings a variety of music, but being a fan of ballads, I loved her renditions of Anne Murray and Emmy Lou Harris, as well as many others...too numerous to mention. I think she even sang a Patti Page song, and beautifully, I might add, but having been blessed with a poor memory (never can remember if or why I'm mad at someone!), I just cannot remember all the music she sang. I just know I enjoyed the evening thoroughly. And, since many of our participants bought CDs and danced the night away, I am positive they enjoyed themselves also.

One thing I found out recently and that many people don't know about Carol is that she was not only California's Country Music female vocalist of the Year, for two years in a row, but that she was a lawyer and a family court Judge in San Diego. Can't wait to hear her again. So glad you're at Lakeside, Carol. Looking forward to another show soon! And this time, I'll be sure to take a better picture!

This was a first for us...John White (or as we liked to call him...Juan Blanco!) sat down and played us some tunes while we were at Omar O'Rourke's for lunch. John said he had been taking lessons for only about a year. He’s going to have to make a comment to this blog to let me know what he played. Sorry, John...I can't remember. I just know everyone was amazed to think you had only been playing for a year. It was awesome.

Then Jerry Patterson and John played a duet together and played a toe-tapping tune that really got the joint jumping!

Omar's house is a popular place with our participants. Before we got there, I told everyone that Pedro, Omar's bartender, makes the best margaritas I've ever had. I made believers out of all of them! It was, as always, a great afternoon.

John and Sylvia White were a energetic and dynamic team on our last program. John is an artist, and his wife, Sylvia, owns the Sylvia White Gallery in Santa Monica, California, where John is one of the featured artists. Good planning, Sylvia! If you want to read about Sylvia and John, go to their web site: http://www.artadvice.com/. 

John blew us away when he sat down and just whipped out this wonderful piece using the word Chapala and the colors of Mexico as his inspiration. As their web site says, John's "notational style of work draws from everything as varied as his experiences on the golf course to therapy notations." And now, we're quite delighted to say, he can add Lake Chapala, Mexico, to his repertoire. Can't wait until you join us here, John. I'm dying to see your art up close and personal.

From time to time, we hear from some of our participants. One couple we hear from often is Lane & Pam "Lets buy stock in Viagra" Maxwell. They were bringing us up todate with what has been going in their life.

By the way, we are still waiting for someone to tell us about the "Lets buy stock in Viagra" story.

Lane and Pam sent us a couple of pictures of their area and about one, Lane says "With the weather here in Colorado, who needs the tropics? It has been so nice here that I went snorkeling the other day as you can see form the picture." Of course this is not the original, we felt the "Speedo" Lane was wearing needed a bit of help, so we added the towel.

In fact, Focus On Mexico is not sure this is really Lane, anyone out there care to comment?

Most of the restaurants in Ajijic are indoor-outdoor restaurants. That's one of our favorite things about the area. I love eating outside. Pampa Tango's, one of the fine Argentinean restaurants in Ajijic...great beef...is covered with a palapa roof. Palapas are those palm-thatched umbrellas you're used to seeing in the tropics.

However, there is a bit of space, as you can see in the picture, where the palapa roof ends and the trees begin. It was hard to get a picture of the clouds...but the moon was full and the clouds had a faint outline around them. It was really beautiful. We were all talking about the sky when all of a sudden Fleming said, "That's the sky...the real sky...it's open? I thought it was a mural!"

And, then this dear man and his darling wife re-enacted the moment so I could take advantage of a Kodak moment. They're truly good sports, and we laughed about it through the rest of the dinner. We really enjoyed Fleming and Katt...they had a joy for life that was quite infectious. They were a lot of fun to be around.

By Karen Cottingham

Retirement looms in what used to be the distant future. But now, in my early 50s, it's something that does cross my mind at least once a day. So when I was approached to write an article about retiring in Mexico, I was intrigued. My children were more than intrigued --- they were downright excited about the thought of being able to vacation at the hacienda they envisioned me buying.

In November I travelled to Lake Chapala, beautiful lake district made up of several communities along the shore and nestled in a mountain valley about 50 minutes south of Guadalajara. The area is known to the locals as "Lakeside."

Lake Chapala is quickly becoming the retirement destination of choice for many North American baby boomers.

I enrolled in a program called "Focus on Mexico," a series of seminars and tours designed to teach you everything you need to know about retiring in Mexico. There were 16 attendees, made up of Canadians and Americans, all of whom came armed with a sense of adventure and a longing for a quieter, warmer, less-expensive place to "live the best of their lives."

Donald Collete had a wonderful time at La Bodega, and it made our evening! First, let me explain, Donald & Mildred Collete had their first date on February 13, 60 years ago this year. Donald made the announcement at our first-night get-together in the bar at the Hotel Real de Chapala. And, you could tell from looking at the both of them that it was the best date of their lives! I don’t think they’ve been apart since.

So you understand, they’ve been through a lot together and weathered it all…until The Donald met Carol Bedford. It was a rollicking good time that I don’t think anyone in our group OR the restaurant will forget! I told Carol at the end of the evening that I think she made Don’s night. She looked at me, and shook her head, and said, "No, honey, he made my night!"

Carol even came up and performed a song with Don, which was a highlight of the evening. Don & Mildred bought Carol’s CD which she personally autographed, while sitting on his lap, of course! It was a great evening with the "luck of the Irish" going strong that night! We were glad to be there to witness it.

We had lots of firsts with the group that came on February 13, but one of the more interesting concerned one of the monkeys at Ana’s brother’s B&B in Guadalajara. When Bill got to the B&B, not everyone was there yet, so he, being the patient man he is, settled in comfortably with his feet up on another chair. I guess one monkey in particular saw him as a friend and not a threat and, therefore, began exploring his new-found toy…even to the extent of crawling up Bill’s pant leg. I, of course, immediately took advantage of the photo op, and kept saying, "see how far he’ll go up your leg, Bill!"

Bill, being smarter than I, stopped the little fellow at the knee. I can appreciate his caution.

I think Donald enjoyed shopping at the indoor market in Chapala as much as the ladies. He tried on many, many shirts and got everyone’s opinion…even two German ladies who finally gave him their approval. I tell you...that Donald was a babe magnet!

We all convinced him that the embroidered shirts just weren’t him, but we all applauded at his final choice.

Husband and wife, DeAlonna Kirk and Roger Smith told her 72-year-old uncle they were going to find him a wife in Mexico. He had lost his wife a short time ago, and they had been trying to talk him into going on the Focus program with them. When he decided not to go, they said they would look for the perfect person for him.

Well, after arriving for the March 3 program, it didn't take them long to discover that "perfect" person, and that would be Ana Kabande, our lovely Program Director.

Ana is beautiful inside and out, and after spending many days in her company, DeAlonna and Roger knew they would love to have her as a family member. So they made up a sign and gave it to Ana to hold on our last wonderful night at La Tasca. Jerry, where are you? Ana's waiting!!

I am not the only one who says this. Now I have legions of Focus participants who agree that they've never really had a good Margarita until they tasted the ones made by Omar O'Rourke's bartender, Pedro. I was literally brow-beaten until I promised to publish the recipe. So here goes with a few comments from yours truly.

First of all, did you know that Margarita is Spanish for 'daisy?' I didn't until I was surfing the Internet for interesting tidbits for this blog. Who knew...and why? That's another blog, I'm sure...where the Margarita got its name. That's not important now...we need to know how to make a great one! And, I also found out that the Margarita is Mexico's National drink. I don't know if that's true, but if someone out there does, let me know.

Believe it or not, Margaritas are fairly simple to make. They only have four ingredients, if you don't count ice and salt, but then what would they be without those items? The four are: Tequila, *Controy, lime juice and Jarabe (simple sugar syrup).

If you don't live in an area with a large Mexican community, you may not be able to get Jarabe. So if you want to make it, if you're a big Margarita drinker, or if you're having a party, you may want to make a liter which will last for several weeks.

Making the Simple Syrup. The formula is simple:
Two parts sugar to one part water.
Fill a pot with one cup of water.
Heat the water to boiling and add 2 cups sugar.
Stir and boil until all the sugar is dissolved.
Let it cool before you use it.
You might even want to make it the night before you want to use it. You only need to refrigerate it if it's going to be around for a while.

Mixing the Margarita. Have a plate with coarse salt handy and a piece of sliced lime. I like key limes...they're sweeter and more plentiful in Mexico. Moisten only the outside of the rim with the lime, then dip the rim into the plate of salt to get a nice coating. Fill the glass with ice cubes.
And, okay, I will admit it, I've become a Tequila snob since moving to Mexico. I will only use Tequila that says 100% Agave on the bottle: If it doesn't say 100% Agave, it means the Tequila is cut with grain alcohol...let's all say 'yuck' together now! Makes my brain cells hurt!

Here's the straight scoop on Tequila. Most distilleries produce several versions of the four main styles: white or silver, which is colorless and straight from the still; gold, which is colored with caramel but not aged; reposado, or 'rested' in oak barrels for two to 12 months; and anejo, which is aged for more than a year. Don't use reposado or anejo for Margaritas. People think the more expensive the Tequila, the better the Margarita ...'taint so! You don't need the 'oakiness,' which can be too harsh for what is basically a fruity drink.

Here are the proportions to make one drink or 20.

Measurements
1 part Tequila
1 part Jarabe (sugar water)
1 part Controy (or Cointreau)*
1 part lime juice

Shake the four ingredients and pour into your salted glass over ice. And enjoy! Pedro usually makes a lot for our groups, has all the glasses lined up when we get there and starts pouring immediately. And, contrary to what has been said, itis simply not true that I've been seen pushing members of the group out of the way to get to the Margaritas...that would just be wrong!

*Controy note: We use Controy in Mexico because it is made here and very reasonably priced. It may not be possible to find it in the U.S. or Canada. You can use Triple Sec or Cointreau if you need to, but they are significantly more expensive.

And one last note, since limes vary in sweetness/sourness, don't be afraid to add more sugar syrup if the drink is too sour.

Salud!

DeAlonna Kirk decided to dance the night away on our last night with the March 3 group at La Tasca. La Tasca's Roberto Cerda, Cinda Paul and Jimmy Barto were playing toe-tapping music, and it got the best of DeAlonna. She saw two young ladies up dancing together and immediately joined them for some foot-stompin' good times. With her yellow dress, and their being dressed in turquoise and red, it looked like a very peppy rainbow on the dance floor...creating, if I may quote a line from a music CD review, "a mesmerizing, booty-shaking, small-town "ruckus!!"

And, lo & behold, DeAlonna is originally from Dallas, and these ladies were from Ft. Worth. It is definitely a small world. Finally, most of the women in our group could stand it no longer. We had the five sisters, you know...with no male encumbrances, they were anxious to do a little booty-twisting themselves!

Soon we were all on the floor. I hurriedly finished my photo-snapping duties and joined them for a circle dance to beat all circle dances. And, I have to admit, even though I tried to imitate her, Ana gets the award for shakin' her booty the best! No one even came close, I think. And, of course, wearing the hat DeAlonna gave her, there were quite a few glances cast her way. Where are you, Jerry Wright???

Next time you go to La Tasca, you'll notice something missing behind the stage. Bill and I had often admired the statue behind Jimmy, Cindy and Roberto. It was very colorful, not only matching the colors of our house, but definitely representing the way we had decorated the front part...with lots of Aztec and Mayan artwork and figurines.

The last night of our group, Bill noticed the statue was for sale. Wow! We discussed it as we danced...and finally
decided we should ask Ana if she would negotiate for us...see she even takes care of us! Also, knowing Ana, we figured if anybody could get a good price, it would be her. When she came back, she quoted a price, which was a tad pricey, but a bargain nonetheless, and then she said, "If you take it tonight, the price will be less!" We jumped at it, sealed the deal and brought him home.

We believe it to be a Mayan warrior in ceremonial dress, but if anyone out there knows differently, please post a comment and enlighten us. We think he's beautiful and, as you can see, proudly guards the gateway to our house.

One of our readers of the April 2007 newsletter seems to have misplaced someone. Normally if the Focus staff misplaces or loses someone, we get fined!

George in Florida remembered the missing lady while he was reading the article "All By Myself", by Marlene Robertson. The newsletter team answered his email as quickly as possible which resulted in the following dialog:

George: "As opposed to seeking an elderly American nurse with a purse, I would be inclined to look for a young Mexican woman. Has anyone found one?"

Focus: "We weren't aware that one was lost…can you describe her? If so, we will look high and low for her for you."

George: "Petite, dark, beautiful, mysterious, named Maria, have you seen her?"

Focus: "The only problem is that it describes a lot of the women here in México. Can you give us a bit more information? What color is her hair, does she have any tattoos, etc.?"

"We are organizing a search party as we are writing this and will keep you informed; it might be better if you came down on one of the programs and gave us a hand. :o)))"

Has anyone seen this lady? Please comment and help us (and George) in our search. Or better yet, come on a Focus Program and join the search team.

The March 20-29, 2007 Focus Program group left a few days ago, but provided us with some unique experiences. Seems like our groups continue to surprise us with their talents. On this group, we had George Marton who plays the Piano, his wife Lilian Marton who is an author and clown in her spare time. We also had Margaret VanEvery who plays Violin. In addition to that Erison Taylor provided us with a few songs and is an accomplished artiest.

Our participants on the March 20, 2007 program had a very special treat in store for them. We spent the evening of March 21 at Monte Coxala ushering in spring. The Spring Equinox celebrates the renewed life of the Earth that comes with the spring. It is a solar festival, celebrated when the length of the day and the night are equal (this happens twice a year, at spring and autumn equinox).

The equinox is very special in Mayan history. The Mayans planned their lives around the sun; their daily lives centered on the sowing and harvesting of their crops, especially corn. At the spring equinox they planted the crops, and the fall equinox was their signal to begin the harvest.

It was a glorious night…not too cool; not too warm. Almost everyone was dressed in white…we had contacted our participants beforehand to make sure they brought some white (or cream-colored) clothing with them.

Erison Taylor, one of the participants on the March 20 group, wrote about her feelings and thoughts on being part of the panoply that is Mexico. Or, as Marie sometimes says it, "you become part of the post card." Her words spoke to me...I hope they touch you too.

Brilliance
By Erison Taylor

Vibrant bird song: morning and evenings of intense chattering, chirping, and cooing as if each winged creature must fill this day's light with its music.

Wild flowers: riotous bougainvillea in cherry red, tangerine, sweet lemon, and grapefruit pink conquers stone walls and iron fences; bold red and white flags of geraniums and lilies parade along the garden walls; primavera yellow and papaya orange lantana guard the gate posts; the periwinkle jacaranda battles for attention with cerise-white mimosa trees not only amid the glorious hours of sunshine, but also by night, like spies their scents waft through the screens and catch you by surprise.

Street lives: a cloudless cerulean sky vies for attention with terra cotta, coral, fuchsia, and cobalt blue walls; the markets are saturated with beads and silver, carvings in stone and wood, fabrics with intricate embroidery, porcelain and carpets, and fresh foods of every kind available; mariachi bands whose loud bravura and staccato notes contrast with the soft, lyrical rhythm
of the vendor's voice.

The Lake: a giant silver iguana lazily glinting in the relentless sunshine or winking with a myriad of stars beckons you to look below the surface, into the stillness, and find the heart of Mexico.

Extreme Sensations: lime and chili bouncing on your palate along with iron-red chipotle, ribbon rolled candy called "dulces tipico de Chapala," molten molcajete, intense coffee, more shrill sweets in the bakery; we eat the flesh and flower of the cactus, we drink hibiscus-flavored water, and we nibble on jalapeno peanuts.

And yet, all this is not the end of Brilliance, nor even only the beginning, for each one who comes enters under the spell, the assault on the senses, and each one discovers amidst the grand, gleaming, and noisy terrain of this sub-tropical heaven the subtle emanation of another sense.

The sense that all is well in its rightly disordered, "mismanaged," and confusing entirety. In the brilliant roiling activity of life is the continuum, the heartbeat that leads each of us to our own place of peace.

We respond to the gentleness of the Mexican soul: passionate people whose hearts are brilliant and burst with love and acceptance, our own world-weariness begins to fade and we long to join the dance of life along the shore of Lake Chapala.

2 Comments:
 Marie Dwyer-Bullock said...
Erison you have captured the essence of Mexico, the beauty of its people and culture and the life we live here that we have never quite been able to describe. You have looked within, and seen. Well done!

1:10 PM  
 sarah hughes said...
well done well versed well said,the descriptions the colours the mexican people,who are all heart. I can even let my senses guide me and smell it.you have went above and beyond erison,now my longing to go back has erupted.
congratulations on your narration.
yours sincerely sarah hughes

9:45 AM  

Well, we did it! As all the participants who have come on our programs since we've been going to Monte Coxala know, we fell in love with the dogs there. We don't know why ... everyone else said they were ugly, but they just really touched our hearts. When we found out Mama had babies on January 27, we told Lola we definitely wanted one.

We picked her up on March 22, and she's been getting to know the rest of her family since then. Just to give you her background: She's a Xoloitzcuintle...a Mexican Hairless Dog (pronounced show-low-EETS-queent-lee)...usually shortened to Xolo...leave it to us to get an unpronounceable dog! They are very unusual-looking dogs, but Bill and I fell in love with them when we first saw them at the Spa. And, I have to share with you what happened when we went to pick out the one we wanted. As an intro to the story, here's one description of the breed:

"Many swear they have learned more from their Xolo than any other breed, because they are so intelligent and in tune with their family, they seem to know when you are not feeling well, and stay with you, comforting you when alone or depressed."

Well, Ana called Lola at Monte Coxala to make sure we were in line to get one of the dogs, and Lola said we could come out any time and pick out the one we wanted. So we immediately went. As we drove up to the spa, the Mother Xolo was out looking at our car drive up and dancing back and forth. We thought maybe she was 'expecting' someone and was going to be mighty disappointed when we got out of the car. She wasn't...she was so excited to see us. We've been up to Monte Coxala many times with the groups and not once has this dog paid any attention to us at all. In fact, she growled at Bill once when he tried to pet her. This time, she danced all around us and jumped up on Bill as if she were so excited that we'd finally shown up. Then she led us to her pups...I knew where they were since I had taken the original picture. Lola walked out then to go in with us. No matter how Mama was acting, I wasn't about to traipse in on her pups unattended. That seemed to be asking for trouble.

Mama had given birth to seven puppies...but only four survived...2 boys and 2 girls. I, of course, wanted a girl. And, the one that Bill had picked out from his first look at the picture not only was still alive, but was a female! Meant to be!

Our little one was buried under the other female, but we told Lola not to worry about showing us the female...that was the one we wanted, and we were happy just to know she was doing well. Well, at that moment, Mama got in the bed, and pushed the other female off 'ours' so we could see her better. She then preceded to groom our pup and push her toward her nipples. Once the little one was suckling, Mama looked up at us as if to say, "see; I'm taking good care of her for you!" It was so funny!

We were going to name her Izel (EE-zel) because it means "Unique, One of a kind" in Aztec...that's how old her breed is and the name Xoloitzcuintle is an Aztec name. However, our friend Ana Kabande (FOM program director) kept asking us why we wanted such an ugly dog..."she is muy feo!" So I finally told Ana that if she didn't stop calling our dog ugly, we were going to name her Ana!!! She looked at me and said, "Ana is muy bonita!" (very beautiful) ? We thought that was the end of it until we told Ana about the name Izel...she said, "I want her name to be Ana!" Then Peter (Vita agent as well as connected to Monte Coxala) said we should have something about Coxala (COKE-sah-lah) in her name...it was only fair. So now her official name is Ana-Izela McConnauWAY-Kabande de Coxala!!! Is that too funny or what? Name's bigger than the dog. A unique name for a unique dog!

Ana-Izela has been with us for less than a month, but seems to be connecting with our other dogs, Tillie (5-year-old white terrier), Maggie (3-year-old gray poodle) and Lucky (alpha dog, 16-year-old miniature dachshund!). It hasn't always been perfect, but, being a puppy, Ana doesn't take 'no' for an answer very often, whether it's chasing Maggie around the yard, wrestling with Tillie or sleeping on top of Lucky. They seemed to have worked out the pecking order somewhat. This is good, because Ana's probably going to weigh more than the other three combined. I think she thinks she's a lap dog right now, but, hopefully, she'll get over that.

Bow Wow Chic! The invitation offered a front-row seat at a fashion show. Imagine that! Front row! I'd never been to a fashion show before, much less front-row! Ah yes, I read further...ah yes...I see...of course!

You're invited to the The Lakeside Spay and Neuter A.C.'s annual Doggy Fashion Show.

Well, it's not Paris or even New York, but it was a very chic event indeed, with all in attendance loving their furry friends, wanting them to wear nice clothing and meet the right sort of other little dogs.

The Doggy Fashion Show put on annually by Lakeside Spay and Neuter is an informal but fun event/dinner where mutts or bluebloods "strut their stuff' attired in costumes to reflect their owner's creativity, imagination and/or sense of humor! Costumes for human attendees were optional, but since it was after all April Fool's Day, the human contingent made the most of the occasion too...most capitalizing on a "theme" that complemented or contrasted with "Fido's" fashion statement!

There were the stylish, the bucolic and the Hell's Angel entries all vying for attention on the runway. The dogs and their masters displayed winning moves and everyone in attendance had a great time. The owners and their dogs were all pretty good sports, showing up to "show off" their support for a very worthy cause.

The winner was Vivien Michel and her dog, Daisy Mae McCoy... dressed in oh-so-chic faux leopard-skin with what can only be described as a Lauren Bacall veil...I was SO born in the wrong era. I long for the 40s with those plush muff/handbags and the flirty veils!! Daisy Mae definitely sounds like the name of a Raymond Chandler heroine! Maybe next year it could Film Noir-style Doggy Fashion Show. "Dust off your old fedora, grab your trench coat, break out your Bogey, and call out your Bacall." Okay, I'm getting carried away now...it was just a whole lot of fun, and a great evening was had by all with barbeque, lettuce wraps appetizers, dancing and an auction thrown in for good measure.

And, may I say one word for the seemingly most under-appreciated person there? Before the dinner, a singer by the name of Jack Fallon entertained us with soft ballads. He was delightful, but got very little applause because people were arriving, greeting, schmoozing and taking care of their doggies...we just didn't have two hands among us to clap! He was very entertaining and the perfect note to arrive on and start the evening. So...Jack, we apologize...consider this our online version of two hands clapping!

And, last but not least (to us, anyway!), Ana-Izela McConnaWAY-Kabande de Coxala made her public debut at this event, and, as you can see from the picture, became weary of the whole thing ...so much attention; so little puppy breath! Finally, overcome with ennui, she took her afternoon siesta in her chauffeur's lap!

You know, this Pet Chic fashion show has me thinking about reincarnation. In my next life, I want to be a Yorkie Poo, live at Lakeside, and ride around in a BMW with a rich lady. Chase cars? Chase cats? Chase mailmen? Are you insane? I have to get ready for next year's event. "I'm ready for my close-up, Mr. DeMille!"

And, if any of you out-of-towners feel like contributing to a worthy cause, here is the address and information. You'll feel great if you do it!

Checks should be made payable to: Lakeside Spay & Neuter Center , A.C.

Please write on the "memo" line on the face of the check: For deposit to account #23710683

Mail check to:
USAA Federal Savings Bank 10750
McDermott Fwy
San Antonio, TX 78288

Our April 14-20, 2007, Focus Program group left a few days ago, but one of the participants provided us with a unique experience. Seems like Carmen Konneker was singing along at her table with the performers at Manix restaurant.

When the performers noticed she was singing, they invited her to join them and sing along. After much encourgement, she went to the stage and performed a couple of songs to the delight of all. She was wonderful, and we can't wait until she comes down here and does it again!!

You know, we've had lots of great people since our first group in September. We've had lots of guests who laughed a lot and really enjoyed themselves and gotten along from the first day. But the last group really took the prize...literally! They started laughing when they got off the plane and I know they're still laughing even though they've all gone home. It was a whole group of people who laughed easily and laughed often. They were a joy to be around.

Personally, I still remember the big smiles Kate Black and Barry Pajak had when they walked toward us at the airport. It made me realize why I always remember the Spanish word for smile: sonrisa. I always think of it as meaning "sun rises" and that's the way Barry and Kate struck me...seeing their smiles, I felt as if the sun was indeed rising.

Then, of course, it was the fact that the ladies flirted with ALL the waiters and the speakers and the Vita agents, including Omar! The only reason I didn't get more pictures of them laughing is because I was laughing a lot myself. Also, the reason some of them are blurry (the photographs that is, not the people!!) is because I was laughing myself, or I just wasn't fast enough to capture the perfect image. I decided to include them because they still made me smile...ah-h-h-h...the memories! And, the double entrendes and jokes we can't include here! They will have to remain always in our memories unless I want this blog shut down by the Blog Police! All I'll say is that one of them had to do with underwear!

The whole staff finally decided we needed to commemorate this group. We established the Full of Mirth Club...and, since, as we stated on the certificate, "Laughter is as good as jogging for our heart, lungs, and brain," we thanked them for "adding to our lives this week." And, because they were the ones responsible for our even starting the club, we made them Charter Members. We love you guys! We miss you guys! Come back soon. I believe we have made a pact for them to come back on New Year's...please don't forget us!

Blog by Marianna Carpenter. Participant April 14, 2007

This trip did not start out auspiciously---first of all, my husband couldn't come, so I was sure this would not be fun. On the plane, the flight attendant spilled a can of cranapple juice all over me, and while running to catch my connection, I managed to get a quarter-sized blister on my heel that broke. Oh joy...this trip was going to be a lot of fun! I can't get my foot in a shoe (I did bring four pair---yes, I am a shoe person!), and our first day is an all-day Guadalajara walking tour---don't these people know better?...high altitude, travel day, health problems, etc. I already hate this trip.

That was my Saturday evening thought while I was getting ready for dinner. By the end of dinner, I had laughed so much, my sides hurt, and I had 21 new friends! Never in my life have I made friends this quickly and for sure not a bunch at once---must be the "space portal!"

We all spent our free time, what little there was, together in the bar terrace every day. There was so much laughter and fun that no one wanted it to end. I can see spending the rest of my life with these people with no regrets! Seventeen people from all over the U.S. and Canada with nothing in common except a desire for a new life.

Problems---no sir!---Karen galloped in on her white horse with lots of bandages and solved the heel problem---muchas gracias! Rick walking with his cane solved the "I'm always going to be last, because I can't walk well" problem! And, Bill Hayworth, Kate and Barry solved the "I'm all alone" problem. Never in my life have I felt such a closeness to people that I just met. All of them, including the staff, are awesome people.

I cannot imagine this type of thing happening to someone more than once in a lifetime, and I will cherish it forever. And, by the way, we managed to learn a lot too!

Moral of the story: great things happen when you eat, laugh and learn with friends, new or old!

FOM's note: We loved you too, Marianna...you didn't even get mad it me for "making" you wear one of my hats in Guadalajara! You're a real trooper! Remember, you're coming back for New Year's Eve!

Mike and Mimi Bratu came on our March 20 program, and I think they fell in love with everything immediately. We usually ask (pretty please!) our guests to write us a blog, and they wrote us a wonderful one about their feelings while they were here. We're pleased to share it with you.

Getting off the plane, my first thought was "oh no, this really is another country!" I was starting to concern myself with what could go wrong and so forth...then we saw Ana and Manuel. The Focus sign was easy to spot and Ana greeted us with a warm smile and a big hug. I was able to start practicing what little Spanish I knew. Manuel was patient and amiable, even though it was probably difficult to understand my meaning.

Our first day was just great! The hotel is like a resort...well, I guess it is a resort, in fact! Our room has the best view of the extremely well-manicured grounds (and our room didn't even face the lake!), which made for such a relaxing, tranquil morning to rise to each day. We loved hearing the birds sing (what felt like) our own private symphony at the start of each day.

The first speaker (Dr. Carlos Garcia) was a very informative man. He not only told us in words, but showed us in slides about what it takes to get into Mexico's health system. He was also able to tell us first-hand about what to expect when (God forbid) something happens. After all, he works at the clinic in Lakeside every day!

I was also very impressed with Julie! She had all the answers to every question about immigration, plus she made time to meet with us (and anyone else) about questions specific to our own individual situation. Things like fees, getting our car here, our pets, as well as the things we want to bring down with us in our new life here.

Through it all, of course, the best answers to all general questions came from Marie, Ray, Karen and Bill! Being that they live here, they knew everything from where to buy the best tequila to how much is enough to tip the street musicians. I never felt on my own, but I also never felt smothered! How did they do it?!?

I can't say enough about Ana! She would have been fabulous if she just watched out for us and maybe two other people!! But watching over 15 people the way she did was nothing short of amazing!! We had some special needs people on our tour and even though she attended to their needs in a very personal way, none of the rest of us were neglected or short-changed in the slightest. She is worth double her weight in gold!

Driving in Jalisco would intimidate even the most confident driver (I drive for a living and I am not looking forward to it!!). Manuel drove a full-sized bus around those hair-pin turns, down streets filled with cars, all in the way, so proficiently, we all burst into spontaneous applause many times. He was also so friendly and thoughtful!! He knew all of our names by the second day, and I know this because he always greeted each of us by name every morning, and said "Buenos Noches" as he helped each of us off the bus every night.

The only complaint I have would be the ten extra pounds I am taking back to the states with me!! Who knew the food in Mexico would be so irresistible! I have always heard of French cuisine and Italian chefs, but the restaurants we went to must be among the best I have been to in my entire life!

Thank you so much for this wonderful, wonderful experience!! We have surely made life-long friends in these ten short days and will never forget our fabulous introduction to this beautiful country!!

Muchas gracias siempre!!

No, thank you! You've made our day, Mike and Mimi. 

Most people don't know that back in 1912, Hellmann's mayonnaise was manufactured in England.

In fact, the Titanic was carrying 12,000 jars of the condiment scheduled for delivery in Vera Cruz, Mexico, which was to be the next port of call for the great ship after its stop in New York. This would have been the largest single shipment of mayonnaise ever delivered to Mexico.

But as we know, the great ship did not make it to New York. The ship hit an iceberg and sank, and the cargo was forever lost. The people of Mexico, who were crazy about mayonnaise, and were eagerly awaiting its delivery, were disconsolate at the loss. Their anguish was so great, that they declared a National Day of Mourning, which they still observe to this day. The National Day of Mourning occurs each year on May 5th and is known, of course, as "Sinko de Mayo".

Kate Black was one of our April 14 thru 20, 2007 Focus Program Group participants and is the recipient of the first ever "Full Of Mirth" award and was the laugh leader for the group.

By Karen McConnaughey 

In May the entire Focus on Mexico staff (except Manuel) spent some time in Melaque at the beach. Ray and Marie drove their RV to Melaque (a 4-hour drive on the cuota) and set up shop on the public beach which is right on the ocean. You can't beat the price at $50 pesos per night. They spent the week of April 21 there. They then left the RV there for Bill, Ana and me to use the following week.

When Marie offered this opportunity to us, I said, "You know, Marie, my idea of roughing it is Motel 8!" She quickly assured me that it was a very nice RV, and she thought we would have a good time. So Bill and I, even though we have NEVER gone camping in a tent OR an RV immediately accepted the offer. You couldn't beat the price, and they were driving it down and coming back to pick it up, and we were adventurous...after all, we moved to Mexico, didn't we? So what if we hadn't RVed before...what could possibly go wrong? Uh-h-h-h...from my mouth to God's ears.

Our friend Diane owns the Diane Pearl Gallery on the corner of Colon and Ocampo. She has always been very generous with her time, advice and friendship. However, recently she did something on our June group that surprised and delighted me, even though I know what a giving heart she has. During our program, we have a walking tour of Ajijic, and one of the stores we go into is Diane's. It's so beautiful and has everything from Catrinas to jewelry (some made by Diane herself) to original art to alebreijas to...oh, you name it, she's got it!

When we walked in, she was negotiating with a young man who had traveled from Taxco (Mexico's Silver City) to market his silver jewelry at Lakeside. She was buying a few of his pieces for the shop. When she saw the Focus on Mexico group, she immediately offered us access to her vendor at HIS prices! She saw this as a way to help him (since he had traveled so far) and for us to get some great deals...a win-win situation for all of us...even Diane, because she had a big grin on her face as the buying and selling ensued! We got some beautiful jewelry at outstanding prices, and everyone was thrilled with the nice presents they were going to be able to take home for 'souvenirs.'

Thank you, Diane...you're a lovely person with a very generous heart! We'll definitely be back!

Ana had a birthday recently...July 5 to be exact. Due to some unforeseen events and as much as the Focus staff tried, we were unable to get together with her on her birthday or even within a few days of the occasion. So we decided to celebrate it at La Tasca during the July program. We thought it would be fun with everyone being there.

And, to tell the truth, it actually worked out better for us. Marie and I had decided we wanted to go in together and get her some hearts that she had seen at Marie and Ray's house. She liked them very much, but we had trouble getting up to Tlaquepaque to get them. Therefore, since we were taking the group to Guadalajara on Sunday, July 15, we decided to get them at that time. Knowing that it was going to be difficult hiding such big items on the bus, I told Ana that Marie wanted me to pick up some more hearts for her. The tree they were hanging in was so big, the three hearts she had there were lost! Well, that was the plan anyway.

Marie told me how to find the store in Tlaquepaque (right across from Sergio Bustamante), and since I had my 'story' all set, I told Ana about needing to buy them while we were there. She even pointed out the store to me before we went to eat at El Adobe.

After eating, I went to the store, and lo and behold, there were the hearts that I needed sitting on the counter. I said to Bill, 'these are what I'm supposed to be getting." The owner overheard me and said, 'yes, we have been waiting for you." I said, "Excuse me?" She said she had been told I would be coming to pick up the hearts. I then said, "oh...Marie called and ordered them in advance?" She said, 'yes, Marie called!" I thought that was pretty cool and it made my job a whole lot easier! I silently thanked Marie for her foresight!

I paid for the hearts, and we got them on the bus...everything was fine and dandy...a lot easier than I thought it was going to be. I got home and called Marie and thanked her for ordering the hearts for me. There was dead silence on the other end of the line...she had no idea what I was talking about, which perplexed us and then got us both tickled thinking about the poor person who came to the store expecting to pick up her hearts! Oh well...

We had such an exciting time setting the surprise party up...when I think I used to handle big conventions and events,, I didn't know why I was getting so stressed about making sure things went smoothly for Ana's birthday. We ordered a cake from La Tasca, and Ray was going to ask Roberto Cerda to sing the Happy Birthday song to Ana that night....

We can't remember who gave Steve Abramowitz his nickname while he was in town for the July group. It was either Floyd Barnhill or Ana. However, one of them called him "Jack Nicholson," and the name stuck. He seemed to have his dark glasses on a lot, or I just captured that moment in most of the pictures.

Well, it must be true, because on his last day when Ana was bringing Steve back from Chapala (after getting his FM3 photo taken), a Mexican wedding party had taken over the Real de Chapala hotel. When Steve got out of the car, the group in the lobby took one look at him and rushed over to Steve, wanting "Jack's" autograph! Steve, of course, having the time of his life, obliged!!

We'll let you decide for yourself. You compare Steve to the original product on this page! Have fun.

The people we meet on our programs all have wonderful stories about their lives and what brought them to the Focus On Mexico Program. Karen Procter and Michael Leisenbach were participants in our July 2007, program. Michael and Karen shared a story with us that we thought was too good not share with all of you.

It seems that Michael and Karen had dated for a short time some thirty years ago and then lost touch and moved to opposite sides of the USA. Michael, however, never really forgot Karen and after a few stumbles along the way (and a speed bump or two!), decided that he had to find Karen. So, as any modern man would do, he hired a private detective to track her down. Within a very short time, the detective called Michael with an address and phone number.

You would think that with this information and the thoughts in his heart, he would call right away. No so, Michael waited, waited and waited, building up his courage. Finally he made the first call hoping that Karen might remember him. Hallelujah! Karen not only remembered him, but continued to hold very special thoughts of their time together. During their first conversation, they talked as if they had not been apart during those thirty years.

You might think that with this sucessful call, one of them would bring up the subject about meeting in person. Think again, it was almost another three years before they were to meet. Michael would call each year on Karen's birthday to wish her a happy birthday. Karen was begining to wonder if he was ever going to suggest they meet. Finally after three years, Michael decided that he had built up his courage enough to ask Karen if it was okay for him to come out for a visit. Karen, of course, was waiting for him to say something and said "yes" without any reservations and the rest, as they say, is history. And, after our meeting them for the first time in July, we agree. They just seem to be perfect for one another, and they were a delight to be around. We think it's the most romantic story we've heard in a long time, even if Michael started out looking like a stalker! The heart knows what the heart knows! Way to go, Karen & Michael!

One of the most popular stops during our tour of Guadalajara is the opportunity to enjoy the bronze sculptures of magical realist Alejandro Colunga in Plaza Tapatia. This is where his "Room of the Magicians" and "Universal Magicians" are located. They are an interactive and favorite site of locals and visitors who without doubt always take a photo of the site home with them among their memories of the city.

Born in Guadalajara in 1948, Alejandro studied Architecture from 1967 to 1971 and Music and Tourism from 1971-1973, but is a self-taught artist---painter and sculptor. He has gained international acclaim as one of a talented generation of visionaries. When one thinks of Mexican artists of the 20th century, Alejandro Colunga is always on that list. He has also been the inspiration of many young artists of the last century. Colunga is best known for the wonderful chairs "La Rotondo del Mar," which he created in 1997 for Vallarta's boardwalk "malecon" (pier).

However, when we go to the Instituto Cultural Cabanas, a Guadalajara landmark and major cultural center, to view the Orozco murals, we get to pass between these two "magical" groups of anthropomorphic bronze sculpture-chairs that are some of Colunga's most delightful creations. These whimsical "people-objects" come in all shapes and sizes, with grinning heads, pipes sticking out of jacket pockets and feet, big and small, some bare and other shod in sneakers, lace-ups and boots Some of the shoes even morph into snakes and lizards!

We're often asked what it's all about. It's hard for some of us to realize art is for art's sake...where an artist relies on individual imagination and originality ...nothing more! However, I finally took the opportunity to do a little research and found out that each object represents a magician (Mago) transforming himself into a sofa or chair. And the best part about it is that there are no rules about not sitting on these remarkable creations! In fact, it's more of a 'please sit on los objetos de arte!" Personally, I think you have to sit on some of them to experience their odd effect on your senses. Colunga likes his art to be touched, "I love it when people are drawn to one of my works and want to touch it or sit on it, since touch is the most intimate and universal sense we have."

I think it's unfortunate that with bronze sculptures, people are generally asked not to touch, because grease or dirt from their hands can affect the patina. Thank goodness Alejandro Colunga thinks that touching the surface can improve the look of a bronze sculpture, since people "tend to touch the high points, and you end up with a more three-dimensional look." Also, from what I understand, the frequent touching, caressing and sitting on these whimsical pieces of furniture produces a kind of regular maintenance in itself, which gives them a highly attractive and translucent look.

Furthermore, because the proportions of each piece are so unusual, a person may feel tall or short, fat or thin when sitting on them. No matter what their level of artistic sophistication, everyone seems to love the sculptures as they point, laugh, touch and finally sit on these unusual works of art. It's hard not to smile when you're in these delightful "rooms."

If you've seen these wonderful pieces in person, let us know what you think. If you haven't, you're in for a treat!

It was with good fortune when we went to the Plaza Guadalajara in September that we got to see a young girl actually making cascarones! I've seen them...I've even bonked a few people on the head with them, but have never really thought about what it takes to make one.

Cascarones are empty eggshells that have been gently cracked and emptied, then carefully washed and dried. Then, as this young lady is doing, each egg is individually filled with confetti. Before she's through with her little treasure, she will reseal them with tissue paper. After that they will be painted with bright colors or decorated with scraps of tissue paper glued into place all over the shell. I have no doubt that some of these fragile items get broken before they ever become hair fare!

And, realizing how much effort it takes to make just one, I am equally amazed that as this young girl sits making hers, she knows each one is made to be broken, and all of these pretty party favors will be destroyed in just a few moments of joy and fun, which, having participated in a good ol' cascarone bashing, is definitely true...it's a whole lot of fun...a chance to act like a kid again. I do love Mexico!
Empress Carlotta is credited with bringing the custom to Mexico when she and her husband, Emperor Maximillian, came to rule Mexico for France from 1864-1867. The eggshells she adored had been filled with perfumed talcum powder since the Renaissance in Italy, later becoming popular in Spain.

Supposedly, an eggshell broken on your head, releasing a shower of confetti is considered to be good luck in Mexico, and also a sign that you have good friends. In fact, on Sunday evenings in the plazas of Mexico, the girls with the most confetti in their hair are judged to be the most popular. This tradition has been going on for several centuries in Mexico. For instance, on weekend evenings and during town fiestas, the young people of Ixtlahuacan (where Bill and I live) still gather on the plaza for the paseo, where the boys walk clockwise around the bandstand and the girls stroll in the opposite direction. Timid boys find it easier to attract a girl's attention by cracking a cascaron on her head than actually saying he likes her. Ah-h-h...youth!

And, many large parties and wedding receptions evolve into a war of cascarones with shells and confetti flying everywhere. Bill and I helped celebrate the 78th birthday of our friend Jenny. We didn't quite understand the excitement when the eggs were being distributed. But when the bags were torn open, all of the adults became a mob of 10-year-old kids, running around bashing people on the head and laughing wildly...it was some of the most fun I've ever had and I think I should take them back to Kansas City when I go for the next party! Outdoor party, of course!

When we go to Omar's for lunch on Thursdays, his dogs are always a big hit. The little yorkie, Sheriff, generally rules the roost. He even bosses their big dog around. Well, there's a new 'sheriff' in town. Omar and Mela have a new Jack Russell terrier puppy named Java, who has just enough 'caffeine' to get the group going! The ladies just couldn't keep their hands off him, and he seemed to enjoy the attention. Sheriff the yorkie has gotten a little snooty lately and didn't want all the attention anymore. Omar declared, "he's turned into a teenager!" Well, he probably got his nose a little out of joint with the September group, because he was mostly ignored while Java got all the attention. Take that, little guy...maybe the next time you'll condescend to give us a lick or two for old time's sake!

We had an incredibly friendly thing happen with our first November group. We found out that George Summers was a very kind, sharing man! Anybody who will share a bottle of fine tequila with a group of about-to-be friends is indeed wonderful!

But let's tell you how this came about...On Ray's Tequila Run where we learn about the different and best kinds of tequila, Marie suddenly rushed down the aisle and announced, "They're selling Herencia de Plata Tequila Reposado, two for one!" Well, we didn't hesitate. Heck, none of us, Bill and I included, have ever had this brand, but Marie was quite convincing, so a goodly amount of us grabbed a couple of bottles to try. (Hey...it's worth a shot!!)

If you read the newsletter article about the Tequila Express, you know I'm quite fond of tequila (Everybody has to believe in something...I believe I'll have another tequila!!), so taste-testing a new one is great. Therefore, you can understand when I say tasting a FREE one bought by a friend out at Monte Coxala while enjoying the view overlooking the lake and Mount Garcia is absolutely fantastic! (Got Lime?). We found that George had planned ahead too...he knew he was going to share his tequila with us, so he bought cups...small cups...but at least we had cups and all of us didn't have to swig from the bottle...not that we wouldn't have, mind you...or maybe I should say, not that I wouldn't have!! :-D (Take life with a grain of salt, a lime and a shot of tequila!).

Well, George, all I can say is, you're wonderful and "You had me at Tequila!" It was a day 'blended to perfection!"

By the way, just in case you're wondering, it is an excellent tequila. Thank you, Marie! Bill and I actually went back and bought two more for Christmas gifts...hope they make it 'til then!

Okay, I'll stop now, but I just want to raise my glass and say, "Salud, George! Muchas gracias!"

Mordida, translated literally, means a "little bite." That's probably why the word has been used to mean the small bite traffic cops sometimes accept in order not to ticket drivers.

However, there's also another meaning of Mordida that's a lot more fun and a lot tougher to get out of!

At birthday celebrations, once assembled guests finish singing the lovely words of the traditional song, "Las Mananitas" and the candles have been extinguished, the guests begin chanting "Mordida, Mordida, Mordida!" (Little bite, little bite, little bite!)

For NOBs (north of the border), unused to Mexican tradition, it's the unexpected "face in the cake" moment. The guest of honor is obliged to take the first bite of cake without using utensils or their hands---just leaning down to take a bite out of the cake. Then, usually, strategically positioned behind the honoree is someone else ready to slam their face into the cake when they lean down. It also usually means that is how big of a piece of cake you get to eat too...that part seems obvious to me! No, thank you...no face cake for me please!

At this point the guest of honor, child or adult, has a choice. He or she can either lean forward to take a bite of the cake or wait for someone in the crowd to help by shoving his or her face into the cake. The most popular party photo of all is that of is of a smiling child, his or her mouth and nose covered in icing.

by Karen McConnaughey

Okay, I admit it, I like this cup. I want this cup! I saw it at one of the houses on our Behind-the-Walls tour with the January Focus On Mexico program and decided I had to have it!

So...any of you out there reading this, if you see a cup like this anywhere in the States (or Canada), and you're coming down to Lakeside soon, buy me a set of at least four (can you carry six????), and I will reimburse you when you get here. Shameless, aren't I? I can't help myself. I just love the color and the subject...it's dogs! I want to spend the rest of my life looking at this cup as I drink coffee in the morning. It makes me happy!

I know someone out there knows where I can get this cup, and you will help me. I am sending positive vibes your way! :-D

On our Lakeside Behind the Walls tour, we found we couldn't get into one of the houses, so Sara and Centeya took it upon themselves to find another way in. "You cannot keep us out," they declared! (You may remember Sara was the one who crawled in through a window during an earlier group caravan! She is relentless!)

First they went to the neighbor on the east...no way to climb over that wall. Then they went to the house on the west...no way through the backyard. Their only solution...up and over! So while the rest of were at the front door, Sara boosted Centeya up the westside wall, and when she got to the top, it was fully roofed in, so there was no way to sneak in and see the inside! Hey, it's only $130,000, in Riberas, and it's obviously burglar-proof...call for a viewing today! :-0))))))))) We'll try to get the key!!

That's when Centeya realized there was only one way off that roof, and that was straight down. "Gosh, how come it didn't look that high up when I was climbing?!"

"Okay, Sara, here I come...catch me!!" Yikes...Super Lou immediately assesses the situation and flies across the ground on fleeted foot! He grabs Centeya, being instantly aware of "Where the heck am I'm going to grab her?", and saved both she and Sara from more than likely landing in a pile on the ground! It was an amazing rescue, and we were there to record the whole thing for you!

Aren't you glad?

Call it what you will...a fairy godmother (godfather?), the good fairy, or the Law of Attraction, our delightful program director, Ana Kabande, has certainly got it going on!! Her sons, Emilio and Fernando, started going to the Loyola School in San Antonio in 2007 and have been enjoying it very much (and learning so much more!), but Ana was struggling as a single parent to come up with the monthly enrollment. She prayed to God, and for extra good measure she used her Focus Creation Box and put in it some of her hopes and wishes for her children.

Lo and behold, when she went to the school recently to pay the subscription for the next month, some very kind person, who wishes to remain anonymous (fairy godmother!), has not only paid for the entire 2008 schooling for both boys, but had also thrown in the enrollment for the 2009 school year too! She is overwhelmed with gratitude at the kindness of someone she cannot thank. "I want to say God Bless You to my friend. You make us very happy and you make my life much easier," she says. Ana also added that she is so grateful now that her sons will receive the good education they need to succeed.

The whole Focus team wishes to add their thanks to this most generous benefactor. I got tears in my eyes when I heard it. It was so overwhelming to think that someone has given the gift of education to two wonderful young men (who, I might add, turned 12 today, February 1!).

You are a kind and giving soul!

by Karen McConnaughey

Growing up, I always appreciated the fact that my birthday was in February. Christmas was over and January can be such a gloomy month in Kansas City, that having my birthday to look forward to (and during the school year when I was with my friends!) was such a treat. And, as my friends and family know, my mother made my birthday a national holiday, and even though I am now considered a senior citizen (just having celebrated the 37th anniversary of my 25th birthday!), I still turn into a 12-year-old when my birthday rolls around.

Well, February must be a great month for birthdays, because we celebrated five of them in a week during out last program.

Ana's twins Emilo and Fernando turned 12 on February 1; one of our participants, Diana Romell had a birthday on February 4; Marie's birthday is a national holiday in Mexico (February 5 is Constitution Day!), and my birthday was on February 8. We had a wealth of parties and cakes to celebrate the occasions.

Ana is merciless when it comes to the mordida hough...every time she does it to a participant, we say, "Ana, no tip!" But it doesn't stop her! For a more complete explanation about the mordida, see the blog Mayhem in Mexico

And, I have to say, I believe my celebration on the last day of the program at Casa Bullock was one of my Top Ten birthday celebrations. It had cascarones, a pinata, two cakes and lots of photographs. I couldn't stop laughing. And, again, if you don't know about cascarones, you're missing out on a treat. Here's a blog you might want to read--- Cascarones for Luck! 

I hope you enjoy this journal of all the birthday fun in February, and for those who are also celebrating a birthday this month, Feliz Cumpleaños!!

At birthday celebrations, once assembled guests finish singing the lovely words of the traditional song, "Las Mananitas" and the candles have been extinguished, the guests begin chanting "Mordida, Mordida, Mordida!" (Little bite, little bite, little bite!)

For NOBs (north of the border), unused to Mexican tradition, it's the unexpected "face in the cake" moment. The guest of honor is obliged to take the first bite of cake without using utensils or their hands---just leaning down to take a bite out of the cake. Then, usually, strategically positioned behind the honoree is someone else ready to slam their face into the cake when they lean down. It also usually means that is how big of a piece of cake you get to eat. For a more complete explanation about the mordida, click here to read the blog "Mayhem in Mexico".

Ana is merciless when it comes to the mordida...every time she does it to a participant, we say, "Ana, no tip!" But it doesn't stop her! On the February 23 program, one of our favorite alumnis, Terri Hensley, happened to select Manix restaurant for her birthday celebration. Unlucky her! That happened to be the night (Tuesday, February 26) that the Focus on Mexico group was there! Wouldn't you know it, Ana struck again. After helping Terri to make her wish and blow out her candle, Ana very gently (yeah, right!) helped her take her first bite! Remember Ana...trust broken is very rarely regained! Thank goodness Terri has a GREAT sense of humor and took it all in good fun. Everyone enjoyed it, and of course, we have the pictures to prove it. We hope she enjoyed her cake...we're equally sure no one else wanted to share it! Happy Birthday, Terri...thanks for 'letting' us join in the celebration!

by Karen McConnaughey

Three of our participants on the March 8 program came in early and were able to attend their very first charity event at Lakeside….the Cruz Roja Fashion Show!

We talked Wayne Murray, Greg Brick and John Tjia into coming to a fashion show with a persuasive argument in an email before they arrived: “It’s possible that you’re sitting there thinking…”And, why would I want to go to a fashion show?” Well, my only answer is because there are a lot of pretty women modeling, and you’ll get to meet the Focus Staff and some Focus alumni!” Wayne wrote back and said I was very persuasive:

Hi Karen,
Sure! You are so persuasive! I can’t answer for Greg Brick but I will anyway.

You know our schedule and your schedule far better than I, so if we are there, we might as well join in and meet everyone. I’d like that.

This will be my first fashion show. I can’t answer for Greg.So put us down for Two tickets
Wayne Murray

Only knowing Wayne from emails, I decided I liked him immediately…he was so open and receptive in his communications…and he was exactly like that in person too!

Cruz Roja International Volunteers held their eighth successful Annual Fashion Show at Hotel Real de Chapala on March 7. Since our participants stay at the Hotel Real de Chapala, they didn’t have far to go.

The fashion show was a double header…a luncheon in the afternoon and a dinner/dance in the evening. The professionally produced runway show was ‘choreographed’ by Cece Darling, a recent transplant to the Lakeside area with a long history in the fashion industry. Models had to audition for a chance to strut their stuff for charity, and from the frequent and hearty applause, they were well chosen! Fashions were from Tina Jones’ Designs, Fiaga Boutique and Galeria, Mi Mexico, Opus Boutique, Ana Rosa, Alma Gutierrez and Takasami of Guadalajara. The show included an assortment of fashion, everything from funky and chic to classy and elegant to true objects of art! The women were not professional models, but worked long and hard hours to rehearse for this delightful and fast-paced production.

Focus on Mexico’s program director, Ana Kabande, has graced the runway many times for Cruz Roja, and this year was no exception. Focus on Mexico had at least two tables rooting for her every time she made her entrance, strutting to the music that set the theme for each clothing line. Sashaying down the runway to the THUMP, THUMP, THUMP of the background music, she looked absolutely gorgeous!

Cruz Roja raised $200,000 pesos during the March Fashion Show Event, money that will help the monthly operation of the critical Red Cross Chapala Delegacion. Organizers want to thank Lakeside residents and visitors for their continued support and generosity.

The local Cruz Roja (Lago de Chapala) operates 24 hours per day, seven days per week, and serves more than 350,000 people living and visiting on the north and south shores of Lake Chapala, and in numerous small villages surrounding the lake.

Lago de Chapala’s operation is funded through national fund-raising efforts as well as the national lottery. However, these efforts cover less than one-half of their operating budget. So community volunteers work tirelessly on local fundraising events throughout the year to help keep the deficit under control, and to keep Cruz Roja services available. Their regular fashion shows are one of the most popular events in the Lake Chapala area.

It is important that Cruz Roja Chapala has a steady income flow so that the monthly expenses are covered and their services don’t have lapses. If you want to help, Cruz Roja Chapala can take cash or check donations. Here’s how to do that:

Checks: If you’re local and are writing a check, make it out to 'Cruz Roja Chapala. They will provide receipts, including tax deductible receipts for U.S. You can drop your donations of at Cruz Roja in Chapala, Lake Chapala Society.

Pay Pal or Credit Card: Go to Cruz Roja Website and donate via Pay Pal or Major Credit Card. The web address is: http://www.cruzrojachapala.com/. 

There are lots of ways that you can help Cruz Roja Chapala, even if you think that you don't have time to attend the meetings or to participate as an active volunteer. Check out http://www.cruzrojachapala.com/help.html for the ways you can help.

There are so many luscious and unusual fruit in Mexico that I have yet to taste. I have been known to stand in front of a vendor staring at something, wondering how it tastes, how to eat it, how to serve it and what to do with it. I want to, but I just don't know how, so I end up passing it by, all the while wondering what I'm missing. We have a wealth of fruit and vegetables in Mexico, and here I am not really partaking in a lot of them! Shame on me!

Well, thank goodness for Ana...she will never let us pass up an opportunity to try something new. A case in point ...I came upon Aase Christensen and Herma Buchanan staring at an interesting looking fruit and wondering what it was. Well, Ana whips out her purse and immediately purchases one and has the vendor cut it for us. And, believe me, if Ana says it's good, I'm definitely going to try it! There is such a wonderful variety of tasty fruit in Mexico; we owe it to ourselves to step out of the box and try something different!

Well, on this particular day, Ana introduced us to Mamey...also called Mamey Sapote (MA-may sah-PO-tay). Roughly the size and shape of a small football or softball, the mamey has bark like brown rough skin and is orange inside. It is soft, smooth, thick, and creamy. There is usually one seed and it is smooth, shiny and dark...

TV Azteca, founded in 1993 is the second TV Company in Mexico behind Televisa. This company features Soap Operas, News, Sports, and Music and Entertaining. During the past few months, TV Azteca has been promoting the state of Jalisco following Televisa’s lead promoting Tequila, Guadalajara City and even Chapala, with its successful soap operas “Destilando Amor” and “Las Tontas no van al Cielo.” And this is why we’re having a lot of opportunities to see TV Azteca doing these kind of events throughout the state of Jalisco.

We also felt very proud to see that the Secretary of Public Education, along with the State Government of Jalisco, has a campaign running for adults who didn’t have a chance to finish school when they were young, to take their exams for free and get their school documents. The slogan was “Porque nunca es tarde para mejorar tu vida, termina tu primaria y secundaria” which means “Because it is never late to improve your life, come and finish your primary and secondary school.”

Besides, the government was also promoting free studies for adults who didn’t have a chance to attend school for any other reason.

There were a lot of people writing exams and filling forms to get their documents in order to have a chance to find better jobs and opportunities. Hurray for Jalisco’s Government, they always seem to look after the well-being of their people.

Celebrating a Happy Birthday at Hospicio Cabañas

One of our participants had a chance to share a Happy Birthday with a lovely girl who dressed up along with her mother and aunt to have her father take her some pictures for her 18th birthday. At first, we all thought these ladies were famous models or something, but at the end lovely Elia and her family were very happy to share this moment with us.
So, this was our tour of the Plaza Tapatía, I hope you have a chance to join us very soon.

Focus On Mexico offers 8-Day Educational Programs to Ajijic and Lake Chapala, Mexico (2^nd Best Climate in the World). Join us on a Focus program and learn why thousands of Americans and Canadians chose to retire in Lake Chapala.

Our programs offer the perfect balance; a wonderful vacation and an insightful, educational experience. Our expert speakers cover all topics: Health Care, Real Estate, Legal System, Immigration, Bringing Pets, Cost of Living, US Taxes for Americans, Non-Residency for Canadians, Living on the Lakeside, Investing in Mexico, Mexican Economy and much more...

You’ll get everything you need to help you decide if Lake Chapala, Mexico is the place for you, plus have a lot of fun doing it. Retiring in Mexico couldn't be better. 

That Julie Eihausen must have the inside scoop on what to order. While lunching at El Adobe in Tlaquepaque, she ordered a shot of tequila, and this is how it showed up.

The sphere of glass contains ice and water with a lime for decoration. The triangular glass Julie's holding comes full of tequila...that way the tequila is kept cold while you're drinking it.

You know…I’ve heard tequila should never be chilled, but here’s what others say:

Tequila is a fine and complex liquor and as such it must be sipped slowly. It should be served at room temperature, although some like it ice cold. Traditionally most people serve it in a "caballito", a 2 oz glass made exclusively for this purpose. Blanco and Reposado may be accompanied by "sangrita" made of tomato and orange juice with salt and chile. Añejo is preferably served in a snifter so that the aroma is fully appreciated. The tequila shot with lime and salt is Hollywood stuff and few people drink it that way. However, some people do put some lime juice in the tequila or bite the lime before sipping it. Life is, after all, a matter of taste.

There is no "right" way to drink tequila, but any spirit is best appreciated first on its own merits, without accompaniment.

Sip it. Forget about the lime and the salt and the margarita mix. Don't even add ice. If you want to taste it, drink it neat first, so you can savor it.

Some people like it served cold, especially the blanco variety. And, personally, I would only drink blanco cold. To me, blanco should only be used in a Margarita or drunk ice cold! It’s not what I would consider a sipping tequila at all…so I’m really surprised a tequila connoisseur would even suggest it!

With regard to reposado and añejo, sip the premium tequila slowly and gently, to enjoy the aroma, the body and the taste. Taste it as you would a fine wine. Life is really too short to miss out on enjoying it properly. I am a tequila-holic…I admit it!

And if you must do shooters, the proper order of the traditional method of drinking tequila is salt-tequila-lime: lick, sip, bite...

I bit off more than I could chew (literally)

But I have a happy ending…

I love muffins and I have a wonderful “Alive” cookbook called “Fantastic Flax” where I found my favorite Muffin of all time “Flax Muffins with Chocolate Chips” (only I use Carob chips).

A few days ago I lovingly made myself a batch. This morning I poured myself a cup of green tea, got out a beautiful muffin and came up on the terrace to enjoy the view while I savored my treat. Two bites later I bit into my crown which had somehow come unglued.

It is 1 p.m. on Saturday and I race for the phone and call Dr. Haro, my dentist. The receptionist (who is also a dentist) tells me they close at 1 p.m. and Dr. Haro is just finishing with a patient, then he is driving back to Guadalajara.

Anyone who knows me knows I’m not really good at taking NO for an answer. So in my most persuasive tone I tell her that I am going to Ana’s birthday party in a couple of hours and I really must be wearing all my teeth. I said “I have my purse and keys in my hand and can be there in five minutes.” She tells me to wait while she checks with Dr. Haro and then tells me to rush right over.

In by 1:05; out by 1:30 p.m., my emergency appointment goes well. Instead of just re-cementing the tooth in place, they notice it is a little higher than the other teeth which would put extra stress on it so they filed it down to match and then gave me a quick cleaning and polish. Then they send my off to my party, all teeth back where they belong. Thank you Dr. Haro.
To drum up future business for Dr. Haro (for those of you that are here on the lakeside or when you visit or return), I’m going to share this favorite healthy muffin recipe with you.

Flax Muffins with Chocolate Chips
Muffins are an American mainstay, but here is a recipe with an Old World twist.

1/2 cup whole flax seeds
1-1/2 cups (375 ml) kefir or buttermilk
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup flax meal
1/2 cup dried cane sugar, e.g., Sucanat or Rapadura
1 tsp baking powder
2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp sea salt
2 eggs
1/4 cup (60 ml) almond oil or melted butter
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 cup chocolate chips

Soak whole flax seeds in kefir for 2 hoursPreheat oven to 380 degrees F (190 degrees C).

In a large bowl, mix flour, flax meal, dried cane sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In another bowl, beat eggs and combine with almond oil, vanilla and kefir-soaked flax seeds. Add the liquid ingredients to the dry ingredients and gently stir until smooth. Finally, fold in chocolate chips.

Pour the batter into 16 medium muffin cups so that they are no more than 3/4 full, and bake for 20 minutes.

Let sit on a cooling rack for at least 5 minutes before serving.

NOTE: I have made a few changes to the recipe:

1.  Instead of chocolate chips, I use carob chips
2. Instead of cane sugar, I use Agave Nectar and slightly reduce the quantity
3. I add a cup of fresh or frozen blueberries
4. I also add 4 or 5 pieces of crystallized ginger cut in small pieces

Enjoy!
Marie Dwyer-Bullock

by Kristina Morgan

Thursday, the day we spend with Lloyd Ajijic Real Estate, has become one of my favorite days on the Focus program. And our September program was no exception….but this time the experience exceeded even my expectations. What fun!

When we arrive at Omar O'Rourke's beautiful estate, everyone noticed what a gorgeous place it is and I'm sure we all thought we could tough it out and live there! Mela always decorates the tables so creatively and this time was no exception. This time, however, her napkins brought an unexpected element of fun to the day. Mela chose colorful bandanas and had then tucked in place with a clothespin.

After a margarita or two (who's counting?!) everyone was wearing Mela's napkins on their heads in a roguish fashion! Even Omar joined in the fun and we all looked a little like hippies, gypsies and pirates.

When Vivienne started to play the guitar and sing Proud Mary with the Mariachis group backing her up, many of us were on our feet and dancing and singing along. Vivienne, you did a great job on the guitar! If you hadn't told me it's been a while since you played, I would have never known. That was GREAT. This was such a fun group and that was the best time I've ever had at Omar's house.

Later that night, we went to dinner at La Tasca on the lake. They have a reputation for some of the best live music available in Lakeside and I am not just saying that because my husband, Joel, is in the TallBoys and plays there---well, maybe just a little bit but who could blame me? Anyway, that Thursday night was magical with Roberto Cerda and Jimmy Barto on vocals and trumpet. When Jimmy sings he does an excellent Jimmy Durante impression. Everyone was marveling that there was such world-class music right here in Ajijic. It sounded like we were enjoying famous musicians on Bourbon Street in New Orleans way back when. If you have the chance to hear Jimmy and Roberto play---don't miss it! (Kathy, we did get video of this so you can prove to your friends in Texas that we really do have it going on down here in "Podunk Town, Mexico!" J)

Those of you who were there that night saw Neill on the bongo drums and were duly impressed. Neill looked completely happy and in his element as a part of the band and a number of times when Neill stood up to stop playing Jimmy and the Roberto told him to sit back down and continue! Neill is an excellent drummer and fit right in. Neill, I think you have yourself a job! Ray even got up and sang the Sheik of Ajijic with Roberto and joined in on the fun with Neill on bongos. What a great night! *sigh* This is what makes my job so much fun---meeting people like all of you and sharing my Mexico! Thanks for dancing with me, Irene and Karen! All of you made it a very special day. Thank you!

The cherry on my "golden memory day" was Gustavo doing his gaucho-style bolas. Great balls of fire!---he even caught his chaps on fire. I will refrain from being too corny and saying anything about him "chapping his hide." ;) It was an excellent show, and an excellent day.

Come back and let's do this again!

I call that a Golden Memory Day.

By Steve and Sally Meza

Would you associate quitting smoking with potatoes?? Well, Fred Peters of our Out of Focus group would.

One night at one of our "Out of Focus" at the bar sessions, which were held every night after that day's events, our group was talking about the wonderful food we'd eaten, the beautiful weather, and the Focus program in general, when the subject of smoking was brought up. This got everyone talking about their smoking habits and various attempts to quit

After several stories about failures and successes made the rounds, Wendy proceeded to tell the story of Fred's attempt to quit.

As the story goes, Fred decided to quit smoking. He paid a visit to his doctor who had read an article about patients being treated for depression who had successfully quit smoking. These patients were taking a drug called Wellbutrin. The doctor read that some of these patients were also able to quit smoking as a result of taking the drug.

He suggested to Fred that he start taking Wellbutrin to quit smoking. Well, Fred gave it a try, but noticed pretty early on that he was having some pretty bad symptoms, such as nightmares, anxiety and nervousness.

It all came to a head one night at dinner. Wendy and Fred were eating their meal, when Fred scooped up some small potatoes onto his fork and they promptly rolled off onto the floor. This triggered an emotional outburst from Fred, whereupon he burst out crying and asked Wendy, "Are you going to leave me?"

Wendy decided then and there that Fred should promptly stop taking Wellbutrin. By this point in the story, we were all practically rolling on the floor with laughter.

At our trip to the Ajijic tianguis later that week, Dave and Toni brilliantly decided to buy potatoes for all of us to present to Fred at our next dinner.

Dave handed us all potatoes when we arrived at Manix and when Fred and Wendy got up to dance, we filled his plate with potatoes. Upon returning to their seats, Fred saw that his plate was piled high with potatoes. Everybody again roared with laughter.And then if that wasn't enough, Wendy decided to use some of the potatoes to enhance some upper body parts.

YES WENDY, WE ALL HAVE PICTURES TO PROVE IT !!!

Everybody again roared with laughter.

I think I speak for all of us when I say, "I'll never look at potatoes the same way again."