Monday, December 11, 2017
Jingle Bells
Another Christmas in Mexico.
I do my small part with decorations, and smaller part with gifts and cards.
Pamela Arthur's Annual Boxing Day Party has top billing on my Christmas List. Not sure which year this is, but at least 20, probably more. I've been participating for 12 or 13 years, and she was going strong before I arrived.
Tea and sandwichs at 4 , with sweets of cource, and Tequila
at 6 pm. I try to be the first one there and the last one to leave, and it usually works out that way.
I love to help her out and appear much like a Pam Arthur Groupie!, but I am of sorts !
It's easy to see, that not that very long ago, she could pull of a grand soiree as such, backwards, in high heels, with one arm in a sling ! and maybe she has, but time passes, and she welcomes the help of her many many friends.
People from around the World celebrate Boxing Day, often for the 1st time at Casa Blanca, with Pam, Jimmi, and
the Whippets !
They were robbed 2 weeks ago, of large amount of cash.
It just makes us all sick to watch this destructive behavior here in Yelapa, but why do we think we are so different anymore ? Violation, theft, runs rampant across the globe.
More people have been robbed since then, and we can only hope there will be severe intervention from top Police Officials, but we've been there before.
Yelapa unique in the terrain, bad boys at an advantage running through paths in the Jungle no match for city cops and their uniforms ! There are so many places to hide, and likely many accomplices.
It's a huge problem that may threaten to ruin the Season for everyone !
This past weekend was Luckey Gillett's memorial. Long time Yelapa Resident. Got his name in Vietnam, and I've heard the whole story. Very Luckey indeed. Died of a heart attack at 77 years, in Northern California.
He reminded me a lot of my Dad , old school Gentleman,
with a red bandanda and cut off jeans !!
It's been a somber few weeks.
I'm a week late with this Post. I'm trying to finish up a few
other projects, and still fit in housework, and shopping and naps !
More updates to follow. Any comments or suggestions are always welcome ....
Most Happiest of Holidays ....
I do my small part with decorations, and smaller part with gifts and cards.
Pamela Arthur's Annual Boxing Day Party has top billing on my Christmas List. Not sure which year this is, but at least 20, probably more. I've been participating for 12 or 13 years, and she was going strong before I arrived.
Tea and sandwichs at 4 , with sweets of cource, and Tequila
at 6 pm. I try to be the first one there and the last one to leave, and it usually works out that way.
I love to help her out and appear much like a Pam Arthur Groupie!, but I am of sorts !
It's easy to see, that not that very long ago, she could pull of a grand soiree as such, backwards, in high heels, with one arm in a sling ! and maybe she has, but time passes, and she welcomes the help of her many many friends.
People from around the World celebrate Boxing Day, often for the 1st time at Casa Blanca, with Pam, Jimmi, and
the Whippets !
They were robbed 2 weeks ago, of large amount of cash.
It just makes us all sick to watch this destructive behavior here in Yelapa, but why do we think we are so different anymore ? Violation, theft, runs rampant across the globe.
More people have been robbed since then, and we can only hope there will be severe intervention from top Police Officials, but we've been there before.
Yelapa unique in the terrain, bad boys at an advantage running through paths in the Jungle no match for city cops and their uniforms ! There are so many places to hide, and likely many accomplices.
It's a huge problem that may threaten to ruin the Season for everyone !
This past weekend was Luckey Gillett's memorial. Long time Yelapa Resident. Got his name in Vietnam, and I've heard the whole story. Very Luckey indeed. Died of a heart attack at 77 years, in Northern California.
He reminded me a lot of my Dad , old school Gentleman,
with a red bandanda and cut off jeans !!
It's been a somber few weeks.
I'm a week late with this Post. I'm trying to finish up a few
other projects, and still fit in housework, and shopping and naps !
More updates to follow. Any comments or suggestions are always welcome ....
Most Happiest of Holidays ....
Photos Yelapa Life 2
Suzanna the Dancing Queen
Bryon loves to dance ...
Elli, M. Angelica, .... and me.
The year I was Godmother .... 2016
Christmas Brunch at the Yacht Club
aka Peppermint Patti
Gone to rest but Watching over us
2007
aka Jimmi
Sunday, November 12, 2017
Photos Yelapa Life 1
He makes new friends wherever he goes
Cynthia .... She sells sea shells by the sea shore
Two Cobaej Basketball Champions and me !
Nicole Graduation into Grade 1. 1st of 6 years at Primeria
The Queen and her Princess !!
More Champions ..... practice practice excel !!
Saturday, November 11, 2017
Happy Halloween y Todo !
So much going on .. Thanksgiving in Canada for one, ...
long over now, but we all have so much to be grateful for everyday.
long over now, but we all have so much to be grateful for everyday.
Thanksgiving in the U.S.A coming up ...
I've been lucky enough to enjoy quite a few of those ...
of cource the 2 are very much the same ... but different !
of cource the 2 are very much the same ... but different !
Yelapa Day of the Dead Celebration was a huge success.
Sponcered by the Cobaej .. which is what the High School System in all of Mexico is called... which is an acronym for something I still need to understand.
I have all my photos still on my phone and will try to get them up here ASAP ... I'm having technical difficulties ...!!
November 7th was one year since Maestro Pedro died and a High Mass was celebrated at the Catholic Church. All the Secondaria students, Grades 6, 7 and 8,
were there in their uniforms.
Not many dries eyes. His son was married there the Saturday before, and not many dries eyes then either. Life goes on and I am inspired by his memory.
Which also comes with a warning, not to over work ones self. On that note ... I'm searching for more Volunteers for the English Program and have already received some enthusiastic responces !
High season is here and it'seems great to see the locals working again, at the restaurants reopening in town, water taxis, house keepers, builders, yard workers, ie:
Jungle Maintenance !!
Cafe Bahia kicking off the season with Sunday brunch tomorrow, Yacht Club to night, dinner and dancing, live music, Mimi's Traditional Friday night Jam next week, and Pollo Bollo BBQ 5 days a week, after Revolution Day ,
which is Monday, November 20th.
Always great photos there ... an inspiring dis playing of
Patriotism.
I'm cutting this short to attend to chores and errands and getting my photos and my poems posted on this blog !
I can't give it up now ...
Keep up the gratitude ... Our Lady of the river suggests a whispered prayer of encouragement and support to our Mother , Planet Earth ... She sure needs it right now .
High season is here and it'seems great to see the locals working again, at the restaurants reopening in town, water taxis, house keepers, builders, yard workers, ie:
Jungle Maintenance !!
Cafe Bahia kicking off the season with Sunday brunch tomorrow, Yacht Club to night, dinner and dancing, live music, Mimi's Traditional Friday night Jam next week, and Pollo Bollo BBQ 5 days a week, after Revolution Day ,
which is Monday, November 20th.
Always great photos there ... an inspiring dis playing of
Patriotism.
I'm cutting this short to attend to chores and errands and getting my photos and my poems posted on this blog !
I can't give it up now ...
Keep up the gratitude ... Our Lady of the river suggests a whispered prayer of encouragement and support to our Mother , Planet Earth ... She sure needs it right now .
Tuesday, October 3, 2017
Maria poem
Maria's in her hammock
no need to be surprised
She had it woven to her likeness
it's a fabulous disguise
Maria in her hammock
swaying by the sea
Her eyes may be deceiving
but those lips are brass can be
September // Good Riddence
Yelapa, September 2017 ... a month best put behind us.
I can compare it to the last slushy days of March, in the North of Canada, waiting for the final banks of dirty snow to melt.
Heavy rain for over 2 weeks now, every day. A blessing, but
makes everything more difficult. I turned back from going to school last Friday, so much mud along the trail it's very slippery, and you either walk through the creeks with your shoes on, or off, or try and traverse make shift bridges and sand bags !!
We are a month behind our normal climate. I expect it will rain well into October. If you are coming before Halloween, be prepared !
So much tragedy in the world. Las Vegas.
Frightening.
Devestating.
Yelapa is still so removed from the outside.
But we know; we are aware, and take greater comfort in our community when catastrophe happens. The basics of life.
Connection.
Speaking of ...
Internet connection has been impeded due to weather, both Yelapa wifi and Infinitum Telmx. That why I'm late.
As of today, so far so good.
Most every other day the power goes off.
28 hours straight last week.
Thunder storms that wake you up trembling and smirking.
The echo in this bay has got to be some of the ultimate acoustics. It's mind mending !!
Light shows. A summer extra, free of charge.
Lightening so close you can't look with your eyes closed.
No hurricanes. or earthquakes or tsunami. For that, and more, I'm grateful.
Rain keeps us cool, or cooler than without.
Leeks in palapa roof to be expected.
Two tiny frogs seeking shelter, and 2 lizards have disovered cat food !
If it's not one thing it's another !
School is going great. Google yelapaschoolproject.com or visit the facebook page. We are just getting going.
You can check on updates and areas where Yelapa students need your help.
Full moon we will not see in Yelapa tonight.
I can't even see Puerto Vallarta !
It's time to break out the lentils, and light the candles.
Power is on, for now, but in Yelapa, this time of year, you have to be prepared.
One ex girl guide signing off, with photos to come asap.
I can compare it to the last slushy days of March, in the North of Canada, waiting for the final banks of dirty snow to melt.
Heavy rain for over 2 weeks now, every day. A blessing, but
makes everything more difficult. I turned back from going to school last Friday, so much mud along the trail it's very slippery, and you either walk through the creeks with your shoes on, or off, or try and traverse make shift bridges and sand bags !!
We are a month behind our normal climate. I expect it will rain well into October. If you are coming before Halloween, be prepared !
So much tragedy in the world. Las Vegas.
Frightening.
Devestating.
Yelapa is still so removed from the outside.
But we know; we are aware, and take greater comfort in our community when catastrophe happens. The basics of life.
Connection.
Speaking of ...
Internet connection has been impeded due to weather, both Yelapa wifi and Infinitum Telmx. That why I'm late.
As of today, so far so good.
Most every other day the power goes off.
28 hours straight last week.
Thunder storms that wake you up trembling and smirking.
The echo in this bay has got to be some of the ultimate acoustics. It's mind mending !!
Light shows. A summer extra, free of charge.
Lightening so close you can't look with your eyes closed.
No hurricanes. or earthquakes or tsunami. For that, and more, I'm grateful.
Rain keeps us cool, or cooler than without.
Leeks in palapa roof to be expected.
Two tiny frogs seeking shelter, and 2 lizards have disovered cat food !
If it's not one thing it's another !
School is going great. Google yelapaschoolproject.com or visit the facebook page. We are just getting going.
You can check on updates and areas where Yelapa students need your help.
Full moon we will not see in Yelapa tonight.
I can't even see Puerto Vallarta !
It's time to break out the lentils, and light the candles.
Power is on, for now, but in Yelapa, this time of year, you have to be prepared.
One ex girl guide signing off, with photos to come asap.
Monday, September 4, 2017
Goodbye August ... Hello September
Sorry about the spelling mistakes ...
The old Chesley Chicken will be become the new Little School, starting with English Classes, and growing into Art, and Music, and maybe Cooking ? We shall see. It's a very small space with some room for expansion, but not much !
It's a fantastic start, and I'm excited to get started !
Church bell ringing now, at 6:15 am ... not sure why ??
Yelapa schools are looking for volunteers to go assist in English Language Learning. With more and more people coming to stay, I hope we can set up a volunteer program to give these kids a hand up. It's so important.
Yelapa School Project is the name of the new Website.
It's on your Google now ! We haven't reached the final stretch yet, a few photos to add and change, drop down menu for more specific information, linking the Facebook page and accounting/ paypal procedures. This means forming the committee to get this off the ground. Not sure how long that will take but it is now a priority, so before my next post is the goal !
One of the Yelapa Folklore dancers, from 1st year Prepa, has been selected to join the Puerto Vallarta dance group on their trip to CHINA !! On the 18th of this month !! Outrageously exciting !! Jenny Lorenzo, Neto and Lupita's daughter, from La Guera water taxi, Taco Ramona's Grandaughter !!
Can't wait to see her Thursday !!
Rain overnight again last night, close to an inch every night last week. Good.
Growing season is at her peak !!
Enjoy your Days of September ...
The old Chesley Chicken will be become the new Little School, starting with English Classes, and growing into Art, and Music, and maybe Cooking ? We shall see. It's a very small space with some room for expansion, but not much !
It's a fantastic start, and I'm excited to get started !
Church bell ringing now, at 6:15 am ... not sure why ??
Yelapa schools are looking for volunteers to go assist in English Language Learning. With more and more people coming to stay, I hope we can set up a volunteer program to give these kids a hand up. It's so important.
Yelapa School Project is the name of the new Website.
It's on your Google now ! We haven't reached the final stretch yet, a few photos to add and change, drop down menu for more specific information, linking the Facebook page and accounting/ paypal procedures. This means forming the committee to get this off the ground. Not sure how long that will take but it is now a priority, so before my next post is the goal !
One of the Yelapa Folklore dancers, from 1st year Prepa, has been selected to join the Puerto Vallarta dance group on their trip to CHINA !! On the 18th of this month !! Outrageously exciting !! Jenny Lorenzo, Neto and Lupita's daughter, from La Guera water taxi, Taco Ramona's Grandaughter !!
Can't wait to see her Thursday !!
Rain overnight again last night, close to an inch every night last week. Good.
Growing season is at her peak !!
Enjoy your Days of September ...
Sunday, September 3, 2017
Goodbye August
Buenos Dias Amigas y Amigos ..... I hope everyone is doing ok this extreme weather season !
I arrived home August 8th and it's been raining almost everyday since then.! 1 inch to 1.5 inches generally, with one or two 3 inch days. This is our rainy season so it's welcomed, the wind is a pain when your live in a Palapa, but I should be used to it by now !!??
Yelapa lost her long time friend Luckey Gillet. He died July 15th, thereabouts, of a heart attack, at home in Nevada City.
Just like that, with no warning, sitting in his chair.
He was 73 or 74 years old.
A hugh blow for so many people, he probably made friends with everyone he met, if he liked you. Too bad he never got to writing a book, it would have been facinating. He will be conspicuously absent from the beach, and Tacos y Mas restaurant especially !!
Sipriano's wife Marta died within the same week or 10 days.
With peace and bravery and lots of love around her. A brain tumor that was only diagnosed 6 months ago, or less ! She probably wasn't 60 yet.
And then Marcos, " The " seller of jewlery on the beach.
Father of Daly, and Kevin, and Sergio, and Aron, and Vero, and Marcos Jr. .... died tragically in the same time period.
The siblings lost their Mom only 4 years ago.
They were both early 60's.
I was away for all the saddness, and Life continues, with memories of good times and another Guardian Angel to watch over us !
So much destruction and loss around us.
I have Yelapa Hi Speed internet now, and Videos of Texas, and North Korea, and The CBC National News covering NAFTA, and Hurricanes are coming in loud and clear.
Is this what I really wanted ? No, but it comes with this package called Life, and in the world we live in now, it's harder to disconnect. Yelapa doesn't feel so far away anymore ... but I'm grateful for the positive things Hi Speed brings, making my Blog, and Instagram, and Photos easier to enjoy !
Power has been out fairly regularly, partly there is work being done on the lines, and partly weather and faulty equipment. There was a sign posted to announce power outage on Saturday, 10 - 2, which was novel. It did go out, but 3- 6 instead. Usually I'm not using any electronic equipment when it's raining, and stormy, and no power.
There are pin prick size holes in my roof, large pin size, and
water will come through the first few days of heavy rain, then they swell up and hopefully stay that way till the end !
Usually I know where they are, but there have been a few surprises lately !
And the bugs are bad in the summer, not like Northern Black Fly bad, but this is our time for mosquitoes, ( Denge ), and swarming termites looking for a home in the support beams,
( also not good ), and, we could change the name from rainy season to house fly season!
No seeems , and see ems, you can't get rid of or swat buzzing around your ears and nose !
I bought, home made by local, bug repellant in Terrace Bay, and I love it. I could be her Mexico Representitive, it's so good, but I'd have to smuggle it into the country !
Burning coils, incense, no egg cartons yet !
Candles every night, prepared for power outage plus bugs love light bulbs ! Yelapa nights there is always a candle burning.
Many business here and throughout Mexico have a candle burning at the altar of their dead, day and night.
It's lovely.
My neighbors, Maria and Jim, both seen by our new Doctors yesterday, we do have 2 full time now !! Both of them on antibotics but not serious. 83 and 85 respectively. No family.
Just us.
Changes at all the schools, again this year, with maybe the exception of Prepa, grades 10 - 12. That's where Im going this year, starting Thurday, twicw a week one 50 minutes ESL class. ..
to be con't ..
I arrived home August 8th and it's been raining almost everyday since then.! 1 inch to 1.5 inches generally, with one or two 3 inch days. This is our rainy season so it's welcomed, the wind is a pain when your live in a Palapa, but I should be used to it by now !!??
Yelapa lost her long time friend Luckey Gillet. He died July 15th, thereabouts, of a heart attack, at home in Nevada City.
Just like that, with no warning, sitting in his chair.
He was 73 or 74 years old.
A hugh blow for so many people, he probably made friends with everyone he met, if he liked you. Too bad he never got to writing a book, it would have been facinating. He will be conspicuously absent from the beach, and Tacos y Mas restaurant especially !!
Sipriano's wife Marta died within the same week or 10 days.
With peace and bravery and lots of love around her. A brain tumor that was only diagnosed 6 months ago, or less ! She probably wasn't 60 yet.
And then Marcos, " The " seller of jewlery on the beach.
Father of Daly, and Kevin, and Sergio, and Aron, and Vero, and Marcos Jr. .... died tragically in the same time period.
The siblings lost their Mom only 4 years ago.
They were both early 60's.
I was away for all the saddness, and Life continues, with memories of good times and another Guardian Angel to watch over us !
So much destruction and loss around us.
I have Yelapa Hi Speed internet now, and Videos of Texas, and North Korea, and The CBC National News covering NAFTA, and Hurricanes are coming in loud and clear.
Is this what I really wanted ? No, but it comes with this package called Life, and in the world we live in now, it's harder to disconnect. Yelapa doesn't feel so far away anymore ... but I'm grateful for the positive things Hi Speed brings, making my Blog, and Instagram, and Photos easier to enjoy !
Power has been out fairly regularly, partly there is work being done on the lines, and partly weather and faulty equipment. There was a sign posted to announce power outage on Saturday, 10 - 2, which was novel. It did go out, but 3- 6 instead. Usually I'm not using any electronic equipment when it's raining, and stormy, and no power.
There are pin prick size holes in my roof, large pin size, and
water will come through the first few days of heavy rain, then they swell up and hopefully stay that way till the end !
Usually I know where they are, but there have been a few surprises lately !
And the bugs are bad in the summer, not like Northern Black Fly bad, but this is our time for mosquitoes, ( Denge ), and swarming termites looking for a home in the support beams,
( also not good ), and, we could change the name from rainy season to house fly season!
No seeems , and see ems, you can't get rid of or swat buzzing around your ears and nose !
I bought, home made by local, bug repellant in Terrace Bay, and I love it. I could be her Mexico Representitive, it's so good, but I'd have to smuggle it into the country !
Burning coils, incense, no egg cartons yet !
Candles every night, prepared for power outage plus bugs love light bulbs ! Yelapa nights there is always a candle burning.
Many business here and throughout Mexico have a candle burning at the altar of their dead, day and night.
It's lovely.
My neighbors, Maria and Jim, both seen by our new Doctors yesterday, we do have 2 full time now !! Both of them on antibotics but not serious. 83 and 85 respectively. No family.
Just us.
Changes at all the schools, again this year, with maybe the exception of Prepa, grades 10 - 12. That's where Im going this year, starting Thurday, twicw a week one 50 minutes ESL class. ..
to be con't ..
Monday, June 5, 2017
Hello June
.... GOODBYE, MAY ....
May seems to last a while around here, beginning with 9 days of Festival of Guadalupe, then Mother's Day, Student Day, Teacher Day, ( Day of the Child on the 30th of April ).
It's also the month of First Communion and Confirmation,
with 50 kids participating. The Church is standing room only at most large events, and that day was no exception.
Many people waiting outside for the Entrance and Exit.
Food and refreshments are sold in the front, but every family
has a fiesta planned for the afternoon, either at home or on the beach. The kids get an impressive gift of a small, white
bible, a candle, and prayer book, etc.
May is also my Dad's Birthday,'s, (90 years ), my Mom's anniversary,( 19 years ), my 1st wedding anniversary, ( 28 years ),
not to mention the numerous other birthdays, baptisims, and anniversaries celebrated around town.
The Village also marked the passing of one of her pioneers,
bidding farewell to Dona Beta, the mother of 9? or 12? children, many who still reside within a stones throw of each other.
The Mother of Pollo Bollo Jaime, famous for BBQ.
No way for me to be sure how many grandchildren she had, but I would be safe to say, at least one in every grade at Secondary.
Nine days mourning, as is the tradition.
Church bells ringing this Monday morning, at 6:30 am.
Somewhat unusual. Be sure to ask in the Village today ...
One of the things about all these special occasions, is the relatives and friends who arrive to share in the celebration.
People from Yelapa, who now live elsewhere, are SO HAPPY to be back home, and their kids are in heaven,barefoot and soaking wet.
People really take the time together, reminding us we don't know
when, or if, there will be a next time !
And people who are newly arrived ...?
They have never seen anything like it !!
Then, after all this, Dia de la Marina, June 1st.
( my 2nd wedding anniversary, 15 years )
Fun .... lots of fun. More shade this year, thanks YC, and every year there are new friends to see.
It isn't for everyone, that is for sure ... the music is blasting,
the kids are screaming, the brass band is playng, there's one bathroom, the ice melts, the sun is unforgiving ... people can and do get hurt, but a great time is usually had by the majority.
I didn't get in the water this year, it was too cold !! Serious !
It has warmed up some, but even this morning, the weather is a little chilly and stormy for Yelapa June. Serious!
We need rain. So dry. So brittle and dusty. Not many mosquitoes
bothering me, flies either. No crabs, though I saw 2 the other day, trapped in the shower ...
It has to rain, it must rain, before I leave for my Vacation !!
7 days from now !!!
It's " full tilt boogie" till then. I'll be gone 7 weeks !!
From Vancouver, to Winnipeg, to Lake of the Woods, to Great Lake Superior, to Ottawa, to Sydney, Nova Scotia.
There's a lot to do to prepare for a trip like this ...
not the least being a few more fiestas, ...
to send me on my way ...
I will be able to post in July, as long as I can get my phone working.
I wish you all safe travels, as the adventure of life continues ....
May seems to last a while around here, beginning with 9 days of Festival of Guadalupe, then Mother's Day, Student Day, Teacher Day, ( Day of the Child on the 30th of April ).
It's also the month of First Communion and Confirmation,
with 50 kids participating. The Church is standing room only at most large events, and that day was no exception.
Many people waiting outside for the Entrance and Exit.
Food and refreshments are sold in the front, but every family
has a fiesta planned for the afternoon, either at home or on the beach. The kids get an impressive gift of a small, white
bible, a candle, and prayer book, etc.
May is also my Dad's Birthday,'s, (90 years ), my Mom's anniversary,( 19 years ), my 1st wedding anniversary, ( 28 years ),
not to mention the numerous other birthdays, baptisims, and anniversaries celebrated around town.
The Village also marked the passing of one of her pioneers,
bidding farewell to Dona Beta, the mother of 9? or 12? children, many who still reside within a stones throw of each other.
The Mother of Pollo Bollo Jaime, famous for BBQ.
No way for me to be sure how many grandchildren she had, but I would be safe to say, at least one in every grade at Secondary.
Nine days mourning, as is the tradition.
Church bells ringing this Monday morning, at 6:30 am.
Somewhat unusual. Be sure to ask in the Village today ...
One of the things about all these special occasions, is the relatives and friends who arrive to share in the celebration.
People from Yelapa, who now live elsewhere, are SO HAPPY to be back home, and their kids are in heaven,barefoot and soaking wet.
People really take the time together, reminding us we don't know
when, or if, there will be a next time !
And people who are newly arrived ...?
They have never seen anything like it !!
Then, after all this, Dia de la Marina, June 1st.
( my 2nd wedding anniversary, 15 years )
Fun .... lots of fun. More shade this year, thanks YC, and every year there are new friends to see.
It isn't for everyone, that is for sure ... the music is blasting,
the kids are screaming, the brass band is playng, there's one bathroom, the ice melts, the sun is unforgiving ... people can and do get hurt, but a great time is usually had by the majority.
I didn't get in the water this year, it was too cold !! Serious !
It has warmed up some, but even this morning, the weather is a little chilly and stormy for Yelapa June. Serious!
We need rain. So dry. So brittle and dusty. Not many mosquitoes
bothering me, flies either. No crabs, though I saw 2 the other day, trapped in the shower ...
It has to rain, it must rain, before I leave for my Vacation !!
7 days from now !!!
It's " full tilt boogie" till then. I'll be gone 7 weeks !!
From Vancouver, to Winnipeg, to Lake of the Woods, to Great Lake Superior, to Ottawa, to Sydney, Nova Scotia.
There's a lot to do to prepare for a trip like this ...
not the least being a few more fiestas, ...
to send me on my way ...
I will be able to post in July, as long as I can get my phone working.
I wish you all safe travels, as the adventure of life continues ....
Sunday, May 7, 2017
Happy Birthday Guadalupe
Yelapa Catholics celebrate the birthday of The Virgin of Guadalupe, every year at this time,
for 9 days. Nine days being the amount of time morners grieve their receently dearly departed. The town is decorated with pretty flags, and the new church bell rings at 5 am, and afternoons and evenings. Every neighbourhood takes turns in procession, with the Statue of Our Lady of Gualdalupe, carried in reverence, leading the way. It's a beautiful, wonderful celebration.
Confirmationa and First Communion took place this Sunday. Everyone dressed up, and on their best behavior, including the kids, haha ! Even standing room was full, with 2 priests officiating ! The church band rocked out , and makes the whole things come alive !
So much planning to prepare for all these Festivities, as it means many trips to Puerto Vallarta, or Tuito.
Is that why everything is , always, an hour or more late ?? No.
That has to do with time zones !
Mother's Day right around the corner .... have to wait and see what mood strikes me, if I'll dress up again this year. Always so much fun to see these Women let loose once a year.
Maybe a good idea this year is to take " my official photograher Davin " and try for some
classic portraits .... for prosperity and Facebook !
I've been invited to a pre- mothers day dinner at The Yacht Club Tuesday night.
Full stop Turkey Dinner ! 30 Women, all male servers.
Elanita wants to say Thank You, and I look forward to saying, You're Welcome !
Life and the Yelapa School Website project and potential keep moving on ...
excitement builds as I make the finishing reservations and prepare my suitycase for travel. I'm over the moon with the soon to be reality of being in my hometown, after 19 years ... what a gift to behold ...
and there is always first Vancouver , the city of my dreams.
I'm there for 10 days, with no caregiving, just re discovery ...
another gift to savor ...
Hi speed internet is available in Yelapa, seperate and apart from Carlos Slim and his
Infinitum. $ 2,500.00 pesos to install, and $ 700.00 pesos per month.
That means I can hook up Roko or Blueray; as over 30 satisfied customers have already done. I could watch NFB Films ! or Netflix, or Ted Talks ...
One day but not today. I can barely keep up to Youtube right now !
After Mother's Day, and Guadalupe's Birthday Party, will be Dia de Marina, June 1st,to honoring and celebrateing the men and women who have lost their lives at sea.
In Yelapa the focus is our Pescadors, The Fishermen.
It's A HUGE PARTY, on the little beach in town.
Shortly after that 24 or 36 hour Fiesta, Yelapa will curl up and rest for 4 months, and I will
be on my way to 2 months of vacation.
Preparation for receiving the positive, healthy, connected energy, we all bring to each other in these times of gathering and celebration .... Let the music play on inside of us ...
Happy Everything May !
for 9 days. Nine days being the amount of time morners grieve their receently dearly departed. The town is decorated with pretty flags, and the new church bell rings at 5 am, and afternoons and evenings. Every neighbourhood takes turns in procession, with the Statue of Our Lady of Gualdalupe, carried in reverence, leading the way. It's a beautiful, wonderful celebration.
Confirmationa and First Communion took place this Sunday. Everyone dressed up, and on their best behavior, including the kids, haha ! Even standing room was full, with 2 priests officiating ! The church band rocked out , and makes the whole things come alive !
So much planning to prepare for all these Festivities, as it means many trips to Puerto Vallarta, or Tuito.
Is that why everything is , always, an hour or more late ?? No.
That has to do with time zones !
Mother's Day right around the corner .... have to wait and see what mood strikes me, if I'll dress up again this year. Always so much fun to see these Women let loose once a year.
Maybe a good idea this year is to take " my official photograher Davin " and try for some
classic portraits .... for prosperity and Facebook !
I've been invited to a pre- mothers day dinner at The Yacht Club Tuesday night.
Full stop Turkey Dinner ! 30 Women, all male servers.
Elanita wants to say Thank You, and I look forward to saying, You're Welcome !
Life and the Yelapa School Website project and potential keep moving on ...
excitement builds as I make the finishing reservations and prepare my suitycase for travel. I'm over the moon with the soon to be reality of being in my hometown, after 19 years ... what a gift to behold ...
and there is always first Vancouver , the city of my dreams.
I'm there for 10 days, with no caregiving, just re discovery ...
another gift to savor ...
Hi speed internet is available in Yelapa, seperate and apart from Carlos Slim and his
Infinitum. $ 2,500.00 pesos to install, and $ 700.00 pesos per month.
That means I can hook up Roko or Blueray; as over 30 satisfied customers have already done. I could watch NFB Films ! or Netflix, or Ted Talks ...
One day but not today. I can barely keep up to Youtube right now !
After Mother's Day, and Guadalupe's Birthday Party, will be Dia de Marina, June 1st,to honoring and celebrateing the men and women who have lost their lives at sea.
In Yelapa the focus is our Pescadors, The Fishermen.
It's A HUGE PARTY, on the little beach in town.
Shortly after that 24 or 36 hour Fiesta, Yelapa will curl up and rest for 4 months, and I will
be on my way to 2 months of vacation.
Preparation for receiving the positive, healthy, connected energy, we all bring to each other in these times of gathering and celebration .... Let the music play on inside of us ...
Happy Everything May !
Saturday, April 8, 2017
Happy Easter
Good Morning Yelapa, and Welcome to Semana Santa , Holy Week of Easter... the busiest,
and " highest " time of the season ! Get ready for music, and parties, and dancing and food and beer, and campers on the beach, and more music !! Lots of family reunions,
and laughing and more music, and dancing ....
Unfortunately, there has already been an ATV ( Moto ) accident involving a 10 ish year old local boy and his bicycle, down by the clinic. Don't have any details except he has
sufferred no broken bones, or severe injuries and is home from the hospital . This is a big challenge for Yelapa to deal with; relatively something " new " . The last town meeting dealt with water line ( always ) and dog population, ( almost always ).
On going challenges, that are slow to change, here in Yelapa.
The town water line will be shut down this weekend so the filters can be changed.
Water piped through town, from a " reservoir " up river. I'm not affected in this house because my water comes gravity fed from the waterfall, but this is a neccesary, routine practice for the town, and it's an accomplishment to have it completed. Special crews and equipment have to come in from outside of Yeplapa.
I hope there are no sna foos....
I'm slowly changing Chesley Chicken into a meeting, learning space, starting with ESL for
Kinder and Primary grades, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. I'm offering Adults groups,
and there is interest, but these things take time. I would like to continue, pay the rent in
August for another year, and see what will grow.
My hope is , of all the people who spend time in Yelpa every year. love kids, and are Volunteers, a few will get involved, and tutor a group ... english conversation, art, music,
participate in Mexican Food Cooking Classes, and , or, etc. I'm asking for minimal contributioan, 20$ pesos kinder, 30$ primary and 40$ adults ... this will help cover some of the costs of operation. Totally non profit, but sustainable is the key !!
You know how to reach me, when the time comes ... but for now ....
I'm planning a 7 week vacation, Vancouver to Nova Scotia !
June 13 - August 8.
No sweeping floors !!
A chance to visit my past, and most thrilling of all, spend quality time with family and
friends.
Work continues on School Web site project. The website developer, who fell from the sky,
has aquired tons of footage and the Director of Prepa, has taken on the task of compiling content from all the schools. Wow.
Marlyn Folkloric Dance Group, representing Grades 7 - 9 , won 1st place in their 1st
competion, held north of Puerto Vallarta . They left Yelapa in the morning, and got home at
1:00 am ! The prize is new costumes for the Jalisco Traditional Dance presentation.
That's 3 new costumes in 1 season !! I will say now, if this group stays somewhat together
through Prepa, I doubt they will ever loose a competion !
The same for our present Prepa ( Cobaej ) Dancers.
I'll bet a Passion Fruit Margarita they will be repeat champions in May....God Willing ...
Sad News
A dearest friend passed away in Vancouver on Tuesday. His 58th Birthday today.
Dear Micheal Demeter. We met in 1977, and worked the waves of Vancouver Restaraunts
and Lounges, and Bars, and Nightclubs and Hotels together.
One big dysfuntional happy family. So hard to say goodbye. It'll take a little time.
He was always one of my Guardian Angels.
Sweet boy.
Good night.
Enjoy Your Life !!
And from my favorite ... Free Will Astrology ...
..... Marvel at the sunny dust ....
Thursday, March 9, 2017
photos
JOHANNA ' S QUINCINERA
A RIOT OF CUPCAKES
HER NAME IS PAULETTE
ALAJANDRO AND FELICITAS
50 YEAR WEDDING ANNIVERSARY
AVERAGE AMOUNT OF GRANDCHILDREN
FOR YELAPA .... THEN .
ON THEIR WAY TO DANCE PRACTICE
Happy almost spring ...
It's been a while ... but not for lack of trying ... we suffer from very slow internet, especially in this high high season ...
A lot has happened in 3 months, United States election for one ... It feels so far removed from here , but we still feel the effects ...
It's been 4 months since we lost Maestro Pedro.
Life goes on and so does his legacy.
The students are dancing and painting like wild fire. It's so exciting to watch the programs grow and the students are so dedicated, and talented !
The schools operate with minimal resources.
There is a staff shortage, supply storage, storage shortage,
photocopy and ink shortage, bathroom supplies and etc.
With the help of teachers, parents, and visiting professionals we submitted a proposal to the ISA MUNDO Foundation,
operating out of Vancouver Canada, to sponser the start up
of a web site focusing on the needs and objectives of all 4 Yelapa Schools.
In this way we hope to co ordinate and stream line the abundant resources that flow into Yelapa on a regular basis every winter. Finding money is not easy, but I will continue
to do the best I can.
It's been a great season so far.
Although CHESLEY CHICKEN is closed, the ESL group is going strong. It's especially popular with Kindergarten, which is challenging but so much fun.
Just a quick note to say I'm back on track, and will write
first Sundays of every month, but for now I must go;
it's Thursday morning garbage day, 7 am and first light, but
at least it's not snowing !
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