financial tidbits

I found out today that the average monthly pay in the Playa area is $600 us.  Dentists make between $30-$35,000 annually, doctors close to $100,000 (although plastic surgeons make significantly more), police officers $600/month, waiters, waitresses and gas pump attendants work strictly on tips, maids earn 200 pesos a day (equivalent to about $17 Canadian), elementary teachers approximately $1000 us per month and mechanical engineers do not make more than a concierge working in the timeshare business.

I also confirmed that there is no welfare system here ... you don't work, you don't receive money.  There is some sort of "old age security" however it is not much.  If you have a formal paying job you pay 10% tax right off the top and then another 10% off the remainder.  And this percentage doesn't vary depending on your income bracket ... it is the same for all tax payers. 

Public school costs 500 pesos per year per child plus uniforms. 

You have to pay a 2-3% state tax for ten years (tenincia) on your vehicle.  If you buy a used vehicle older than 10 years and its been paid you do not pay ... if its 8 years old and its been paid you pay the tax for 2 years.

The majority of the shops on 5th Ave are owned by Italians.

everybody has a story

Jason and I met Jay's friend David for lunch yesterday.  David is a real estate agent in Playa del Carmen and Jay met him a few years ago when he worked in an office on 5th Avenue.  David keeps Jay up to date with real estate opportunities in Playa and area and helped us find a house to rent.  I had met him once before but never had the opportunity to chat with him ~ I learned a lot from him in the hour we were together.

David was born in France to Spanish parents and spoke Spanish at home and French at school.  Looking at David I would guess he was either Canadian or American; bright blue eyes, pale skin and bald!  He speaks good English and can manage his way through a conversation in Portugese, Italian and Creole (lived in the French West Indies and I learned this is their language!).  David informed us that he and his Mexican wife speak Spanish at home and when they have children their first language will be French, second Spanish and third Mayan.  He indicated that sending their children to university in France will be cheaper than sending them to a good university in Mexico ~ France has fairly inexpensive good post secondary education compared to here ~ second thing I learned.

And ...  I didn't know there was a "Mayan" language!  He indicated that with the amount of foreigners occupying the native Mayan areas the language is being lost.  However, the government is trying to keep its importance by making it the second language taught in the school systems.  He stated that the darker people we see selling trinkets along the beach or on the streets are what is referred to as "indians" and they don't speak or understand Spanish ~ only Mayan.  Third thing I learned during our lunch.

I asked David ... can you tell that I was very intrigued and did all the inquiring while Jay ate his lunch!?! ... what brought him to Playa del Carmen.  He explained that 10 years ago his father owned several restaurants in France and he had an opportunity to open one here in the Mayan.  David said while going to university he worked at and managed several restaurants and agreed to come here to help start up the business.  At that time, ten years ago, he said the area was very peaceful and quaint, held the Latin spirit and was on the beautiful Caribbean ... he first fell in love with the atmosphere and eventually his wife.  He shared that he has experienced the growth of the village into the city it currently is, the rebuild from a major hurricane, the BOOM, the "swine flu" epidemic and now the side effects of a slower American enonomy.

After sharing this with us, he said "you know, in Playa everybody has a story ..." he reminded us that the city is really only 10-12 years old, currently houses 96 different nationalities and other than children, no one is really "from" here.  I started thinking about the people we know here and their individual stories.

P is from England, came to Mexico with his wife for vacation, loved the area, sold his company in the UK and relocated here.  His wife didn't like it as much as he did so they parted ways and ended up getting a divorce.  He ventured to Puerta Vallarta, met MC who was originally from Mexico City and they moved here when Playa's boom began in the late 90's.

N was born to Greek parents, immigrated to Canada when he was a boy and was raised in the Toronto area.  Following his divorce, he travelled to Acapulco and Mazatlan ... where he met his wife J.  They returned to the Toronto area, had a son and made their way to Playa four years ago. 

T was born and raised in Portugal, immigrated to Vancouver when he was 19 years old and following retirement travelled, sailed and resided abroad.  He eventually purchased real estate and spends the better part of 6 months here. 

S managed several restaurants in North Carolina and 10 years ago was told by her father she needed a break and was given a week in the family's timeshare in Cozumel.  She fell in love with the Caribbean and the laid back lifestyle, returned home, sold everything and bought a one way flight to Cancun.  While working in Cozumel, she met JC who was on vacation.  He returned to Mexico City, sold everything he owned and they now reside in the Playa del Carmen suburbs.

M and S wanted to do something different for their family so they sold their home in Calgary, saved their money and got jobs that could be done from home.  They tried Merida for the first few months and then relocated to Playa ... they have been here for a year, homeschool their children, work from home doing transcription and have extended their stay for another year.

D is from Ontario and K is from Texas.  After meeting in Texas, and D being into scuba diving, they relocated here ten years ago, had two boys and have no intent in returning to Canada or the USA.

M's father is from the States, her mother from Mexico City and she was born in Guadelajara.  She spoke English at home and attended Spanish speaking schools.  She married H from Argentina and relocated to Playa to teach English at Colegio Ingles. 

As depicted in the above stories, Playa del Carmen has been referred to as Mexico's "melting pot" and this is what attracts many foreigners.  Today the school's English coordinator told me that Colegio Ingles' mission statement includes providing a family base for its student body.  She explained that since the majority of the families are not from here, they do not have extended family close by ... thus the many extra-curricular activities, gatherings and functions. 

I love learning about the Mexican culture and traditions but even moreso I love hearing people's stories!!

Mexico ~ tierra encantada (how I understand it is "we are glad you are on our land of Mexico")

Where do I begin to describe last nights's Colegio Ingles' winter festival?  I can't use the word "Christmas-y" cause it wasn't; won't use the word "religious" cause its wasn't, and really don't want to refer to it as a concert cause it was much different than what we are used to.  Being a former student, guidance counsellor and social worker and now a mother of two school aged kids, I have been to a lot of Christmas concerts ... this was an all Spanish production put on by eleven classes of 1st to 6th graders all telling the story of "Mexico".

The evening started out with what I learned today was the Spaniards defeating the Mexicans ... there were head-dresses, sword fighting, a priest and lots of beautiful dancers wearing colorful dresses.  We weren't sure of the details pertaining to each character but got the strong message that Mexico was taken over by someone or something.

There were numbers representing Mexico's pica de gillo (otherwise known as Mexican salsa) where first graders were dressed as either tomatoes, cilantro or white onions; famous artists, dancers, singers and political leaders; certain states within the country (Hunter's class performed a well known dance from the Vera Cruz area); Mexican traditions such as small Sunday afternoon carnivals held in small towns, and how the revolution and independance took place.

For the past two or three weeks I had received different comments, concerns and stories from Hunt's teachers.  At first his Spanish teacher was concerned how she was going to communicate the dance steps to him.  Then a week or so in she was frustrated because he was not participating in the practices like he should and he actually fell asleep on the bench during one of them (so...she took him to the English co-ordinator to help her translate and he quickly thought he was in trouble!) and then the teachers couldn't believe how good he could do the quick steps.  I had the principal say to me "this is my boy ... we can't believe this Canadian kid is outdancing the Mexicans!"

When I picked up the costume the day of the show I assumed he would NOT be happy wearing it!  It had a long sleeved white dress shirt, white polyester pants and a straw hat (which was too small for his head) and white dress shoes.  He put it on without hesitation and was actually quite proud when he came down to model it for us!  When it was his turn to hit the stage he was nothing but grins and despite all the teasing from his sister he didn't even balk at putting his arm around a GIRL!!
I cannot tell you how over the top the costumes were and that some classes had 22 different costumes!  The detail, the colors and the representations were simply amazing.  And I also found out that each parent was responsible for their child's costume whether it was sewing it, shopping for it or paying the school seamstress to make it for you (we obviously chose the latter option and to give you an idea for Hunter's Vera Cruz white pants, shirt, red bandana and straw hat it was $400 pesos...plus the white shoes which we had to buy).  I will tell you that every child participated in the evening and every child donned a creative costume!

After the eleven numbers the entire student body gathered on the stage and sang a catchy tune that we had heard previously at the posada and revolution celebrations ... I am not sure of the name but after speaking to a coordinator I learned that it was a song written and performed by a Mexican for the 100th anniversary of the Revolution.  It would be similar to that of Nikki Yanofsky's I Believe written for the 2010 Olympic games.

Like the previous evening's festival, families gathered for food following the show and we left about 8pm.  We were so happy to experience Mexico's history even though it was all wrapped up in two hours!  This country has a tremendous amount of history, traditions and culture that I now feel an obligation to learn about.

"A Christmas Dream"

Emersyn's winter festival (aka school Christmas concert) was held last night at the Catalonia Maroma resort.  We didn't know how long it would take to get there so we left in plenty of time for the 530 pm start.  When we arrived at the gates there was a line up of cars and the resort staff greeted all wearing our school's Colegio Ingles t-shirts!

We finally found a parking spot and made our way into the auditorium 10 minutes before the start!  This "festival" was for 5 classes of prekinder, kinder and preparataria (preschool, kindergarten and preparation for grade 1) ... and, wow were there people there!  All of the 3, 4 and 5 year olds arrived in their costumes for the evening's performances and were all seated with their teachers to await their call to the stage.  We were greeted by the head principal (all in Spanish) and got settled in to enjoy the evening.  A large screen dropped and the beginning of "Polar Express" began to play.

Each class was assigned a song and each child within that class was assigned a costume.  The children had been working on their dances for what seemed like weeks and we got to see rehearsals nightly in our living room!  Emersyn's class performed a dance to "Let it Snow" and all wore pajama related costumes.  Emy was in a short colorful nightie with a matching nightcap and absolutely danced her butt off!  She was so cute ... her arms shook, her hips twisted and her feet never stopped moving! 

I taped the performance with as much zoom as my camera would allow.  I later discovered that there was an area reserved for parents of the kids on stage to take photography and video tape up close.  Again, the introduction was all in Spanish and all I understood was chickas, ninos and Feliz Navidad!!

Emy finished her performance, returned to sit with her class and we enjoyed the last 4 or 5 performances.  At the conclusion of the evening all the classes gathered on the stage and sang their hearts out to "Rocking Around the Christmas Tree" ... this time I went down to the "reserved area" only to find my camera battery was completely dead.     

Following the festival, the families gathered for food outside of the auditorium, all of the teachers, dressed in black, gathered on the stage for pictures and the children played or visited with their parents.  It was a different experience than what we were used to.  Not only were the kids let out at noon yesterday to prepare for the festival, there was only one song sang by the children ~ the rest was choreographied dance numbers ~ and the costumes were what we would see in drama productions.  Quite the show!

Hunter's festival is tonight and will include 11 numbers from 1st to 6th grades. His costume has been picked up, his white shoes purchased and my camera is charging as I type!

respect

There appears to be a commonality amongst the Mexican people.  I am not exactly sure how to appropriately label or describe it.  Is it "honor?  Is it "closeness"?  Or is it "affection"?  To be honest, I think its a combination of all of these but the one word I think that best describes the people I have observed here is RESPECTFUL. 

Not only have the majority of the people we have come into contact with, or watched over the last six weeks, been respectful to us but they have been respectful to each other.  Upon each greeting the Mexican people provide a physical salute.  Men greeting men either hug or shake hands with a "pound" and men to women and women to women simply hug and give a quick kiss on the cheek.  This applies to children and youth as well.  It is not frowned upon at all to see adolescents hug and kiss when they see each other at school, done respectly of course.  And it is customary for kids of all ages to hug and kiss their parents when they leave and arrive.  How many of our Canadian or American kids past the age of 6 still do this?

I have also noticed that verbal greetings are more formal ~ or respectful ~ as well.  Consistently you will hear "good morning/afternoon/evening" (in Spanish of course) amongst friends, family and strangers not a simple hi, non-emotional how are you or silence. 

It's well known that the majority of the working class do not get paid well in this country (comparative to our Canadian and American standards anyways).  However, we do not see people begging or panhandling in the streets.  We rarely see a local walking the streets dirty, intoxicated or causing trouble.  And we do not see many, if any, locals complaining or not smiling or waving back.  To me, these are perfect examples of people having respect for themselves.  I admit, in this area these individuals know the more they smile, help out and appear pleasant the more "tips" they can receive from foreigners.  But, I still believe that to work 8-12 hours per day 6 days per week for basically nothing these people would have to respect themselves for getting up every morning to make as much as they can for their livelihoods.  It would be easy to succumb to feelings of depression and hopelessness but they keep on working, smiling and greeting with a cheering buenos dias!

I would also say that respect for family is a natural priority here.  I have yet to see a child be disrespectful to his/her parents.  It is not uncommon for an adult daughter holding her elderly mother's hand.  Its not uncommon for a 14 year old son to kiss his mother on the cheek when he gets out of the car for school.

It is customary for the mother to stay home while the father works 6 days per week and/or both parents working 6 days per week while a grandparent looks after the children.  As well, I have seen younger children accompanying their parents to their places of employment.  Quite often we see a baby sitting in a walker type thing at the OXXO while her father stocks the shelves.  The maid next door has her newborn with her while she cleans C's house.  It is also quite common for several family members to reside together.  I have three different examples of this from three different "classes", for a lack of a better term.

Our friend P, 59 is what I would refer to as "well off".  He and his wife work and make very good livings.  P is British and MC is Mexican and is one of ten children.  MC's father (89 years old) resides with them and is cared for my MC and her brother and sister-in-law (who work for P and MC).  It is not uncommon for MC's siblings to come and visit for weeks or months at a time.

Our friend Y, 26 is a massage therapist (who works for $10 US per massage and may get one or four appointments a day depending on the occupancy in the resort).  Her husband is an IT guy at one of the resorts and both work six days per week.  Y also attends school to learn additionaly massage techniques and does private massaging on the side.  They have four children (2-10) and reside in her mother's 2 bedroom house with the 6 of them. her mother and 2 nieces that her mother raises.  While they are working, the grandmother looks after the children when they're not in school.

Our friend H, 32 is from Mexico City and resides here with K and her 5 year old daughter.  H makes a decent living (would be considered middle class in Canada) and continues to routinely send money back to his widowed mother.

All three situations are different both financially and age related but all depict patterns of caring for one's family.  To me this is very honorable and respectful.

As I sat here composing today's post on RESPECT I asked my 5 and 7 year olds what they thought the word meant.  Emersyn's definition: "being so nice to your parents" and Hunter's: "listening and saying hello to people".

If there is one thing I hope my family takes away from our experience is the simple yet convoluded exercise of RESPECT.

white sand and turquoise water

Today's post is dedicated to someone I met 20 years ago but haven't seen in many years ~we have kept up contact on Facebook and she let me know the other day she has never been to a hot destination ~ Shannon Trombley, this is for you ... I know writing about them and sharing photos won't give them the proper respect they deserve but here is my best description of the water we are so lucky to wade, swim and snorkel in and the beaches we get to play in, build sand castles on and run through.

Our favorite beach in the Mayan (which runs south from Cancun down to South America) is Maroma Beach.  It has been rated one of the nicest in the world.  Its impossible to adequately describe the feeling of the sand but its like flour, not quite as fine and lightweight, but pretty darn close!  To walk barefoot is like nothing else.  There is the odd shell or sharp piece of coral but otherwise its soft, warm and comforting.  Kids can dig for what seems like miles and when damp the consistency creates the best long standing castles around!

When sitting on a beach chair or laying on a towel I constantly find my feet playing with the sand ~ its a natural reaction to bury or write words with my toes.  I just love the feeling of the sand.  And, after spending a day on the beach you have to because you'll find it everywhere when you're done.  Its so fine that there will be residue on your magazines, your cameras and your sunscreen bottles for days!

The beach along the Mayan varies in color due to tides, the past hurricanes and developments on the beaches.  However, for the most part its a light creamy color.  Not quite white but definitely not beige like the Pacific side.  It is simply stunning to watch the turquoise waters hitting, making its way up and leaving the still off-white land.

In our opinion there is nothing more beautiful than the Carribean Sea.  The multitude of colors, the clarity and the warmth is like none other.  From minute to minute, area to area and tide to tide you can observe light blue, turquoise, royal, teal and white all within a span of five minutes.  My personal favorite area to take in this array of color is en route to Isle Mujeres.  Its absolutely picturesque and breath taking to see how the ocean glistens in the sun and changes shades depending on the depths of the waters.  Absolutely beautiful.  On any given day you will see bright, transparent, large or small fish, different sizes and shapes of coral and perhaps dolphins jumping 40 feet out ... all just standing in knee deep water!

From area to area you will also observe different activity!  In my experience, Cancun beaches along the hotel zone are occupied by younger groups (especially during spring breaks) and there is music, beach volleyball, dancing, football and contests.  Moving south there are public beaches where locals bring their families, picnic lunches and quite often their dogs.  There are young babies, children, parents and grandparents all experiencing the joys of the ocean ... often they are swimming in their underwear or clothes but they are enjoying their time as much as the European couple next to them.  On a Sunday it is also quite common to watch a soccer match (there are leagues that actually play on the beaches). 

Over the years I have walked miles and miles along the Mayan Riviera and have seen many different type of beachfront resorts and properties ~ nude, children oriented, adult only, party, romantic and baren.  There are different levels of cleanliness (the more exclusive resorts have their beaches tidied, raked and cleaned by dawn) and have seen many many different nationalities. 

I'll never forget the first time I walked past a nude resort ~ I was by myself pushing Emy in her mountain buggy.  I knew there was this type of resort a couple hotels down from where we stayed, I thought I was prepared and wouldn't think it was a big deal when I got to it ... so there I went, walking with my 18 month old daughter.  I came to a sign in the middle of the beach that stated "clothing is optional for the next x amount of meters so enter with caution" ... OK here I was.  I've seen naked people before what's a few more!?  Well ... there were more than a few!  At that time the beach wasn't as wide as it is now ~ Hurricane Wilma had taken the majority of the sand so I would say from the ocean to the property was about 50-60 feet.  To my right there were cabanas with sheets that could be drawn for privacy (there was NOTHING private here!), there were men and women laying on beach chairs hiding not a thing and there was a beach volleyball game going on.  NO ONE had clothing on.  Not even the waiters or activity directors.  OK, I had my sunglasses on so no one would know I was walking, sneaking a peak with the "deer in headlines" look and was in utter disbelief until I walked the buggy right into a huge piece of driftwood!  Oh my God, I was so embarassed ... only to hear my then awake daughter loudly acknowledge "mommy, BOOBIES"!!  OK, I could die. 

Continuing further south there are private homes with nice piers and gated pools, there are areas for seadooing, speedboating and parasailing and there are resorts that have cabanas in the ocean that house massages and yoga sessions.  There are marinas with beautiful cruisers and worn out fishing boats.  There are undeveloped areas where you have to walk in and around marshy swamp areas and over large pieces of driftwood.  There are areas in the process of being developed and are under construction.  There are gorgeous beach clubs and restaurants, small and local taco stands and many different massage or tour huts.  There are resorts with secuity guards and beach butlers.  There are resorts with nothing but beach chairs and rooms.

Currently the beaches in and around Playa del Carmen (and eventually all the way up to Cancun) are in the process of being replenished ~ millions of dollars are being spent to pump in sand from the ocean floor to widen the beaches that were destroyed by the last hurricane.

To me there is no better place in the world.  I can watch my kids play in the sand, fight the waves, snorkle and dive.  I can people watch.  I can catch some rays.  I can observe life underwater.  I can stare out in the "deep blue" for hours!  I can cool off in the clean water.  I can have a cold drink and share lunch with my family. 

I truly hope every one of you will have the opportunity to experience this at least once in your lifetime...Shannon, perhaps a 40th birthday gift from your loved ones?  Or, from you to you!!? 

the differences in vacationing and living here ~

I have been neglecting many things this week ~ my writing, my photography and my tan!  I am as lily white as I was the day we arrived (I know I don't have bronzey brown pigmentation but 5+ weeks in I thought I'd have some sort of faint tan lines).  But, I will tell you that LIVING is WAY different than VACATIONING here!  I remember a friend from here came and visited us at our resort a couple years ago and it was his first time to the beach in over a year!  I couldn't fathom that ... well let me tell you ... I completely get it now.

1.  When on vacation we either do NOTHING all day or jam pack it full of activities ... either way there really is no schedule or routine for two weeks.  Here, we are on a strict schedule with getting the kids up and ready for their early start at "escuela", Jay leaves for work at 645am, we leave the house at 7am and if  I have no errands to get done first thing, return at 825am. 

But, for the past 5 1/2 weeks I usually had something to pick up for school (ie, pink/rosa rose for a coordinator's birthday, an apple/manzana pie for a thanksgiving celebration, a birthday gift for a party I didn't know about, fuschia balls for the school's Christmas tree, a revolution outfit for Emersyn's celebration, a veracruz hat for Hunt's winter festival ... you get the picture).  Each time I take a note to get translated it usually means I  make a trip to Walmart, Mega or Chedraui!

I return home to my daily routine: try my best to communicate with Anna on what we'd like her to do in the house (she speaks absolutely no English and I recently discovered she cannot read).  I catch up on emails, phone calls, texts and my blog; I have had to meet with our land lady and maintenance men several times regarding things wrong in the house; and of course the daily task of translating things for the kids' homework and school life! I am also rekindling my relationship with my workout gear so will need to make time for that!  I leave the house again at 130pm to pick the kids up from school and continue on with ballet, gym, soccer and/or tutoring followed by dinner, homework and I am Hitler when it comes to getting the kids to bed by 730pm!  Bam ... the day is gone and I haven't hit the beach, had a nap, had a massage or read a book!

2.  When on vacation, I leave my driving hat at home and rely soley on taxis, Jay or tour buses.  Living here I drive a ton!!  But, I must say my driving fits in here quite nicely.  You don't need to stay in a lane, you turn whenever you want, you can drive fast (except over the topes/speed bumps which are huge and seem to be every 5 feet!), you can cut people off and you can honk for no reason.

3.  When on vacation we typically stay on the resort or make our way down to Playa's trendy but busy 5th Avenue.  Living here we make it a point to explore all areas of the city.  We live near the highway and the school is off the highway about 5 kms away.  However, instead of battling traffic and driving straight on the Carrtera, we go through town every morning.  I love seeing the locals in their element.  I love observing their neighbourhoods, their routines and means of living.  When on the resorts, we saw the workers in crisp and clean uniforms and could see how they worked their butts off to make a few dollars.  When off the resorts we see how they get to work, we see what they live in and we see them with their families and witness their incredibly gentle and honorable relationships with loved ones.

And, I must admit, I try to stay away from 5th Avuene!  It is too busy for me and I am tired of the little shops that sell the same touristy things.  We will go down and see a few of the unique shops or go for dinner at a nice restaurant but as far as walking just to walk I'd rather go elsewhere!  Although in saying that, now is the time to find a chair at a lounge and wait to see people we recognize or know from back home!

4.  When on vacation we usually tip each key worker at the end of our stay and depending on the relationship built we usually gave a nice tip.  Here we have learned that tipping and for paying for services have standards and its frowned upon to sway from these standards! 

For example, where we live people pay their maids 200 pesos for a day's work.  Now, our neighbour's works 6 days per week from 8-5 and Julianna provides her lunch but no transporation money.  Tony's works 3 days per week for 4 hours and he doesn't provide lunch or transportaion.  Marcy pays for a taxi ride home.  Now, when I was asking what I should pay I was told do not pay more than 200 pesos because the girls all talk and will ask their employers for more!  So, I compromised and ours works 3 days per week for 6 hours for 200 pesos and I make lunch and give treats here and there (ie, specialty baking, a pointsetta at this time of year etc.)  But, I was strongly advised not to "over tip"!

The other day after leaving Walmart with bags full of Christmas stocking stuffers, wrapping paper, bows, food and gifts I was finally feeling the spirit and was so excited to get home to wrap and decorate.  When I got to the van a man in his late 40's quickly offered to help me.  I thought why not, I had a lot of bags and he needed the "work".  Then his 8ish year old son was in there like a dirty shirt helping his dad.  My first thought was awe, this poor kid should be in school and they likely can't afford it ... my heart breaks!  I see how he is working with his dad doing such mindless and thankless work ... yep, heart breaks even more.  Then I notice all what they're putting in my van ... they will be lucky to have a decent Christmas dinner.  Again, heart breaks.  So I look in my wallet and I have shrapnell of coins, a 50 and a 200.  I give the boy 50 pesos, touch his arm and say "Feliz Navidad".  As I walk to the other side of the van I hear the boy exclaim "papa, cincuenta pesos papa!"  I felt good about helping them out and gave up my Starbucks trip for a venti nonfat chai tea latte. 

I later told our neighbour Tony my story and he said "fifty pesos~they are used to five~~".  He said locals have to be careful with this because the next white tourist/local they see they will come to expect that much and will snub them at a lower offering.  I see his point, but I still felt good that I helped their family out!

5.  When on vacation we forget about school, reading and homework for a couple weeks.  Living here we are consumed with it!  Wow, I will say that the schooling requires a lot more commitment that we had anticipated and this is drastically taking away from my tan!  Not only is it academically focused but it also provides many events and celebrations that require work for the families! 

As mentioned earlier, costume shopping and preparation, food shopping and/or preparation, kids have been invited to 4 birthdays since we've been here, we have had three posadas (Christmas parties organized by either staff or parents) this week and have two Winter Festivals next week (aka Christmas concerts)!  And not to mention the financial obligations ~ to give you an idea of what we pay in Canadian dollars ~ $57 for Hunter's festival costume plus we need to buy white dress shoes and a red bandana, $28 for Emy's festival costume, $33 for revolution costume earlier in November, 4 boxes of Christmas ornaments for school tree, 2 gifts for underpriviledged kids, $13 for apple pie (IMPOSSIBLE TO FIND HERE), $23 for Emy's posada and teacher's gifts, $110 per month for soccer, ballet and gymnastics, $650ish per month for "tuition" plus we had to pay ALOT for inscription (text books), $350 for uniforms, sweats, bunnyhugs, bathing suits and caps, gym bags ... and shoes (they have to wear black with formal uniforms and white with gym uniforms). 

Academically, Emy has homework once or twice per week and Hunt daily!  Grades 1-6 have formal exams/evaluations ~ last week was English Thursday and Friday for grammar, reading and spelling and this past week they had daily exams in Spanish.  They are taken very seriously with extra tutoring and reviewing.  Its frickin' crazy in my eyes!!  But, it has been said this is the best school to be at especially if you are foreigners.  So...we'll see!  But again...the translation I am doing on line is taking away from my bronzey glow!

6.  When on vacation we are excited to hear when someone is from Canada but we are fine with not recognizing or knowing people for the duration of our time away.  Jay in particular, being in retail daily, enjoys the time away from small talk!  Here, we are starting to recognize and know people where we go and its nice!  I was in Sam's club the other day and heard "Hi Lisa!" ... I was sure they were referring to someone else at first but then saw our friend Sylvia from Coco Cabanas!  I ran into someone I knew!!  We went to Siesta Fiesta last night to watch our friend Johnny Stevenson sing ... when we walked in he said "hey Lisa, Jay, Hunter and Emersyn from Regina Beach!" and now moms at the school are saying good morning and giving me the customary kiss on the cheek!  The security guards give us a wave, Anna greets us with "hola Senior y Seniora" and we have our favorite grocery packer at Mega that always gives us a box!  It's nice ... feels like home.

7.  When on vacation I tend to eat and drink all day long and not care about what it is, how many calories are involved or how much it costs ~ usually 'cause its at an all-inclusive resort and I don't have to make it.  Here I grocery shop, cook and don't sit by the ocean with a beach butler all day long!  Today my girlfriend Brandy asked if I was still on holiday mode and how many pina coladas I had drank!?  Funny how pina coladas taste so much better when they are brought to you and you don't have to dig out the blender! 

We find grocery prices vary greatly from place to place so I like to go to the little markets on side streets for fresh fruit and vegetables and get the staples from either Mega or Super Walmart.  We don't have a deep freeze here so shopping at Sam's or Costco must be creative!   

8.  When on vacation the kids usually get to paint a ceramic creature of some kind, get shark tooth necklaces or those stupid and ugly masks.  Living here I know how tacky and expensive the touristy gifts are and as such we stay clear away from the shops.  Not only cause they are a waste of money but because I get annoyed at the guys trying to lure us into the stores, I hate bardering and the prices are tripled on 5th Avenue compared to in town.  I no longer bring gifts home.  I don't shop at any of the touristy areas.  And, I would be happy never seeing another Playa del Carmen tshirt again!

9.  When on vacation we either eat at the resort or go to well known restaurants in Playa.  Living here we are able to ask those that have lived here for a while about different spots to eat.  We have Italian neighbours who have led us to delicious and authentic Italian, we met a Canadian couple who told us where to go for Sunday roast beef dinners, a local taco restaurant hidden on the highway to die for and have discovered where to order in Chinese.  Having so many different cultured neighbours will only enhance our eating experiences!

10.  And lastly, when on vacation time is so precious because of the limited days.  We know our weeks are counting down but we also know we still have the better part of 5 months ahead of us here.  If it rains one day its OK ~ makes staying inside paying bills online that much more easy.  When it rains while on holidays a sense of "jipped off" comes into play!  And for, if Jay wants to golf every Wednesday and Saturday its OK 'cause it doesn't seem like he's gone 4/14 mornings!

I know time will fly by here just like it does at home and our last days we will either be spent in disbelief our 6 months are up or in excitement that we are heading HOME, or I suspect a bit of both, so I am trying to take in as much as I can each and every day.  Whether I come out of this adventure with a tanlines or not I know that I will come out of it with knowledge, experience, courage, strength, wisdom, truth and patience ... and that's what living here vs vacationing here is all about.

arguments over absolutely nothing...

Look at us, in NYC's Radio City Music Hall, minutes away from seeing my idol Oprah Winfrey speak to "me" about her incredible life.  She is so inspiring for me to live my best life! 

This couple SURELY gets along ALL of the time?!  This couple wouldn't bicker and argue over nothing ... they look so happy and full of joy and pure bliss, they must live their best life at all times.  Uh, NO, not this morning!

It all starts off great ... kids awake at their usual time, everyone gets showered, dressed, Jay and I tag teamed on breakfast and lunches, I take the dog out, the kids watch some iCarly and Jay does a bit of computer work.  Initially he says he's going to stay home to catch up on emails while I take the kids to school and he would then come and help me get groceries in case I was "still weak".  Awesome!  Good plan for the beginning of the day.  Then he changes his mind, and we are all going and then he and I were going to the grocery store before he had to attend a meeting at 1230.  Again, perfect.

We drop off Hunter, wait for Em's gate to open, Jay does some calculating, Emy and I play eye spy.  Everything is hunky dory, Emy goes to class and we are off ... to get groceries.

Jay doesn't turn left where we usually turn to go head to the highway.  I ask "where ya going?"  He says there is too much construction and turns right.  Good idea, its always slow noving, especially at this time of day.  As we are leaving the school grounds, he pulls over and calls his friend Henry regarding picking up our van today (Henry went to Cancun yesterday and brought it to Playa for us ... helped us out a lot.  I knew he was bringing it but hadn't heard of a plan regarding picking it up).  Jay says I can drop him off at Henry's work so he can get the van.  Sure, I have no problem with that.  Henry is in a meeting, but that's ok Jay says he'll call him later.   We then continue on our way ... to get groceries.

So, in my head I knew which grocery store would make sense if I have to take Jay to get the van before I head home.  But ... I will admit I kept that thought in my head ~ he should know what I was thinking, right?!  So, we are driving and instead of turning left to go to the grocery store that I think would be the best option, he turns right!  Again, I simply ask "where are you going?"

WELL, you would have thought I just told him he was the world's worst driver, he had the worst breath ever, didn't know anything about anything and that he just made the worst decision anyone could possibly make.  Whoa, and I thought I had a headache before!  "You're telling me I don't know where I'm going", "I told you there was construction!" and "You think I'm an idiot" are a few of the comments I can recall!

So, without going into the exact "he said" "she said", it was a quiet shopping trip, we didn't share samples and we returned home without getting the van!  We battled back and forth and things got more and more blown out of proportion!  Things from the past were brought up, our bad habits were pointed out, and plain stupidness came out of our mouths.  We got home, unloaded groceries and, while our non English cleaning lady washed dishes, we continued to do the whole "yeah, well...." and "oh, REALLY!!".  I think I giggled cause it had gone way over board, he started to check emails and said under his breath "I'll just take a taxi to El Dorado".

He had a few phone calls from either buddies or business related people back home and while I decorated the Christmas tree I couldn't help but overhear several "its good, have had a few adjustments but all in all its great"; "oh she's getting better she's mouthy again!", "oh yea, we love it here its all awesome!"  I smiled at him a few times during his calls in hopes that he would get "I'm sorry that whole thing was so foolish" and "see, told you its all good".   But, the stubborn side of me was still present too! 

He got ready I assumed to go to El Dorado and as he was getting his bag together I tried hard not to laugh but smirked "if you walk to the security gate they can hail a taxi for you!"  We both laughed and I ended up driving him to get our van.  He explained to me why he felt the way he did and I did the same.  We tried our best at this thing called C-o-m-m-u-n-i-c-a-t-i-o-n.

Why is it when we feel stress or any sense of tiredness, ailment or pressure we take it out on those we love the most?   Without meaning to, mean and/or hurtful things can be said.  The silly example above is a situation where a lack of communication was the instigator and frustration and stubborness took over.  How common are these within a marital relationship:  COMMUNICATION ISSUES, FRUSTRATION, STUBBORNESS?!  I am guessing, but I would say they are there!

I would also venture a guess that these three factors play a role in our relationships with our kids as well.  I  know they do in mine.  I know I need to work on my communication skills ... especially with my husband and immediate family.  I know that I get easily frustrated (especially without my required sleep) and I KNOW I am stubborn.  However, I am learning to ease off abit on that one cause my husband is much more so and I won't stand a chance!!

The day ended on a decent note, Jay and I are talking (!), he saved money on taxi fare, we have a fridge full of groceries and we have our van.  Tomorrow I am going to do my best to be the best communicator I can be with Jay and my kids.  If I sense that I am getting frustrated over anything during the day I will turn to another angle.  And ... I vow to never ask Jay where he is going again!!

private vs public

Well after being in Mexico many many times we have experienced the Mexican health care system for the first time.  I fought what I assumed was a bad flu for a couple days and when it continued to get progressively worse I knew I needed to seek some type of medical attention ... but where and how?

Jay called  his Canadian friend who has lived here for several years.  Nick asked if we had insurance and, after learning we did, he recommended the Hospiten hospital 2 minutes from our house.  I had seen the sign several times when driving to the mall  but didn't think we'd ever have to use its services. 
 
I was extremely weak so Jay walked me to a chair just past the registration desk and there I waited with the kids.  The lobby was beautiful, very clean, smelled fresh and there were gorgeous Christmas trees, ornaments and pointsettas everywhere.  I could hear Jay's conversation with the very professional English speaking clerk and her first question of "do you have insurance?"  Oh oh.  What if we didn't have enough?  What if it didn't work?  What if we got the wrong kind?  What if we had to leave? ... I needed a doctor now!  Jay was instructed to call our insurance company to answer some questions and in the meantime I was taken to the emergency. 

I was in a bed, had my blood pressure and temperature taken all within 5 minutes.  An English speaking doctor came in, asked several questions, felt my stomach, looked in my mouth and gave me her diagnosis all with an additional 15 minutes.  She told me I was extremely dehydrated and she suspected a bowel/abdominal infection (which is quite a common virus here she informed).   As such, I was hooked up to an IV and had blood taken again within minutes. 

Jay returned and said until the insurance company faxed our documents he had to give a deposit of 10,000 pesos.  Holy crap, been there only 40 minutes and we paid about $900.00 Canadian!  I had better get better quick!  The doctor returned to see how I was doing and indicated I'd be hooked up to IV for atleast another couple hours and if the results came back concurrent to her suspicions I'd be admitted for the better part of the day.  Jay asked how long the results would take and he was informed 20 minutes.  Wow, been there for an hour and had temperature, blood pressure, IV administered, blood taken, a suggested cause of ailments AND results back?!

Jay left with the kids, I got comfortable in the clean and soft emergency room bed, was asked if the room temperature was ok and listened to an American get stitches after cutting his hand at his resort (overheard his insurance did not cover it and that he had to pay 900 pesos).  I was awakened by the gentle physician who confirmed I was severely dehydrated and had a bowel infection and later by a nurse who wanted to take me upstairs to my room.  I was in a hotel-like hospital room by 1:00 pm that afternoon.

The service was excellent; very professional, consistent and thorough.  Although three quarters of the nursing staff couldn't say much more than hello Lisa we managed to effectively communicate both of our needs.  The bed was so very comfortable in that it was not a thin plastic mattress, had a sheet, cotton blanket and top sheet over that.  There were huge windows in the room, an armoire with TV, queen size pullout sofa and a large bathroom with a shower.  I kept the room dark for the first day and night and didn't make use of the TV or telephone but would have been a nice touch if my stay had been longer. 

I was examined by Mexican and German internal medicine physicians and was informed I'd be in until at least noon the following day.  The nursing staff checked on me and my vitals every couple hours (although during the night why does it seem so much more often?).  I was brought cold bottled water, fresh fruit, pineapple jello and some spicy chicken that I wanted no part of for lunch!  And just as I was falling asleep for the night a similar dinner was brought (although chicken was substituted for some type of sandwich). 

The next morning Jay found a bag full of shampoos, body lotions, a comb, toothbrush and paste waiting for me in my bathroom.  And...the scents were very nice!  And, not once did I hear an intercom, another patient (although I thought I heard snoring during the night but could have been my pain meds taking over), a rude or loud nurse.  I was asked constantly if I was ok, if the pain was ok, was I too cold or did I need more water.  Two physicians examined me by 1130am and I was discharged at 130pm today.

Despite unfortunate and very painful circumstances with experiencing the Hospiten Hospital in Playa del Carmen, I would HIGHLY suggest you make sure you have proper insurance when you leave for any type of vacation.  The medical care I received over the last 30 hours was impecable.  Yeah, we ended up at the best hospital in the area, and yeah we were covered (thank goodness cause the end result was $790 US or 9000 and some pesos WITH our local discount ... for a regular traveller the stay would have cost $11,000+ pesos) but if you can be insured why not experience that type of care versus any other?  And, if you have the proper health insurance, I would also HIGHLY recommend utlizing Hospiten's services if ever needed in the Playa, Mayan Riviera and/or Tulum areas. 

It's sad and so unfair that all people suffering from illness can't experience this type of healthcare.  But, I guess this is what private health care is all about?!

   

to realize the value, ask someone.....

I have always loved this and wanted to share it with you...

To realize
the value of a sister or brother,
ask someone
who does not have one.

To realize
the value of ten years,
ask a newly
divorced couple.

To realize
the value of four years,
ask a graduate.

To realize
the value of one year,
ask a student who
just failed a final exam.

To realize
the value of nine months,
ask a mother who just gave
birth to a stillborn.

To realize
the value of one month,
ask a mother who just gave
birth to a premature baby.

To realize
the value of one week,
ask the editor of
a weekly newspaper.

To realize
the value of one minute,
ask a person who has
just missed a plane, bus or train.

To realize
the value of one second,
ask someone
who has survived an accident.

Time waits for no one.
Treasure every moment you have.

          ..... source unknown.

what makes it easier?

Last night Jay asked me if I was homesick at all.  Without a moment's hesitation I responded "nope" ~ and I truly meant it.  Yeah, there are people I miss for sure!  There are activities I miss being involved in and there are certain things you can't get here that I miss ... but as far as wanting to give up our adventure and return home ... no way!  At least not yet!

As I sat in our quiet house all alone this morning, I asked myself  ~ "why aren't I homesick?  what makes it easier to stay and continue onto our second month?" (We have been here for one month excactly, by the way!  The longest we'd been away from home prior to this was seventeen days!) 

Some might think the obvious answer is "I am in the Caribbean experiencing some of the world's most beautiful beaches sitting in the hot sunshine while people back home are shovelling their ways out and wearing winter downfilled jackets!!"  But for those of us who have suffered from "homesickitis", it doesn't matter where you are.  If you miss home that much you don't care about the white beaches and turquoise waters or the shopping mecas, historical sites and cultural avenues.  You just want to be at home.  So, to answer my question back to myself (and to you) I came up with these reasons.

1.  I am here with my family and we are together A LOT!  With Jay not working on a regular basis yet, the kids not finding a bunch of friends outside of school yet and no sports scheduled on weekends yet, we have a significant amount of family time.  The kids play with each other more.  Jay and I have more alone time while the kids are at school and we have established "family routines" that seemingly have stuck!    Its funny how a lack of a social circle, hectic work schedules, meetings, games and tournaments can make a family stick together!  Now, in saying that, this family closeness can also cause some annoyance, tension and quite frankly can cause grey hair!!  But, we are learning creativity, acceptance and patience along the way.

2.  I see how Jay's body seizes up at home.  I see how he drags his bad ankle and painfully limps for a good 10 minutes every morning.  I see how he can't make a fist or tie his shoes at home.  There I hear him say he's in the most pain he's been in over the last 20 years.   I don't see or hear any of that here.  Jay has either walked or road his bike every morning this week.  In Saskatchewan's cold temperatures that is not an option for him.  His arthritis, knock on wood, appears to go into remission here.  I would give up licorice, seeds and hockey tournaments for this anyday!

3.  Mexicans are so friendly, open and giving.  They are extremely hard working people and are so very humble.  It has been said by many that Mexicans and Canadians are quite similar in their generosity, sense of kindness and in their friendly nature.  Although most Canadians have significantly more to give materialistically, the Mexicans give back with consistent smiles, good mornings, meaningful thank yous and their standard hug/kiss on the cheek.  And my God, they do this all while their city is crowded with white tourists, all speaking English, demanding services and trying to pay in foreign currencies!  

I once asked a local what he thought of all the foreigners taking over, opening up KFC's, Burger Kings and Starbucks and buying all sorts of land for residential and commercial development.  Surprising to me his response was nothing but positive.  He said without this tourism and development the Mexican people would not have employment and livlihood.  He said most people, foreign or not, are not from this area and have soley moved here to work.  He mentioned that although its sad to see some chain restaurants opening instead of traditional Mexican and hotels occupying the beautiful baren lands, its all part of his third world country moving on.

I listened to this amigo for about 10 minutes in his broken English and with emotional expression.  He was trying his best to get his story across so I could understand it.  He did not attend a private school that taught English.  He learned it on his own as best as he could because he had to.  Here if you speak English your wage is significantly higher than if you don't.  When I learned this, I made a vow to myself to learn as much Spanish as I possibly could.  Who am I, living in their beautiful country on a half year basis, trying to buy coffee and gum at the OXXO and getting frustrated at the cashier cause I don't understand what he's saying as he points to his computer.  Who am I telling the teachers I don't understand the homework written in Hunter's agenda or the several notes sent home for us to read.  After speaking to this amigo, I began the process of translating on the computer all of the kids homework and notes and doing my best to speak their language.

4.  We are so easily able to keep in contact with the store, friends and family and our new friends here with texting, cell phones, our vanage phone,  facebook and email.  In the last 24 hours I have had some sort of contact with Corrie, Treena, Des, Heather, Jordan, Daphne, Terri, Sheila, Shannon, Coralee and Brandy to name a few.  All because of this thing called technology! 

5.  The community in which we live has such warm and welcoming neighbours who have helped us so much in so many ways.  I am not saying non-English speaking people wouldn't make as nice of neighbours than those that speak it.  But for our first time staying a long duration English directions, advice and suggestions have made it that much more easy for us.  We still like to wing it for lots of things ~ makes it more exciting I think!! ~ but for things like car insurance, how much to pay for certain things, how to properly attain a Mexican driving license and where to go for kids school pictures ... its nice to know exactly what we're being told!

I will finish by saying we do miss our parents, our siblings, nephew and two nieces, our grandparents, our adored friends and our kids friends.  I miss the hockey rink and London Fogs, our skidoos for all the snow, enjoying a coffee while Emersyn does her dance and gymnastics.  But, I know all of these will be at home when we return.  I know we will see many of these friends and family down here and if not, in January when we return for 10 days.  I know these people are a text or phone call away (given the phone lines are up and running!) and I know that we are in this adventure for the long haul and we will give it our all.

The last month hasn't ALL been easy but the above 5 are reasons that have made it "easier"!!  

What is different today?

Today's 10 am is A LOT different than that of 3 or 4 weeks ago.  I feel a sense of relaxation sitting on our deck with my to-go-mug of coffee.  Taylor Swift is playing on the docking station, Anna is folding the laundry, my mother in law has returned home, Jay is at El Dorado Royale then Cancun looking for a vehicle and the kids are at school.  Paris is laying by my feet and not barking at every maintenance guy walking by.  My computer is working, so far the phone lines are strong and until 2 o'clock I have no on-line translating to do, no school books to search for or unpacking to finish.

I no longer have a tension headache.  There is no yelling, begging or pleading early in the mornings.   I no longer cry in the school parking lot.  I know my way around Playa (for the most part).  I am somehow able to communicate with most people.  I have met a few friends.  Our kids walk into the school on their own.  I have a grocery store that I like, a deli that I have found, a discovered delicious Italian pastry shop (could be good or bad!??!), a few Starbucks that I like to sit in and have my own Sam's Club membership card.

We no longer order in or go out for dinner on a nightly basis!  We have a full fridge, freezer and pantry.  Our security guys know us and wave every time we go through the gates.  We own a vehicle and have found the proper insurance.  We have two working TV's both with Canadian Star Choice satellite.  Our gas stove works and our showers are warm.  Our kids are saying Spanish words and phrases, are singing Spanish Christmas songs and dancing Mexican dances and understand their teachers and friends (and if they don't they are figuring out ways to fit in!).

We have a routine and I now know it inside and out!

1.  Wake kids at 6am (if they haven't already done so); get everyone showered and dressed ~ both kids are in formal blues Monday, Tuesday Hunter is in white, Emersyn is white Wednesday and Thursday and Hunter is white Friday - otherwise they are in blues ~ they eat breakfast, watch iCarly and either Jay or I make lunches.

2.  We leave the house right at 7am; we arrive at the school by 7:20am, Hunter gives us hug and kiss and he is off to start his day's adventure with his roll bag full of texts and homework books; we wait with Emy until 8am when she is greeted by her English teacher Miss Cristy and she is off with her roll bag holding either ballet or gymnastics clothes and homework books.

3.  Jay, I or both start our day with groceries, errands, Jay working, me writing for Fine Lifestyles Regina or my blog, tidying, translating or whatever else the day may hold.  On Monday we went for lunch together and bought a tree, Tuesday we went for a long walk and a coffee, yesterday I worked on the computer all day while Jay searched for a vehicle, today ... well not sure what the rest of the day will consist of quite yet! 

4.  Every day but Friday we return to the school at 220pm (Emy has ballet Monday and Wednesday and gymnastics Tuesday and Thursday until then and Hunter is finished class then); Monday and Thursday we return home for a quick swim and snack and return to the school for soccer from 4-530pm; Tuesday and Wednesday we stay at the school until 345pm while Hunter has Spanish and math tutoring with his Spanish teacher Miss Rocio.

5.  We eat dinner, clean up, kids either watch a little TV or we do something as a family.  630 or 7pm homework is pulled out and once that is finished its usually close to bed time!!  It's pitch black by 530pm so with an early start, a full day and a dark ending going to sleep early usually isn't an issue!

6.  Fridays Emy is done at 110  and Hunt 210pm and if the weather cooperates this week we are planning a beach afternoon.

7.  Jay usually golfs early Saturday mornings with his regular group he's been playing with for the last few years we've been coming here. 

8.  Sundays have become family beach/BBQ days.

I know that things are significantly more expensive downtown and on 5th Avenue.  I know that locals get better pricing at many places.  I know that money exchange rates vary from block to block.  I know that buying fruits and vegetables and meat is cheaper at small markets rather than grocery stores.  I know that newspapers from guys on the hiway is 5 pesos.  I know that I shouldn't pay more than 10 pesos per hour for parking (found that out the hard way!).  I know that we can ride our bikes and leave in a parking lot for the same rate as a vehicle.  I know that power is VERY costly here (especially in Playacar).  I know you can pay a Sky TV guy on the street (similar to our Access cable guy back home) to come help you hook up satellites or TV's. 

The learning curve seemed endless 3 or 4 weeks ago.  Living in a foreign and "developing" country its obviously still there.  But wow, it is so much more attainable!!

All from a Bracelet...

With the first day of December upon us I have slowly started to think about Christmas gifts.  I typically like to be creative with the kids' teachers but this year is a bit different.  a) we don't really know the teachers being here only 4 weeks; b) each child has 2 main teachers plus gym, swimming, computer and chess instructors plus each has 2 coordinators (English and Spanish), and c) all but 3 speak strictly Spanish!

I've decided to limit the gifts to the 4 main teachers: Miss Rocio, Miss Marisol, Miss Cristy and Miss Landi and I've decided to give a gift that I was given for my 40th birthday...a humanity leather bracelet.   I absolutely LOVE mine and hope they will as well.  For the non-English speaking teachers I will translate each word/saying into Spanish and hope the meanings come across as prevalent as they do in English.

Here are the words written on each bracelet and my own personal reflections...

Plant Peace ~ today we hear so much about war, bullying and corruption.  I know I can't control these globally or even nationally but I can start by talking to my kids about peace, perhaps why war happens, and how to get along with others; I can explain the harming infliction that bullying brings and how to deal with it if it affects them, and I can live the most peaceful life I possibly can.

Live in Unity ~ our relationships need to be strong!  Stress and chaos and pressure can be so prevalent in our lives and its so easy for one or more of these to take over.  We have to be loyal to, open and honest with not only our loved ones but to ourselves.  Be a team member with your spouse, a leader for your children and a true friend to your friends.

Freedom ~ I am so proud to be from a country that promotes and displays nothing but freedom.  We are so lucky to have not experienced anything but.  It breaks my heart and opens my eyes listening to our employee Phou and how he escaped from Lao swimming during the night with only a straw.  He survived different camps and eventually got on a boat, with nothing and no one else but himself, and arrived in a foreign but safe country.  I can't even imagine and I'm assuming most of you can't either.

Being in Mexico, I am getting the sense that they are also extremely proud to be a free nation.  2010 marks the 200th year of independence and 100 years since the revolution.  I can't understand the words said around these historical marks, but I can see the strong importance in both.

Make a Difference ~ Wow, this phrase is plentiful!  Where does one start?  How do I or how can I make a difference?  Waking up in a good mood and greeting my kids and husband with a loving good morning can make a difference to the start of their day!?  Phoning a friend just to say hi, I miss you can perhaps make a difference in her hectic afternoon!?  Smiling at our security guard might make a difference to his morning!?  Tipping the pool/yard guys for helping move some furniture might make a difference at their dinner table?!  Raising money through our store's sales for the Red Cross Anti-Bullying program can make a difference in a child's life!?  The ways in which I can make a difference are simple and endless.

Accept Diversity ~ The last 4 weeks we have been provided ample opportunity to accept just this!  Whether its accepting the different behaviours our kids have displayed during this transition, accepting the waiting for a maintenance man, internet, returned calls from the landlady or car insurance or accepting the language barrier .... its all diversity!

Speak Kindness ~ Good morning sunshine, I love you, I am so proud of you, you look nice today, I miss your smile and giggles....simple, yet kind words go a long way.

Pave the Path ~ Make something a little easier for someone else.  Whether its making my spouse coffee in the morning, packing a healthy lunch for my children, hiring someone who will work diligently to earn extra money, shovelling our neighbor's driveway or providing a listening ear for someone who requires it I try to help as many people as I can.

Lead the Way ~ I encourage my husband, my friends and my kids to do the best they can.  I try to lead by example (although this is a constant challenge!) and live a healthy life, be positive and get the most out of each day. I like to take charge and organize get togethers, groups or traditions.

Humanity ~ Treat everyone the way you'd like to be treated.  Treat everyone with respect.  Treat everyone the same.

Give Back ~ We donate either money or gifts to those less fortunate every year during this time.  We thank our staff on a consistant basis and give recognition to those that deserve it.  We volunteer.  We work closely with the Anti-Bullying program.

Seak Wisdom ~ I love to learn and as such I gain wisdom through observation, listening to others, asking questions, reading but I want to learn more; Spanish, about Mexican history, about Mexico's social system.....its endless and a life long journey.

Come Together ~ Spending time with my family, meeting new people, establishing new relationships, rekindling old ones and being with people ... always good for the soul.

Truth ~ I like to tell the truth and hope in return I am being told nothing but the truth back.

Forgive ~  I make mistakes, my kids make mistakes, my husband makes mistakes, my friends and family make mistakes.  I have learned that forgiveness is not only important but crucially necessary to move on.  I have also learned that when I forgive, those that I am forgiving don't always need to know they're being forgiven.  Sometimes those that have hurt us don't even know that they have done so.     

Believe ~ I am not sure why or how, but I truly believe things happen for a reason.  I also like to believe that out of all bad will come something good.  Our families have been through a lot:  deaths of several loved grandparents, cancer survival, drug and alcohol addiction, business partner severances, heart surgeries, chronic pain, separations ... and I am confident we will go through more during our lives.  But, in life there is so much we can't control ~ we can only control how we respond to the uncontrolables.

Faith ~ I am not an overly religious person and as a family we are not heavily involved in the church but I do have faith.  I believe, and I am faithful to myself, those I love and to the world in which I live.

Sow Love ~ Obviously we have done this by having two children but we also do this by putting our all into the relationships we're involved in.  It is so much easier and less stressful to love than to hate.



Check out these bracelets ... they are great to have and to give to those around you.  http://www.humanityforall.com/

I got ours at Thr3e in Lumsden but check the website for stores near you!!  

questions I have...

Tonight embarks our 28th sleep in Playa del Carmen!  4 weeks, a few days shy of a month and 1/6 of our adventure in, I have a few questions that I am bound and determined to find the answers to.

1.  How do the Mexicans keep their whites so white?
2.  Do the taxi drivers REALLY have driving licenses?
3.  Is sleeping in a hammock night after night good for your back?
4.  How much will our first electricity bill be?  (Our Canadian neighbours learned the hard way their first 2 months here, they ran the AC alot and their bill was $16,000 pesos (close to $750 per month) YIKES)
5.  How long will it take my kids to be fluent in Spanish and how much will they lose being back in Canada?
6.  Does Paris' coat really keep her cool in the heat and warm in the cold?
7.  Will I be ready to return home in April or will I want to stay longer?
8.  How long will the red licorice, Gordos Greek sauce, Kraft Dinner and chocolate chip granola bars brought from home last?
9.  Who will come and visit?  Who will continue to keep in touch via email, text and phone? 
10.  Will I find a good esthetician to do waxing and pedicures and a hair stylist to do cuts and colors?
11.  When will I feel chilly/cool?
12.  When will I see a snake ... have seen many geckos and iguanas, just saw a cockroach and several neat birds but I know the inevitable is going to happen - when and where? (I am sure when it does you will hear me loud and clear!)
13.  Will I get too accustomed to our 2xs per week cleaning lady folding our underwear, organizing our shoes and cutlery drawer and washing our floors and wonder who will do it back home?
14.  Will I lose my breath when we hit Regina soil and its frigid temps on January 12?
15.  Why do the phone lines go down for days on end when it rains excessively?
16.  When will Mexico devise and utilize an effective recycling program?
17.  How do families live on 200 pesos per day?
18.  What is the average age that locals cease education?
19.  How many of the vehicles stopped at the check points have illegal goods and/or corrupt individuals driving them?
20.  What is the leading cause of death in the Playa area?

If you know any of the anwers to the above questions I'd love to hear about them.  In the meantime I will continue to ask, learn and observe and vow to tell you what I find towards the end of our sabbatical!

What are you curious about?

our own little "Mosaic"

Back home we tend to ask people "what school did you go to?" or "where did you grow up?"  In Playa del Carmen, a tiny percentage of people are actually from the area.  Foreigners have relocated here to take advantage of the weather, business opportunties and/or have married a Mexican and Mexicans have relocated here to take advantage of employment derived from foreigners vacationing and/or living here.  Over the last 10 years the city has BOOMED and that is highly due to people such as neighbours we have met over the last 25 days.

The area where we live has two common pools~one right outside our back deck~its here that we've met most of our neighbors.  I want to share a little about our own little cultural Mosaic.


We met the couple right next to us a couple years ago actually ... Gary and Carol are from Winnipeg and live here 8 months and there for 4.  They have a dog that Paris dislikes, they work from their home and brought us crackers, bananas and a bottle of wine the first night we were here!  Carol is fluent in Spanish and has acted as my translator on a couple occasions when I needed to tell the maintenance guy what was wrong with our gas and a maid that I didn't need or want her services!


Next we met Tony, a 59 year old divorcee originally from Portugual but has been living in Vancouver for 40 years.  He has been wintering in the tropics for the last 12 years but returns to Canada/Europe from May to November.  Tony speaks excellent English and has been a huge help!  He grows fresh basil, has a papaya tree and is attempting to grow figs.  He is in the "know" of all the neighbors: who fights, who has had plastic surgery and who to talk to if you want a tree cut down, listens to jazz music and goes to the gym at 6am! 


Tony introduced us to the neighbors on the other side of us ... Julianna and Rogerio, a beautiful couple from Brazil, reside here full time.  They have a three year old Raphiel (don't know the proper spelling of all these foreign names!) who looks and acts like he's 5 or 6~he can swim, read and write.  His parents are glad we only speak English to him so he can practice but he still speaks a mouthful to us in Spanish, or maybe its Portugese?!  Julianna is a banker and strongly  reminds us of a friend back home (Rhonda Bennett) and Rogerio is a home builder who loves wine, cooking and is a vegetarian.  He introduced Jay to octopus and debated with me that Canada has scorpians!  Both Julianna and Rogerio speak excellent English and love to entertain!


I met Lena from Montreal and her husband is originally from the USA.  They arrived the same day we did and will also stay 6 months.  She is very friendly, gentle and sweet!  Albeit having a strong  french accent she speaks English nonetheless!


I met Mark from Calgary on day two and discovered that his wife Stephanie is originally from Weyburn and knows a dear friend of ours.  They have been in Mexico for one year but have extended their stay for another.  Both work from home transcripting for Alberta's department of justice and their two kids are homeschooled doing the Alberta curriculum.  They have 10 year old Jada and 13 year old Jacob and 2 older sons that stay for periods of time as well.  Its nice to talk about hockey and snow and other prairie commonalities! 


Guy, originally from the Philadelpia area, and Roni from California lived in Puerta Vallarta for years prior to moving to Playa.  Roni, late 50's, got a tattoo the other day and had the tattoo artist come to her home to give her adult son a great, colorful tattoo.  My kids were intrigued, asked if it hurt and wanted me to show the guy my cheesey dolphin! 


Across the street is Willem and Marcy (whom I've yet to meet) from Holland and their two huge labs Angelina and something I can't properly pronounce or spell, and they understand English, Dutch and Spanish.  Willem is also a home builder and is outside in his yard working all day long.  Willem sees me daily at 6am when I take Paris out for a pee ... he likes my attire of pajamas! 


Yesterday I met an incredibly nice family from Italy who has been here for 4 months!  Matthew (pronounced Mattao), Angela, Marco (6) and Elena (4) opened up an Italian pastry shop Sabrina and do I wish I had met them a few days earlier when I was frantically searching this city for an apple pie!  Matthew speaks very good English and explained that they wanted a change in their lives, wanted their children to learn another language or two and wanted to explore and live an adventure.  Their story sounded quite familiar to ours! 

We have been told another couple from Toronto will be arriving on December 12 and will stay until April, that the neighbours get together for Christmas and New Year's parties under the common palapa and that during the winter months  the ladies get together for lunch once per month.

Friends we have met here over the years also have a lot of cultural content!  Phil is from England but has lived here for years and is marrying Mary Cruz, originally from Mexico City.  Nick is a Greek Canadian from Toronto and is married to Jeannette who is from Mazatlan, Marisol is from Mexico City, Helmut is from Switzerland and Sylvia from Campeche, Mexico, Hugo from Mexico City, Johnny from Detroit and his wife somewhere in Mexico and Alejandro and Valeria are from Spain.  

These people make our life so interesting on a daily basis and our life sabbatical/adventure so worth it!  I love learning new things and love meeting and getting to know people ... so far it seems like a perfect place to do just this!