Mexican Family

TITA

This is Imelda Hernandez. She scratches my back at church, brings me home for Sunday dinner, sends me home with carambolos and frijoles, and takes care of me when I need a place to stay.

TITO

This is Rafael Hernandez, Imelda's husband. Taking a nap after reading on a hot afternoon.

KIARA

Some of you may know that a little over a year ago, my very best friend here in Mexico, Lizeth Hernandez, and her daughter, Nitza, were killed by a drunk driver. This is Lizeth's youngest daughter, who has all the spunk and charm of her mother. She's becoming a really great reader and loves practicing writing new words. Lucky for her, I'm a schoolteacher who loves nothing better. She's my silly little kindred spirit, and we have a great time together.

GEMELA...TWIN

Adriana and I work together at the Four Seasons in Punta Mita. Apparently there is a strong resemblance, because even her husband, who also works at the hotel, sometimes gets the two of us confused. I think I'm on the winning end of this comparison, because Adriana is a beautiful person--inside and out.

Birthdays

Marypaz (in black) always makes the yummiest tacos. Here we are at her house for her birthday, with Miriam (yellow) and Adriana (blue).

Celebrating Eulogio's birthday in Sayulita. I must've taken the picture a thousand times thinking that the wrinkles were an accident...Sigh...Something has to let me know I'm getting older!

The birthday brownie. Unfortunately, the guys at the restaurant wouldn't help me surprise Eulo. Fortunately, Eulogio was a good sport and let me light the candle anyway.

Mi Casa...Su Casa...

If you had any doubt in your mind, believe me that I am fully aware of my nomad status. I just can't seem to stay put for too long before stirring it up and heading somewhere else. On the way to and from and in between, I have become keenly aware of the blessing it is to have friends and family who will take you in and feed you and give you a place to call home for as long as you need it. I have thanked God many times for this blessing, and as I returned to Mexico, really wanted to be able to offer that same blessing to others.

So, after a long search, I found my home. I don't think I will ever live in such a big house for the rest of my life--and I'm all alone! Why did I do this? BECAUSE I WANT YOU TO COME VISIT. There are 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, living and dining areas, air conditioning, pool, washing machine, one block from the beach, complete kitchen, etc... Please do not hesitate to take advantage of this opportunity. I know that air fare is a little high (I am about 30 minutes from the Puerto Vallarta airport PVR), but the dollar will get you a long way down here with food and tours and transportation, and your "hotel" is paid for. But it might not be for long--March, April, May and the first week of June. Check it out...