* Flying Solo Tomorrow

No doubt about it.  There has been a shift.  A Quantum Leap.  How I love those quantum leaps which propel me forward over deep caverns, roaring rivers, dangerous high peaks, turbulence and allow me to softly touch down in just the right spot, a woman forever changed.  This is what has occurred in the past three months.  I have truly been lifted up and am so very grateful.

Last day to meet with Carlos, Juan Carlos, and to see 'all my men' working on the house.  My sojourns to observe the process will be missed.

Lessons in Construction 

Today, Juanmanuel was plastering the ceiling.  There is a definite knack to plastering a ceiling in this part of the world.  I was standing close up to observe, and Juanmanual asked me to step back.  He then picked up just the right amount of plaster on a large palate knife and threw it at the ceiling, quickly followed by short rhythmic strokes to smooth it out.  After a few of these were done, it was followed by a large two by four to run over the plaster to take the rough spots off, and level it out.  Very interesting to observe.  I must find out how to use the video on my camera.  It was like he was working to music.

How to Build a Platform

Find some of the forms which were used for pouring the roof cement.  Stand them on their edge at various places in the room.  On top of those place long two by fours.  Over that lay wide flat boards with a certain space between them so you may fall through to the floor, should you so desire.  Do not nail anything down.  Nothing must be secure.  There you go.  Walk on it, work on it. Dance on it if you feel like it. It's fabulous!

 

How to Build a Fireplace

Have someone artistic (just about anyone here) draw a fireplace on the wall to the specifications which Senora wishes.  Build the fireplace around the drawing.  There.  Another project done!

How to Build a House in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
So many people are to be thanked for the success of this project.  Marijo, without whom I never would have laid eyes on the property.  Bill, my beloved real estate agent who has done everything you can imagine for me without being asked. Pat Robinson, who owns this beautiful place, "Casitas Aparicio", where I have felt so very at home and embraced by my beautiful surroundings.  All the people and friends who have supported me, and have been so happy for me throughout this entire project.  You have also allowed me to 'share' my experiences.  One of my fears of flying solo.  You are all huge gifts!  How easy you all have made it for me! 

Buying this lot and building this Casa has been a very easy, fun project.  Credit must be given to Valdis Architectos owned and operated by Juan Carlos Valdis.  Juan Carlos has made himself available to me whenever I needed him.  I would do it all over again. I honestly wish I could build another house right away I am having so much fun!  Carlos, my foreman has been a huge gift.  The team of men working on my home ... what can I say.  Incredible, happy, hard working, reliable, understanding, love music and love to sing.  How great is that! 

 My men, when we first began the project.

Carlos, Moi, and Juan Carlos today, after our last meeting and 'walkabout'.

And so, tonight all is right with my world. The stars are aligned.  Tomorrow I will be 'flying solo' with a much different feeling in my heart than when I came.   I have been standing under a shower of Blessings.

Grumpy Marshall Weather Forecast for San Miguel de Allende for Wednesday, March 31, 2010

	Clear Hi: 82°  Lo: 54°	Day: Sunny skies. High 82F, humidity 15%. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Air Quality: NA, UV Index: 13
		Night: Clear skies. Low 54F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph.

"If the only prayer you said in your whole life was, "thank you," that would suffice."  ~Meister Eckhart

* Two more sleeps

It's all about packing tonight.  At least that is the plan.  So far, nothing has happened in the packing department.  A wonderful spontaneous gathering took place tonight on Kathleen and Ivans' terrace.  As someone walked by, they were asked to stay and join the get together.  It turned into a feast with wonderful conversation, great discussions and some chuckles.  An irrisistable combination.  Ivan showed us his true colours tonight.  A wonderful Mexican chili made from scratch, served over pasta.  As Bev pointed out, had we known he was such a great cook, we would have dropped by at dinner time more often.  Cal, another resident of Casita Aparacio graced us with his presence, and Pat the owner dropped by for a quick visit.  All in all, a most enjoyable evening.

Had a great early morning meeting with Carlos this morning.  I feel very comfortable leaving everything just as is.  The finishing touches are going to be very successful and we are all on the same page.  With Sylvia to keep an eye on things, I don't have a worry or a care in the house department.
I took a photo of the terrace today from inside the house.  The stairs and pilar are so enjoyable to look at.  I will have doors made later for under the stairs and it will give me some storage.

 

Outdoor covered terrace and stairs to the roof.

Ceiling supports coming down.  Roof isn't caving in ... excellent.  he he

Inside of doors being painted.  Shiny black.  Yum.

It was mid afternoon by the time the meeting concluded.  Again, I lingered, and walked slowly, not wanting to leave.  I dawdled, gawked and did everything to delay going home to pack.  I sauntered, strolled and drifted.  I decided gravity must be stronger in SMA.  There must be some sort of logical reason I can't seem to drag myself away from this place.  Late lunch at my favorite restaurant on the Jardin.  Still not able to make haste.  Wandered through the Jardin snapping photos at random attempting to capture the energy of the place.

View from my table today.

The bells up close.  Are they not works of art.  I tell you, it was a little precarious trying to get this shot!  My new found sense of adventure thrills me.

On that note, I will leave you.  I promise I am now going to pack.  The plane waits for no woman!

Grumpy Marshall Weather Forecast for San Miguel de Allende for Tuesday, March 30, 2010

Mar 30	Fair Hi: 78°  Lo: 53°	Day: Mostly clear skies. High 78F, humidity 15%. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Air Quality: NA, UV Index: 12
		Night: Clear skies. Low 53F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph.

"Our spontaneous action is always the best.  You cannot, with your best deliberation and heed, come so close to any question as your spontaneous glance shall bring you."  ~ Ralf Waldo Emerson

* Three more days 'til I see Habibi

Three months.  Where has it gone.  Happiness took it. Pure joy whisked it away!  I adore thinking of it this way.  This time in my life has been such an enormous gift.  

I have learned a great deal about myself.  Many facets have revealed themselves to me. I feel as though I have polished my diamond to a new brilliance. 

The biggest event which has occurred is I have found myself again.  The little lost soul, always searching for her place of belonging has graciously left me.  I feel stronger, more aware, and one of the more dominant feelings .... contentment.  BIG, BIG, BIG, is I no longer have a fear around 'Flying Solo'.  I'm thoroughly enjoying myself.  My biggest concern, as I look back, was I would not have anyone to share my experiences with.  The Universe has sent me so many people to share with.  So many people who are truly interested. I have met wonderful humans with wonderful hearts.  Interesting, deep people who care at a core level.  Many people have been here to assist me on this sojourn.  Not once did I have to ask for help.  It simply appeared.  Such amazing gifts have been bestowed upon me during this journey.  I am forever grateful.  I am healed in so many ways and continue to heal every day.   Thank you Divine Mother.

I am finding out who I am in ways I didn't know existed.  Oh, I always knew I loved building houses.  However .... I "believed" I needed my partner to do this.  How on earth would I ever do it on my own.  Well, here I am in Mexico, building my little "Quinta de Luz" and loving every minute of it.  I have had so much FUN, I can't tell you!  Having to pull myself away during the 'finishing touches' is difficult.  This is the part I enjoy the most.  However, it is what it is, and I have a feeling I will have other opportunities.  I am blessed to have someone here, whom I trust, who will take care of the details for me.

Most of all, this trip, I have truly felt JOY.  AND .... I have felt it on a regular basis.  Waking up each day with a happy heart.  Amazing.  Happiness has taken over my entire body.  

In three days I will have Habibi back in my arms.  He will snuggle into my neck and just lie there, pushing his body into mine to get as close as possible.  He will lick my face and my ears and my neck, my arms until I have to have a shower.  I can't wait!

Many things to do when I get home.  The Universe has had surprises awaiting me there as well.  A very dear friend has invited me to stay with her for the three weeks I am home.  That's a long time, and it is so lovely of her do to so.  Another friend is having all my 'stuff' moved from storage to an empty house which is for sale, and we are having a huge garage sale.  Her idea, not mine.  The next week, we are moving the other storage locker to the empty house and having a repeat performance.  This was ALL her idea.  The thought of it was entirely to much for me, and I had ruled it out.  Being offered some love and some assistance has made it seem 'doable'.  I am very grateful for this huge gift.  I want to thank both of you.  It is so very much appreciated.

I am being supported in so many ways would never have thought could happen.  The magic of the Universe and Divine Mother.  

The 'fear' about going back to Canada and getting everything done is abating. I know I will be able to keep my balance.  I have the help of friends who love me.  It makes all the difference.

With those thoughts, I will leave you for the day.  I have a meeting at de Luz with Carlos.

Grumpy Marshall Weather Report for San Miguel de Allende for Monday, March 29, 2010

Mar 29	Fair Hi: 78°  Lo: 47°	Day: Sunny skies. High 78F, humidity 30%. Winds NE at 10 to 15 mph. Air Quality: NA, UV Index: 13
		Night: Clear skies. Low 47F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.

 

You are joy, looking for a way to express. It's not just that your purpose is joy, it is that you are joy. You are love and joy and freedom and clarity expressing. Energy, frolicking and eager, that's who you are. And so, if you're always reaching for alignment with that, you're always on your path and your path will take you into all kinds of places. We will not deny that you will not discover miracles, and create benefits and be involved in creation and that you will not uplift humanity, but we can't get away from the acknowledgment that you are Pure Positive Energy that translates into the human emotion of joy.

~ Jerry Hicks

* Who is Sylvia?

Sylvia is my friend.  She is gutsy, creative, enthusiastic, happy, determined, kind, giving, and full of life.  Energy oozes from her pours.  My garden, in Sylvia's head, it already planted and blooming.  "Wait for me, I call.  The garden is months down the road.  Allow me to purchase an armiore first so I may hang up my cloths!"  Sylvia is looking after 'de Luz' while I am gone.  I know, it's more than I could hope for to have someone do this for me.  Sylvia is a blessing and a grace.  Sylvia is a gift.  She is part of this magical time in my life when I am truly in the flow, when the pieces of the puzzle are all falling together so effortlessly.  I am truly grateful.

We spent a few hours at de Luz today, just feeling the space, sitting in the sun on two overturned buckets discussing possibilities and looking over what still needs to be taken care of.

Sylvia 'takes charge'.

The stairs are in.  For the first time I could walk up on the roof.  It is going to be a wonderful place to spend time.  It looks out over the mountains.  I can watch the sun set.  At night there will be stars.  

View looking to the right as you face the mountains.

View straight ahead.

View to the left.

Plastering on the outside has begun.  The balcony doors are now shiny black and ready to be installed.  Floor leveling will take place this weekend.   I have another meeting with Carlos on Monday.

Yes, Yes!  I know what you are thinking.  "Don't you ever take that 'green thing' off?  Is that all you have to wear?"  Well, to tell you the truth, I have lots to wear.  I actually make a conscious decision to wear this lime green top.  It's cotton, it's cool and it's comfortable!  What more can a girl ask for.  The 3C's.  So there!

Just came down from the roof terrace not long ago.  Kathleen, Ivan and I watched the sunset, jabbering over a lovely glass of wine.  Kathleen brought welcomed snacks of peanuts coated with chili, and chips with a green chili dip.  I'm developing a taste for a little heat, even though I had my usual choking spell.

The sun set was amazing.  We watched the stars come out.  The moon hung in the sky as she always does here, simply becoming brighter as the sun leaves her alone to become Queen of the night.

We stumbled down the spiral staircase, holding on to railings and muttering to ourselves.  Honestly, you would not want to have to many drinks on the roof without spending the night.  Navigating the stairs needs a clear head on your shoulders.

It was my Mamma's birthday today.  Happy Birthday Mamma.  I'm sending you butterfly kisses.  I miss you!  You were one of my gifts.  Thank you. xx

Grumpy Marshall Weather Report for San Miguel de Allende for Sunday, March 28, 2010.

Mar 28	Mostly Cloudy Hi: 82° Lo: 49°	Day: Cloudy skies. High 82F, humidity 15%. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Air Quality: NA, UV Index: 14
		Night: Cloudy skies. Low 49F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph.

For you Mamma.  I know you loved this.  As I grow in spirit, I begin to understand.  I do understand there are 'windows of time' when an opportunity comes along.  If you wait too long, the window disappears.  Interesting, because, usually another opportunity comes along, in a different form.  Can't seem to wrap my head around the 'kill' part, or the 'hate' part, or the 'war' part.  The other thing is .. since it was written to long ago, things could have been misinterpreted.  'Kill', since it seems to be associated with healing, my have meant to 'let be', or 'thy will be done' where one might die instead of being healed. I find this all very interesting.  Perhaps there is a time to 'hate' .... perhaps it gives us perspective if we don't hate for too long and before ill from it.  Perhaps it helps us to appreciate love.  I do know hate is very very destructive.  Personally ... no ... I don't want to feel it.  War?  I have mixed reviews on that one too.  I really am all for peace, however there are times when nothing else will do but a revolution to change things.  I believe this about the Mexican Revolution against Spain.  I don't think there was another way, as much as we might wish peace is the answer to everything.  Sometimes there must be conflict to clear the air.  Do I really believe that .... I think so ... ponder .. ponder ....

For everything there is a season,
And a time for every matter under heaven:
A time to be born, and a time to die;
A time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;
A time to kill, and a time to heal;
A time to break down, and a time to build up;
A time to weep, and a time to laugh;
A time to mourn, and a time to dance;
A time to throw away stones, and a time to gather stones together;
A time to embrace, And a time to refrain from embracing;
A time to seek, and a time to lose;
A time to keep, and a time to throw away;
A time to tear, and a time to sew;
A time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
A time to love, and a time to hate,
A time for war, and a time for peace.

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

* Last Art Class Today

"Divine Self"

Being at my last art class today felt odd.  The last one.  Time in SMA has vapourized like my breath on a chilly morning.  First, I could see all of it, then mysteriously, it was gone.   Very shortly the plane to Victoria awaits.  When I arrived, time seemed to lay itself before me, stretched out like a long bolt of silk, always  another yard  to unfold.  Today, time seemed scarce and precious.  I wanted to hold it in my hand and declare my love.  As I walked through town, it all seemed new and more beautiful than ever.  I tried to inhale it.  I wanted it to become part of me.  I have a longing to return before I leave.  Like saying goodbye to a lover.

Met Bill for an early breakfast.  We sort of finalized everything before our meeting with the lawyer and discussed some of my questions regarding doing business here in Mexico.  Our usual place for breakfast is a courtyard full of bird song.  Canaries are hung out in their cages for the day in the fresh air of the courtyard.  I still cannot get over their song.  It fills me up every time I enjoy breakfast with Bill.  The fountain today was full of fresh roses and herbs.  The fragrance was incredible.

A very emotional day for me today.  The papers for the house were finalized.  It has taken so long, delay after delay because of the subdivision.  For some reason, I never had any doubts.  I was never nervous, I never had lack of trust.  Amazing really.  Today, after two hours at the lawyers office with an official interpreter present, I signed the papers.  I am a homeowner in Mexico.  Tears welled up in my eyes and it became difficult to speak.  I felt such joy in my heart.  I asked the interpreter to translate for me while I spoke directly to the lawyer.  "I want you to know how I am feeling.  I would like you, as a representative of your country, to hear me.  I am so very honoured I have been allowed to stay in your beautiful Mexico and to own my home here.  I want to thank you for that."  He looked at me with much warmth in his eyes and said,  "Welcome.  This is your home."  Tears rolled down my cheeks.  I feel as though I have truly come home.  For probably the second time in my life, I feel as though I have found my 'place of belonging'.  It is very comforting.  Photos of 'the moment'.

Left, the gentleman whom I purchased the property from, middle, the interpreter, and moi.

That 'magic' moment.

The Senor who welcomed me on behalf of his Mexico.  A moment I shall not forget.

After the meeting was over, I walked to the Jardin, sat in my favorite spot to people watch, and enjoyed a fresh limonada.  Shopped a little and purchased a gift for a friend. Bought some hand made truffles for Nina as a little thank you.  Slowly walked to art class, savouring the walk and my surroundings.  After class, I retraced my steps to the paint store and purchased some of the yellow paint I had decided on for the walls, and cream paint which was my decision for the fireplace and ceilings.  I simply couldn't leave without 'knowing' I liked them on the walls!  Had to do it!  I'm going to the house early tomorrow, before my meeting with Carlos to paint a patch on the walls.   

It was quite late when I got home.  Am just now making dinner.  See you tomorrow.

Grumpy Marshall Weather Report for San Miguel de Allende for Friday, March 26, 2010

	Clear Hi: 80°  Lo: 51°	Day: Sunny skies. High 80F, humidity 15%. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph. Air Quality: NA, UV Index: 13
		Night: Clear skies. Low 51F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph.

"There is deep wisdom within our very flesh, if we can only come to our senses and feel it.
  ~Elizabeth A. Behnke

* Got my FM3!

Was able to pick up my FM3 today.  YEAH!  I'm HAPPY!  First step to living in Mexico permanently.  I can now live in peace and quiet without renewing anything for one year.  I can also bring my 'personal and household' belongings to Mexico duty and tax free, as long as I bring them within the first six months of the FM3 being issued.  It has taken me over six weeks to obtain this document.  I have had loads of help.  My photographs have been rejected once.  I was finger printed today.  It's official.  I can stay!

Blanca and I went over to the house today so she could see what was happening.  It's so lovely when someone calls and says "Will you take me to see your house?".   Blanca is the age of my girls.  It's lovely to have that young energy in my life!

Had a meeting with Carlos as well today.  The painter was present.  I left them with paint colours and diagrams of how I wanted the paint trim done.  Friday, I can view a painted door.  I chose shiny black.  I think it will ground the house.   We discussed specs for the fireplace, light in the bathroom, the wrought iron railings on the balcony, security, etc. etc.  Monday, I will have another meeting with Carlos and Tuesday a final walk through with the Architect, Juan Carlos.

Arrived home about 3:30 pm.  Took the rest of the day off.  Just came up to my apartment from 'happy hour' with Kathleen and Ivan on their porch.  Now, I'm tucked in for the night.

Richie, the gentleman who has taken such wonderful care of me when I needed a driver, just dropped over and left me with one of his little paintings.  What a sweetie.  He's leaving on Friday.  Back to Tuscon to study film.

Have been doing some research on Mate, and found an interesting web site you might enjoy perusing.   The information includes, where and how it is grown, manufacturing, herbal qualities etc.   You might want to have a visit Yerba Mate.

Grumpy Marshall Weather Forecast for San Miguel de Allende for Thursday, March 25th, 2010

Mar 24	Cloudy / PM Sun Hi: 81°  Lo: 51°	Day: Cloudy skies. High 81F, humidity 10%. Winds SW at 15 to 20 mph. Air Quality: NA, UV Index: 11
		Night: Clear skies. Low 51F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph.

"It is good to feel lost... because it proves you have a navigational sense of where "Home" is.  You know that a place that feels like being found exists.  And maybe your current location isn't that place but, Hallelujah, that unsettled, uneasy feeling of lost-ness just brought you closer to it."  ~Erika Harris

* Mate ... that's it!

The herbal drink yesterday.  Mate. (pronounce it in two syllables Ma-te) That's the name.  Anything with it's own special gourd and silver straw has to be a good thing.  Perhaps I could give up my coffee in the morning.  I have not been able to find the right blend here.  Caroldiane, a blogger friend filled me in on Mate today. 

Long day today.  My lack of energy seemed to return in abundance.  I canceled the painting play date on the roof with friends and stayed home for some recovery time.  I still have quite a bit to do here before I go.  Then of course, there is everything when I get to the other end!  Trying to keep my balance ... difficult at the moment.

This afternoon I did take a little walk to the market for flowers.  They are always happy to share their energy with me.  Took some photos at the market.

Rugs!  Can't wait to go hunting for rugs for Quinta de Luz

The old ways.  Shopping with a hand woven basket.

I think this woman is absolutely beautiful.  I would love to paint her.

All these wonderful fresh things to choose from.

The flower part of the market.  One of my favorite places, of course.

The Senora I always purchase my flowers from.  She gives me big beautiful bouquets!

My weekly bouquet!

My FM3 Visa is ready!  How great is that!  I must pick it up in the morning.  Then, Blanca wants to go and see the house.  I am meeting Blanca at her house and Senor Sergio will drive us.  I have a meeting at the house with Carlos the contractor, so we will do double duty.

Grumpy Marshall weather forecast for San Miguel de Allende for Wednesday, March 24th, 2010

Mar 24	Cloudy / PM Sun Hi: 81°  Lo: 50°	Day: Cloudy skies. High 81F, humidity 5%. Winds SW at 15 to 20 mph. Air Quality: NA, UV Index: 12
		Night: Clear skies. Low 50F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph.

  

"Age puzzles me. I thought it was a quiet time. My seventies were interesting and fairly serene, but my eighties are passionate. I grow more intense as I age. "  ~ Florida Scott-Maxwell   (I find this quote very uplifting indeed!)

* On the way up

Yep!  Feeling a little better today.  I believe the preventive herbs and vitamin C I have been consuming by the truck load are definitely helping.  Actually had a little energy today and went out for a couple of hours. 

Called Richie (driver) and he picked me up.  Makes life incredibly easy when I have to obtain  large items or need help with translation.  First stop, custom built bed frames.  Ordered a frame with 8 drawers.  The frame also stands a little higher off the ground.  This will give me storage space under the bed as well as in the drawers.  Richie was a huge help with 'language'.  The proprietor of the shop (both times I have been in) is a thirteen year old young business man.  He has already learned everything needed to operate this carpenter shop, and besides building (which he is always doing as I enter) he is perfectly capable of taking measurements, drawing sketches, writing orders, working through intricate details such as 'Senora requires round legs please', to making a deal money wise (with Papa on the phone).  Incredible!  I was very impressed.

Off to the paint store.  Returned paint chips and was refunded my good faith deposit.  I purchased paint in the colours I was considering so I could do samples.  Better safe than sorry.  Here's the samples.

Difficult for me to choose, however, my heart says sample on the left.  Cobalt and Lime Green!  I'm thinking of using semi gloss paint, depending on the architects advise.  After all, it is Quinta de la Luz (Villa of Light) so the least I can do is help it to 'shine'.  We will see.

Stopped in at the house.  I missed the roof being poured!  : o (     Really wanted to see that.  All that was left was the aftermath of two by fours holding up the ceiling while it cures and the pallets which constructed the walkway to the roof.  They were installing the balcony doors today.   It certainly looks different with those in.

Pallets used to make walkway to the roof

New roof being supported in the living area.

My little open terrace, now with new roof.

What a difference a door makes!

VERY precarious!  I watched while the ladder shook and the walkway wobbled.  A five gallon bucket of cement on that strong shoulder.

After the pit stop at the house, we went to purchase some plastic storage bins.  I want to leave most of my things here, and travel to Victoria with empty bags.  What a concept!  I can assure you, they won't be empty on the way back!

My energy sadly lagging, Richie suggested we stop for a bite to eat.  It just happened the owners of the restaurant were drinking some exotic herbal mix from South America.  Richie immediately perked up.  Happy memories of Paraguay flooded back.  "Just what you need, Donna."  Off he went to procure some for me.  I will find out the name and let you know.  It's a herbal stimulant, nothing like caffeine I was assured.  Much gentler and very good for you.  It is a shared ceremonial drink in SA.  The herbs are placed in a traditional cup, boiling water poured over them, a beautiful metal carved 'straw' inserted.  It is then passed around and sipped upon.  Just keep filling with hot water and keep passing.  It has a resemblance to very very strong green tea.  Here's me having my first sip.

Notice nostrils have flared slightly.  I simply adore the ceremonial cup and straw.  Sort of reminds me of 'pomp and circumstance' and you know how I love that.  Apparently the herbs are available in SMA, and I will be out hunting for the proper holder.  Wouldn't taste the same without it.  I think it did raise my energy level a little.  Still had to lie down when I got home.  Felling a bit better again tonight.  I'm on the mend.

Grumpy Marshall Weather Report for San Miguel de Allende for Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Mar 23	Cloudy Hi: 80°  Lo: 51°	Day: Mostly cloudy skies. High 80F, humidity 15%. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. Air Quality: NA, UV Index: 13
		Night: Mostly cloudy skies. Low 51F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph.

"I wonder if any element of interior design is more personal than color? Nothing can more quickly reveal aspect of personality and character than the choice - or absence - of color."

Van Day Truex, Interiors, Character, and Color

A Room of Ones Own

The beautiful domes of San Miguel

The creation of my dear blogger friend, Salma, A Room of Ones Own  is a blog with a big purpose.  The mandate of this blog is to allow women to express themselves creatively.  It may be through poetry, stories, art, photography, or a combination.  Salma says, and I quote, "This is a creative blog. I believe in self-respect and respecting others, and would not ask less of my contributors or friends. All views expressed here are simply opinions based on lived experiences."

If you'd like to drop by in the next few days and have a look around, one of my poems, "Until I was Alone" is being featured.  It was written at a time in my life when I lost my one true love.  It awakened me to the 'little things' about our relationship I missed terribly.  I had taken them for granted.  I supposed they would always be there for me.  I thought they were 'mine'.  I assumed he would never stop giving me these small treasured tributes. I believed he would always be there. Nothing, believe me, is ever 'mine', and as I've learned, nothing is ever permanent.  The ebbs and flows of life are part of the ever changing landscape of the journey.  As I walk the path at this time in my life, I treasure every small sweet happening which is gifted upon me, if only for the moment.  As I become aware of the unbelievable power of grace in small things, placing awareness upon them and appreciating them, my life is changing.  It brings me into the present moment.  A moment which will never come again.  Whatever is occurring in the fleeting instant will never again occur in quite the same way.  I attempt to cherish it, whatever it is.  Even in sadness, trouble or turmoil, and loss, huge gifts are being bestowed on me.  How else would the Universe be able to teach me and show me who I am, authentically. 

Salma accepts and reviews submissions of all sorts.  Perhaps you have a piece of your own creativity you would like to share.  Send it to Salma at AROO.  I believe it's important for all of us to have a place we can be heard and accepted.  Go over for a visit and poke around.  I guarantee you will find something of interest.

Grumpy Marshall Weather Report for San Miguel de Allende for Monday,  March 22 2010

Mar 22	Clear Hi: 80°  Lo: 44°	Day: Sunny skies. High 80F, humidity 15%. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. Air Quality: NA, UV Index: 13
		Night: Clear skies. Low 44F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.

"The intuitive mind is a sacred gift and the rational mind is a faithful servant. We have created a society that honors the servant and has forgotten the gift."  ~ Albert Einstein

* Fresh Squeezed

Since I have felt a cold coming on, I have taken to squeezing fresh oranges.  So very flavorful and fresh, I can  indulge every day in one or two huge glasses.  I adore this 'old fashioned' orange squeezer ... I'm going to get one.  We used them here when we came 20 years ago.  I had forgotten they are not only efficient, they are fun to use.

No matter how much 'preventive medicine' I stuff down my little throat, I do believe this nasty little bug is taking hold.  I simply feel 'crappy' today!  No doubt about it.

I trundled out this morning to purchase a bed.  It was a successful journey.  At this moment in time, I am the proud owner of a Serta Perfect Day Pillow Top.  I tried it out.  Sprawled all over, front, back, side.   I didn't want to get up.  They will hold the mattress until I call to have it delivered.  I'm sure I will be able to arrange to have it at the house when I return so I have something to crawl into in the middle of the night.

I attempted to negotiate the inclusion of a little Serta Sheep in the transaction.  I must say, I'm pretty sure the clerk concluded "Senora Loco".  I explained friends of mine from the US had a little Serta Sheep, No. 44 to be exact.  I was firm and indicated  No. 44 definitely needed a friend.  I went on to beg, until he called head office in Queretaro.  He hung up shaking his head.  No. 44 will be very disappointed, I explained. In all probability, broken hearted!  He belongs to Kathleen and Ivan.  We, naturally had planned to introduce them when they returned to SMA next year.  I'm thinking of writing to Serta.  I'm sure they will understand.  Who wouldn't want one of these.  And to have a friend on holidays ... what more could one ask for!  As you can see, No. 25 is disgruntled over the entire situation.

Enjoyed a very late breakfast at my favorite restaurant on the Jardin, shopped for a gift to take a dear friend, which was a lost cause.  Energy fading .... slowly climbed the long assent home with sweat pouring down my brow and collapsed.  Poured copious amounts of preventive medicine down my gullet.  Still hopeful.

Absolutely had no choice but to go to the paint store for the samples.  Mustered up strength, flagged a cab and explained my plight in broken English.  Por favor  - paint store, wait uno or dos momentitos and take me to casa.  It all worked out.  I have the chip book in my hot little hands.

It didn't take me long to choose colours as I could already see them in my head.  It was simply a matter of locating them in the chip book.  The outside of Quinta de la Luz will to be a very rich purple leaning to cobalt.  Trim is a bright lime green.  (I know, sit down and catch your breath!)  Inside, is a soft old world, Italian plaster yellow.

When Kathleen returned from her adventures she brought me a very tasty treat.  Spanish Lessons!  An entire set of "The Rosetta Stone Spanish".  I had not heard of it.  It is highly acclaimed.  I have it installed already.  Delicious!  Such an appropriate and most appreciated gift.  Again, the wonderful surprise of kindness, generosity and friendship.   The gift of feeling grateful, excited and the grace to accept with ease and joy.

Signing off now.  Nose running, head clogged, face hot.  Off to the shower for some steam.

Grumpy Marshall Weather Report for San Miguel de Allende for Sunday, March 21, 2010

	Clear Hi: 78°  Lo: 45°	Day: Sunny skies. High 78F, humidity 15%. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. Air Quality: NA, UV Index: 13
		Night: Clear skies. Low 45F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.

"Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another, "What! You too? I thought I was the only one."  ~ C.S. Lewis