* The rules

The only rule I have while this entire move takes place and I attempt to get myself to Mexico is the following:

#1. There must be a 'happy hour' during the day.

#1. The friend with whom I am staying must join me for 'happy hour'.

#1. Champagne must be consumed during 'happy hour'.

#1. 'Happy hour' will commence promptly at 5:00 pm each afternoon.

#1. Somewhere in the world it is 5:00 pm.

I am making my way through this mad maze.  The light at the end of the tunnel has not yet appeared to my vision.  I can smell light coming just as I can smell the rain.  My nose is twitching.  Over and out!

* Progress Pics

I've just 'played' with this PC for awhile and think I have happened upon how to get my photos from an e-mail to the blog.  There has been quite a bit of work done since I left.  Here goes ... let me try this new found skill ....

YEAH!  I think I've 'got it'!!  The one thing I wish I had done here was to have the balcony run all along the front of the house.  What was I thinking!  I was thinking 'two julilet balconies would look great' .... and they will!

Looking out the entrance door from the living area on to the terrace and the stairs to the roof terrace.

My little outdoor terrace.

Stairs to the roof terrace.  There will be a wrought iron railing.

Entering throug the main door on the terrace into the living area.  Fireplace construction is underway!

The driveway is well underway.  My indoor tiles await in the warm sun.  They are laying the tiles in a diagonal pattern which will look lovely.

Can't believe I figured out this darn PC!  It's not so difficult ... and I've managed to give you a real update of the progress.  They are definitly running behind schedule.  It's because I am not there to take them cake and cookies, I just know it!  Hopefully I will have an update tomorrow on what the major hold ups are.  I know they are having difficulty having the utilities installed ... thus no power etc.  I'm not sure why they have not bricked up the door in the bathroom and installed the window.  I suspect it could be a power issue as power is needed to install locks on the driveway doors to secure the property.  Anyway ... I will soon know.

The sun is shining in SMA.  Can't wait to start getting organized.  The house needs furnishing, the roof needs a garden, the terraced part of the yard needs landscaping, and I'm thinking I will require a studio on the roof very fast.  This should keep me off the streets and out of the bars for awhile.  Gotta get ready for that house warming party everyone is talking about.  nite nite

* Stuck on April 10th

Had a note from Carolyn of Playing in the Sandbox today, wondering if I was still alive and kicking!  Also my cousin "Grumpy Marshall" of the infamous "Grumpy Marshall Weather Forecast" called to tell me I had created somewhat of a soap opera and 'what the hell was I up to since April 10th?".  All those days of silence, and I am actually hooked on blogging!  What's up, you may ask.

Well!  To say the very least, I must have been mad, crazy, crazed, daffy, daft, 'touched', and indeed just a little 'off', to think I was going to turn everything around calmly, sweetly, happily and without so much as a ripple in the water in less than three weeks!

The Universe agreed.  I hit Canadian soil with a virus I totally ignored for nine days.  Acted like I was healthy, sane, happy, somewhat normal, invogorated, euphoric, in the pink and indeed in my prime.  I lied.  On the nineth day, my body said NO MORE.  I developed a raging fever which and friend would no longer tollerate my lies.  She hauled me off to the walk in clinic.  I was certified UNWELL, UNABLE, UNHEALTHY, CRAZED, and DAFT.  "Go home to bed and stay there I was instructed.  What do you think you are doing to your body!"  I gave in.

I have fought this every step of the way.  Even after I gave in, I really didn't 'give in'.  I carried on as my energy would allow and then a little more.  Every night at six, more glands swell up, I have trouble swallowing, and I get a headache.  Champagne seems to help.  My friend and I have drank copious amounts to keep our spirits up.

Today, I made a new list.  It was one of priorities.  What MUST be done.  What can be thrown in a very small storage and left for another year until I once again come back to deal with the dregs!  I simply can't do it all this trip.

Tomorrow is the last day for working at storage.  I need to find my good bed linens, share some of my large blank canvases with Diane and let the Rotarians have the rest for their garage sale.

Next, I will go over to the other storage, pack five suitcases to take with me and leave the rest for the Rotarians.

There are two large boxes of my fathers history which I consider very important to the history of the province of Alberta.  Those will be put into a small storage and cleared when I return.  They need to be sent back to Alberta to the archives.

Still have many appointments to attend.  Eye Dr., have my CPAP machine checked and replace some parts, take Habibi to vet to have health certificate done, have Habibi groomed, renew drivers license, mail a piece of art to a dear friend in Alberta, pick up my perscriptions, change address at the post office .... have my will, living will updated (it's in the works), and on and on.

So I admit it.  YES, I was mad, I am mad, but I'm going home on time.  I will rest when I get there! 

Quinta de Luz is coming along nicely, if not altogether on time.  She will be ready enough to live in by the time I return.  I will have no trouble dealing with the rest.

That's the update, folks!  No longer stuck on April 10th.  Thanks for your note, Carolyn.  Grumpy Marshall, always such a pleasure to chat with you and hear your voice.  Thanks for calling.  Nite Nite.

* Update

Victoria is the Capital of the Province of British Columbia.  Seems strange really, as we are a small town, on a smallish island.  Above it a photo of the parliament buildings shining into a corner of the inner harbour.

Fever kicked in last night.  Finally gave in.  My friend took me to a walk in clinic.  I am sick.  Yep!  Confirmed by a Dr.  Infected throat, bronchitis, glands the size of golf balls.  Accepted a high dose of anti-biotics with gratefulness and went home to bed.  Also, a very effective cough supressent.  Thank you!!!

Yes, I have more or less surrendered.  I cancelled an dinner invitation, an evening of fun and frolic and an overnight at a friends. 

I did keep an appointment with Helga from  ARTchix Studio (a great web site for multi media artists).  Do have a peek at her sight and shop if you need anything.  She stocks an awe inspiring collection of goodies.  Keep your hankie handy to catch the drouls.  We need to support young women who have worked so hard to build a business.  Helga began this business aboaut 10 years ago, and now employs some single moms.  So inspiring.

After some deliberation, (not much though) Helga and I loaded her car with half my collection of treasures.  She's coming back for the other half later this week.  I am so happy they are going to a 'good home'.  Her enthusiasm and squeals of delight left no doubt in my mind they will be shared and put to very good use, not to mention the wonderful pieces of art which will be born of this collection.  Personally, I am thrilled!

So, my dears, that's all for this evening.  I am going to bed.  I am not going to cough.  I am going to sleep well through the night.  The Dr. said I should begin to feel better in about 3 days.  YEAH!

"Art is literacy of the heart" Elliot Eisner

* This can't last forever!

I can't go walking at the Butchart Gardens, although I might like to.  It's too bloody cold.  The wind goes right to my bones after it tries to tear the cloths from my body to expose even more flesh to turn to ice.  The next alternative would be the Bengal Room at the Empress Hotel.  I could move in there for a good long while.  Sitting. Simply allowing the waiters to bring me a steady supply of cognac while I sat in the ambiance of the Raj's India and mused over the bangal tiger above the fireplace.  The antique brass ceiling fans, which flip slowly back and forth were the next invention after the doing away with servants who stood beside you waving huge fans of ostritch feathers to keep you cool.  Yes, The Empress, perhaps that is what I need.

The thing is I just want to WHINE!  I don't want to go anywhere.  Frankly, things are not going at all well.  The magic carpet ride which I was experiencing the entire time I was in Mexico has crashed and burned!  The ashes are all around me, and I have no idea where to begin to pick up the pieces. There does not seem to be any sign of the Phoenix rising!  I am still ill!  Not just a little ill ... a lot ill!  Every day I turn to my list.  Blocks appear in every direction.  It takes me all morning to make one phone call.  It takes me three trips to the locker - thowing things out and then throwing them back in to make any headway.  The bank has new "rules" which they cannot or will not bend.  Doing business in foreign countries is ever more difficult. The school I had lined up to take all my art supplies as a donation is not available.  The garage sale fell through because I was to ill to attend and succumbed begrudgingly to my bed, placing a huge cancelled sing on the garage door.  Absolutely nothing is working, and I simply don't know what to do at this point.  My head is full of west coast fog, I feel like I have lost one ore or perhaps both, and there is no land in site.  If I'm going in the wrong direction it could be a few days before land appears as these waves come in directly from Japan.  Interesting, don't you think?

And so, as I swallow, or try to swallow past the swelling and raw parts, try to breath, but can't really get a good breathe because I go into long fits of coughing and choking half way through, I wonder what the Universe is trying to tell me.  I'm listening.  I'm asking.  There is only silence for the moment.  The 'puzzle' is scattered here there and everywhere.  I simply don't know how to gather up the pieces in time to make the plane.  Perhaps I am simply supposed to 'walk away'.  Perhaps I am not supposed to take anything with me.  Perhaps this really is a completely 'new beginning'.  It's not clear to me at the moment.  It is simply a very foggy day.  One of those days when you can't see the decal on the front of your car.

When things go wrong, you'll find they usually go on getting worse for some time; but when things once start going right they often go on getting better and better.”  ~  C.S.Lewis

* April 6th ... ALREADY!

Did I tell you I was sick?  As a dog?  Swollen glands, throat super soar, coughing, coughing, coughing, and ears filled with some kind of dust which makes them hurt and itch at the same time.  I'm sure you have had that feeling!  We, as in the Royal 'We', are not amused!

I am behind.  In fact, I am so far behind, I think I'm first!!  I've made all my appointments today.  Spent all morning on the phone.  It is now 1:15 pm and I'm done, finished, kaputzkie!  I need to have everything packed, sorted, and completely organized by next Sunday evening.  Monday, the Rotary club is coming for anything left to take to their big garage sale.  Will I make it .... stay tuned ... I can't even tell you the answer.

I'm currently posting on a PC.  Not a clue what I'm doing.  Therefore, no photographs or anything fancy which is really ticking me off, because I wanted to put some photos of Victoria on here for you.  Ah well, they will come later.

This week is completely booked with sorting, packing and shipping.  Next week is completely booked with appointments.  The last week will be all the bits and pieces.  Friday, April 23rd I'll be flying to Vancouver, spending a couple of days with a dear friend, and Monday April 26th, I am off home.

So, just a short note to keep you up to date and me up to date  Take care.

Victoria, BC, Canada

On the way back.  So here we are at 38,000 Ft.  Its -76 degrees F outside.  Don't think I will be stepping on the wing for a breath of fresh air anytine soon. 

Sitting beside me is a very charming young man from Arkansas.  He's in the aerospace industry and is on his way to Seattle for an impromptu emergency meeting. 

Intereating history.  Family of twelve.  Five brothers, all extremely well educated with degrees in different arenas, orn a company which employs another twenty-five people.  The company does all sorts of cool stuff in R & D, and sell to the big airlines, Delta, Continental, etc.  Everything from the oxygen systems to toilets and dump tanks.  Has many ideas for the future, such as machines where you can preorder your meals before boarding the plane, and others which will allow you to shop direct with your points .... the products simply popping out into your lap like a pop machine.

The family roots are very intreguing.  Father from the eastern seaboard, mother pure cuban.  During the Cuban missel crises, she happened to be in the US and managed to obtain some sort of dispensation to remain there and become a citizen.  When his parents were married, his mother did notspeak one word of English.  It was LOVE.  Chris's wife is from Italy.  Old family of wine growers.  Came to Arkansas and started vineyards in the north of the state. 

Last year was Papa's 70th birthday.  Twelve children, their spouses, and, now hear this .... FIFTY-ONE grandchildren helped him celebrate.

It's been an interesting ride.  Chatting about a really broad range of topics and enjoying some good laughs.

I was trying to nap just now.  We have about two hours to Seattle, however I cannot seem to settle.  I'll be happy to hit the hay tonight.  It will feel very fine to have my head on a pillow.

At the moment, we have just left Colorado and are flying over the top left hand corner of Wyoming.  The world map has just popped up in front of me.  Caracus has always been of interest.  One thing at a time, Donna!
                                                                    ..................................

APRIL 1, 2010

Arrived in Victoria safe and sound.  Flew from Seattle with a gentleman who spend last year in Afganastan, helping to monitor the elections.  This year he has been asked to be present as an observer in Cambodia for the next two years.  I hinted for him to take me with him ... no luck.  I'm on my way home to Mexico.

All is well at this end.  I am a little brain dead and hope to be more awake tomorrow.

In the mean time ... all is well with the world.  Hope all is well with your worlds too. 


                                                     

Last Evening in San Miguel

Our group of residents' in Casa Aparicio got together for a little parting party tonight.  All but one.  Bev is sick.  We missed her.

I could not think of a better way to spend my last evening here.  I will leave you with some photos.  My happy memories.

"Live for today, plan for tomorrow, and have a wonderful time with friends tonight."
It was a wonderful evening.  Thank you all!

* 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