Sunsets, et al.

Sunsets are a thing of beauty in Mexico, particularly here on the west coast. There is nothing more inspiring and relaxing than watching that big orange orb disappear into the Pacific Ocean. But it's more than just a spectacle to celebrate the end of the day.

I find that the sun sets the rhythm for the entire cycle of life here. It's easy to start a sleepy morning when the sun rises behind the mountains to the east, lighting up the sky but still leaving most of the world in shadows. Mornings take on a fluid, easy pace as the sun climbs over the surrounding hills and trees, illuminating the lower lands which hug the bay.

But don't be fooled into thinking the pace here means the local residents are slow or lazy. Nothing can be farther from the truth. In the nearly 20 years I've been visiting Puerto Vallarta, I've seen quite a transformation from workmen leading donkeys laden with bricks and concrete sacks to today's modern, mechanized workforce. You can argue the pace is different than Canada or the States, but trust me - these folks work hard and take great pride in their labours. And they certainly earn my respect and admiration.

So it's with a bit of sorrow and much longing for tomorrow that I bid another day adios and watch the waves swallow El Sol once again. But a tropical sea breeze and a cold cerveza will certainly take the sting out of the loss for yet another evening.

Until next time, hasta luego!
Don Marcos