Yes, I know it’s Christmas Eve. I’ve had a week of sunshine and relaxation in Mexico, where the toughest decision was pool or beach. Looking forward to celebrating with Ann Arbor family today, with ages ranging from 3 1/2 year old Aloisa to John’s 97-year old mother. All my children will be home with us for a couple of days later this week! The Christmas tree is lovely. I love the wreaths and the candles on the front of the house. Seeing the world, and especially the holidays, in the company of a three-year old is truly joyful. I am fortunate, and I am grateful.
Although it’s a little early, I’ve begun to think about what I want to do differently in 2019. I want to eliminate more clutter (progress is slow, but real). I want to cook more meat-free meals (love you, Rancho Gordo). I want to eat them more slowly, and more often with friends. I want to be thoughtful about giving, whether it’s money or time or energy. I want to support women.
While we were in Mexico we visited Isla Mujeres for a couple of days. We were there for the solstice and the full moon. We stayed center island near the port and ate at hole-in-the-wall places with big margaritas. The north end of the island was crazy busy with taxis, scooters, golf carts, endless shops, and people. We didn’t stop for all that, but away from that center, after a windy ride in our own rented cart, we found the women’s beading co-operative, where we bought gifts for ourselves, family and friends.h
But for me the best was Punta Sur, where we saw the remains of a temple to the Mayan goddess Ixchel. Modern sculptures have been installed and are rapidlly weathering in the heat and the winds. Countless visitors have been moved to pile stones or leave messages. It’s a magical place where somehow the mystique remains, and I am inspired.
