Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, MX…Woke up early yesterday morning to the sound of splashing water outside the bedroom, RAIN. Dolores had already scurried out to the veranda and moved the furniture back from the railing to minimize getting it wet. We seldom see any rain at this time of the year; however, this was the third day. At 5:00 PM it was still overcast and the downpour has not let up at all plus the outside temperature had fallen into the 60’s (F). Reminded me of another place and time, and stimulated my memory to why we feel so comfortable in our new home place. I know that the warmth and sunshine will return quickly instead of weeks and months of the same. As much as I cherish the 50 plus years that I lived and worked in Seattle and enjoyed its wonder filled outdoors, I equally did not cherish the rain and overcast. While working daily and assisting with raising a family of 4 children there wasn’t much time given over to thinking about the weather environment, but retirement gives you the time to reflect on what’s real at the moment.
Last evening was the monthly wine master’s dinner sponsored by Toody/Paco Pilon at the Hacienda restaurant. With rain continuing through the day Dolores had called Toody to check on her plans for the evening. Toody assured us that we’d all be under cover and not to worry about the rainy conditions. With that off our worry list we gathered up our guests and set forth for the evening. The rain had stopped and as we collected at the Hacienda we saw that all tables
were under cover and the evening was very much under control. Why had we worried?
Our Hosts: Paco Pouring Wine and Toody Telling us about the Dinner
Dinner progressed wonderfully, the food was outstanding, and the wine was perfectly matched to each course and flowed freely. As the main course approached the rain returned; however being under cover there was no concern…? By the time dessert was being served the rain had increased considerably accompanied by a ever increasing wind. Then the skies opened and released a deluge of water and heavy winds that brought sprays of rain into the restaurant from the open court yard, resulting in the appearance of numerous umbrellas and shawls. Still the merriment continued even when the city power went out and darkness temporally prevailed. Immediately people dug into their purses and pockets to bring forth the largest collection of mini-flashlights I have ever seen in one place. It gave a “fairyland” quality to our environment. Approximately 15 minutes went by until power was restored. Those with umbrellas went running to get their cars, taxis started arriving and we all made our way home safe and sound, if not somewhat damp.
Today it is still raining and we’ve heard reports of some severe damage to a couple hotels/complexes in Nuevo Vallarta, immediately North of us. No report of any injuries, just a couple of beach restaurants no longer around and water being “blown” out of some swimming pools. WOW.
How did your day go in retirement?...
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