I started my sabbatical on March 17, 2008. What a wonderful beginning to a year of reflection and discovery. Jennie joined me for the first two weeks and we had a great time exploring San Miguel and surrounding regions.
San Miguel has a population of 140 000. There are approximately 10 000 Americans / Canadians who live there permanently so it is well set up for snow birds! Every Friday, an English newspaper (Atencion) is published. The publication outlines events for the upcoming week(s). I had the opportunity to enjoy cooking classes, Flamenco shows, movies, theatre plays, house / garden tours, hacienda tours, New Earth lectures, city tours, walking tours, Buddhist meditation courses etc.
My studio apartment was located in centertown and I lived in a lovely community with engaging Mexican families. Evenings were especially fun in the courtyard. When I arrived home, I was always greeted by the children in my neighbourhood. They would squeal, run towards me (with arms extended to shake my hand) and yell "Hi-eeeeeeee". They loved involving me in their soccer games and I did my best to impress. Despite my very limited Spanish, we managed to communicate with each other and it brought a smile to my face every time I encountered the group. I frequented the local market and discovered my own personal vendors of a) fresh produce and b) incredibly yummy roasted chickens and c) magnificent floral arrangements! It was amazing to feel connected to the community within such a short period of time.
San Miguel tourists are extremely open to meeting others tourists. I developed special friendships and will cherish the memories of deep converstations over potluck dinners and cafe (or pub) encounters. Thank you to Margo (Eastern Townships), Tom (Houston), Joy and Bill (UK) Melissa and Sally (Sudbury) and Raymond (the wanderer with no fixed address) for your loving kindness. I will always remember the happy times we shared.
Debbie
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
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