Feliz Navidad

Christmas is 6 sleeps away and everyone is rushing around trying to get all their shopping for presents and for food done in time. I am one of those people that have nightmares that it is Christmas Eve and I have not done all my shopping. One year, I was particularly clever and I did all my shopping and preparations in November and I had a lovely stress-free December. I was not that clever this year and still have things on my lists to purchase. It does not help that my birthday and our son’s birthday are in early December but now that both of those festive occasions are over I can concentrate on Christmas. We had the last of the birthday celebrations last night and three dishwasher loads later we are getting back to normal. I had to bribe the garbage collectors to take away all the bottles etc. and give extra money to my maid for the kitchen she faced this morning.

The house is decorated, the tree is up, poinsettias bought and Christmas lights are burning brightly. My shopping has been started if not finished and menus for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are in discussion and meat ordered.

My husband has recovered from his cold and I have doubled up on my meds. Just to get through the festive season you understand.

This should be a joyous season of warm feelings, gratefulness and kindness to all but somehow it has become a very stressful season. It is after all a very special birthday celebration and that should be where we put our focus.

By all means shop ‘til you drop and have wonderful meals at home or out at our fabulous restaurants here in Ajijic, Lake Chapala but remember also the real meaning of Christmas and help those less fortunate than ourselves in any way you can.

I promise you that the feelings you get from helping others will more than make up for the stress of the season.

For example tonight there is the 2nd Annual Holiday Fundraiser for the benefit of Love in Action Children’s Shelter hosted at a beautiful, historic home. Your contribution of $1,000.00 pesos per person includes Hors D’Oeuvres Buffet and Open Bar and a musical concert performed by the children. There may still be some tickets available if you call Michael Schaible at 766-5997.

Feliz Navidad and Merry Christmas to all!