When I came into the kitchen to make our smoothies this morning, I noticed there was a candle burning next to the virgin of Guadalupe statue on the island divider between my kitchen and dining room. I didn’t say anything about it, but later, Yolanda said, “I lit a candle for your mother today.” Today is mother’s day in Mexico. So sweet. I went and got a pic of my mom to put next to it. This is one of the things I would miss so much if I ever left Mexico. What would replace this special sweetness in the States? My life is so enriched by it.
lifelessons - a blog by Judy Dykstra-Brown 
That’s just beautiful. Beatific, even.
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I just watched my mom drift away to the after life. Nobody should die alone and am glad her family surrounded her 24/7. She was ready to go but that is the way it is for the dying. Its those of us left behind that grieve. She was the glue to our family.I am looking to relocate and would like to know about Lake Chapala?Thanks for your post and any information you can share at this time.
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Paul…Sorry to hear about your mother, but you are on the right track, remembering the positive effects she had in your life. If you google Lake Chapala or Ajijic, you will find tons of information on life at Lake Chapala. I’ve been here 12 years and love it. The weather is to die for, the plants gorgeous and there is an active arts/writing and theater community. The lake holds on its shore the largest group of expats in the world. I think perhaps Canadians outnumber Americans now. Most expat live on the north side of the lake but some choose to live on the primarily Mexican–populated south shore. I can’t imagine being bored in this place. To the contrary, I often feel too busy and have to step back and spend more time in solitude again to do what I want to do–primarily re/ writing and art. Check out the internet and then feel free to ask any questions you wish to ask. You don’t mention how old you are. Are you retired? Seems that more younger people are moving down now than before as well as people who can work on the internet and so are not dependent on staying in the states. Primarily, however, the non-Mexican population is of retirement age, but those who retire here seem to still be infused with the excitement of living and travel, work in local charities, paint, write, act–a busy, vibrant place. Judy
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Judy:
I am a boomer trying to decide what to do with the next phase of my life. I have suffered a few losses recently and its made me think. I am open to relocating even though its bit overwhelming at the moment.One step at a time and I am sure the transition takes care of itself in time. Thank you for your kind words and encouragement. I am a retiree from home health but feel I have something to offer in voluntary works or part-time services. I’ve lived with snow, rain and presently in Dry Hot weather climates.If I relocate to Ajiijic or Lake Chapala maybe we can meet for coffee or tea.What is the main differences if any between Ajiijic vs Lake Chapala?
Thank you in advance for your kindness!
Gracias,
Paul
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There are more expats in Ajijic, although there are quite a few in Chapala as well, even fewer in Jocotepec. If you really want to experience Mexican culture, the most “Mexican” place to live is across the lake. It’s about 45 minutes from there to Ajijic, where most of the activity is. The next least anglicized place is Jocotepec, then Chapala, then Ajijic. Ajijic is charming with tons of culture and lots of restaurants, but it does have the most gringos. There are a number of smaller villages and fraccionamientos that make up these larger pueblos. If you google the area, you will see maps that will identify them. Generally, Ajijic is the most expensive to live in, then Chapala, then Joco, then across the lake. It is still much cheaper to live here than the states and affordable accommodations can be found in most of the towns. I’d say come as a tourist and check it out. I would not advise coming with one of the groups as it is much more expensive than just coming yourself. It is not necessary to speak Spanish to get by here, although most take lessons or eventually learn. Look on the internet…there is a lot of information. Yes, if you come, I’d be glad to meet for coffee. Another good source of information is the Lake Chapala Society in Ajijic. They have an information booth I sometimes sub at, but there is always someone there. A good way to meet people is to go to Open Circle on Sundays at 10 a.m. at the Lake Chapala Society. Coffee at 10, presentation at 10:30. Judy
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Judy: Its been a long time since I have written. I relocated to Florida to take care of a dying woman. I am a Senior Care Manager. I am a healthy Baby Boomer who is self-employed and freelance. Sadly my patient ended up in a Nursing Home not what I wanted for her but because her family was jealous of me and wanted to play last minute heroes. It was foolishness. They did not want to relocate so they dumped her in a home. Afterwards I had a motor vehicle accident when i was parked at a red light. I relocated to illinois so my baby sis could help me which I am very grateful. My MD released me so I returned to teh Southwest in May. While in IL I buried my 33yr old nephew Phillip who died from Cancer. He was 6’7 and 3kids. Today my big brother died of a heart attack doing what he loved “sailing.”He was training for his annual Race to Mackinac in July. I am sad and grateful that my mother was not alive to bury a second son.He was my bodyguard growing up and pushed me to compete.All I have left is my baby sis. Feel sad that I left last month and now she needs me this month.She is rather fragile and was always a sickly child. I took care of her growing up. Well I thank-you for allowing me to share some of this grief. I hope ll is well in your world in lake Chapala or wherever you are now. One of the tings left on my bucket list to o is live Internationally. Both of my grandparents migrated to USA in 1900. I have family there but other family members who have visited return having gained too much weight. They are excited to see you and feed you.If not there then maybe Lake Chapala is a possibility.I really don’t like being alone. My mother was fiercely protective of me being her youngest son.Not knowing anybody or living alone is not my comfort zone. I am sure once I et there and connect with people I will be ok. Its getting there that is the challenge.I went with Miss Pat to Nogales last week and return to see the dentist next week.We are roommates at tis time. She is 77 but cannot afford t pay me for my services so I am volunteering them for now.We get along well although she is an insomniac.
Well I will sen off tis story to cyberspace ad pray you are well in your life.
Take Care,
paul
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Wow. You have had incredible run of bad luck, Paul. Hope all works out for you. Judy
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What a treat, Judy, to open this and find a photo of our mother. I’ve been thinking of her all day for some reason. And I’ve been VERY careful not to put on any funny little outfits (you understand even if no one else does). Hugs–Patti
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This has always been my favorite picture of mother. I noticed that Mom’s mother’s mother was the second wife of her father and that his third wife was named Lydia, so strangely enough, it looks like Nancy named her after her stepmother. Also noticed that Grandpa’s second name was Gerhard. Also, mom’s great grandfather moved here from Canada, so we have some Canuck blood!
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Yolanda is exceptionally sensitive and loving. What a fine thing to think of! I love the picture of your mom, Patti and Judy. Wasn’t she just a honey? You both look at least a bit like her. I can see FUN in her eyes. Love the frame around the photo and I know who made that! Pretty surroundings. Love you guys.
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She is. I love it that she tells me what to do and takes matters such as altars, etc. into her own hands if I don’t think of them. She is 20 years younger than I am!!!!!
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I don’t have an angel like Yolanda but can appreciate her from knowing what she does for you. You are right, this would never happen in the US. I cannot wait to get back and feel life the way it is in Mexico.
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Life is good. Life is brief. Enjoy its beauty, its people and remember our thoughts or words either heal or hurt.Your words are healing!
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As are yours. Thanks for visiting and leaving your own brief beauty on my site.
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