Finally settling in

So at long last we are not just staying in a house, we are settling into our home. There are still finishing touches and small acquisitions to be made but all of the essentials are in place.

I began painting a design above the bed that continues to be a work in progress ( Lynda do you recognize the curtain?). This all looks a bit different doesn't it? I sit and look around me sometimes and am in awe that this is my life. I have things I've brought back from trips around the world and art that has been gifted me by friends who are artists. There are photos of our many friends and loved ones on our refrigerator and bulletin board and we already have a schedule of events revolving around new friends, acquaintances and committments. What a lucky girl I am, especially when I contrast that to the life of some of the people around me. The desk clerk makes 107 pesos a day (about $12.00) and works 7 days a week. At least it's a regular job though. The guys we hired to work on the house take work as they find it. We spend more on lunch sometimes than most make in two days. There is a tiny little Mayan woman who works at the hotel. She is one of the sweetest people I've ever met. About my age , very hard working and kind. her needs are met but there is very little room for extras. Hers is the only gift to be given by me this holiday. I crocheted her a shawl. I presented it to her this morning and she cried. We always tip her and today we will leave one much larger. This season, this is the type of giving I am able to perform. I'm not running around shopping like a crazy woman to by things for people who don't need them. People who already have so much there is no room to put it. This simple shawl and a few dollars hopefully let her know she is cared about and appreciated as well as relieving a bit of lifes daily burden. I am living in my second home and don't have to work. I don't take my fortunes for granted. As we near December 25th, I hope we all remember to be grateful for what we have. Most of us not only have more right now than many others do, but more than they can ever hope to have. On the other hand, they are richer than many. They have a simple life but are happy. As long as they have something to eat, shelter, and family, they are content.

I am content. I am loved, my family is well, I have food and shelter and the ability and the desire to share what I have. For those of you who look forward to my blog for a few laughs, I am sorry to be so serious this week. I am just feeling so fortunate that I have the ability to take risks. That I get to live this charmed life, and that I get to share it with you all. Thanks for being part of my adventure.