More catching-up

DECEMBER 21
We went horseback riding a couple of days ago - first time for the kids, and first time in many years for Tim and I. Victoriano, our guide and one of the rancheros who helps around the house - also Daniela's dad and Samuel"s brother - took us for a short one hour tour. No instructions... which made it a bit tricky for me as my fellow riders were not always close enough for me to share what Victoriano was telling me. Dylan's horse was stalling, and we later discovered that he did not move because Dylan was giving his horse the signal to stop instead of going... Also, Tim's horse almost took him to the cow's field... they do have BIG horns and were all looking at Tim. So bow that we have learned the basics, the next ride will be longer and probably better - looking forward to it!

We are now in Merida, arrived yesterday and spent the night. This is our Christmas holiday shopping expedition, and let me tell you that shopping in the downtown Merida public market could very well qualify as an extreme sport... After that, the Eaton Centre on December 23 pushing a stroller, carrying a bouquet of balloons and a pair of skis would be a breeze! We found some interesting things, it was a fun and memorable experience. This morning I took the boys to a piñata store - what a great place! There should be one of these in Toronto... is there? The ceiling filled with beautiful colorful piñatas, and aisles of sweets, candies of all kinds, and little loot bag surprises, it was great. We have a beautiful piñata for our new year celebration with Manon, Richard and their kids - it will be fun! They will land in Cancun on December 26, and arrive at the ranch on December 27.

Tim went walking around town on his own while I was out with the boys, and when he come back tot he hotel we will head back to the ranch, stopping at a mega grocery store on the way - also stocking up on food for our merry guests.

Unfortunately we do not have internet access at the ranch, we have to go to Izamal in one of the internet cafes there - there is no wi-fi in Izamal. However there is a spot by the pool at the ranch where there is cell phone reception and I can get my email once in awhile using my iphone (I don't want to know how much this will cost....). This allows me to check for important emails and assess our need to go to town to connect. Better than nothing!

Happy Christmas preparations to all of our dear friends in Toronto - we miss you!