Paradise

I just returned from a much needed vacation to Mazatlan, Mexico and am missing it terribly. It takes a lot for me to feel stressed or worried over anything really, but for some reason by the end of April I was beginning to feel overwhlemed without knowing the root of why - and I still don't. I do know that this vacation worked its magic and my thoughts are now refreshed.

Mazatlan, oh where do I begin? I have been to Mexico countless times, but never to Mazatlan. Let me tell you, it is one of the most beautiful and underrated place I have visited. My friend Chelsea and I went on the city tour and I have never felt so safe to wander the streets of a foreign design. The landscape, the architcture, all of it was breathtaking while luscious and rich in history. And the people that reside there are just lovely, so kind, friendly, and completely non threatening. Chels and I even ventured to town in an open taxi alone the following day because of the electric atmosphere.

On the city tour we met incredible new friends that gave the expereince that extra special quality. 4 couples ranging from the ages of 24-40 became our family for the last few days of the vacation. The Saturday night after the tour we got dressed in our leafs gear (as we all came from the same Toronto flight) - including Dom's legendary mexican Leafs poncho bought from town, and headed down the road from our resort (YES, we felt safe enought to leave the resort- besides I don't know who would try to tackle ten crazed leaf fans) to a local sportsbar for some grub, drinks, and, of course, the leafs game! The food was spectacular - much better than the resorts, and sadly the leafs sorely lost, but the company was enthused regardless.

We had lunch at another restaurant down the beach from our resort twice as well. There was a surfing contest and the place was packed and full of energy - and might I add dirt cheap! They were handing out free shots of rum as well as nachos and salsa. Always a good time. The waves were constant, and we were told that surfers from California travelled to Mazatlan to ride these waves. The beach is known as "witches beach" because of the many deaths due to undertoe... needless to say we did not tempt fate by swimming in the ocean. But just relaxing on the beach loungers with drinks in our hands, the sun kissing our skin, and a view of towering palm trees along with ocean waves... nothing less than paradise.  Pure paradise. And the sunset, we watched every night from our balcony with our evening beer, was a spiritual experience - like looking into a glimpse of heaven.

*long sigh* yes I miss it terribly. It was sad to come home, but home is home and I have returned to beautiful weather in Canada. Summer is here, life is illuminating and alive again. Even breathing is easier in summertime. My mind is at ease, and I'm at peace with nostlagic thoughts of palm trees swaying in the ocean breeze while simultaneously embracing the near future of poolside joy, beaches, and cottage life. Summertime freedom is upon us.