The Start of a New Life

As most of you know it seems that there is always a reason for a party here in the Yucatan. Last night we went to the First Annual Chili Cook Off with the proceeds going for Christmas in Chelem. It was held at La Playa Restaurant, the only restaurant here in the Chelem/Chuburna area on the beach. It is also the home of the new Mayan Living Beach Office. We all had a great time and raised close to $600 for the local children for Christmas. We tasted some fabulous chili and Carlos had another fantastic buffet. Unfortunately I forgot my camera so you will just have to imagine how wonderful it was.



All of us that live here and most that visit know Issy, the cute and charming evening waiter at El Bull Pen. A couple of weeks ago a few lucky gringos were invited to his baby boy Alejandro's baptismal party. Alejandro was 3 months old, the actual baptism was held in Progreso with the party being held here in Chelem. Here are some pix, a little late but they still give you guys up north a feel for the wonderful life that we live here.


The cake
Issy's wife Sandy with little Alejandro




Issy, Sandy, Alejandro and Issy's Mom


Just look at that face!


The gringo table
Gringo group shot

Nancy looks like a natural with a babe in arms

Patrick on the other hand looks scared to death!

Marlene with the family, she looks wonderful holding Alejandro doesn't she?
Funny how the men all have the same expression on their faces......

After photos it was time for music and dancing

Marlene doing the light fandango
Sophia being dragged on the dance floor

She's a little more relaxed now

While the adults dance and party the kids just look on


I believ that this is Issy's brother and grandmother, but don't quote me on this!



Now everybody is getting in on the action

Look at this family, aren't they cute, the kids love having their pictures taken


And my favorite picture of all, sent to me by Marlene, is this grandmother enjoying herself or what?

What a great time that we all had. Laughing, dancing, hanging out with friends and of course having a few cervezas! Just one more reason to live in this wonderful community. Warm breezes and cold beers coming at ya from Chelem!