Ringing in the New Year

Well, it is almost New Years Eve and I sit here in Cancun trying to figure out what we are going to do exactly. I hate this - we had plans, but they have fallen through. We returned late last night, and it was pretty hard trying to make plans up from up North. Okay, I know it's not a real "poor me" situation, but I think I'm just upset as for the past 5 years we've hung out with our best friends in Canada. Now, nada?? Really??
Hubby and I decided we would spend Christmas in Canada, and NYE in Mexico as I just wouldn't give up the holidays with my family. So as great as he was about giving up Christmas I felt bad about pushing New Years Eve on him as well. Now? Now I sit here with NO plans. Arrggghhhhh.....
Some of our friends in Cancun are trying to plan something, but what can we do?? Do we have a house party?? Do we spend a fortune to attend a party at one of the hotels?
Oh well... I do have an outfit in mind, but am a little pasty after my trip home. Self tanner it is.
Whatever we do end up doing I'm sure we'll have a great time.
I truly wish nothing but the best for all of you in 2011, and happy safe partying for all.
Happy New Year from Cancun!!!

Christmas in Canada

Happy Holidays Everyone!!

My last post I shared some photos of our place in Cancun, and I promised to share some photos' of our Christmas in Canada!!! There are no palm trees, but it has been surprisingly warm and pleasant.

Christmas this year was one of the best ever. My mom baked some of my favourite cookies (vanilla kifle), snow on the ground, lots of family, and who am I kidding, some fantastic gifts!!!

We will be back in Cancun in less than a week, and that is where we are ringing in the New Year.

Christmas morning... our stockings and tree!!!

Hubby and I in front of my parents Christmas morning

                                                                       Kids Table!!

                                                              Adults table

                                                                My beautiful mama!!

My Goddaughter and I

Seasons Greetings!!!!

Christmas at our house

Hubby and I are getting ready to head to Calgary for the holidays, and I for one couldn't be more pumped. Hubby, myself and our Shitzu Kiara are all headed North for two weeks.

Even though we are leaving we still decided we had to have a Christmas tree, and put out our decorations. It just really wouldn't have felt like Christmas had we not.

We ended up buying our tree from the Costco tree lot ,which actually sold out in 2 weeks time. The tree is from Oregon, and is huge. We paid $1000 pesos for it, roughly $90usd. It was the biggest one they had.

All of our decorations on the tree were purchased at the local Home Depot - not cheap, but better quality than anywhere else we looked. The decor around our house is ours from Canada.

I can't wait to get to my Mom's place and take some pics there for all of you to see. For now, enjoy these pics of our place here in Cancun.

Happy Holidays !!!

Christmas in Mexico (Christmas Around the World from World Book)

Quick - someone hit Rudolph!

Yes, you are really seeing a vehicle dressed as Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer here in Cancun. Ohhh my. I saw this little beauty as I was leaving Telmex the other day, and couldn't help but take a photo for all of you to enjoy!!

Oh, but wait today's special comes with another photo for you all to enjoy. My brother, hubby and I paid a littled visit to our local Home Depot recently and took a snap shot of "Naughty Santa" for you all....

Awww...How I love the holiday season :)

Another first in Mexico

The past few weeks we (my family and I) have learnt that it is time for this gringa to buy herself a vehicle. Not just any vehicle, but I am in need of a 7 passenger vehicle. My one problem? I won't drive a mini-van. This is in no way meant to offend anyone who does drive a mini-van out there, but I just don't ever want to drive one myself. The good news is that there are a lot of options out there for a 7 passenger SUV. YAY, there is a God!!

This will be our first time buying a brand new vehicle in Mexico. I was fortunate enough to have my first car bought for me by my parents when I was 16, and then got some help for my second. So technically this is actually my first car I'm buying by myself (thanks hubby)!

Now even though I am an amateur when it comes to car shopping, I am no dummy! I know that in Canada, and assuming the USA, interest rates are moderated, and there is always room to negotiate. Well, so far my experience here in Cancun has been a huge shock. Interest rates are all over the map - Toyota was happy to advise their rate was 15.95%, and the price is THE price. We were very honest with our sales lady and said sorry, we wont' waste your time as we will not pay 16% interest!

I could go on, and on about how different the experience was, but I really don't want to bore everyone! We went to Ford, Chevrolet, Dodge, Nissan, Toyota,  Mitsubishi and Mazda. The Ford and Mazda dealership were the most impressive. The staff new their product, and were full of great information.

I think I have narrowed my picks down, but I most definitely have a favourite. I am hoping to be the owner of the Mazda CX9 in the new year!!! Anyone have an experience with it? Or even Mazda? If so, let me know!!

Whirlwind of a week

The last few weeks seem to have flown by in record time. We have had family come and go. Over 60 family members to be exact. Ohhh and what a crazy family we have ....uh-hum... in a good way of course!!! My dad finally married the love of his life, and his best friend.

I can not believe that after the months of planning it is already over, and everyone is gone. Well, except for one of my uncles who is still staying with us. Don't you ever wish time could just sit still, just for a little while?? Just enough to enjoy it for "that" much longer? Don't get me wrong I do look forward to the future, but when am I going to get that side of the family altogether again in Mexico? Probably never.

The wedding was amazing, and my family had a blast. Seriously, no one complained about anything and we sure had our fair share of mishaps. The second day at the resort one of my little cousins (2 year old) fell off a chair and was rushed to Playa del Carmen for surgery! She landed on her chin and bit through her tongue..... She was a trooper and back in action the following day!!!

My dad and stepmom had a Mayan themed ceremony on the beach. It was amazing, and very emotional. It was later followed by a wonderful Italian meal, and a party around the pool with Trio's to start the night, and a DJ to finish it off.  Fun, fun, and amazing.

I guess what I'm trying to say in a round-a-bout way - there is nothing like family. Enjoy all the time you get to spend with them, and treasure the memories for life.

Let it snow, Let it snow, Let it snow!!!

Lately as Christmas is fast approaching I find myself missing the good old Canadian winter.... Just a weee bit!! Call me crazy, but before you judge - hear me out.

I miss the snow. I mean, I miss the snow for the month of December, and no more. Now as a true Calgarian, I am well aware that one month of snow is impossible. We are situated minutes from the Rocky Mountains. Not gonna happen !!!!

Anything, and I mean anything more than that one month is toooo much for me. Weather and climate were the biggest reason I had for moving to Cancun with hubby. Seriously, if Calgary, or any city in Canada had the climate of Cancun I'd never have left.

I received a photo taken from my brother yesterday that made me miss the Canadian winter just a little bit more than usual. It's taken from his BlackBerry so sorry the picture is not of better quality. What do you think??? I don't think I'm insane for wanting one month of snow, and 11 months of sunshine and sand. Do you??? Well, it's one of the reasons I'm going to spend half the month of December in Canada...

You can't tell me this isn't beautiful!!!

A league of their own...

This past week Cancun was fortunate enough to host the CONCACEF women's soccer tournament. This wasn't just any old tournament either - these women were playing for two spots which would ensure their spot in next summer's FIFA World Cup in Germany.

Most of my readers are very aware of my love for sports, especially soccer. Sorry, I just can't call it futbol!!! So it will not come to any ones' surprise that I attended four matches. I'm going to take it when I can get it!

One of the main reasons I was looking forward to the event was that Canada was playing, and I knew they had a  real shot of qualifying. The other reason? The US women's team was there to compete as well. I had many people asking me "Why are you cheering for the US over Mexico"? I had one answer. They are the best. Arguably, they still are one of the best womens' teams in the world. Period. I used to idolize Mia Hamm, and wish that Canada would be more into women's sports. Don't get me wrong, it's not like I wasn't going to be happy for Mexico if they did well, but I do have my favourites for a reason.

I am very happy to report that the stadiums were full of cheering fans. The first game I watched was Canada vs. Costa Rica. Canada had to win this game to take 1 of the spots, and they did. They were the first team to qualify from CONCACEF. This was a huge moment for them. I had tears in my eyes when I saw them running around, congratulating each other...

The second match I watched was USA vs. Mexico. No surprise the Americans (and I) were outnumbered in the stands. Even the Canadians were cheering for them.... In fairness they didn't want to face USA in the final a few days later. That being said, I was a bit shocked that when the American flag was brought out the crowd starting booing. In all my years of attending these National matches, I've never heard a flag being booed. Players, yes, but countries, no. Wait - it gets worse. When the team came out of the locker room they were booed. Another thing? I'm pretty sure its' customary to stand for the singing of a National Anthem, even if it's not your own? Am I wrong??? Am I the only one who thinks this way?

Most of my friends were in agreement with me that this was wrong. Only one argued with me telling me that this type of behaviour is normal, and not meant to disrespect. Just healthy competition. I don't buy it. I find it to be rude, and ignorant. Obviously the majority of the people there were in agreement with him.

As the game continued the crowd was going crazy, the stadium was packed. The first whistle blew, and gooooal. Mexico scored within the first few moments of the game. As the game went on Mexico was really dominating the match, and the USA didn't look as though they even belonged there. Needless to say they were having a BAD day. Mexico won 2-1 and it was well deserved. I was very happy for the fans, and for their team. They were the second, and last, team to automatically qualify for the World Cup!

I know many people are already aware of who won the tournament and who didn't, but I will have to write a post about that next time as I have some pictures I would like to post with it.

Congratulations to both Canada and Mexico, and good luck to the USA in their upcoming matches!

Getting personal

For the most part I have kept my "real" personal life completely separate from the blog world. It's not that I don't trust most of my blog readers, but for me, and only me, there are just some things that I don't want people to know. I've always been this way, and think I always will. Heck - none of my family, nor friends from back home are even aware I have a blog!! I don't want to tell them, why? I can't explain it...I just don't.

Anyways, today I wanted to share something. I have no one to really talk about this with, but maybe all my friends who live here can give me their two cents? My friends who don't, well I'm sure you can give me an outsider's perspective.

I am married to a Mexican. Okay, well I'm pretty sure everyone already knew this. The part that you don't know? OMG....How hard it is to be married to someone when you share completely different cultural backgrounds, and beliefs. Don't get me wrong, it's also an added benefit at times. I love learning a new culture's way of life, but I still love my own.

Hubby lived in Canada with me for almost 6 years, and that is a long enough time that he was able to learn how life north of the border is. It is face paced, everyone stresses about everything, go, go, go, and do it all over again tomorrow. This is a life I thought I used to hate. A place where everything works, where the litter is taking over the streets, where laws are obeyed..albeit not by everyone, but most!

Hubby and his family are very close. Very, very, very, very, very, very, very close. To me, almost tooooo close. They speak on the phone every day maybe 5, 6, 7 times a day. I mean allll of them. They adore each other with love, and kisses, and such. Sounds nice, right? Well, what's wrong with me then? To me it's smothering, and I feel like a third wheel. Don't get me wrong, they love me, and I do love them, but let a man be a man and move on with his life...errr...wife!

It's gotten to the point where I don't go to his family's house as much anymore - hubby doesn't want to feel rushed to leave. Okay, I'm cool with that, but you go 4 or 5 times a week! There are only 7 days in a week.... For the record I do still go at least twice a week.

Okay, well I am going to stop there as this could go on forever.... Am I a terrible person? Is this all just me???

Shakira - Loca (Featuring El Cata) - Video

I know, I know, AGAIN I win the worst blogger of the year award. LOL. I deserve it. I neglect this poor little thing all too often. Funny enough, it's not because I don't have things to write.... I lack the time to put it into words. Well, that and internet connection. Good news? After 1 month of waiting for Cablemas to come and hook up our connection they have. Yes, 1 month. I will never understand why they told us 4 days, but what can one do here? Get over it!


What else can I say? Ohhh.... Remember about 2 months ago I wrote that I've been really working out, and getting back into shape? Well - I am still going strong. I run almost every day, and lift weights. Recently I've began adding in other things : Spinning, Kenpo, Yoga. I love it.

Have I lost weight? No, actually gained two pounds. However, yes, I am aware that muscle weighs more than fat. My clothes are not as tight, and I can see a huge difference. My arms are toned, and my legs are getting tighter....

One of the BEST things is I listen to music to get me through a good sweat session, and one thing we are not short of in Mexico is music, and music channels. Well, I am just in love with this music video of Shakiras. Can you see her abs in this video? For me, it is motivation to keep on running.... Loca? I don't think so.

Hope you enjoy the video :)

Its' a first!!

Yesterday I had the pleasure of going to La Isla mall with my good friend, and step-mom. The mall was nice and quiet as it's the low season here in Cancun. We were ladies on a bit of a mission so the low occupancy worked in our favour. We were looking for new swimsuits, and not just any kind, but strapless. Do you know how hard it is for me to find a strapless top? Almost impossible. I'd only ever owned one before and it is amazing, Seafolly from Australia. You can't find that brand here in Cancun.

We went to Zingara which is an absolutely fantastic chain here in Mexico for swimwear, and beachwear. Seriously, La Isla alone has 2 locations. I say they are fantastic as they have really pretty suits, and bags, and sandals. OMG I love their sandals. Are they pricey? For the average Mexican, hell yes. For a tourist? I would have said no if I were a tourist. We got lucky and they were having a sale. Or I should say I got lucky - the top I needed/wanted was 50% off!!! This never happens to me, I never get a deal on an item I want. Of course, they didn't have my size, but the clerk called the Plaza Forum location for me and they put it on hold!!!

We ended up having a nice snack and few drinks on the lagoon. I am still fighting a sinus cold, but it was nice to get out. I just love sitting by the water having a nice drink with friends. It's one of the reasons I live here. Right?

Off to Plaza Forum we went where my item was on hold, and guess what?? It fit!!! To be honest I was quite impressed with the service we received. That was almost more of a shocker than finding a strapless top that fit!!!!

This is kinda what my suit looks like.... kinda (google image)

Sooo I'm thinking the sun is shining, and I should give the new top a try!!!

Adios amigos/as!!!

P.S. I needed the strapless for a dress I have to wear in a wedding!! No tan lines in their photos!!!

No queiro fumar!!!

In Mexico I can honestly say that the marjority of my friends are smokers. In Canada, I can honestly say that half of my friends are smokers. I used to smoke, years ago. Smoke a lot... Especially when I was working here in Cancun. As for most smokers when you drink you tend to smoke a bit more.... Well, that was the case for me. I was very fortunate that when I decided to quit, I did. I never looked back.... This was almost 7 years ago now. I have had a smoke here and there, but never more than that, and never bought a pack again. Its' actually been a very long time since even enjoying a drag with a drink.

I am happy to report that Hubby has made the decision he is going to try and quit, again. This time I am trying not to even say anything as I want him to do this himself, for himself. Nada mas. You know? He is now on day 11. He is using the patch, and it's his first time trying with this. I can say he is not as grumpy as alll the other times he's tried ditching the habit. God Bless you patch makers!!! LOL!!

This past Saturday was a test of his will power. As I mentioned in my last post we went out for our friends birthday party, which of course included many drinks, and we were surrounded by a large majority of smokers. I hadn't really noticed the smokers until we got to our friends home. I forgot how bad places wreak when you smoke inside. Laws in Cancun and other parts of Mexico do not allow smoking inside anymore, and it's been this way in Canada for years. So again, I am just not used to it.

When hubby and I got home that night he couldn't believe how bad his shirt stunk, and my hair was disgusting. Normally I wouldnt' shower until the AM, but I couldn't wait. I had to shower that night!! Isn't it funny when I was a smoker I was the exact same way? However, hubby wasn't. This is the first time he's really been able to smell the smoke. You know??

Now, now. I am not bashing anyone who still smokes. Obviously you know it's not good for you, and you don't need me to remind you. As an ex-smoker, I vowed never to ridicule smokers, and I pretty much haven't. To each their own.

Well, day 11 is today, and we'll see what tomorrow brings. For now I love that when he comes to bed I don't smell smoke anymore... It really is a breath of fresh air.

Have you tried quitting? What has worked for you?

Catches up with ya!!

Well, this past week has been full of non-stop action!!! We have been so busy with birthdays', anniversary parties, visiting family, etc... We have had absolutely no time alone!!!!

This past Thursday we had dinner with family, and afterwards we ended up heading down to Playa with some friends to celebrate their wedding anniversary. We went to John Gray's Kitchen which has a fantastic location in Playa, and after a few drinks and tapas we were off to Coco Bongos. Now, I've partied a many nights at the Coco Bongo's location in Cancun, but this was a first for me at this location. All in all it is pretty much the same you get in Cancun, but on a MUCH smaller level. Still a GREAT time, and we were taken care of in rock-star fashion. Well, we ended up getting home at 5:30 in the morning!!! Oh man, remind me not to do that again!! I just can't handle it anymore.

Saturday was even better. It was one of our closest friends birthday parties. We were given a catamaran for the day, and we took full advantage. The sun was shining, the breeze was perfect, and the water even better. We stopped for a late lunch on Isla Mujeres, but other than that we were on the waters the entire day.

We got back to Cancun around 7:00, and decided the party was only just beginning. We ended up going to our friends house for the night, and had even more friends join us. Don't you just love "unplanned"  nights? They always turn out to be so much fun as you had zero expectations. Just love it.

Well, now that the weekend is over I am SICK. I woke up Sunday morning with the WORST sore throat I've had in YEARS. Seriously, I can see white spots on the back of my throat! NASTY! Today it is accompanied with congestion, and a cough. GREAT. My first cold/flu in a year!!! For those of you that don't know - you now need a prescription for ANY antibiotic here in Mexico. So this cold/flu is going to stick around until I see my Doc, but I want to wait one more day to see if I can fight this on my own.

I guess that is what I get for trying to keep up with the young ones. LOL!! I am only making fun of myself as of course I get sick the 2 times I go party. Seriously, what luck is that? My friends who party a few nights a week never seem to get sick. What is their secret???

No exercising for me the next few days. I can already feel the difference, it sucks. I am training for a half marathon by the way. I think I forgot to mention that to you guys??? Oh well, that is for another blog post!!!

Chat sooooon amigos/as!!!! Gonna make me some soup :)

Update

Well, I don't know how, but we have our internet, phone and TV back!!! However, I realllllly don't know how it happened.

Monday morning hubby went to raise some hell at Telmex. Hubby really is a softy so I'm sure it went something like this "Excuse me Sr, but I need to speak with someone to get my lines fixed, NOW, please". Woooow...scarry hubbs!!! Mr. Jose the manager advised hubby that they will do what they can....today.

Hubby and I had to head to our suegros place to use their internet. Without this, hubby doesn't work. Without work, we have no money. Without money, well you get it!!!Hubby had specifically asked Jose the manager to call us if someone was coming to the house. We didn't recieve a call all day, and weren't expecting much. Well, to our surprise when we came home around 5:30 that afternoon we saw a note left on our gate from Telmex. The note didn't say anything, not at what time they came, not at what time or day they'd be back. Nada. Hubby was not impressed as he had specifically asked them to call, and they didn't. SHOCKER!

Okay, well I'm going to have to take some of this smack talk back in a few minutes.... Later that evening we were heading for dinner. We do have an ADT alarm for our house, and we wanted to check it. Some reason we ended up picking up our telephone line, and voila, there it was. We had a signal people. We quickly checked the internet. Voila. Internet, then TV!!!!

Somehow that day Mr. Jose was able to fix everything without stepping a foot into our house, and/or yard? I have noooo clue how, but I don't care. Telmex came through, and in a BIG way.

Nonetheless, we are having Cablemas come today. We are still keeping our services with Telmex (for hubbys work), but we are also going to pay a little bit extra to have Cablemas as our back-up. Afterall, when it comes to businesss (or other things), you don't want to put all your eggs into one basket.

Okay, well I'm off for a workout and some Spanish lessons!!!! Chat soon amigos/as!!!

It's happening again!!

We do not have internet. Which means we do not have television. It just so happens to also mean we do not have a telephone line. It has been 3 days of hell.... LOL. Okay, I am over-reacting just a little, but what the heck? Thank goodness I've been busy!!!

Telmex has been horrible to deal with as usual. We have gone in a few times, we have called their customer service department a few times to report our issues. Every person we speak with tells us another story, and gives us another number to call. Also, each person promises to have someone at our house "today". Well it's been 3 days of waiting, and nada. I have nooooooo idea how long this is going to last for.

How can the richest man in the world be proud of a company that SUCKS so bad. Or maybe that is WHY he's the richest man in the world - monopoly.

It may be a few days before my next post. I'm at my Suegro's right now trying to catch up a bit!!! Soooo sorry to those that I do not email back, but I will get to them!!!!

Why am I paying for 3 services that are not working? This problem has been continuous, and so far Telmex just doesn't care. Grrr....... sooooo frustrating.

Until next time amigos!!!!!!

Officially a Mexicana...jajaja

Acrilicas. Yes, uñas/nails. It seems to me that the majority of the woman here in Cancun have fake nails. Maybe they do back home and I never noticed, but I can sure as heck say none of my friends have them, and nor did I. Until now that is.... EEK!!!

Price list at : Dharma Spa

Truth be told, I have actually had these fake nails of mine for a couple of months now. My cuñada and I go for bi-weekly pedi's and she was getting acryllics put on, and I thought what the heck - let's try them. Actually, I had every intention of having them off by now, but I'm surprisingly really starting to like them. Jajajaja. I used to think they were so impractical, but they are the opposite. I can wash as many dishes as I want, I can swim as long as I want, and they never peel back. Love it. I keep mine VERY natural looking, and short. I still gag when I see some of the ladies in there with their wacko colours, and claw like lengths!!! Too each their own, I guess.

I will say it's kinda a pain in the u-know-what as far as refills go, but it's something my cuñada and I can do together, and it's half the cost it was in Canada. I pay $190 pesos for a refill here. On my last trip to Calgary I paid $57 Cdn!!! Oh well, a girls gotta do what a girls gotta do!!

Cuñada getting her feet and hands worked on :)

I'll let you all know how long these bad boys stay on for.....

Stairs lead up to the waxig rooms...

el grito de independencia de mexico 2010

Well, it seems as though most of my blogging friends have done a great job writing about the 200th Anniversary of Mexico's Independence. I leave the writing to them as I am not very gifted in the subject matter. Also, since I am a tad technically challenged I also leave the videos for youtube. I wanted everyone who wasn't able to see the famous "El Grito" to have a chance to view it now. It is something spectacular, and nothing I can see Stephen Harper doing!!!

Enjoy!

Best sandwiches in Cancun...well in our opinion!

For most readers that saw the title to this blog post, and thought of Tycoz you'd most definitely have to be familiar with Cancun.

Tycoz started as a small restaurant in el centro. They serve all sorts of sandwiches, and they are very reasonalby priced for the quality. I don't know for sure, but the only other Tycoz at the time was also in the Zona Hotelera across from the Presidente Hotel. Therefore, tourists and locals were able to eat these tasty little sandwiches. I lived in Cancun about 8 years ago or so, and those were the only two Tycoz in town. Currently they are EVERYWHERE. They have grown by 200%, or more. There are Tycoz Express next to Oxxo's, Pemex's, everywhere. LOL.

My brother who is visiting Cancun for only his second time asked me "what about those crazy sandwiches, tycoz"? I couldn't believe he remembered as he hasn't been to Cancun in 8 years!!!

Well, it was Monday Night Football, and in our house that means all eyes glued to the TV. I already had it in my mind that there wasn't going to be any way I'd be cooking up a storm. Perfect, Tycoz it was!!!

The football games were okay, but the sandwiches were fantastic! We always order the Baguette de Pechuge de Pollo. Don't think Subway, think gourmet sandwich. These are thick slices of roasted chicken breast, some kind of magic garlic butter sauce, tomatoes, and cheese, all toasted into deliciousness. Hahaha. We usually add the jalapenos, and chipotle, but it's not for everyone. I think it's about $50 pesos or so, and that is for an entire baguette.

Do you have a Tycoz or anything similar in your city??

Change

Just before I left Cancun for Calgary I had an appointment with God. God being my hairstylist Damien, who just happens to love Ricky Martin more than I. Seriously, we argued about it, but I will have to give him this one as he has the upper hand if we were ever to meet the gorgeous hunk! Hahaha...yes, I really used the word hunk.

I was really getting sick of being a blonde. I've been a blonde for basically 29 years. Sure I've tried other colours, but they are always disastrous. Heck, when I was 17 my friend and I went from blonde to black. Literally. I remember my pillow turning purple for a week, and the bottom of my shower looked as though food colouring was being used for 2 weeks. Needless to say black did not suit this chica so back to blonde it was.

The change room

The trouble with blonde in Cancun is the hi-lites I have added turn white from the sun, and my roots look so dark next to them. So I really wanted something a bit more "natural". Who knows what that is anymore, but anything that is less maintenance sounds good to me.

Nails?

I go to a salon here in Cancun called Adrian Pereyra Salon. Adrian is the owner, from Argentina and has been here for years. He is fantastic. I have many friends who see him. I actually see his nephew Damien who is the sweetest guy ever, and definitely a prankster. More importantly he is phenomenal, and truly loves his job. He does a great job colouring and styling. Not to keen about his cuts as he is a little too scissor happy for me, but I'll put up with it as hair grows back, and his colouring technique is top notch. However, the best part??? He throws in hair treatments for FREE if he likes you. So I usually get a $500 peso shine treatment, or a $800 peso humidity treatment...for FREE!!!! I feel kinda bad for some of my friends who don't get it, and like I said earlier he is not crushing on me so hubby has nada to worry about. Jajajaaja.

My cunada and the salon

Anyways, for a cut, colour, hi-lites and style my tab is usually running around the $1200 peso mark. Th s less than $120 usd, and he doesn't accept tips!!! I try, but he won't take it. He loves his job. Did I mention the free treatments he throws in??!!! Yay for me!! Yay for free!!

So I took a few photos as I thought it would be funny. Everyone be kind...I know I am not the only one who looks like a roll of saran wrap at the salon!!!

Yours truly...that is the heat lamp ON my head!!!

For those interested Adrian Pereyra salon is located on Avenida Labna, and Calle Antilope 998-892-4840.

Body shock!

Well I have officially been back in Cancun for 2 days now, and I am slowly getting used to things again... Hahaha, my body is in utter shock with the high humidity and heat it´s now enduring. I am running the A/C all day, and drinking as much water as I can. I can´t believe in 3 short weeks I lost my ability to acclimatize to the clima here in Cancun. I am hoping I´ll be back to normal next week.

This morning I thought of the perfect thing to help beat the heat : Jugo de Piña. My husband´s family really enjoy making fresh juices almost daily, and I´ve learnt a little bit from them. Back home if it didn´t come from the market, I didn´t drink it. Here I have learnt just how simple it can be, and what a health benefit fresh juices can be.

The recipe I used today is from a food blogger named Laylita, and boy oh boy is it delicious!!

1 Pineapple peeled, cored, and cut into medium sized chunks
6 cups of water
Juice from 1 fresh lime
Sugar to taste (optional)

Working in batches place the pineapple chunks with the water, sugar and lime juice in the blender, and blend well. Strain the juice and serve with ice.

Okay, well I´m off to enjoy the sun as I lost any colour I did have while in Canada the past few weeks!!!

Enjoy !!!


***Recipe courtesy of fellow blogger : Laylita at http://laylita.com and photo courtesy of google image ***

Final days

My visit back home is coming to an end, and I think I'm satisfied with all that I was able to do. Of course I was not able to see everyone I wanted, and I'm sure some feelings are hurt, but what can one do?? I have been running around non-stop and still have a ton to do before I leave Wednesday morning!!!

I guess I could have much larger things to complain about then having too many friends, and family that want to see me!!! I think with this trip home I truly realized what I meant to so many people. I dont' mean that in the "oh I'm so popular" kind of way. I mean it in the WOW thank you for caring enough to take time to want to see me kinda way.

Main Street, Canmore, AB

This weekend my mom., step-dad, brother and his friend decided to head up to Canmore, Alberta. Spend some time in the beautiful Canadian Rockies!!! My parents have a place out there, and it would have been a shame if we didn't take advantage and head out. It's roughly 45 minutes drive from their front door!!

My favourite sitting place

We have had a great time together walking around the town, shopping, cooking, and drinking some great bottles of wine. Its hard to believe that in less than 72 hours I will be back home in Cancun, and not a mountain in sight. I think Canmore is one of the places I miss the most to be honest. We always have such a wonderful time when we come, and it's so relaxing. 

Main Street, Canmore, AB

As I post this I am sitting on their couch next to their stone fireplace, staring out the huge bay windows with a view of the snow capped Rocky Mountains..... What better way to end my trip!

Back in the real world

Wow, so I am back in my hometown Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Instead of beautiful clear skies, and fresh mountain air we are breathing in smoke from all the BC forest fires. It is terribly sad, and in all the years I lived in Calgary we never had a air quality warning that I can remember, until now of course.

The weather is not great, and is getting cooler. The forecast shows it warming up a bit sometime next week.... Oh please, oh please!!!

Weather aside, I am actually missing some things about Mexico. Not all, but some noticeable things. For example, in Mexico when someone enters an office, store, etc... you usually greet everyone  "buenas tardes", or "con permiso". Here in Canada not a word! I dont' know if people in Canada just don't have time, or we just learnt to be scared of everyone! LOL! In all honesty, I never would have walked into a room and greeted everyone before living in Mexico either.

However, I also realize how much I really do miss in Canada. My famiily is an obvious. FOOD. I miss all food. Kidney beans, baked beans, Salt n Vinegar chips, super great restaurants!!!! Wearing high heals, wearing make up, straightening my hair, shopping. My list could go on and on....

Everyone keeps asking me if I'm happy in Mexico, and I find myself always saying the same thing "Yes, the weather is great". I don't know what that means exactly? I know hubby never wants to live in Canada ever again....Oh well, for now I'm just gonna enjoy my family, and friends, and in a week I'll be back to my new life in Mexico.

Thank goodness I'll be back here for Christmas...aww...I miss my family already.

Spanglish

I know, I know. I am officially one of the worst bloggers out there. I don´t post often enough, and when I do I forget to take pictures, etc... I promise I´ll really try working harder at it.

I´ve been keeping myself quite busy. So busy that one of our favourite bloggers out there Gringation and I have had to reschedule a drink 3 times!!! I´m actually headed back to Calgary this week for 3 weeks. Escaping the heat for the cold. Seriously, I keep hearing how cold Calgary is. My point is maybe with all my time up there I can write some posts I´ve been wanting to : day in Puerto Morelos, etc...

You´ll all be happy to know that I am still going strong on my new lifestyle change. Have I lost a pound? Not even one. Can I see a difference? Not at all. However, what can one expect in a month. I know the first to go will be my chest, and the last my ass. Isn´t that the way it always works??!!!

Aside from this huge change in my lifestyle I´ve also started studying Spanish daily. I study for an hour every morning, and really try using what I´ve learned while out, with my maid, with hubby, definitely with my in-laws. It´s been great. I told myself that I definitely don´t want to be on of those people who have been living here in Cancun for 5 years and still are unable to communicate. Sooo....intense studying is what it will take.

For those interested I am using a program by Visual Link. It is fantastic, and I can honestly say you will learn a lot from using these discs. My dad was referred to them by a friend of ours who is mormon. Apparently these lessons are used for those that are preparing to go on their mission to a foreign country.

I can honestly say I´ve already seen a huge improvement in my grammar, and that is huge. The key for anyone trying to learn any other language (this will be my 3rd) is that you MUST practice. I studied French in school for 11 years, and ask me what I know now? Un petit. LOL.

Again, I know I ask for it a lot, but wish a gal some luck!!!

Choices made easy....

Since moving to Mexico I just haven`t been the same. I haven`t felt the same, and certainly haven`t looked the same. One would have thought that with all my extra time I would have started working out and taking better care of myself, right? Well, I didn`t and boy oh boy did my body feel it.

I started seeing my Dra here a few months ago as hubby and I really want to have a baby. She sent me for some blood work, and we were shocked with the results. Apparently I am low in zinc, Vitamin B, and a few other essential nutrients. I mean I was relieved as it explained a lot. Why am I exhausted? Why am I getting headaches, etc... At first I just put it all on a new life. Change in climate, etc....

Well, my Dra had a entirely different answer. Stress. I don`t share a lot of my own personal information on my blog. That is my choice. Sure I show pics of my dogs, where I go on a weekend getaway, but really not much else... I am, and always have been pretty private, but I do have stuff going on in my life just like everyone else. Anyways, I digress.

Well, rather than sit on my butt doing nothing about it I have made some life changes recently. For starters, I am now taking a number of vitamin supplements that my Doc wanted me on, I have given up caffeine entirely, absolutely zero artificial sweeteners in my diet, and I am even trying to have only a glass of wine or two a night. LOL. That has got to be the toughest one for me. I love wine. Red wine specifically. However, the major difference in my life?? Back to the gym!!! I started in a Pilates class a few months ago, but had to stop as I just wasnt`able to make it to my class anymore.

Ever since I have started working out again (been 2 weeks, daily) I have been feeling great. I`m not just saying that. I feel awesome. I really have no excuse as we have a room in our house with all of our equipment in it. I do cardio, and weights every day. I planned on only doing 5 days a week, but I`m really liking it. I go easier on some days, than others, but now I remember WHY I used to work out all the time.

Look at my exhausted work-out partner :)

Anyways, I wanted to write about it, and plan on sharing stories of my success, and failures. I`m not necessarily doing it to lose weight, but heck if I happen to, great. I actually researched my BMI and I`m smack in the middle of the pack. In theory I could actually lose 10 pounds and still be average for my height and weight.

On my bike :)

Anyways, hopefully I stick with it, and in a few months time hubby and I can start trying!!!! Until then, wish me luck!!

Weekend fun!

This past weekend hubby and I had the pleasure of going to the Cancun and Beach Palace Resorts here in the Cancun Hotel Zone. Yes, we went to both. Both resorts are absolutely amazing, and I would recommend them to anyone. Pools are amazing, beach was perfect, and food was pretty good.

I know I live here in Cancun, but I often forget how beautiful the beaches here really are. The Caribbean Sea is like no other I´ve ever seen. My friends 8 year old daughter in Canada told her mom it looks like Kool-Aid, and heck, she is right!! It is so beautiful that it´s hard to believe it´s real sometimes!!

                                                                    Hubby enjoying the view

I really want to make an effort to head to the beach more often, and enjoy one of the main reasons I agreed to live here. The beach!!!

                                                      Could you eat breakfast here everyday??

Again, I had to use my phone to take all my pictures as my camera died just as I finished taking the first picture. It always seems to work like that, doesn´t it??!! LOL!!

Okay, so since I plan on heading the beach more often, I better hit the gym.

                                                                One of the 2 rooftop pools

Nos Vemos!