It’s mid-September already.
We are going through the process of temporary residency renewal. The first trip to the Immigration office in Playa Del Carmen was easy. I researched and had all the necessary paperwork completed. We are now waiting for email information on the next step. It’s never a one stop venture through the system. We expect to take a few more trips to the INM office before its renewed. Have to appreciate the fact there is “no rush” in Mexico to get things completed.
Since we will be leaving the area at the end of November, there are several other items that have to be completed before we can drive the car back to the States.
Life is a slower pace here.
No one is in a rush to do finish a project.
The condo maintenance guy comes by once or twice a week to cut the lawn. It’s funny to watch him. He cuts trees and bushes in a haphazard way and throws the cuttings in the jungle area next door.
He may clean the pool of some leaves, but no real cleaning maintenance is done. I guess as long as he sees the water looks clear, it’s good to go.
Little conveniences are minimal
Many local residents have absolutely none of the conveniences that we have to make life easy. Yet, they appreciate every day and have smiles on their faces.
Dirty Clothes are no hassle here. Once a week, dirty clothes are bought to the laundry. The cost is approximately $5-6 to have them cleaned, dried and neatly folded. Locals have to wash clothes by hand and hang them on the clothes lines likely located on the roof of the house.
Cooking is easy with a stove/oven in the kitchen. I have seen several homes where the kitchen is outside. Very little shade to protect them from the sun as they cook for the family. One lady cooks on an old stove with only one working burner. The oven is for storage. Majority of the cooking is on an open fire pit. Some living in the jungle only have the open fire pit.
We know about drinking the water in Mexico. The faucet water is for washing and cleaning in the bathroom or kitchen. Lots of families don’t have running water in the home. Theys have to go outside to fill containers to haul water back into the home. In addition, draining can become a problem. The systems here suck. They clog up frequently.
Then, of course, the heat index can reach to 103+ degrees. We can retreat inside the condo with the air conditioning keeping us cool. The locals don’t have this convenience. They may have a few fans to circulate the hot air. Others live deep in the jungle with only the cool breeze that flows through the trees that shade them.
I’m very Grateful that this area was missed by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma. I have friends and relatives in both States and glad they are fine in the aftermath.
It’s the Rivera Maya and life is wonderful with the Caribbean Sea nearby. Life is good. I’m learning to appreciate every moment of life gives to me.
Many times I have to remember to be grateful for the little things; like relaxing on the couch and reading all day.
Don’t forget to check out some of the ads that interest you!!!
60plusandfearless,
Dianne
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