Wild Ride on the Beach

Our neighbour Lorne took six of us on a wild ride up and down the beach in what is called the safari mobile. It is a converted 1994 Suburban with no sides and a roof that looks pretty rickety. They had driven it down from Calgary many years ago and had parked it under a carport covered with bouganvilla vines. The plant was watered everyday and eventually the roof of the car was destroyed. Lorne had it made into the safarimobile. It can go on the beach and also can get stuck in the soft sand. Lorne skillfully drove it and the men only had to push it out of the sand a few times. We were covered in sand by the time we returned. Between the exfoliating properties of the sand and the bouncing massage like ride we thought we had been to the spa! It was lots of fun with friends. On the way back we went through the streets of Chila. It seems the whole month is devoted to celebrations and festivals of one sort or another. Tonight there are fireworks and we are going as a large group from Vivo. It should be fun. I hope I can stay awake! The fireworks aren't starting until midnight.

Update:

Last night we did go to Bajos de Chila for the entertainment and fireworks.

"Chilas' biggest Celebration by far is the February Festival. It Covers 15 days of parades, fiestas, rodeo events, horse racing, cockfights, a midway with games, rides, food and all manner of merchandise offered on main street turned midway. In the midst of the February festival, Dia de la Amory de la Mistad on February 14th is celebrated as the day of love and friendship, ending with fireworks."

Elaine organized a large group from Vivo and we had seating in a restaurant area from 9PM-1AM. We took cars and found parking near the entrance of Chila and then walked through all the amusement area, food stalls, shirts, shoes, housewares, etc. to find our place right near the town square in the shadow of the church. It was packed with nationals and a very few others like us. It was exciting and loud. I wished I knew Spanish so I would have been able to understand the commentary that went along with the dances and performances on stage. They told stories of traditions that would have been interesting if I understood them. Beer was 20 pesos as were soft drinks. No wine just tequila was on hand. I stuck to coke. The fireworks started earlier than expected and were amazing. They were loud and bright and seemed to go on for a very long time. We had prime seats for viewing yet just far enough away to be safe. Sparks and smoke were flying every where. We ate tacos and pizza. The evening ended around midnight and to my surprise I was wide awake. It was a fun, interesting evening because we were able to share in a genuine Mexican festival.

Today we are off to Agua Blanca for lunch and swimming. Before that we will tour a large villa called Casa Rubia that belongs to the developer of Vivo, Cary Mullen. We are going with Elaine and Lorne (Carey's parents and our next door neighbours here).