August 2013 we left Austin, Texas for retirement in Mexico. After more than a year of research and planning, visiting and asking questions, we thought we knew something of what we were getting into. Jajaja – that’s laughing in Spanish.
Two years later we are still not living in our own home. Dismantling our expectations has been a daily practice. We are however within spitting distance of completing construction, but my patience is wearing thin. Lisa on the other hand is calm, cool and collected. A real role reversal for us! She is keeping me sane, saner? sanish? Here is a house progress report.
The palm frond overhangs protect from sun and rain. They will be completed this week.
Creating a rebar mold for a poured concrete bathroom sink.
A lip creates an area for potted plants to create a “jungle” in our shower. Note the light from skylights.
Yesterday we sat in the corner of our porch enjoying the breeze. We’ve come so far.
Tile on the roof adds another layer of insulation from the heat.
The appliances have been purchased. The windows will be installed this week. As rooms are finished we can begin to move items from our present location. We are so close. My present anxiety is clearly stupid. There is no hurry. I am believing the lie that my happiness is dependent on where I live. I could be happy if only…. It’s a good thing I have Lisa who chooses to be happy no matter what. We make a good team.
DOS TORTAS
the adventures of dos tortas 
Casa is looking marvellous! Can’t wait to see it this winter. Jo
LikeLiked by 1 person
We can paint on the roof!
LikeLike
Ah yes…..I remember way back in time when I thought building a house in Mexico would be quick AND cheap. Sigh….my expectations have altered over the years. It took us about 10 years to get ours “complete”. It’s still a work in progress.
Count your blessings though because it does look like you are both close and can have the advantage of monitoring the work. We got ours built over the phone and through annual visits. Workers here do not read blueprints or drawings of any kind and even though my wife is from this small town, not much advantage as it turns out.
One funny (well now funny) thing we had built via phone conversations, was the roof to our upstairs bedroom. I wanted a slightly sloping but mostly flat roof to it where I could have a palapa or other shade where we could sit and watch the view but allow the water to drain off. In order to access the roof, I ordered a mariners ladder installed and an opening to the roof. Imagine my surprize when I first saw it: the ceiling was about 15 feet high on one side and 9 on the other. The anle of roof slope matched the ski jumps you see in Olympic competitions. The mariners ladder was installed on the highest wall. Hmmm.. The workers wanted to see us climb it as they could not imagine why we wanted it that way. “We” didn’t. Sigh. Just let it go and have a funny story to tell later.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for the laugh. We have heard from others who are not in close proximity and the surprises they’ve had building. Our biggest advantage has been our builder. He is Canadian with 15 years experience building in Mexico. The best part is that he is always happy! He has a great crew. We have had few surprises and all could be fixed before they got expensive.
LikeLiked by 1 person
That roof looks like a wonderful stargazing patio. Can you sit up there? Loving your insights!
LikeLiked by 1 person
There will be an upper room to get hypnotized by the view by day and stars by night.
LikeLike
The best laid plans do have a habit of tripping us up. But look what you’ve achieved. It will be something to proud of. And, in fact, it already is.
LikeLiked by 1 person
So true Jack! Even six months ago we were at a standstill. It’s my own impatience and I know it’s stupid. I appreciate the support.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I sure looks wonderful. Love the color!
LikeLike
I’ve never been a brown person. Mexico is the land of color. So many people build for “resale” value. Not us. This is where we want to live!
LikeLike
Colors look great!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love being surrounded by color. The camera doesn’t begin to do it justice.
LikeLike
Alex and Lisa, Hey this is progress! Read The Caliphs House, A Year in Morrocco. Just in case you need a reality check on how well things are actually going! XO Lois…Roberta’s seestah…
LikeLiked by 2 people
Hey Lois… We are having a blast. People who have built in Bacalar keep us grounded with how well we’ve got it. We hear, “well when WE were building…” The event of Home Depot this year was a game changer. While their infrastructure is horrible, the selection is similar to what is found in Cancun, four hours away.
LikeLike
Oh Alex, the house looks wonderful already. I love it! Can’t wait to see more pictures. It will definitely be worth the wait when it is finished. Love you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I am so going to enjoy the dark from our roof! Stars and more stars. Definitely worth the wait.
LikeLike
OMG, I know you’re anxious but your house is looking incredible!!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Some of the louvered windows went in today. Can’t wait for you to see it.
LikeLike