This week included the fun celebration of my birthday. I love turning 64 and all the learning opportunities that come with it. We had guests visiting from Austin and it was delightful to see their eyes sparkle as they took in our home and our laguna. Photos can’t compare with direct experience.

Alex and Isa taking selfies at Restaurant La Playita
The fall I took a month ago limited the activities available to us for the day. I decided against visiting the prison in Chetumal where prisoners make and sell hammocks and other artesanias. Too much walking. I’ve also wanted to take my mother-in-law to Mahahual on the Caribbean. There’s a lovely malecón/boardwalk, and we pass an organic farm on the way home. Again, too much walking. So with our friend David driving, we went to visit the Mennonite community west of Bacalar.
David took us to visit a family that he had worked with previously. The dad is an ace mechanic. We got to take some pictures with the family. They gave us homemade cheese and rolls. The Mennonites speak high German and enough Spanish to bring their wares to market.

Cow’s milk cheese and homemade rolls made a tasty lunch.
Life is simple and that includes transportation.

Horse-pulled buggies with blond, blue eyed children checking us out.
The afternoon wrapped up back at home with a birthday cake among friends.

Mocha tres leches mmmmm.
It was such a sweet day. And truth be told. Everyday is the best day of my life.
I had no idea Mennonites were in Mexico. Who knew? Glad you enjoyed your birthday and the cake looks lovely.
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Yes, there are very large communities in Mexico and Belize.
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Congratulations and many happy returns!
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Aww Jack, thanks. 😊😊😊
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Feliz cumpleanos, Alex! And good job with the post, quite entertaining, Cheers!
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Thanks Bruce, it was a fun day.
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Hello! My wife and I are in Bacalar for the first time. We’re renting a casa near Hotel Laguna. I saw some of the Mennonite’s, got interested in them, did a search and landed on you’re website. It’s cool! Love your story and your energy!
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How cool is that! We love Bacalar. Hope your visit is going well. How long will you be here?
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Headings out tomorrow afternoon. Staying in Tulum tomorrow night I believe. We might go down to Chetumal and check it out as we’ve never been there.
We’re enjoying Bacalar greatly, walked around the town a lot yesterday, toured the fort, walked down the Costa and had some drinks and dinner.
Glad we are getting to see it before the Starbucks and jet-ski rentals get here!
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Enjoying your posts. Happy birthday! Here’s to another 365 days to celebrate!
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So true A. Hope your retirement is going the way you wanted. Love to you.
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Happy Birthday!!! and love love the quote…it is so true and I needed the reminder. Love to you
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Thanks L. We have a great life!
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I sure love you
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Love you too dear friend.
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Love this post. So true about our destination wishes. Thanks for the reminder that our happiness is now. Better enjoy where we are. I continue to enjoy your writing Alex.
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Lovely to hear from you Ellen. We are so blessed. Glad you enjoy the blog.
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Lovely day!
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Thanks for stopping by Em. It was a lovely day.
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