SCARLET PANTIES AND 12 GRAPES!!

The End of 2007

So this is New years Eve in Mexico. We had not planned on much of a celebration but yesterday at L.C.S. (Lake Chapala Society) we met a delightful couple from Nova Scotia. Cathy and Gary MacKenzie. They called this morning to say they had made dinner reservations at "Manix" for the four of us ! How nice. We are to go to their home first for drinks and then we shall all walk to the restaurant. Good to be in the middle of the village sometimes. Manix is offering the following: Hors D'Ouevres, Cesar salad, Squash blossom soupa, Lobster Tail or Prime Rib, Baked Alaska, a glass of Campagne and 12 Grapes (I'll explain that in a minute) all for $30.00 Can. per person. Music and dancing included. So we shall see.....

OK....so here are some of the Mexican traditions for tonight:

If you are weary of the single life don your red panties for love and passion in the coming year!! I like that one.

The men will doll up in natty attire and be free of debt today with a bundle of cash in their pockets.. Some vow donning both a well-worn clothing item and a brand new one will guarantee good luck. This strategy will assure a man that he will remain well dressed and flush through the coming year. (I guess the women don't need this kind of "hope"!)

Other customs: white is chosen to bring good health. Yellow for wealth and abundance. Red for that passion and love!

The 12 Grapes:
As the clock chimes midnight you make a wish while popping each grape into your mouth. (I'll try this one and see how many of you come to visit!)

Another custom..the Ladder:
It's traditional to climb up a ladder and jump to the ground on the last stroke of the clock, leaving behind all negative things with a literal leap into the New Year! I'll pass on that one as appealing as the outcome sounds.

And One More:
Parents often press a few coins or bills into their children's hands as midnight approaches to assure that the little ones get the New year off to a prosperous start! Like that one. Daddy???

Like people everywhere around the globe we and some Mexicans will toast each other with a glass of bubbly .and share hugs and good wishes all round.

However you all chose to celebrate the arrival of 2008 Jack and I wish all of you a year blessed with health, prosperity and happiness. Happy New Year.