Our Third Christmas in Mexico

I have struggled with the blog this year as I do not want to bore my readers with things said in other years.

But Christmas is so different here and I thought I would do a little comparrison for you, and for me.

I have mused before that life in this part of Mexico is simple and tranquil. We all enjoy the simple pleasures of life once again. So Christmas comes along and nothing much changes. The Mexicans treat this holiday with their traditions, like the "posadas" (processions reinacting Mary and Joseph's search for a place for Mary to give birth) So one by one groups are turned away at doorways until finally one family lets them enter and the singing and eating begin! Charming. On Christmas eve, not before, extensive nativity scenes, with live animals will be set up in the church yard. Gift giving usually happens on the Day of The Three Kings January 6th.

Mexicans seem to really "live in the moment" while we struggle to do this. They seem to enjoy the process of the festivities, content to let it unfold as it will, making the best of whatever is available. many families here can't afford gifts, decorations or feasts but they still seem to be filled with the joy of being together.

A lovely lady, Judy King, who lives here in this village put it right. "The best contrast between the holidays north and south of the border is that while gifts are anticipated and appreciated here, they are not the focus of the holiday. Children often accompany parents to the store and receive their new toy on the spot!" Most village families don't plan special feasts for Christmas. They enjoy an everyday supper of tamales or tacos with a fruit drink, or one made with hot milk, sweetened condensed milk and flavoured with cinnamon. Delicious! A little rum added might be nice too.....

Most of the village houses are decorated with a string of lights. But bonfires are lit in the streets and people sit around chatting and drinking and enjoying each other. A little music and some simple food complete the party. Mothers are not exhausted and frazzled by the preparations to make the holiday "Perfect". Our wise Mexican neighbours keep a great Christmas truth..."enjoy every day of the season and keep their focus on those they love", says Judy King. She is so right. Maybe we can learn from these loving people.

So we wish you all a peaceful, happy, loving Christmas with your dear families and friends. We will be thinking of you all.