REFLECTIONS

HIGH MOUNTAINS & HARDY PEOPLE

In the central area of Mexico where I traveled, there were imposing mountains everywhere. They were either at a distance or I was driving through them. They are such a force of nature and to imagine centuries of people traversing through these mountains reminds me why Mexicans are such hearty people. I think of all the amazing Mexican employees who ran my farm with such care and commitment and what an honor it is to finally visit their country.

FIVE THOUSAND MEMORABLE MILES

I ended up driving 5,000 miles. Getting to Mexico was easy. Driving in Mexico was a challenge. At first I stayed on the toll road but it was not so interesting so I went on the non-toll roads. The only problem was the Topes or speed bumps. They are huge! Often times they are not marked so you really have to pay attention. Sometimes, if there is a tree creating shade, the bumps are hard to see. You slam on your brakes, too late - and EVERYTHING in the van goes flying! The orbiting objects and the bumpy roads had Bondo shaking the whole time.

Then there is the very polite and graceful dance of making a two lane road into a three lane road. It is not uncommon for oncoming traffic to drive down the center of the road to pass. Everyone simply pulls over and continues driving on the shoulder. If someone wants to pass you, they would beep or you would notice them and you pull over and drive on the shoulder. It seems that everyone knows the steps to this dance!

The rhythms of life in Mexico are memorable. The land is ruggedly beautiful, the people are kind, their artistic creativity is over the top, and the food is delicious!

---