Life on a Roller Coaster



Once a cousin told me “Susan, your life is like a roller coaster but I am happy on my merry-go-round”. What a great metaphor for life!


The Lake Chapala area of Mexico is home to over 10,000 ex-patriots and it is said there are four women to every man. One of the popular sayings here is that the men are looking for a “nurse with a purse” and while there are many women up for that role, I really don’t know any of them.


Life here can be much like a crazy ride as people learn to navigate a different country, culture, and laws; although, some will argue there are no laws. So, no surprise to hear the incredible life stories of the women who show up here with their lives in three suitcases and others with a complete house in tow.


One quality we share is a sense of adventure and rather than fearing the horse will bolt from the merry-go-round, we grab the safety bar on the scariest ride and get ready to scream.


As this dark, sad year draws to a close,  friends are moving on and discovering new adventures. One woman has moved twice in eighteen months and she now splits her time between two 5th wheel campers. Summers in northern California and winters in the southern region of that state. She was craving to connect with nature, so her campgrounds are isolated in the rocky forests, allowing deep reflection. Did I mention that she is in her mid to late ’70s and still follows her heart? Check out her blog, http://www.joycewycoff.com/,  and follow her adventures and discoveries.  Another close friend from Ajijic has decided that living the beach life is more to her liking. So December 28th, as we close the door on this shitty year, she is beginning a new chapter in Puerto Vallarta. Both of these women are wise enough to be concerned but brave enough to venture into new territory.


Vodafone had a contest a few years ago, challenging people to do something new. This is one of my all-time favorite videos about life, it is never too late to step out of one's comfort zone. Click on the link below...you will enjoy this!


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EhtWUMt91lY



 




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