So, this is naturally a time to reflect on our feelings and thoughts about Mazatlan after our third winter. One major aha stands out for me.
I have never really been someone who had a lot interest in things like "culture" and art. I'm a left-brainy gal, not big on emotions and feelings. But slowly over this particular winter, I became aware of just how much those types of things add to one's enjoyment of life and cause you to form an stronger attachment to places like this. I had not known much about Jackie Peterson and the hard work she has done for many years to encourage the sharing of cultural events between the locals and the gringos. I did not know until she died. Her memorial service was an eye-opener.
We made many new friends this winter, and got to know some old ones better. Back in Alberta, our circle of friends is tiny. We have lived there for 9 years. And we live in a relatively small town - about 20,000 people. Still, life north of the border simply does not lend itself to the kind of social life we have here. It's not just that most of the gringos here are retired and have more time to make and be friends, although that might be part of it. For me, it has a lot to do with living in historic Centro which is like a small town onto itself, except one walks everywhere and that means you are apt to run into people you know all around town and spend a few minutes chatting, maybe even sit down and have a drink or a meal on the spur of the moment. Going out with friends anywhere doesn't mean getting in your car, driving somewhere in heavy traffic, finding parking, and then repeat to go home. And, if you want to enjoy a cocktail or two with dinner, well, you can't because one of you will have to drive home. The entire experience in Mazatlan is completely easy and relaxed. I love that. I'm quite certain living here extends your life - and if not, you will enjoy it immensely while you are alive.
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