December 15th - hazy days

I've been working my way through the $45MXN litre bottle of rum that my good friend Dave gave me.  While straight shots from the bottle are a little on the astringent side, when combined with ice, a lime, and coke, it makes for just a lovely beverage.

Visitors of friends of ours had their stay extended an extra day, courtesy of West Jet, who were forced to cancel their flight due to volcanic ash over Puerto Vallerta.  It turns out the volcano at Colima (roughly 200 Km. SE) is erupting, and throwing ash for 170 Km.  It turns out that the haze that's been around for the last few days is not humidity, but volcanic ash.  I have vowed not to go jogging until the air clears somewhat...

December 2016 Colima volcano

While Cam waits for a jogging opportunity, I have continued to do the morning walk.  Today, we stopped for coffee at our favourite break spot and one of the ladies presented the restaurant owner with a cream pitcher that has a screw on top and sliding opener.  He has been bringing our leche (milk) in a cup.  She has been going there for many years and he was pleased with her present.   She said now he can serve these Canadian ladies their milk in it.   She said "and it was mucho expensive".  He hesitated then they both had a big laugh.  Turns out it leaked when we got our milk.  He was concerned she would be disappointed and I could tell he was trying to reassure her that her gift was worthy.  He said don't worry he will put some plumbing tape on it and it should be fine.
He had been closed yesterday morning and we had to go across the street.  That restaurant gave 7 of us free toast and jam with our coffee.  One of the ladies said it was an attempt to lure our business there.  We tipped them well.

We also walked through the Thursday market where I picked up some Red Snapper, lemon cake, and a few gifts.  Then back in time for the Christmas dinner planning meeting.  The hummingbirds were also flinging themselves at me as these early morning walks delay the refill on the feeders.  They are drinking a couple of litres a day.  They also now hover within inches of my hands while I hang the feeders and hover/zoom around our heads demanding sustenance.