Welcome to Kat's Korner El Rincon de la Gata - The San Felipe Scoop

THIS IS DARRYL SILVA OF RANCHO EL DORADO, SAN FELIPE, BAJA CALIFORNIA - MEXICO - And these are "Dario's Baja Salutations"

KAT'S KORNER'S ACE ELDO PERIODISTA

Full Moon El Dorado Style - Posted December 11, 2009

In the old country I’d watch the moon come and go, really never paying too much attention to its cycles. Much of the time it was too cloudy to even see “Luna” as it is know to my grandkids. Once in a while we may be camping, fishing or otherwise less hurried and so felt that we might have the time to look up and soak it all in. It was a magical moment. Especially when viewed through the eyes of a young child. Maybe it’s your grandchild. It’s almost like you are seeing it for the first time all over again. You are taken back to a time when perhaps your father or grandfather may have shared this moment with you. Of course it wasn’t only the fact that the moon was beautiful and magical, it was also the special time you were spending with someone you cared about. But maybe even more important, spending that special time with someone that you knew cared about you too.

As we grow older, busier and more “sensible” we tend to forget those special times. Those times made us feel so good, so special, so tiny and yet so important to the person standing there next to us. Thinking back, I’ll venture to say that many of the most memorable times of my young life were times spent looking up at the universe splattered out like a painting for us to enjoy. I can still remember as a very young boy my mother showing me “The Man in the Moon”. I was mesmerized by what I determined to be an old balding man winking back at me. It was almost spooky! I remember wondering if I’d ever see the “Cow jumping over the Moon”. Soon enough though, maturity came crashing into my young life. Before too long it was evident there really was no man up there. And as for that athletic bovine? Well, if there wasn’t a man up there, I figured the chance of a flying cow was pretty slim too.

My point here is that from time to time there are a few triggers that get pulled that may take you back. Way back to another place and time. Some are good times others may not be so great. My friend Luna falls solidly into the positive category.

Slide the time line forward about fifty years or so and here I am in a magical place called San Felipe. El Dorado Ranch to be more precise. Someone at La Palapa Restaurant tells me and my wife Vickie about this thing called "The Full Moon Mixer". It’s a big beach party!! They said it would be happening that very night. We asked what it was all about. The man was nice enough to do a great selling job on us. It did sound like it could be fun! If nothing else it would be a memory maker. You know one of those experiences that really turned out to be a waste of time, money and energy. But hey, they were memories. Maybe we could make it.

Almost four years later we are still looking forward every month to The Mixer. In the beginning Luna was celebrated by a group of people just gathering around to have a good time. The El Dorado HOA Activities Staff were suddenly transformed into Hotdog chefs. To be honest, not much coordination was apparent. But heck it was fun! It was a reason to party and visit with new, old and soon to be good friends. We would find people that were our neighbors here in San Felipe. Other times we would find people from the old country that lived near us and had just never met them before. What a wonderful opportunity to expand ones ability to befriend people. If we had all stayed in our previous homes, in our previous lives, we may have never met these people!! How cool is that?? Something bigger and grander is obviously going on here.

Now the Mixer has been transformed into something like we used to enjoy in our previous lives known as a “block party”. You remember. Everyone shows up at a predetermined location. It would usually be scheduled on a weekend because of our never ending work week. It seemed like it was always held in the front yard of the house with the best manicured, most perfect yard. Not a bad thing really, but the guy always rubbed that fact in everyone’s face!! Heck if you didn’t have a life your yard could look like a butch haircut too! But hey, we’re here to have fun. Fun damn it!! We are going to enjoy this Marge!! I told you it would be fun! Now smile!! I swear, tomorrow I’m bringing my hundred pound Lab down here and introducing him to this guy’s yard.

We would each bring a chair, something delicious to eat and a side dish to share with others. Enjoyed in this type atmosphere all the different foods tasted better than ever. Then some guy with a $60,000.00 stainless steel grille would always be in charge of burning the meat. He then shows you the tiles that are made of the same special material used on the space shuttle. Again! Will this crap never end? Fun Marge fun! Tell me why was your slice of heaven always burnt crispy on the outside yet still bleeding internally? Your $20.00 per pound steak somehow tastes like chicken!! Burnt cardboard chicken! You begin looking around knowing that someone has your beef and you ended up with this Clucker!! You start to wonder why in the world I even bother trying to deal with all this! I gotta go to work in twelve hours!! Oh what fun this is! Smile! Give me a Bud! Quick!

Taking a page from that playbook but leaving out all the pain, Jorge and the HOA Activity Staff have now brought in a professional hotdog chef. He is armed with a great mobile kitchen ready to serve up the most delicious wieners available anywhere. He has all the fixin's too! Great grilled mushrooms, onions and the best spicy hot peppers in Baja. The cost? Well, that’s not bad either. How does free sound? Just bring your El Dorado HOA ID, something to drink, a side dish and a comfy chair. Now how simple is that?
No manicured lawns in sight. Nary a Stainless Steel self propelled barbecue with mag wheels and space shuttle tiles parked anywhere either.

But the main event is still yet to come. When Mr. Luna does finally make his appearance it is truly awe inspiring! You look over at your neighbors, and your extended San Felipe family. You give thanks for such a moment. Suddenly you realize that there are people somewhere in the world studying travel brochures with this or similar magical views highlighted as a place they could someday visit. And you and I are blessed enough to live here. To live this dream!

When I stand on our beautiful beach with a little moisture in my eye, grandkids by my side and tell them about the man in the moon I come to realize what the term “full circle” really means. It’s not the great food. Nor is it the beach with all our friends and family that makes it special. And quite honestly it’s not even all about the moon.  It’s the knowing and the recognition of how special and how blessed we are to live in this place. This place we call home. A special place called San Felipe.

The River Dance San Felipe Style - A.K.A. Line Dancing - posted October 30, 2009

Back in my other life in the “old country” I had the opportunity to go see a group of dedicated albeit young and athletic dancers doing the famed River Dance. This dance apparently originated in Ireland. I’m not sure about the entire history of this amazing dance, except that it was made popular when the men were not readily available to dance with their partners. This may have been due to wars, death or other natural causes. But suffice it to say that after a short while one suddenly realizes that you are watching some very fun loving people that love to dance. After that fun and awe inspiring experience I made it a point of going again and again whenever the group visited our town. These dancers were all relatively young. Perhaps averaging twenty five years old. They were mostly women. The few men that did take part seemed to enjoy dancing just as much as their female counterparts, but as for me anyway I thought they lacked the smooth and effortless movements of the women. Their feet seemed to never even touch the floor. Now of course we are blessed to live in a paradise called San Felipe. Far, far, away from The River Dancers. Or so I thought!

Last Wednesday I was watching the travel channel. There they were!! The River Dancers. I watched and enjoyed them so much. Again I was amazed at their foot work. That same evening I went to Line Dancing classes at The Beach Bar and Grille. Now, I don’t line dance but Nan and Mac host Karaoke that same night. I also go to Karaoke there on Saturday nights, but Wednesday is a little more intimate with fewer people singing. Which of course means each singer gets to perform more songs!! To a true Karaoke junkie like me, that’s a big, big, deal.
Anyway, I was singing and just enjoying the great atmosphere while watching the Line Dancers do their thing. I’ve seen them many times before, but tonight, well tonight they just seemed to be on. Maybe it was just my perspective from watching the River Dancers earlier on TV. I don’t know. But these people were great!!! Nan, Socorro and Judy took extra time to work through every step and move of every song. They even asked me to slow my songs way, way, way, down so they could learn the new dance steps. My gosh! They picked it up almost immediately. Even the novice dancers were smiling, giggling and laughing. They were getting really comfortable with their new dancing skills. I could see in their eyes the look of surprise and pride that they were actually doing this!!! “Hey look everyone, were dancing”!! I took a quick inventory of the dancers and realized that many were now living alone in San Felipe. They may find themselves alone for a variety of reasons. Now they had found an outlet to go have fun without involving anyone else. Just themselves, the beat of the music and their friends on the dance floor enjoying life with them. They may still be living alone, but they are no longer all by themselves. As their skills and confidence grew the music went faster and faster. Before long they were dancing so fast it was hard to follow their feet! I saw a transformation that night and every Wednesday and Saturday night since. The following Saturday even more showed up! Some of these, mostly women had obviously done this before. Their feet moved so fast, their hips rotated and their arms swung around so much I was afraid to go near them. They looked like they could be in training for Dancing with the Stars.

Holy cow!!! I pity the person that dares call any of these women old or over the hill. They may find one of those quick feet up in a place the heckler may not expect a shoe to be. There was a time many, many, years ago when Line Dancing not unlike The River Dance was considered to be a dance for the people that couldn’t find a partner. Now, they are known as the dancers that we could all aspire to be. Most people know my wife Vickie. While Vickie has no inclination to Line Dance she truly enjoys watching these people---no these athletes do their thing. The dancing even makes the music sound better. As a self proclaimed karaoke junkie, I know there is nothing worse than singing to a group of people that don’t even know you are there!! With The Line Dancers, it seems to mesmerize everyone. How could you not enjoy watching this? Their enthusiasm is contagious!! You have no idea how I feel when I see a perhaps seventy year old young woman dance like she was thirty. Then have to admit to myself that I could never do that. Thing is, she probably said those very words not so long ago. Of course, then these same newly converted dancers go home and tell their friends what a great time they had!!!

I mean heck I sing. Well, I try to sing anyway. I don’t really care if anyone out there likes it or not. I’m having fun here! Have we not all earned the right to do something that we enjoy without having to consider if someone else approves? I think approval is way over rated anyway. Maybe this is just my age speaking. But if I enjoy it, and it does nothing to harm anyone else in the process why not do it? What in the world are we all waiting for? You can be sure I’m gonna be there Saturday to watch these wild ones. Holy Cow Robin!!! I just realized it’s Halloween night. I’ve never seen a Goblin or a Witch Line Dance before!! Bet after Saturday night I won’t be able to say that! Wonder what she does with her broom while doing the old slide, shuffle, scuff, skid or whatever those moves are. Maybe I don’t need to know all those secrets anyway.

I guess my point to all this is that we are so blessed to live in a place of such diversity. Not only in climate and geography, but also the diversity of our dear, dear, friends and future friends that call San Felipe their home. Maybe this is just another reason why so many come here to visit and then spend the next several years counting the days till they can come back to live the life they have always dreamed about. The life they saw played out so well for all to enjoy. Activities like Line Dancing and Karaoke make our time and lives here in San Felipe so much richer. This is a life folks that we have been blessed to live. It is our choice now. Are we going to sit on the sidelines watching the world go by? Or, are we going to put on our dancing shoes and go for the gusto life here in San Felipe has to offer?

Not into the dancing and singing? Heck try one of the many other activities offered by El Dorado Ranch. Mexican Train Dominoes, Water Aerobics, Water Volleyball, and their newest offerings. Fishing and Touring the Sea of Cortez. Just to name a few. There is no reason not to enjoy it all!! As for me? Put your ear plugs in place! I’ll be singing my lungs out!!!

The Night the Angels Came to Visit - posted October 22, 2009

Oh my gosh!!! Goddesses and Angels everywhere!! I must be dreaming. Or maybe this was the first annual Ms. Tequila contest!! But wait!! As they say, there’s more. I, Dario de Baja get to be part of the production?? I must be dreaming! For those of you that may have missed this wonderful event, you missed a dandy!! But wait, again there’s more!!! Thursday night October 22, 2009 at 7:00 are finals which will lead to the official crowning of the Ms.Tequila Queen 2009 this same night.

But let me go back a few months when this wonderful event took shape. My wife Vickie was approached by Tim the owner of The Lighthouse Restaurant to coordinate and produce a Ms. Tequila Pageant. This would be for ladies ages thirty five to ???? Well, Vickie being Vickie was all over that like a Duck on a June Bug!! She just kept saying what a wonderful opportunity for all the women of San Felipe to be able take part in such a great philanthropic activity. A portion of the proceeds will go to the soon to be open Casa de Fe Orphanage right here in San Felipe. All the net proceeds stay here. Right here at home where they belong.

The idea was to get as many women as possible to participate in a fun, fun, activity. There would be no swimsuit or talent portion. It was decided that there would be three separate categories on which the participants would be judged. These would include an Interview by the judges, a Sportswear and then an Eveningwear portion. The judging would be done by three judges and a tabulator. Each judge would have the opportunity to ask a question of each candidate in a closed session. Each candidate would then walk down the catwalk or ramp individually, for the judges to evaluate.

Now this is where yours truly finds himself amongst the most beautiful women in Baja!! You see I had been asked, okay, I begged to walk them down the ramps. You see cement ramps and high heels don’t necessarily play well together. And yes my wife Vickie watched me very closely.

I was so taken aback by each and every one of these beauties. Each brave woman brought a different something special to the event. All brought class, sophistication, beauty, grace and a glowing personality. They all sparkled. Some of these awe inspiring women I hardly even recognized!! I mean, they were in gorgeous evening gowns with high heels. Their sportswear ranged from a swimming suit to a tennis outfit. Racquet and all. No torn shorts, tee shirts and old flip flops in sight!!! Are these the same Angels I share a beer and sing karaoke with? Is that possible? No wonder everyone with a lick of sense acknowledges these phenomenal creatures as the superior and stronger sex. I was in total awe.

Those that have the misfortune of knowing me know that I’m not often speechless. But these contestants had my lips quivering with excitement all night!!! I mean just what do you say to a woman that has the courage to step outside of the box. The confidence to leave her comfort zone behind to go experience what life has to offer. Anything I could offer would be meaningless babble. I could see they knew who they were. They were proud and dignified. They were perky and affable. They were flirtatious but with class. I am proud and honored to be able to count each and every one of these winners as my friends!! I know for a fact I will never look at them the same again.

All this going on while Tavo’s band played, and The Lighthouse Staff out did themselves serving drinks and dinner to lots and lots of very upbeat, fun loving and appreciative people. Remember the final results are set for Thursday night October 22nd at The Lighthouse. I believe this is also Dollar Day at The Lighthouse! What a deal.

This is of course a prelude to The Big First Annual Lighthouse Tequila Festival slated to start Friday October 23rd and run through Saturday the 24th. I’m so excited I get to walk these exceptional ladies down the ramp two more times!!! Wow. What did I ever do so right to deserve this opportunity? I guess being married to my own Angelic Goddess makes me qualified huh!

Photos by: Hop-a-Long

A Dollar Here a Dollar There - posted July 5, 2009.

I must admit I have gotten very tired of all these dollar nights. They all seem to tout a good deal. That may be true, but a good deal is obviously in the eyes or in this case in the stomach of the beholder. But during my grandson Harrison's visit I was reminded just how much a growing nine year old boy can eat. A large box of cereal will last me a week maybe a week and a half. Not if Harrison is here. He will easily go through a box of cereal every three days. Our local El Pelicano Market offered to bring their semi truck to our house. No point involving a middleman Felix said. “"We can just park it in your driveway. When it's empty just let us know." I declined the offer. I'm not sure, but I think it was his attempt at American style humor. Anyway, one Thursday evening my wife Vickie suggested we go out to dinner. I told her “"sounds great, let me get the deed to the house and we’I'll use that as collateral". I got the look. You know the look guys. Everyone on our entire planet would think this quite funny. You just happened to marry the one person in the universe that doesn't see the humor in your witty quips.

I heard that The Lighthouse Restaurant has a dollar day. Not night, but all day dollar pricing. Harrison loves The Light House. Lots of stuff for kids to see and explore. He loves to climb up to the top of the hill. You know the one. The one just below cloud level. Now that he's old enough to go all by himself I think it's a great idea. Let him wear off some of that energy. His parents wanted him to stay active. A win, win. Off we go to our dollar night adventure. I've been to dollar nights elsewhere. Never anything to brag about but hey it's cheap and you get to see others with that same dismayed look in their eyes. When we arrive I say “"boy I bet the view from up there is awesome".” I hear the expected response. “"Can I go Grandpa"? Sure knock yourself out Harrison. “"Hey Grandpa wanna go too"?” Well, I start to explain all the reasons I can't go, then I look at his face. Sure let's go!! I warn Vickie to have the Red Cross Ambulance number handy.

After our awesome experience it was time to go join my dearest Vickie who of course was sitting in air conditioned comfort waiting for her mountain climbing men. This seemed like such a great idea two heart attacks ago. Now, well paddles might be in order. But I was fine. Due I'm sure in no small part to water aerobics at El dorado Ranch. My color eventually came back. My heart slowed to a mere thousand beats per second. I'm ready for a nice meal. But wait---it's dollar night. So much for a nice sit down relaxing meal. Suddenly this angel appeared. She was asking if I'd like a cold beer! Well HELL YES!! Oops, forgot she was an angel. Must be an angel. Anyone that offers me a cold beer in my condition must be related to Mother Theresa or Michael Jackson or some extra holy entity. Less than a minute later a large goblet filled with ice cold liquid heaven is placed in front of me. Wow, nice touch. Good service and dollar night is a phrase that I'd never considered using till now.

All cooled down and ready to eat I look around for the long line. You know the one. The line you're forced to stand in to buy stupid tickets from someone that doesn't want to be working there in the first place. These tickets don't allow you to go eat. It only gives you the right to go stand in another line for an eternity. This while one person at a time decides if they want a salad or maybe a taco---hmm you know the enchilada looks good too! “"Hey mister, you have three tickets in your hand". How bad or good can it be? Just grab the food and go before we all die of old age! It all tastes the same”!! It's dollar night!!! Finally, you make it up to the vast buffet where you see small pieces of what you are pretty sure was once a tostada. Getting back to the table you begin wondering why you put yourself through this. Because it's only a dollar? Anyway, back at The Lighthouse Restaurant our server explains that we can either order off the regular menu or the special dollar day menu. I glance at Harrison where I swear his head was spinning around while muttering something about “"feed me---feed me now". The special dollar day menu will work just fine. No tickets? No the server explains while handing each of us a pencil. Simply mark which items you'd like to eat, and I'll be right back to pick up your orders. Wow, way simple. I pick out three items. Vickie springs for four including some nachos we will share. Harrison apparently thought a volume discount was available.

The place is full. But somehow not crowded. Humming with excitement and good energy but not loud. Air conditioning keeping things nice and cool I settle in for my food. Another beer is offered. Wow, what great service. Did I say that again? Good service and a dollar menu? Our meals are served. What is this all about? For a buck I get steam coming from the bowl of tortilla soup. More steam rising from the nicely stuffed Chili Rellano. This is going to be so good. The food was a delight. Tim the owner came by our table to make certain all was good. Good? Are you kidding? I felt like “Tony the Tiger”. I really wanted to yell “"IT'S GREAT"”! And it was. The following week I went back again. Not only was I hungry for that awesome soup, I wanted to make certain my original experience was not some kind of fluke. I'm happy to report it was not. The Lighthouse Restaurant did not disappoint. In fact, the food may have been even better. Maybe it was because climbing never ending stairs was not part of the agenda. Even though once again the place was full, the beer was still cold, the food was just as good and the service was beyond what I have come to expect in San Felipe. Especially for only a Buck. And no stupid tickets!!!

(Note from Dario de Baja: I do have another article almost ready for publication, but this event was just too much fun and too important to ignore.)

THRILLER??? NOT!!!! - posted June 30, 2009

Am I the only nut job on the bus or is this whole Michael Jackson thing been blown way out of proportion? Do I think he was a great entertainer? Sure, I guess so. I personally wouldn’t go see one of his free concerts, but we all have different taste. Or lack of it!! We can’t even turn on the news without somebody touting his wonderful zest for life. Michaels’ ability to connect with people, and his concern for the less privileged. Liza Minnelli is telling anyone that will listen to her just how in tune he was with life. Elizabeth Taylor proclaims his loyalty and concern about his fans. Black leaders and spokesman are coming out of the woodwork telling of his gallant work to right the injustices for all people of color!! Was it not Michael Jackson that decided one day that he wanted to become white for goodness sakes? Well, I suppose white is a color. I don’t care if he was pink, blue, orange, or raspberry color. He was weird!! Color be damned!! Al Sharpton, shut up already!!! Your bias and stupidity have been duly noted. We as a society have devolved to the point that we are so hungry for greatness, so in search for heroes that we are willing and sometimes eager to embrace deviant behavior as long as we can find a positive attribute in there somewhere. All of this for no other reason, than the fact that the guy can dance, sing, and act better than anyone else of our time? Face it. When the name Michael Jackson is mentioned what is your first thought? I believe the first thing a normal person thinks of is his weird and abnormal behavior. We don’t, at least I don’t first think of his mastery of which he was paid very, very, well to perform!! In touch with his fans? Folks, he was renting a house in Los Angeles for $100,000.00 per month. I don’t know about you, but I can’t quite relate to him or his lifestyle. How can someone in that position be expected to relate? Renting a home for $100,000.00 per month, while admonishing everyone else to give to the less fortunate!!! Go rent a $2,000.00 a month house and then donate $98,000.00 to a good cause. Now that is something for which I could relate!! Heck, pull out all the stops and pay $10,000 per month. A lot of good can be done with $90,000.00!! But he loves children!! Look at the “Never Never Ranch” for which he was so famous. He built it for the children!! Wink! Wink!! People, he holds his own child out of the window of a multi story hotel!! In front of fans and cameras!!! Maybe he thought he was the lion Mufasa from the movie The Lion King! Again, I just can’t relate to such greatness I suppose. Wearing one glove and then grabbing your crotch? Is that really so cool? It’s embarrassing to the normal amongst us. But again as a society we applaud such weird behavior. The thing is, it has very little to do with Michael Jackson and more to do with what we have allowed normal to become as a society. Not only in America. All over the world this guy has been lauded as The King!! I believe the closest he ever came was marrying the Kings daughter. My hopes were dashed when they apparently did breed. Mother Nature must have been off that day!! Mother Goose was obviously the replacement. Look guys, we just lost a fantastic lady. Yolanda was a lady to who we could all relate. A lady that could and did relate to everyone she met. Maybe she and Michael will meet somewhere and she can straighten him out. If anyone could, it would be Yo. We will undoubtedly lose more of our dear friends. These are the type of individual that should be remembered for all they are. Please let’s all put this Michael Jackson thing in its proper perspective. Let us not make him more or less than what he was in life. Can we just move on and put the deviant behavior he was so famous or infamous for behind us. And then maybe, just maybe, we can find some real heroes out there someplace!! I believe they live among us right here in San Felipe!!

But the sign says - posted June 30, 2009

Those of you who know me know of my love for San Felipe. Really, Baja in general but especially for my San Felipe. There is a certain tranquility, a laid back mood, a charm that seems to overtake both the occasional visitor as well as those of us fortunate enough to call this gem home. Sometimes however, these feelings are tested. You know, like when I realized my cell phone was almost out of minutes. I remembered that the sign, you know the one right on the front door of the cell phone company indicated that the hours of operation are eight am till something like seven pm. Seems pretty clear to me. Open at eight, close at seven. Pretty cut and dry! Obviously, not so for Baja. The sign must be there for approximation reasons only. Eight o’clock came and went. As did eight thirty. Nine showed up. Still nothing. Now I’ve really been trying hard to live by the “I don’t have anything better to do” attitude. But sometimes it’s more difficult than others to succeed at this mindset. About nine thirty five came. Finally, this guy meanders my way. A key and a lunch bag in hand. This looks promising! But I’ve been let down so many times in the last two or so hours. Every time I glance at the sign I get more upset. However, he does appear to have the magic key. He unlocks the door and then goes through a barrage of what I’m sure are very highly classified security measures. These included removing the high tech stick holding the window from opening. Finally, all is set for business. My first inclination was to ask about the hours of operation. But then I thought if things don’t go well during the discussion he may make a mistake while selling me my needed minutes. I mean he is the guy with the key and stick removal training. So I buy my minutes and then ask him what time the store opens. He says “oh around nine or so.” I asked why the sign says eight o’clock. Well he explains straight faced “it’s an old sign”. What do you mean it’s an old sign? Straight faced again he says to me “well now that you know the correct time we don’t need a new sign.” I’m thinking okay there is a camera here somewhere. But somehow, I understood the logic. If you ask me now what time the store opens. I could tell you. Now I can get to the bank. I went in and the sign says “check your account online for free”. Wow, I’m thinking how progressive. I wait in line to learn more from one of the knowledgeable bank staff. This person informs me that it is indeed free for the first year and then approx. three dollars per month after that period. Well, I’m thinking maybe I’ll try it for a while and if I like it I’ll continue. It would be worth a few bucks for me to know what activity has taken place while we are traveling etc. So decision made, I get already to sign up. Already to take the plunge and this person says to me “oh you can’t sign up here”. Well, I ask her, “do I have to go back to the phone store and sign up because I now know what time they open”? No she explains looking even more confused than before “you have to go back to the branch where you originally opened your account.” I told her it was right here in San Felipe. She said straight faced and very serious “well then it’ll be easy for you”. I then asked her if I’d opened the account in Mexico City would I be required to go there to sign up for the free service. She indicated that this would be the case. But since I hadn’t signed up in Mexico City it should be simple and easy. More of that logic!! I started feeling like a Salmon being asked to go back upstream to spawn. I explained to her very nicely that the sign does not say anything about having to go to the original branch. Before she could answer I stopped her. I knew the answer would be “well now that you know we don’t have to change the sign”. Driving down the road errands complete I see red and blue lights behind me. I’m thinking certainly this cannot be for me! I’ve done nothing wrong. Suddenly a siren informs me that perhaps I should heed the bubble gum type lights. Senior Barnie Fifeito comes up to the Bronco and explains that he’d like to see my license. Accidentally, I give him my El Dorado Ranch I.D. card. He glances at it turns it over to see the date and just hands it back to me!! I ask him why he stopped me. He informs me that I did not stop at the intersection back there. I looked back at the intersection and saw only one stop sign. I explained that there was no stop sign on my side of the road. Well, yes he said it indeed had fallen down sometime back, but there was one on the other side of the road going the other way. I very calmly explained that I would be sure to stop at that one because it is actually there. Well, he said “everybody knows there was one there so everyone stops”. I’m thinking to myself don’t get upset. And then he said to me. “Are you going to stop there next time?” Well, sure now that I know I’m supposed to stop. Just then I saw the trap I was falling into. But then someone came rolling up from behind us. I mean really rolling and blew right through the “imaginary” stop sign. Then as he passes he waves at Senior Copper. My jailer waves back. I laughed and said, “I guess he didn’t see it either.” Okay he said, “I’m going to allow you to go. Just remember it should be there. The next time you come through here so you should stop.” Again a certain logic that I can’t quite explain and yet do not dare dismiss or argue about. “Yes sir” I said. “Thank you sir”!!! I’m sitting here thinking that maybe there should be signs entering San Felipe. Maybe somewhere near the Arches that read. All signs present or missing, seen and unseen are approximations only. This would clear up so much! Now when I go to the States I have to make a conscious effort to try to watch for all those stupid signs and to try to take them seriously. I’ve got news for you. Taking all that stuff so seriously is way, way, way overrated!! It steals your zest for life. I yearn for my approximate signage while visiting the “old country”. You know the ones we should learn to love and embrace. Wasn’t it that very charm that drew us here to our little piece of heaven in the first place?

The Wheels On the Bus Go Round and Round - Posted June 21, 2009

I must preface this story with the statement that it is all true. All of these things happened to me just as I have written them. Sometimes, I think drama follows me everywhere I go.
I had a short visit scheduled to go see my kids and grandkids in Fresno, Ca. My wife had just returned a few weeks earlier from a trip to Fresno. She had been lauding the wonderful experience of traveling by bus. You know she says “Leave the driving to us” as the ad says. Well, the more I thought about it, the more appealing the idea became. I checked fares and schedules. It all looked good. Now, just to synchronize the San Felipe to Mexicali bus, with the Crucero/Greyhound bus in the States. I find that the ABC San Felipe bus to Mexicali leaves San Felipe about every two hours. The first one of the day leaves at 6:00 AM., arriving in Mexicali at about 9:00. The Crucero bus from the U.S. will pick me up in Mexicali at the ABC terminal. This bus boards at 9:15 AM. Then all I have to do is ride the bus across the border to the Greyhound terminal in Calexico. This is the same bus that will eventually take me to Fresno. It is scheduled to leave Calexico at 10:40 AM. Perfect timing, in theory anyway! I’ll leave San Felipe at 6:00, relax for a couple hours, and then arrive in Calexico. Have a short break. Maybe go to The Burger King across the way and have a bite to eat and a cup of coffee before getting on the Fresno bus. It’ll be great!! I arrive at the bus terminal in San Felipe at around 5:45. The bus shows up at around 5:50. So much for Mexican time, everything is right on schedule! I board the bus and we pull out at exactly 6:00 AM. I had no idea that a direct bus ride to Mexicali includes stopping along the way to pick up what looks to me like pedestrians. There is apparently some unseen communication between the driver and these potential riders to be. There are some people that are passed by as we wind our way North. When we do stop to pick up new riders, they pay some amount to the driver. It seems to be a negotiable amount. Somehow, loosely based on the number of miles to Mexicali and the amount of money the new rider has in their pockets. We barely stop as the passengers get on the bus. Now, I didn’t know that it was possible to steer a big bus with your knees while at the same time counting the fare, giving change and issuing a ticket to each new rider. Now that I thought is multi tasking!! Finally, somewhere north of El dorado Ranch there were no more new passengers. We really start to roll. The driver was excellent. When we got to the detour off of the highway, a dirt road loomed ahead. We hardly slowed at all. I’m thinking that either the suspension is great, or we’re only hitting the high spots. Either way, we made good time to the Federal Inspection Station. We are all instructed to exit the bus with our luggage. All the luggage from the cargo hold is also removed. Each bag is inspected. Now, right across the aisle from me on the bus there was this guy holding onto his bag like it had gold in it. He seemed a little strange, but hey, aren’t we all? When they get to his “special” bag he refuses to let them inspect it. We are all asked to board the bus except for Mr. Special bag guy. We are delayed 45 minutes until finally he relents and allows them to search the contents. Nothing there!! He said he just didn’t want them to look inside. “Here’s your sign” I think to myself. Everyone on the bus including the driver is very upset when he is finally allowed back on the bus. He was not very popular. We are informed by the driver that we might be late if he can’t somehow makeup the lost time. Suffice it to say, he was successful. In fact I believe he may have found an extra gear that he never knew existed till that morning. I check my time. 9:00 and we’re just now pulling into the station. My U.S. bus boards at 9:15. Perfect!!

Exiting the still smoking brakes and transmission of the ABC bus, I look for my U.S. Crucero ride. Nowhere was it to be found. I ask around and find that the driver decided that maybe there would be no one riding to Calexico that day, so he left at 9:05. He may have been late for his second job as a brain surgeon or fortune teller. Okay, plan “B” goes into effect. A taxi is summoned. Around $2.15 U.S. plus a tip and I’m at the border with my 10,000 pounds of luggage. I find that in order to walk across the border, one must trudge down 16,000 stair steps. Once at the bottom you follow the golden brick sidewalk under the street and then back up 16,000 steps. By this time my luggage has gained weight. A young man sees me struggling and offers to carry one or both of my bags. Now he’s maybe 23 or 24. At least 6 feet tall with legs clear up to his chin. I’m thinking that even though I’m very cat like, he may be able to out run me. Alright, for those of you that may not know me, when I say Cat like I mean Caterpillar like. Anyway I decline. “Okay” he says, “but, if you need me, I’m here for you bud. My name is Saul”. Bud!! I think. Who does he think he is calling me Bud? About a mile from the inspection area into Calexico is where I find the end of the line. I get in line for a minute or two and calculate that at this speed I’ll be celebrating my next birthday 11 months from now in this line. As wonderful as this sounded I had to move on. I want to make certain that I was indeed in the correct line. There are lots of people milling around. Reminded me of an old movie I once saw about Ellis Island. I ask a worker in a currency exchange shop if I was in the right line to go to Calexico. I feel a tap on my shoulder. It’s my old buddy Saul. “Can I help you Bud?” “Well, I just want to make sure I’m in the right line to go to the bus station in Calexico”. “You wanna go to the bus?” “Follow me bud. I’ll take you to the very front of the line. If anybody asks, you are with me okay?” He tries to take my bag but I hold on to it. Tightly! I follow him in a gallop past at least a mile of people. Okay he says. “See that guy in the front of the line. I’m going to go talk to him and make him believe I know him, and that you and me, we’re best buds. Oaky?” I look back at the line. Suddenly this idea was extra appealing to me. We make our move. A couple people object, but not to the point of violence. Saul and I start talking to this guy about the party we all went to last month, and how messed up we all got. “Oh yeh”, he says “right! How you dudes been?” Before anyone could seriously object to our covert actions we are inside the immigration office. I slip Saul $5.00 U.S. Nobody wants to send up any red flags, so they just let us go ahead of our new found party buddy. Once inside it’s just a matter of X-raying my luggage and across I go. I wave goodbye to Saul as I see him walking into Calexico searching for a new mark.

It’s just a short walk to the Greyhound station to check in. “Everything on time?” I ask the ticket manger behind the counter. “Sure is. Aren’t you the guy that bought the ticket last week that lives in San Felipe?” I confirm that it is indeed me. Wow, great memory! I ask him if I can leave my luggage with him for a few minutes behind the counter while I go to Burger King and use the bathroom. “Sure Bud. Anything I can do to help” he says. Wow, Bud again. Weird!! I slide my luggage inside and make certain they are placed in a safe location. Alright, I think. I’m going to go get a coffee, and a bite to eat. But first, I need to visit to the restroom. I walk in to a very nice, very clean restroom. Locate one of two urinals. Another man walks up to the remaining vacant fixture. “Hey Bud. We meet again” It’s Saul! Now this is just getting way to weird. “Where’s all your bags and stuff?” I tell him they are at the bus terminal inside the office ticketing area. “If you haven’t bought your ticket already, I can get you one for half price. Anywhere you wanna go. The ticket manager is a good Bud of mine.” “Wow thanks, but I already have a ticket”. At this point I’m thinking I have to go babysit my belongings. Saul is everywhere!! Besides, I’m not that hungry and I’ll be boarding the 10:40 bus in about 20 minutes. Finally, 10:35. Surely if the bus leaves at 10:40 we should board soon. At 10:50 people are starting to get restless. At 11:15 it was getting really ugly. About 12:00 people scheduled for the 12:40 bus to Fresno start arriving. By this time, I start looking for Saul. I know he can fix this fiasco. No Saul to be found!! I go talk to the ticket guy. He tells me that nobody can find the driver of the 10:40 bus. He calls his boss, who tells him to put the 10:40 and the 12:40 people on the same bus. The 12:40’s were lined up and ready to get on the bus. I climb over some poor people and tell the guy at the counter that they MUST allow the 10:40’s on first. “It’s only fair, don’t you think Bud?” Bud? Where did that come from I think? Have I somehow morphed into Saul? On the bus we all climb. 10:40’s first. I pick out a primo seat right in the middle of the bus, next to the window. Perfect. I’m all set now. Wow, empty seat next to me. Awesome. But then, more 12:40’s arrive. The seat next to me is no longer empty. It is taken by a nice enough lady with a 5 year old kid---with issues!! Breathe Darryl, breathe. Deep breathes. This is going to be fun. A great adventure!! I start doing the math. Seems clear enough to me that if we leave two hours late, we should arrive in Fresno two hours late. I call my daughter and explain that there has been a slight change in plans. Instead of picking me up at 8:50, could she pick me up at 10:50? I’m told it’s no problem. Being a Friday, she does not have to work the next day. Great! See ya in a few hours. I look out my window and see The Salton Sea. Okay, now we’re cooking! The bus begins to slow down. Immigration checkpoint. Heck I forgot all about this. No problem, they will just wave us through. I mean we’re on a bus for goodness sakes. Or not! Three officers board the bus. They start asking people certain key questions. Some people they ignore completely. I will surely be of the latter group. This maybe twenty one year old starched shirted guy looks at me and asks if I’m a citizen. Sort of jokingly-----(by the way don’t try this) I said “of what country?” “The United States of America” he says. Obviously not amused by my attempt at frivolity. Yes I am! “Do you have documentation to support that?” He asks. Okay, now I’m thinking there has to be a camera on me or he’s joking right. So I said again with almost no disdain in my voice and a smile. “You know, I can wear a badge. Do you have documentation proving that you are a real immigration officer?” Now, I know I’m just kidding!! But everyone around me with any common sense at all take a huge breath. Dead silence. He tips his official immigration issued hat back a little and asks me. Where I’m going. I sort of figured I’ve run out of rope here, so I swallowed real hard and answered, Fresno, Ca. Then he asks me where I was born. I tell him Newman, Ca. Now, he must have already known the answers from his extensive academy training because he said I was okay. No documents would be needed. After they allowed us to go, everyone thought it was funny. A minute before they had no idea who I was, and were ready to sacrifice me to the immigration gods!! Bus friends!! I think not!!

When we made our stop in Indio I watched carefully as they unloaded the luggage from the cargo hold. Out came my bag and was placed on the baggage cart. I jumped out of my seat, climbed over a few innocent souls and headed for the door to rescue my belongings. I made my way to the security baggage handler while pushing an elderly person out of my way yelling hold it, hold it!! That bag is going to Fresno with me. Put it back! The startled but not amused handler tells me he’s just trying to get the wheelchair out of the hold for that elderly lady I just ran over. Apparently, my bag was in the way. They were keenly aware that my bag was going to Fresno. If I’d like, I could put it back on the bus myself once the chair was extracted. I did so. Someplace around Los Angeles I figured out that unless that bus had the same high gear that the San Felipe bus driver had found, we were no way going to make it to Fresno on time. I questioned the bus driver about our scheduled arrival time of 10:40. He makes it very clear that we are not scheduled in to Fresno till 12:40. My question to him was the obvious. Well, to me anyway. If we leave two hours late, would it not follow we would arrive two hours late? Well he explains, this bus stops in every city, every town, every bus stop, pretty much every place that has a picture of a bus, we stop. So just sit back and relax. I place another call to my daughter to fill her in on the great news. I tell her I can get a taxi, or I think to myself, maybe Saul is there with a diver!! After a short pause, “No problem” she says. I’ve been on the bus now for what, around seventeen hours! Leave the driving to us my----well you know!! We finally pull into the Fresno terminal. Now I know why they call it a “terminal”!! By now, I need a restroom really, really, really bad. I look for my daughter first. Not here yet. Okay, bathroom!! Where is the bathroom? I see a blue sign that says “Women”. The men’s restroom cannot be far away. Another sign. I t says “Men” with an arrow pointing up these never ending stairs. Who in their right mind would put a bathroom way up there? Obviously a woman, as theirs was down stairs!! It does not matter anymore. I know that about half way up those stairs, carrying my luggage it would be a moot point anyway. A bathroom would no longer be required. Where is Saul when you really need him? I look out the front window. My daughter is pulling up. A little nice, nice, and I explain I need a bathroom and I’m hungry!! Okay she says, there is a McDonalds restaurant real close to my place. Great. Please step on it! Suddenly in the distance I see the “Golden Arches”!! I jump out of the car and head to the front door. You know how your mind goes through a count down on the final approach to a restroom? I was at minus 2 seconds. I hit the door and bounced back eighteen feet. They had closed two point five seconds before our arrival. Oh good!! I get back in the car and explain that what I have to offer does not mix well with BMW leather seats. She slides out of the driveway and over to her apartment. Where she of course lives upstairs. She carried one bag I crawled up with the other. When I finally exited the bathroom I thought to myself thank you Saul. You were the bright spot in an otherwise hum drum uneventful bus trip. And then I realize. I still have to get back home!! But standby, that’s a whole other story.

"Not the same old Line" - posted June 19, 2009

Through our more mature years we’ve had the opportunity and blessing to get to know many, many, people of our age group. Some a little younger, but by far the majority are older than Vickie and me. We’ve befriended many of these people via our travels. We found that without even being aware of it we started taking on some of their moods, attitudes and physical maladies. Sometimes, I would find myself limping just because everyone around me was limping. You know how it is. You go to a function or a party. When you walk in you can feel either the positive or negative energies. The longer you stay the more impact those energies have on you. If allowed, it will dictate your outlook on life and how you see others. And so of course, how others see you..

When we discovered our little village of San Felipe we felt motivated. Motivated to go places, to do things, stay active. What suddenly changed in our lives that allowed us to feel younger and eager for another day of discovery? The willingness no, the “need” to try new and exciting things. Then we found the secret. It’s the people! And of course the attitude of these wonderful people. For some reason unknown to me, our little unassuming village of San Felipe has the most active fun loving people of all age groups that we have ever encountered. This is especially true of the more mature that choose to call this tranquil yet fun place home. I recently witnessed this phenomenon firsthand. Some of you may know that I love to attend and participate in karaoke. I find it such a release. Something of a therapy session, without the doctors, couches and drugs etc. Before moving here we never had uttered a tune. Well, except maybe in the shower or on a tractor in the north forty. Suddenly here we are singing out loud and having fun doing it. People were so accepting of our not so good voices. It didn’t matter to them, how we sounded, so in turn it didn’t matter to us either. We were all just a bunch of friends and neighbors that were simply having fun together. The “together” part is the key. One thing led to another and of course just leave it to our dear friends Mac and Nan of Mac and Nan’s Karaoke to come up with something not only new, but something that would bring friends and future friends together. Line Dancing! What a great idea. But, does anyone know how to line dance? Nan’s response was. “Well, if they don’t know how to line dance we’re gonna teach em. All they have to do is show up with the willingness and attitude for fun”. Is there adequate interest to make it a weekly event? Do people actually line dance after their twenties or thirties? Turns out, the answer to both questions is a resounding “YES”! Every Wednesday evening around 6:00 at Play de Oro a loyal group of very young people of every age go filing into a place they have come to associate with fun, dancing, decent enough music, good food and drink. Every week more new friends show up to see what all the fuss is about. I stare in wonder and awe at this group of mostly women that get out on that floor and experience line dancing classes led by Nan. Nan started this whole line dance class as a labor of love. One cannot look at the expressions on the faces of these wonderful dancers without knowing how positive an experience it is for each of them. Each for their own reasons. Nan’s efforts are a success.

They do love their dancing. Just as singing karaoke is a release or therapy for Vickie and me, this is a form of expression for these young at heart people. Sometimes I have the honor of singing for them during their class. Their enthusiasm is contagious. You cannot be in the same room with them and not feel the positive, uplifting energies. Some of the participants may have lost their significant other, or perhaps they are not able to participate because of ill health etc. Now because of Mac and Nan’s Line Dancing Classes they can go out dancing again. Line dancing does not require a partner! Just a willingness to have as much fun as you can comfortably handle. There are no requirements to be good. Or for that matter to stay in step. That’s why it’s called a class. Judy, Socorro, Vickie, Nan and so many others are more than willing to help anyone with the steps. Some of these people dance every dance all night long!! I get pooped out just watching them. I’m reminded of the super man boxer Muhamed Ali. You remember, “Float like a Butterfly Sting Like A Bee”! I must admit, I’m intimidated watching these super athletes. Then, week after week they get better and better. With even more endurance. We are continually amazed by the people that make San Felipe such a special place. Brian and his entire staff at Play de Oro do their best to control the temperature and environment so that everyone feels comfortable, especially the dancers. The dancers can if they choose expend a lot of energy. Others choose to take it slower. It’s all good. Whatever works for them is what they do. I have so much admiration for each and everyone that shows the world that they will not be, cannot be stopped by some number that has been assigned to their years. They will not slow down just because somebody somewhere figured it was time they go sit on the porch and watch the world go by. These people are taking the initiative to be all they can be. Not what someone else says they ought to be. I applaud all of you that choose to “Dance”. Getting older may not be an option, but getting old is!!! Hang on tight and keep on dancing!!! You inspire us all..

Let Me Rethink this Whole Weaker Sex Thing - posted June 18, 2009

In spite of what others believe, I may be aging. No, maturing ever so graciously. A few months ago I decided maybe it would be a good idea to start some sort of exercise regimen. I checked many options. Unfortunately, they all required some amount of physical activity. I was not looking for such a program. This of course reduced my options and narrowed my search dramatically. My wife Vickie had been going to this water aerobics class at The El Dorado Pool for a while. Even though this required her to be away from me for a couple hours, she was determined not to miss a class. She did seem to enjoy it so. Maybe I'll try it. And the best part, how difficult can it be? A bunch of mature women flailing in the water for a few minutes between all the rumor stuff that they love to jab about. So, one day I mentioned to my dearest that I may want to go with her to aerobics. You know, share time together. I could see the excitement in her eyes. I know she was thinking “Wow more time to spend with my Darryl. This is so awesome”.

Well, something to that effect. So the next day donned in my colorful swim attire and off we go to experience this so called exercise aerobics together. This is gonna be great. Raise my leg a couple of times, wave a hand to the music, go through the motions. These women are going to see moves they have not seen in a long time. Turns out, I may have been wrong!! When we got to the pool the class was just starting. All the ladies single file entered the water. The cold, cold, frigid water. When my foot touched the first ice cube I knew I was dealing with some pretty tough cookies! They were all still talking to each other as if they were walking into a 90 degree pool. Not some freezing iceberg filled reservoir. Not one waivered. They all got into what I decided must be assigned places and awaited the instructions. The instructor may have been a retired drill sergeant! Anyway, she stepped up to the waiting group, gave a few instructions that I didn't really understand Then the action really started. These women were tremendous specimens of agility and grace. Music pounding some tune from the 60's all I could do was stand there in awe. One, two, three, faster! A few more instructions from madam sergeant and they are all at the pool wall. “Grab your Big Noodle” Ms. Patton yells. This was a mystery to me. I had my hopes up for a second, but a noodle is obviously not what I thought it might be! By the way, did you know it is possible to put one leg up on the pool deck with the other one planted solidly on the bottom? Well it is!!! Then another yelp from El Capitan. They switch legs, now the other leg goes up. But now, they are bending forward and touching their toes that are on the pool deck with their elbows!! I swear they were!!! I was so intimidated all I wanted to do was hide. You know like a couple of major parts of my anatomy were doing. Hey it was cold!!

Now, I watched in amazement as these transformed women, who, just a few minutes earlier seemed so nice---so innocent---so vulnerable are now suddenly following these orders with so much ease and dexterity. I now feel it should be mandatory for all men attend at least one class and watch these special women. Now, when I see one or more of these ladies at karaoke, or the store, or wherever, I give them a wide, wide berth. They have earned my respect and admiration. If they ran in packs--- Well, I don't even want to think about that possibility. I still go to water aerobics.

But now I take the class and these amazing women far more seriously than before. The weaker sex??? Right!! Whoever started that rumor has never seen these women do their thing. They have never seen them perform some of these difficult and yet graceful moves. All the while discussing the latest recipes or restaurants in town. Doing it all with so much class, enthusiasm, and can do spirit that I have not often seen. I've learned first hand that these women can do anything they set their minds to do. Go get em ladies! You have earned this guys respect for sure!! I consider it an honor to share the pool and class with you.

Darryl's First Article posted June 16, 2009.

"You have no idea how wonderful and blessed it makes me feel to be a part of such a wonderful community of friends and family such as we enjoy in San Felipe. Last night as we walked into Playa de Oro for our weekly Karaoke fix with Mac and Nan it just overwhelmed me. As we entered it felt like a family reunion. Only this was fun and pleasant!! And of course aunt Rosie was absent. Everyone greeting everyone. People asking how you are and really caring about the answer. People that would rather hug you than shake your hand. This is a special place that all of you, all of us have created. It has less to do with the geographical location, than with the people that inhabit our little village. I started thinking about one of my favorite TV shows of all time. "Cheers" Why did people identify with that show? Was it the great acting? Was it the time slot? Was it the clever writing? I think all of these things added to the mystic. But I believe it was what I call the "Norm" syndrome. You know. When Norm walked in everybody knew his name. They knew everybody's name. People watching the show identified with that feeling of "belonging and acceptance". They not only identified with it, they wanted it, they needed it. The audience craved to be part of it. We all became friends with Norm and Sam. Even strangers that stopped in for a cold one were friends we just hadn't met yet.Sometimes I think we tend to over complicate things. Maybe try too hard to be all things to all people. I mean just what did the bar Cheers have to offer. The little jingle says it all. "A place you can go where everybody knows your name". That is powerful stuff! Anyway, back to my original message. Thank you all so much for allowing Vickie and me to be a part of all this. A special thank you to Mac and Nan for making Play de Oro more than just another bar. Thank you for making it "our place". A place where everybody knows your name.

Musings by Dario - posted June 16, 2009

You know, I saw something very disturbing this morning on the news. First I see the terrible riots going on in Tehran, Iran. Then I see the terrifying riots and looting happening in Los Angeles. Most disturbing of all was the fact that without audio I could not tell which city was which. Generally, when I would see such disturbing scenes in other countries I would feel as if I should expect such behavior. I mean that's just how they live "over there". That's how they get their point across. Perhaps even more frightening is that in Tehran the people are fighting for a
way of life they believe to be better than what they now have. In Los Angeles they are celebrating their beloved Lakers basketball victory? A basketball game!! Not anything that will affect their future or their childrens future. At least in Tehran they are expressing their frustrations in the only way some believe available to them. Now you tell me. Which group of people are more evolved? And some people are still afraid of Mexico and our little village of San Felipe. Hey people of Los Angeles. Got some advice for you. Don't look outside your door. You may scare yourself to death when you see how and with who you are sharing your life.

"Life is not about Running away from the Storms
Life is about Learning to Dance in the Rain"
Dario De Baja

Back to Kat's Korner

Contact Kat