Odds and Ends

I had a pretty quiet weekend. By most standards, it was a lazy weekend. I read a lot, sat out by the pool, browsed the used book store, had a lovely lunch at a neighboring resort, chatted with neighbors, and didn't accomplish a thing. On the weekends, I feel like I'm living a double life. During the week, I'm absorbed by the work, the children, the needs at Holy Cross. Then on the weekend, I feel more like a tourist.

It's been interesting to be where there are lots of American and Canadian tourists and vacationers when I don't consider myself one of them. So many of them are really arrogant and rude. It's is like any local is automatically their servant. They are loud and demanding in the stores and critical of anything that isn't "like we do it". I'm sure they are tolerated because their money is the ticket to survival here, but it's really obnoxious and it's embarrassing. No wonder so much of the world hates Americans.

Francis and Vernon returned to school today and were welcomed with open arms. It was a whirlwind as they tried to catch up. I sincerely hope they don't leave again any time soon, and if they do that it is only for a short trip.

Lionel came by this afternoon to show his jewelry to the ladies who are staying around me. He did pretty well. They each bought something, and a couple placed orders. I should get a commission for being his agent.

The birds were everywhere when we were outside this afternoon. My hummingbird perched long enough to have his (her?) picture taken. There were all sorts of bright colored birds.

All of Belize, especially San Pedro, is in mourning following the death of Sir Barry Bowen in a plane crash on Friday. He was on his way into San Pedro, his home, for a fund raiser for Island Academy. Sir Barry, one of the wealthiest and most influential men in Belize, headed the company that does all the bottling in Belize -- Belikin beer, Coca-Cola products, Fanta, and Crystal water. From all I can read, Sir Barry was a fine man who loved Belize and contributed to its growth in many ways. There were four others also killed in the crash. The loss will be felt throughout the country.

It appears all of those I know and love still have miserable winter weather, with some of you getting more snow. So sorry. I might as well be on another planet when it comes to thinking about what that is like. I certainly hope all of that has gone when I get home in late March. Spring will be most welcomed this year!

Last night was a "no internet" night here. I had written a long piece for this blog, then the
internet went away, and I had nothing. Of course a whole day later, I can't remember most of what I had written. I will quit while I'm ahead tonight