Gringo Gulch Goddess

I've been living the high life in Gringo Gulch for a week and a half now, housesitting for my friends on Calle Miramar. I am familiar with the house, having stayed here a couple of times before, but there are two new additions: (1) The rooftop terrace has been completely re-done with a wet bar, bathroom and improved seating area. This is my favourite place to hang out during a sunny afternoon while reading my book. (2) They have a new dog. Xochi (pronounced Zoe-CHEE) has been with the family for a year. She is a Rottweiler and we are getting along fine. I think she is enjoying all the attention I have been lavishing on her since I got here. I have satellite TV, wireless internet, my own bedroom with en suite bathroom, overlooking the bay, and all the other amenities of living in a Mexican hacienda.

To be honest, I can't wait to get back to my crummy, little apartment! I hate living out of a suitcase and the bed here is not as comfortable as mine. The house is really, REALLY big (four bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, pool, etc.). I'm feeling a little lost. I keep mainly to my room where I have my computer set up, the terrace, the den and the kitchen. I sometimes close all the doors in the house and let the dog run up and down the stairwell. It gives her exercise and she keeps me company. The housekeeper and her husband come in every day for a couple of hours and while I understand this is their job, I miss my privacy on those mornings when I want to lounge around in my PJs.

Actually, I haven't been doing too much lounging. I've been busy helping to organize this year's fundraiser for the Refugio Infantil Santa Esperanza (R.I.S.E.). We have confirmed the Marina Vallarta Club de Golf as the location for this year's benefit on February 18 between 5:00 and 9:00 p.m. Tickets are $450 pesos and include food, refreshments (beer, wine, soda pop and bottled water) and entertainment. Participating restaurants this year include: Cafe des Artistes, Daquiri Dick's, River Cafe, El Dorado, Tia Catrina and many others! Tickets are available at Que?Pasa and other locations around town. Or you can contact me at montyjam@gmail.com. Come on out to this worthy event and help support the kids!