Day 10
We started the day with a very good breakfast: scrambled eggs, potatoes. ham, corn tamale and a cinnamon cake. We were unable to leave on our tour at the scheduled time as the roads were quite icy. So it was about 10:30 before we drove to Creel. In Creel, a population of 8,000, we saw lots of shops and vendors selling to the tourists. We did not spend long there due to the weather. We drove out to see the Tarahuamara Indians who live in a cave. Some time ago a movie was filmed in the area where these Indians live. Because of this they are not as shy as the other Indians in the canyons and agreed to allow people to visit there cave home. There are about 60,000 Indians living in the canyons and 10% of them still live in caves. Some of the others are nomadic moving to higher grounds in the summer. Others live in houses in small villages. Many of them migrate to the caves in the winter to keep warm and then to an area where they can grow crops in the summer. The road to the cave was very rough and wet due to the rain and snow in the area. It actually was more like a trail in some areas with large potholes. On the way to the cave the bus got stuck!! We were only a short distance from the cave so we walked on to the cave through the mud and yuck. There was a light rain at the time (mist) and it was cold. The cave is not a deep cave. It had 2 levels. The lower was their living area. They had a very large container that catches water from run-off in the caves ceiling. At the time the container was full and the overflow just ran down the floor and out of the cave. In the upper level to the back they keep their animals, goats and dogs, at night. Also in the upper level was a very small sleeping area and a place where they had fire for cooking and heating. Two families live in this cave. They grow vegetable crops on the land and hunt for food. We learned some interesting facts about the Tarahuamara tribes. The women and children make baskets, blankets, dolls, beads and other items to sell to the tourists. The women and girls all wear very bright colorful clothing. When it is cold they wear several layers of skirts for warmth. They remove the top layer when it needs washing and put on another underneath. Most everywhere we went we saw clothes hanging on the line or being washed. Most of them wear sandals made of rubber tires and leather ties unless it is very cold. We almost never saw any men. One of the crops they grow is corn. They have a fermenting process for it and make a liquor which they drink at celebrations. However most of the men drink it all the time and are alcoholics unable to function. The boys are considered adults at the age of 11.The girls begin having babies at about 11 years old. The women carry and care for the infants until they can walk and then they are left to fend for themselves. Most of them live to be about 65, some a few years longer. We also went to an Indian Boarding school. Children come from several miles around to attend school here. If they live too far away to make the trip daily they stay at the school Monday through Friday. The Indian families do not have cars so the children have to walk to school. The school is for children K through 6. The classroom we visited was Kindergarten children. They were wearing coats as it is a cold day and the room has no heat. The Indian families are quite large and only ½ of the children go to school at a time. That way there are always some at home to help with the work. They only go to school through 6th grade if that. No children in Mexico are required to go to school at all but many do go through 6th grade and in the rural areas and smaller towns only a few attend high school. In the bigger cities 85% graduate from high school and most attend college. The cost to go to college per year is $75 with no cost for room and board. One other thing we found interesting is that all children in Mexico wear uniforms to school. These uniforms are very much like the ones we see in the US. Because of the weather conditions there were some things on the schedule for today that we did not get to do. One thing was to eat the sack lunch provided to us on the banks of a lovely lake. But with the rain and snow off and on and the cold we opted to eat in the bus as we drove home. We did arrive back at the hotel safe and sound and had some time to rest and listen to some Mexican music before eating a nice dinner: black bass with cream sauce, mashed potatoes, mixed vegetables, bread and cake. We were tired and went to our room to read and went to bed early.
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Jan 30 Day 9
We boarded the train on a very crisp, partly cloudy morning. The train is very nice with large windows for viewing and a club car and dining car where we will be eating lunch. We traveled 215 miles along the 300 mile route. The complete route has 36 major bridges and 87 tunnels and rises from sea level at Los Mochis to 8000 feet before descending in to Chihuahua. The track makes several loops and in one place actually crosses over itself. Some of the route is very scenic and other parts are desert like. Along the way are several small Indian villages many which seem to have sparse living conditions. At one stop we made, children rushed out with baskets and other items they and their families have made to sell. We noticed the children had sandals made of tire tread and leather ties. Their eyes were begging for someone to buy from them. We ate lunch on the train: corn soup which seems to always be served with a Mexican dinner, chicken quesadilla, rice and beans and Mexican cake. Mmmm good. Mexican is our favorite ethnic food so we are enjoying the meals here in Mexico. Our hotel in Copper Canyon, Hotel Mirador, was near the rim and we had a beautiful view of the canyon. By the time we arrived it was much cooler and looked like rain. We got settled into our rooms and were served a “welcome drink”. Then we got our first look at how the Tarahuamara Indians live. We walked down the canyon some ways to a spot on the side of the hill where 2 families of Indians are living. By now it is misting and some are hurrying back to the nice warm hotel….but not the Indians. This is their way of life and they are very happy. They had houses made of adobe which looked more like a crude shed to us. They washed clothes outside using a large tub and a rock to scrub them on and hung them on lines tied to most anything. They are willing to have us here so that we can see and buy the items they have made. These same people come to the hotel and sit on the floor to make baskets and sell their products. They are not happy to have their pictures taken unless tourists are willing to pay them. The Tarahuamara Indians will not look us in the eye and appear to be sad but we are told they are just very shy. A tour guide told us one young man decided to leave the mountains and in a very short time returned because he felt life was better for him here, as it was with his family. All our meals while at the hotel were very good and we were able to eat many different Mexican foods. Dinner this night was: Lentil Soup, Carne Asada which is roasted beef, green beans, mashed potatoes and cinnamon cake. We went to be early as we did most nights, tired and awed by this Mexican culture.
We boarded the train on a very crisp, partly cloudy morning. The train is very nice with large windows for viewing and a club car and dining car where we will be eating lunch. We traveled 215 miles along the 300 mile route. The complete route has 36 major bridges and 87 tunnels and rises from sea level at Los Mochis to 8000 feet before descending in to Chihuahua. The track makes several loops and in one place actually crosses over itself. Some of the route is very scenic and other parts are desert like. Along the way are several small Indian villages many which seem to have sparse living conditions. At one stop we made, children rushed out with baskets and other items they and their families have made to sell. We noticed the children had sandals made of tire tread and leather ties. Their eyes were begging for someone to buy from them. We ate lunch on the train: corn soup which seems to always be served with a Mexican dinner, chicken quesadilla, rice and beans and Mexican cake. Mmmm good. Mexican is our favorite ethnic food so we are enjoying the meals here in Mexico. Our hotel in Copper Canyon, Hotel Mirador, was near the rim and we had a beautiful view of the canyon. By the time we arrived it was much cooler and looked like rain. We got settled into our rooms and were served a “welcome drink”. Then we got our first look at how the Tarahuamara Indians live. We walked down the canyon some ways to a spot on the side of the hill where 2 families of Indians are living. By now it is misting and some are hurrying back to the nice warm hotel….but not the Indians. This is their way of life and they are very happy. They had houses made of adobe which looked more like a crude shed to us. They washed clothes outside using a large tub and a rock to scrub them on and hung them on lines tied to most anything. They are willing to have us here so that we can see and buy the items they have made. These same people come to the hotel and sit on the floor to make baskets and sell their products. They are not happy to have their pictures taken unless tourists are willing to pay them. The Tarahuamara Indians will not look us in the eye and appear to be sad but we are told they are just very shy. A tour guide told us one young man decided to leave the mountains and in a very short time returned because he felt life was better for him here, as it was with his family. All our meals while at the hotel were very good and we were able to eat many different Mexican foods. Dinner this night was: Lentil Soup, Carne Asada which is roasted beef, green beans, mashed potatoes and cinnamon cake. We went to be early as we did most nights, tired and awed by this Mexican culture.
Monday, January 29, 2007
Jan 29 Day 8
today we are on our way to El Fuerte, which means “The river”, It is a cloudy day and about 50 degrees. Talc is in the air from the talc plant. We do see quite a few crops growing in this area and most are food crops, ie: tomatoes, peppers, squash and watermelons but here the primary crop seems to be corn. We just saw a man cutting dry grass in the median probably for food for his cows or horse. The houses in these small towns are mostly very small and poorly constructed. Some are pretty trashy but at others we often see a lady sweeping the dirt in front of her house. We see many many greenhouses. Some are like we see in the states but others look like tents made of netting and cover many acres. In one busy town we had to make a U-Turn and then a right turn just down the street. We just happened upon two police (Fererali) eating lunch a block or so away. The Wagon Master stopped to ask them if they would stop the traffic so we could get our big rigs through the tight turns. They did and we had traffic backed up while we were able to all make it through. Just before arriving in El Fuerte we passed by a feed lot. The cows here, even in the feed lots, are very skinny. They must have very lean beef. We are stopped for the Wagon Master to make arrangements at the campground. He has come out and said “we have big problems” and walked on. It turns out that the person who made the reservations for the campground, about a year ago, knew that there were no services but made the reservations anyway. It would not be much of a problem normally for one night but we are leaving our rigs here to take the train to Copper Canyon and will be gone for several days. He walked down to the end of the block where another rv park was, the El Fuerte RV Park, and they had just had a cancellation so they had room for us! Whew!! Don’t know what we would have done. Imagine having to reschedule the entire trip. After a quick lunch at home we took a city walking tour around downtown El Fuerte. We visited the very nice Posada del Hidalgo Hotel learned some history about it. We also visited the Catholic Church Cathedral and a very large City Hall. Many of the group stayed in town to eat. We have eaten so much that we went home and had salad. Information about El Fuerte and the Copper Canyon can be found at: http://www.mexicoscoppercanyon.com/fuerte.htm
today we are on our way to El Fuerte, which means “The river”, It is a cloudy day and about 50 degrees. Talc is in the air from the talc plant. We do see quite a few crops growing in this area and most are food crops, ie: tomatoes, peppers, squash and watermelons but here the primary crop seems to be corn. We just saw a man cutting dry grass in the median probably for food for his cows or horse. The houses in these small towns are mostly very small and poorly constructed. Some are pretty trashy but at others we often see a lady sweeping the dirt in front of her house. We see many many greenhouses. Some are like we see in the states but others look like tents made of netting and cover many acres. In one busy town we had to make a U-Turn and then a right turn just down the street. We just happened upon two police (Fererali) eating lunch a block or so away. The Wagon Master stopped to ask them if they would stop the traffic so we could get our big rigs through the tight turns. They did and we had traffic backed up while we were able to all make it through. Just before arriving in El Fuerte we passed by a feed lot. The cows here, even in the feed lots, are very skinny. They must have very lean beef. We are stopped for the Wagon Master to make arrangements at the campground. He has come out and said “we have big problems” and walked on. It turns out that the person who made the reservations for the campground, about a year ago, knew that there were no services but made the reservations anyway. It would not be much of a problem normally for one night but we are leaving our rigs here to take the train to Copper Canyon and will be gone for several days. He walked down to the end of the block where another rv park was, the El Fuerte RV Park, and they had just had a cancellation so they had room for us! Whew!! Don’t know what we would have done. Imagine having to reschedule the entire trip. After a quick lunch at home we took a city walking tour around downtown El Fuerte. We visited the very nice Posada del Hidalgo Hotel learned some history about it. We also visited the Catholic Church Cathedral and a very large City Hall. Many of the group stayed in town to eat. We have eaten so much that we went home and had salad. Information about El Fuerte and the Copper Canyon can be found at: http://www.mexicoscoppercanyon.com/fuerte.htm
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Jan 28 Day 7
This is to be a full day. At 9am we took a walking tour of downtown Alamos with a little bit of history of the town and area as well as visiting some of the restored mansions. Alamos was founded in 1500’s. Houses have Spanish Colonial design and most have been refurbished. Silver was discovered here and at the height of the boom the population was 55,000. When the mines closed up, the town nearly became a ghost town. Then snowbirds from the US started coming to this area and buying up the old mansions to refurbish. Most of the street we walked on have beautiful cobble stone streets. Many of the properties cover an entire block and most all are just one story. We were able to tour one inside and a couple in the court yard. Most have an outer wall and an inner wall with a court yard called a portico between. They are really quite nice. Most have trees and flowers growing in the inner portico. Some have divided the home and live in a part of it and make apartments in the rest. A few movie stars owned properties here at one time or another. Other homes originally were a full block long but now have been divided into apartments. We spoke with an owner of one of the very nice mansions. He said his house had no wood products in it except the cabinet doors. Even the doors and windows are metal and metal frames. Some years ago the city of Alamos was declared a National Monument by the U.N. So now all refurbishing has to follow the original Spanish Colonial design. The Catholic church is very large and very old. It was built in 1796 at a cost of $51 pesos or in today’s US dollar approximately $5.10. It is run by the Catholic Mission. It is in the center of town and is the center of activity in Alamos. Located next to the church in most towns is a plaza where many of the towns activities are held. When the church was built tunnels were constructed under the street to the houses so that the people could escape to the church if the city was attacked. We did mucho walking and were very tired by the time we arrived back to our RV a little before 1pm. We ate lunch and rested a while before taking a bus tour. The first stop was to the high hill overlooking the town of Alamos. It is an awesome site to see those very long narrow homes built around the church and town square and with the very narrow streets. It looks very different than other cities. For more information and pictures of this neat little town go to: http://alamosmexico.com/ Next we went into the country to the Aduana village artisans and pottery makers. The pottery makers were not there because they were selling their wares at the Festival in Alamos. We were able to go into a small store where artisans sold many different products they made. We also went to an area close by that makes bricks. There procedure is very primitive and it was interesting to learn how these were made and have been made for more than 5 generations by the same families. They have the most meager existence that you or we could imagine and seem to be very happy. We also drove to another village that used to have a smelter for the silver mines in close proximity. The smelter is still standing and we could tell it was a fairly big operation. We walked by some more mansions that have been refurbished by snowbirds. We watched a lady make tortillas from scratch. She cooked them on a farm implement disc for a griddle which was sitting on an open fire. We were able to sample them and they were quite tasty. This family has no kitchen, no bathroom and a very small and meager home. She cooks on a wood fire outside and they eat in the backyard behind their house. They had a roof over the kitchen area made of branches and thatch. They have an outhouse and attached to it is another stall that seemed to be a shower. We were not sure if they had lights or running water. We ate a very good meal at a 5 star restaurant out here in this little village where there are almost no conveniences as we know them (except for this restaurant and the refurbished mansions of the Snowbirds who live here in the winter). The culture here in the Alamos area is very interesting and quite sad to see people in such poverty with no way out however most all seemed quite happy. This day was an “eye opening” experience. We feel very fortunate and are thankful to God for such an easy life. Oh yes, one other thing. The RV park we are staying in has a beautiful parrot who speaks to us. I do understand Hola which is pronounced oh – la and is Spanish for hello. We love it! They also have some very colorful chicken and roosters who woke us up early this morning. We did so much enjoy our time here in Alamos and if you are every in Mexico be sure to visit Alamos.
This is to be a full day. At 9am we took a walking tour of downtown Alamos with a little bit of history of the town and area as well as visiting some of the restored mansions. Alamos was founded in 1500’s. Houses have Spanish Colonial design and most have been refurbished. Silver was discovered here and at the height of the boom the population was 55,000. When the mines closed up, the town nearly became a ghost town. Then snowbirds from the US started coming to this area and buying up the old mansions to refurbish. Most of the street we walked on have beautiful cobble stone streets. Many of the properties cover an entire block and most all are just one story. We were able to tour one inside and a couple in the court yard. Most have an outer wall and an inner wall with a court yard called a portico between. They are really quite nice. Most have trees and flowers growing in the inner portico. Some have divided the home and live in a part of it and make apartments in the rest. A few movie stars owned properties here at one time or another. Other homes originally were a full block long but now have been divided into apartments. We spoke with an owner of one of the very nice mansions. He said his house had no wood products in it except the cabinet doors. Even the doors and windows are metal and metal frames. Some years ago the city of Alamos was declared a National Monument by the U.N. So now all refurbishing has to follow the original Spanish Colonial design. The Catholic church is very large and very old. It was built in 1796 at a cost of $51 pesos or in today’s US dollar approximately $5.10. It is run by the Catholic Mission. It is in the center of town and is the center of activity in Alamos. Located next to the church in most towns is a plaza where many of the towns activities are held. When the church was built tunnels were constructed under the street to the houses so that the people could escape to the church if the city was attacked. We did mucho walking and were very tired by the time we arrived back to our RV a little before 1pm. We ate lunch and rested a while before taking a bus tour. The first stop was to the high hill overlooking the town of Alamos. It is an awesome site to see those very long narrow homes built around the church and town square and with the very narrow streets. It looks very different than other cities. For more information and pictures of this neat little town go to: http://alamosmexico.com/ Next we went into the country to the Aduana village artisans and pottery makers. The pottery makers were not there because they were selling their wares at the Festival in Alamos. We were able to go into a small store where artisans sold many different products they made. We also went to an area close by that makes bricks. There procedure is very primitive and it was interesting to learn how these were made and have been made for more than 5 generations by the same families. They have the most meager existence that you or we could imagine and seem to be very happy. We also drove to another village that used to have a smelter for the silver mines in close proximity. The smelter is still standing and we could tell it was a fairly big operation. We walked by some more mansions that have been refurbished by snowbirds. We watched a lady make tortillas from scratch. She cooked them on a farm implement disc for a griddle which was sitting on an open fire. We were able to sample them and they were quite tasty. This family has no kitchen, no bathroom and a very small and meager home. She cooks on a wood fire outside and they eat in the backyard behind their house. They had a roof over the kitchen area made of branches and thatch. They have an outhouse and attached to it is another stall that seemed to be a shower. We were not sure if they had lights or running water. We ate a very good meal at a 5 star restaurant out here in this little village where there are almost no conveniences as we know them (except for this restaurant and the refurbished mansions of the Snowbirds who live here in the winter). The culture here in the Alamos area is very interesting and quite sad to see people in such poverty with no way out however most all seemed quite happy. This day was an “eye opening” experience. We feel very fortunate and are thankful to God for such an easy life. Oh yes, one other thing. The RV park we are staying in has a beautiful parrot who speaks to us. I do understand Hola which is pronounced oh – la and is Spanish for hello. We love it! They also have some very colorful chicken and roosters who woke us up early this morning. We did so much enjoy our time here in Alamos and if you are every in Mexico be sure to visit Alamos.
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Jan 27 Day 6
The temperature as we left Guaymas was in the fifties and it is a beautiful sunny day as most days in Mexico this time of the year. We have 160 miles to go to make it to Alamos, our next stop where we will be for 2 nights. We found out that Alamos is having a Festival this weekend with lots of music and artisans. We should get there in time to enjoy that. On the main street of Guaymas we found many topes (toe-pay) which are known as a Mexican stop light but in the states better known as a speed bump. That is the way they slow traffic in the city as well as small towns. Gets pretty annoying after a time, especially with big RV’s. We see lots of city buses. They are school buses that appear about 100 years old and have been painted flat white. Not sure I want to ride in one. As we left Guaymas we saw another junk yard. Junk in Spanish is Yunky so we now say “there is another yunky yard. J This road takes us through crop land, fruit and nut orchards, chicken farms and several very large green houses. It is definitely an agricultural area in this desert land. We stopped in the city Vicam for some to get fuel and had an opportunity to give some of the toys we brought along to some boys. They are very appreciative but recently learned the adults do not want them to beg for things or food. We will try to give to kids who do not beg. The roadside along Highway 15 are very trashy. This just seems to be part of the culture. They have passed some laws with a fine for littering but that will take some time for people to change their habits.
In CD Obregon we had some tricky turns, traffic was heavy and 3 rigs did not make the turn so we were quite some time getting the caravan back together again. Also in this town we see a beer manufacturing firm making Corona and one other beer popular in the US. Back in the country we see cows grazing in the median between the lanes of traffic and on the rail road tracks usually being herded by one Mexican on horseback. It didn’t appear to be very good grazing land but better than the desert I suppose. The next city was Navajoa, a city of 82, 600. As we sat waiting through a couple of lights in very heavy traffic we saw a man in a wheel chair who had both legs amputated and being pushed by another man. He was passing between 2 lanes of traffic begging for money. I did open the door and give him some pecos. It is those kinds of situations that make us so aware of the cultural differences between the USA and Mexico. There is a big LEY store here which is similar to a Walmart and includes very nice grocery departments. Not too far from Alamos we see the White Mountains where talc is mined and a ways back we saw a manufacturing plant for talc. We have arrived in Alamos. Gene and I quickly set up the RV and walked up the hill where we had seen some of the Festival activities as we came in to town. Most things were shutting down so we decided to return to the RV and perhaps go back in the evening when we thought more music entertainment would be happening. We arrived back and found out we had gone the wrong way and most of the activity was down town…in the other direction. So after dinner we walked down town, found many artisans there and many Mexican food booths. We waited till after 8 pm thinking the some musical group would perform but that did not happen. We went home and later found out the excellent musical performance was earlier while we were at the other end of town.
The temperature as we left Guaymas was in the fifties and it is a beautiful sunny day as most days in Mexico this time of the year. We have 160 miles to go to make it to Alamos, our next stop where we will be for 2 nights. We found out that Alamos is having a Festival this weekend with lots of music and artisans. We should get there in time to enjoy that. On the main street of Guaymas we found many topes (toe-pay) which are known as a Mexican stop light but in the states better known as a speed bump. That is the way they slow traffic in the city as well as small towns. Gets pretty annoying after a time, especially with big RV’s. We see lots of city buses. They are school buses that appear about 100 years old and have been painted flat white. Not sure I want to ride in one. As we left Guaymas we saw another junk yard. Junk in Spanish is Yunky so we now say “there is another yunky yard. J This road takes us through crop land, fruit and nut orchards, chicken farms and several very large green houses. It is definitely an agricultural area in this desert land. We stopped in the city Vicam for some to get fuel and had an opportunity to give some of the toys we brought along to some boys. They are very appreciative but recently learned the adults do not want them to beg for things or food. We will try to give to kids who do not beg. The roadside along Highway 15 are very trashy. This just seems to be part of the culture. They have passed some laws with a fine for littering but that will take some time for people to change their habits.
In CD Obregon we had some tricky turns, traffic was heavy and 3 rigs did not make the turn so we were quite some time getting the caravan back together again. Also in this town we see a beer manufacturing firm making Corona and one other beer popular in the US. Back in the country we see cows grazing in the median between the lanes of traffic and on the rail road tracks usually being herded by one Mexican on horseback. It didn’t appear to be very good grazing land but better than the desert I suppose. The next city was Navajoa, a city of 82, 600. As we sat waiting through a couple of lights in very heavy traffic we saw a man in a wheel chair who had both legs amputated and being pushed by another man. He was passing between 2 lanes of traffic begging for money. I did open the door and give him some pecos. It is those kinds of situations that make us so aware of the cultural differences between the USA and Mexico. There is a big LEY store here which is similar to a Walmart and includes very nice grocery departments. Not too far from Alamos we see the White Mountains where talc is mined and a ways back we saw a manufacturing plant for talc. We have arrived in Alamos. Gene and I quickly set up the RV and walked up the hill where we had seen some of the Festival activities as we came in to town. Most things were shutting down so we decided to return to the RV and perhaps go back in the evening when we thought more music entertainment would be happening. We arrived back and found out we had gone the wrong way and most of the activity was down town…in the other direction. So after dinner we walked down town, found many artisans there and many Mexican food booths. We waited till after 8 pm thinking the some musical group would perform but that did not happen. We went home and later found out the excellent musical performance was earlier while we were at the other end of town.
Friday, January 26, 2007
Jan 26 Day 5
We left 9:15 to go to the pearl farm and factory tour at Perlas Del Mar De Cortez. The process they use is different than other cultured pearl companies. It was a guided tour and very interesting. A cultured pearl takes many steps to produce and 4 years to complete. Each oyster grows one round pearl (not perfectly round) and a cabochon shaped pearl in their lifetime. They do have a web site which explains their process and shows some examples of their cultured pearls. The web site is www.perlas.com.mx . They have a store at the farm where you can buy pieces of jewelry using their pearls and individual pearls but they are all quite expensive. The round individual pearls were $100 to $200 each. The cabachons called mabe were $35. So the economical person that I am, I did not buy any. L But that is ok…I will find some other things to buy I am sure. This afternoon we went to the mall which has many little shops selling all kinds of wares. It also has a store called Ley which is similar to Walmart with a full line of groceries. At 4:30 we all gathered on the veranda of the hotel for a Margarita Party. The hotel is right on the bay and the water is so beautiful one could sit all day and soak up the sun and the beauty of the sea. We had dinner in the hotel restaurant with a choice of shrimp, fish or a combination, steak and a Mexican platter. We chose the fish shrimp combo. Those who chose steak were disappointed. Here in Mexico it seems they cut the steak very thin so it cooks up quite hard and not very tasty. It looks like a flank steak. We arrived home early in the evening and watched a movie.
We left 9:15 to go to the pearl farm and factory tour at Perlas Del Mar De Cortez. The process they use is different than other cultured pearl companies. It was a guided tour and very interesting. A cultured pearl takes many steps to produce and 4 years to complete. Each oyster grows one round pearl (not perfectly round) and a cabochon shaped pearl in their lifetime. They do have a web site which explains their process and shows some examples of their cultured pearls. The web site is www.perlas.com.mx . They have a store at the farm where you can buy pieces of jewelry using their pearls and individual pearls but they are all quite expensive. The round individual pearls were $100 to $200 each. The cabachons called mabe were $35. So the economical person that I am, I did not buy any. L But that is ok…I will find some other things to buy I am sure. This afternoon we went to the mall which has many little shops selling all kinds of wares. It also has a store called Ley which is similar to Walmart with a full line of groceries. At 4:30 we all gathered on the veranda of the hotel for a Margarita Party. The hotel is right on the bay and the water is so beautiful one could sit all day and soak up the sun and the beauty of the sea. We had dinner in the hotel restaurant with a choice of shrimp, fish or a combination, steak and a Mexican platter. We chose the fish shrimp combo. Those who chose steak were disappointed. Here in Mexico it seems they cut the steak very thin so it cooks up quite hard and not very tasty. It looks like a flank steak. We arrived home early in the evening and watched a movie.
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Jan 25 Day 4 This section of the tour, to Kino Bay and on to Guaymas was added to the tour package this year and ours was the first to take it. The company picked a shortcut route from Kino Bay to Guaymas. In the trip travel log they say it might be a rough road in places. Actually we had long areas of detour on a dirt road which ran along side the highway that they were rebuilding. When not on the dirt road the highway was very rough in most areas. Thought we were in Alaska again for a moment. We have decided it would have been better to take the long way around, and much quicker. We arrived in Guaymas (Gwy - mas) in the afternoon about 2 pm after another very long trip. We are staying at Playa (pronounced ply-ya and means beach in Spanish) de Cortez Hotel and RV Park. Soon after arriving the Wagon Master, Ed, showed us around the hotel and area. It is a very old hotel and like everything else in Mexico in need of repair and upkeep. Most of the Mexican people just don’t seem to care about esthetics. We went to the main part of town with some others just to check it out. Found not much shopping there but did find a store kind of like a very small Walmart and got a few groceries and looked around at some of the products they sell. We are able to connect to the internet here with WIFI but have to go to the office for it. So after a late lunch/early dinner we went there to check and send some email. When we arrived back the group had gathered around outside. We sang songs and had a great time. The party broke up early and we watched a movie before going to bed
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Jan 24 Day 3
On Wednesday morning we had a nice time at the Wagon Masters rig for orientation with coffee and pastries. A lady who lives in the park and was on a caravan tour with the tail gunners some years ago shared with us things to do and see in this small town and also some of the history. She shared with us some of the culture of the Mexican people. The school children only go to school until noon. School attendance is NOT required for anyone and many of them drop out. Those who want to get a better education have a tutor who teaches them in the afternoon. There is mainly only two classes of people in Mexico, the rich and the poor. The wealthy want to keep the poor people poor so that they have people to do the manual labor for them. It is very evident in the housing areas. It is either very nice homes or very poor living conditions. It is a little different in the big cities where there is a middle class of people. The lady also agreed to take us to a gift store and to the wharf where the shrimp are brought in. There were some men their selling their catch from the day. While we were there they brought the fish remains down to the dock and dumped them in a boat for the birds to feast on. It was quite a site watching the birds fight over it. We went to a small restaurant just across from the campground for lunch. Gene had fish tacos which were really tasty and Sue had tortilla soup. We also walked along the beach and picked up some very pretty sea shells. Mexico uses lots of bright colors even in the colors of their buildings and homes. It takes some getting used to. In the evening we had a “Welcome to Mexico” dinner at a local restaurant with good food and music. This was a Mexican singing but he knew many American songs and we enjoyed his singing very much. Again the food was very good and the wait staff did an excellent job. We just had a really great time. We were back to our homes by 8:30 and in time to get a good nights rest for our trip tomorrow to Guaymas, Mexico which is about 130 some miles down the road.
On Wednesday morning we had a nice time at the Wagon Masters rig for orientation with coffee and pastries. A lady who lives in the park and was on a caravan tour with the tail gunners some years ago shared with us things to do and see in this small town and also some of the history. She shared with us some of the culture of the Mexican people. The school children only go to school until noon. School attendance is NOT required for anyone and many of them drop out. Those who want to get a better education have a tutor who teaches them in the afternoon. There is mainly only two classes of people in Mexico, the rich and the poor. The wealthy want to keep the poor people poor so that they have people to do the manual labor for them. It is very evident in the housing areas. It is either very nice homes or very poor living conditions. It is a little different in the big cities where there is a middle class of people. The lady also agreed to take us to a gift store and to the wharf where the shrimp are brought in. There were some men their selling their catch from the day. While we were there they brought the fish remains down to the dock and dumped them in a boat for the birds to feast on. It was quite a site watching the birds fight over it. We went to a small restaurant just across from the campground for lunch. Gene had fish tacos which were really tasty and Sue had tortilla soup. We also walked along the beach and picked up some very pretty sea shells. Mexico uses lots of bright colors even in the colors of their buildings and homes. It takes some getting used to. In the evening we had a “Welcome to Mexico” dinner at a local restaurant with good food and music. This was a Mexican singing but he knew many American songs and we enjoyed his singing very much. Again the food was very good and the wait staff did an excellent job. We just had a really great time. We were back to our homes by 8:30 and in time to get a good nights rest for our trip tomorrow to Guaymas, Mexico which is about 130 some miles down the road.
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Jan 23 Day 2
Surprise, surprise, we got a little snow during the night and woke up to snow on the ground but not on the roads. We will be driving very careful so as not to slide around on bridges etc. It should clear up soon. We crossed the border at Nogales and immediately are seeing some of the poverty in Mexico and very poor housing conditions. This was mostly all desert country driving with very few towns. There were some groves of fruit and nut trees and 3 different locations with huge greenhouses. We saw tomatoes growing in one which are probably the hot house tomatoes we buy in the US. Along the highway we see shrines, called alters, to honor those who have died in car accidents. There are many more and much more elaborate than we see in the states. We see lots of Organ Pipe Cactus which is similar to a Saguaro but grows numerous arms from the base of the plant. Some of the Mexicans have a cart made out of a bicycle and some kind of bed for transportation and hauling. We want to call it a Mexican Pickup. Finally we reach Keno Bay after a small detour due to missing a turn. Believe me the Wagon Master will never live that down! It was a long day, 260 some miles but we all arrived safely. We will rest good tonight.
Surprise, surprise, we got a little snow during the night and woke up to snow on the ground but not on the roads. We will be driving very careful so as not to slide around on bridges etc. It should clear up soon. We crossed the border at Nogales and immediately are seeing some of the poverty in Mexico and very poor housing conditions. This was mostly all desert country driving with very few towns. There were some groves of fruit and nut trees and 3 different locations with huge greenhouses. We saw tomatoes growing in one which are probably the hot house tomatoes we buy in the US. Along the highway we see shrines, called alters, to honor those who have died in car accidents. There are many more and much more elaborate than we see in the states. We see lots of Organ Pipe Cactus which is similar to a Saguaro but grows numerous arms from the base of the plant. Some of the Mexicans have a cart made out of a bicycle and some kind of bed for transportation and hauling. We want to call it a Mexican Pickup. Finally we reach Keno Bay after a small detour due to missing a turn. Believe me the Wagon Master will never live that down! It was a long day, 260 some miles but we all arrived safely. We will rest good tonight.
Monday, January 22, 2007
Jan 22 Day 1
We had an orientation of the complete trip, filled out necessary papers and got our money exchanged for pesos. In the afternoon we had a social with a chance to get to know each other. Then in the evening we had a potluck with more chance to get acquainted. It seems like a good mix of people. Some are quite quiet, some are very outgoing but all were easy to get to know and fun to be with. There is snow on the mountains and we saw a great sunset over the hill behind the RV Park.
We had an orientation of the complete trip, filled out necessary papers and got our money exchanged for pesos. In the afternoon we had a social with a chance to get to know each other. Then in the evening we had a potluck with more chance to get acquainted. It seems like a good mix of people. Some are quite quiet, some are very outgoing but all were easy to get to know and fun to be with. There is snow on the mountains and we saw a great sunset over the hill behind the RV Park.
Sunday, January 21, 2007
Mexico Copper Canyon RV Tour with Adventure Caravan January 22 thru February 14
Jan 21
We arrived at the DeAnza Trails RV Park in Tumacacori, AZ two days ahead of time in preparation for our trip to Mexico. On Sunday Jan 21 we drove across the border in cars to get our visas and the permit for our RV. There are 14 coaches or rigs as we call them in the caravan. That is including the Wagon Master who is in charge of leading the caravan and the Tail Gunner who will always bring up the rear and stop with anyone who needs to stop for any reason. Our Travels in Mexico will be as much about the Mexican culture as the beauty of this country. Please remember this as you read the story and look at the pictures.
Jan 21
We arrived at the DeAnza Trails RV Park in Tumacacori, AZ two days ahead of time in preparation for our trip to Mexico. On Sunday Jan 21 we drove across the border in cars to get our visas and the permit for our RV. There are 14 coaches or rigs as we call them in the caravan. That is including the Wagon Master who is in charge of leading the caravan and the Tail Gunner who will always bring up the rear and stop with anyone who needs to stop for any reason. Our Travels in Mexico will be as much about the Mexican culture as the beauty of this country. Please remember this as you read the story and look at the pictures.
Saturday, January 20, 2007
January 20, 2007
We are leaving this morning on our way to our trip in Mexico. We will rendezvous with 13 other RV’s in Tumacacori, AZ. to finish arrangements for our border crossing and will be there until Tuesday morning. Traveling into Mexico requires much paperwork and planning. Getting mail in Mexico is difficult and email is impossible. We will probably not be in contact with most of you until we return to the states. We plan to have a phone card and make some phone calls while we are there. From what we have read, this trip is very exciting and this part of Mexico is quite beautiful. The highlight of the trip is Copper Canyon which is 4 times bigger in area than the Grand Canyon and 1452 deeper. We will be in that area for 4 days. We leave our RVs at a campground and travel by train to the canyon. We will be in that area for 4 days staying in deluxe hotels while we explore the area with an experienced local guide. We travel south as far as Mazatlan and experience a Mexican Fiesta dinner there. Of course there is much more excitement all along the way. We will share all of that with pictures after we return. Pray for us and wish us well
We are leaving this morning on our way to our trip in Mexico. We will rendezvous with 13 other RV’s in Tumacacori, AZ. to finish arrangements for our border crossing and will be there until Tuesday morning. Traveling into Mexico requires much paperwork and planning. Getting mail in Mexico is difficult and email is impossible. We will probably not be in contact with most of you until we return to the states. We plan to have a phone card and make some phone calls while we are there. From what we have read, this trip is very exciting and this part of Mexico is quite beautiful. The highlight of the trip is Copper Canyon which is 4 times bigger in area than the Grand Canyon and 1452 deeper. We will be in that area for 4 days. We leave our RVs at a campground and travel by train to the canyon. We will be in that area for 4 days staying in deluxe hotels while we explore the area with an experienced local guide. We travel south as far as Mazatlan and experience a Mexican Fiesta dinner there. Of course there is much more excitement all along the way. We will share all of that with pictures after we return. Pray for us and wish us well
Friday, January 19, 2007
January 1 thru January 19
We have had lots of fun with all kinds of activities here at the RV parking including games on Wednesday and Thursday nites and several singing groups. We also went on a 4 mile hike in the desert one day. We do enjoy walking in the desert. We have been walking 2 times a day once in the desert and the other just around the rv park here. The desert plants are quite interesting and I have been doing some research on them. Thought we would share some information and pictures of them. If you are not interested….just skip over this lesson. This information was taken mostly from the internet with a few comments of my own. (see pictures of each plant below)
Jumping Cholla (choy – ya)
From a distance the jumping cholla, or teddy bear cholla, looks like a fuzzy, soft plant with many short, fuzzy branches looking like teddy bear arms, growing from the top. As you get closer you realize that the cuddly looking plant is completely covered with silvery spines. If you are unlucky enough to touch the spines, you will find yourself painfully stuck to a spiny segment that seems to have "jumped" off the plant. Segments will also "jump" when stepped on and attach themselves to your leg. The segmented joint of the jumping cholla separate easily when brushed up against. These segments can be found littering the ground around the cholla. There they take root and grow, sometimes forming large forests of cuddly looking teddy bear chollas. Although the jumping cholla has flowers and forms fruit, the fruit is usually sterile, and the plant relies on the dropped stems to propagate.
Barrel Cactus
The Barrel cactus can be easily distinguished from other cacti because of it cylinder-shaped body. The cactus usually reaches from around five to eleven feet tall, and at that height it is one of the largest cacti in the North American deserts. This cactus is really a man-sized (or bigger) cylinder with numerous parallel ridges that run down the sides. These ridges are topped with dangerously sharp 3-4 inch spines. The barrel cactus is also a flowering plant. It has rings of yellow-green or red blossoms at its top.
The Ocotillo (ock – o – tee – yah)
The Ocotillo grows in the Sonoran Desert in Arizona, California and Mexico. . From its root crown it grows stems that can be any%
We have had lots of fun with all kinds of activities here at the RV parking including games on Wednesday and Thursday nites and several singing groups. We also went on a 4 mile hike in the desert one day. We do enjoy walking in the desert. We have been walking 2 times a day once in the desert and the other just around the rv park here. The desert plants are quite interesting and I have been doing some research on them. Thought we would share some information and pictures of them. If you are not interested….just skip over this lesson. This information was taken mostly from the internet with a few comments of my own. (see pictures of each plant below)
Jumping Cholla (choy – ya)
From a distance the jumping cholla, or teddy bear cholla, looks like a fuzzy, soft plant with many short, fuzzy branches looking like teddy bear arms, growing from the top. As you get closer you realize that the cuddly looking plant is completely covered with silvery spines. If you are unlucky enough to touch the spines, you will find yourself painfully stuck to a spiny segment that seems to have "jumped" off the plant. Segments will also "jump" when stepped on and attach themselves to your leg. The segmented joint of the jumping cholla separate easily when brushed up against. These segments can be found littering the ground around the cholla. There they take root and grow, sometimes forming large forests of cuddly looking teddy bear chollas. Although the jumping cholla has flowers and forms fruit, the fruit is usually sterile, and the plant relies on the dropped stems to propagate.
Barrel Cactus
The Barrel cactus can be easily distinguished from other cacti because of it cylinder-shaped body. The cactus usually reaches from around five to eleven feet tall, and at that height it is one of the largest cacti in the North American deserts. This cactus is really a man-sized (or bigger) cylinder with numerous parallel ridges that run down the sides. These ridges are topped with dangerously sharp 3-4 inch spines. The barrel cactus is also a flowering plant. It has rings of yellow-green or red blossoms at its top.
The Ocotillo (ock – o – tee – yah)
The Ocotillo grows in the Sonoran Desert in Arizona, California and Mexico. . From its root crown it grows stems that can be any%
January 1 thru January 19
We have had lots of fun with all kinds of activities here at the RV parking including games on Wednesday and Thursday nites and several singing groups. We also went on a 4 mile hike in the desert one day. We do enjoy walking in the desert. We have been walking 2 times a day once in the desert and the other just around the rv park here. The desert plants are quite interesting and I have been doing some research on them. Thought we would share some information and pictures of them. If you are not interested….just skip over this lesson. This information was taken mostly from the internet with a few comments of my own.
We have had lots of fun with all kinds of activities here at the RV parking including games on Wednesday and Thursday nites and several singing groups. We also went on a 4 mile hike in the desert one day. We do enjoy walking in the desert. We have been walking 2 times a day once in the desert and the other just around the rv park here. The desert plants are quite interesting and I have been doing some research on them. Thought we would share some information and pictures of them. If you are not interested….just skip over this lesson. This information was taken mostly from the internet with a few comments of my own.
Barrel Cactus
The Barrel cactus can be easily distinguished from other cacti because of it cylinder-shaped body. The cactus usually reaches from around five to eleven feet tall, and at that height it is one of the largest cacti in the North American deserts. This cactus is really a man-sized (or bigger) cylinder with numerous parallel ridges that run down the sides. These ridges are topped with dangerously sharp 3-4 inch spines. The barrel cactus is also a flowering plant. It has rings of yellow-green or red blossoms at its top.
The Barrel cactus can be easily distinguished from other cacti because of it cylinder-shaped body. The cactus usually reaches from around five to eleven feet tall, and at that height it is one of the largest cacti in the North American deserts. This cactus is really a man-sized (or bigger) cylinder with numerous parallel ridges that run down the sides. These ridges are topped with dangerously sharp 3-4 inch spines. The barrel cactus is also a flowering plant. It has rings of yellow-green or red blossoms at its top.
The Ocotillo (ock – o – tee – yah)
The Ocotillo grows in the Sonoran Desert in Arizona, California and Mexico. . From its root crown it grows stems that can be any where from 9 to 30 feet tall. These stems grow in an "S" like pattern making the shrub look like an inverted funnel. The stems are covered with spines that can be 1.5 inches long. The leaves of the shrub are thick and leather like and grow several times in the growing season depending on the amount of rainwater available. The leaves are narrow 2-inch ovals, which can sprout within 3 day of a rainfall. The leaves turn brown and fall off when water is scarce. When the leaves die the stalk and part of the steam become woody and form spines. In the spring the Ocotillo produces flowers, which are tube like and bright red. They can be seen from March to June and even later depending on rainfall. The picture with the flowers was taken last spring when we were in the area
The Ocotillo grows in the Sonoran Desert in Arizona, California and Mexico. . From its root crown it grows stems that can be any where from 9 to 30 feet tall. These stems grow in an "S" like pattern making the shrub look like an inverted funnel. The stems are covered with spines that can be 1.5 inches long. The leaves of the shrub are thick and leather like and grow several times in the growing season depending on the amount of rainwater available. The leaves are narrow 2-inch ovals, which can sprout within 3 day of a rainfall. The leaves turn brown and fall off when water is scarce. When the leaves die the stalk and part of the steam become woody and form spines. In the spring the Ocotillo produces flowers, which are tube like and bright red. They can be seen from March to June and even later depending on rainfall. The picture with the flowers was taken last spring when we were in the area
Palo Verde (paw – low – verdee)
The palo verde is a very strange looking shrub or small tree which grows in the Sonoran Desert of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It has adapted in unique ways to survive the killing heat of the desert sun. Palo verde, or "green wood" in Spanish, has a thin, almost waxy looking green bark studded with large of thorns. The smooth greenish trunk and branches have for a large part taken over the photosynthesis. The green bark contains chlorophyll, which gives it the ability to carry on photosynthesis when the tree has shed its leave during dry, hot periods. This way the tree doesn't have to shut down completely and can still store up energy in its roots. Palo verde can get to be 10-20 feet tall, but grow very slowly and are considered climax species in the Sonoran Desert.
The palo verde is a very strange looking shrub or small tree which grows in the Sonoran Desert of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It has adapted in unique ways to survive the killing heat of the desert sun. Palo verde, or "green wood" in Spanish, has a thin, almost waxy looking green bark studded with large of thorns. The smooth greenish trunk and branches have for a large part taken over the photosynthesis. The green bark contains chlorophyll, which gives it the ability to carry on photosynthesis when the tree has shed its leave during dry, hot periods. This way the tree doesn't have to shut down completely and can still store up energy in its roots. Palo verde can get to be 10-20 feet tall, but grow very slowly and are considered climax species in the Sonoran Desert.
Prickly Pear Cactus
The prickly pear cactus is a widely used and versatile cactus. It can be used in many different ways such as foods, crops, etc.. In many places the prickly pear is grown as a crop, but in others they are just grown in the wild. The prickly pear has started to grow as a weed in some areas but in others it is vulnerable. It grows up to 7 feet tall.
The prickly pear cactus is a widely used and versatile cactus. It can be used in many different ways such as foods, crops, etc.. In many places the prickly pear is grown as a crop, but in others they are just grown in the wild. The prickly pear has started to grow as a weed in some areas but in others it is vulnerable. It grows up to 7 feet tall.
Prickly Pear Cactus
The prickly pear cactus is a widely used and versatile cactus. It can be used in many different ways such as foods, crops, etc.. In many places the prickly pear is grown as a crop, but in others they are just grown in the wild. The prickly pear has started to grow as a weed in some areas but in others it is vulnerable. It grows up to 7 feet tall.
The prickly pear cactus is a widely used and versatile cactus. It can be used in many different ways such as foods, crops, etc.. In many places the prickly pear is grown as a crop, but in others they are just grown in the wild. The prickly pear has started to grow as a weed in some areas but in others it is vulnerable. It grows up to 7 feet tall.
Saguaro (sa-waro) Cactus
The Saguaro Cactus has a smooth and waxy skin and is covered with two-inch spines that are located on the tree's vertical ribs. In May and June, the Cactus bears creamy white flowers with yellow centers that measured about three inches. The Saguaro Cactus flower can be found on the end of the branches. The flower only opens on cooler nights and is closed during the heat of midday. The stem of the cactus can be 18 to 24 inches in diameter, The Cactus and its branches grow upright as do all cacti in the southwestern U.S. When it rains the Saguaro Cactus soaks up water and holds it in its ribs. (These ribs are often taken out of the old dead Saguaros and used for walking sticks. We each have one which were given to us when we walked in the desert last spring) Since it does not rain a lot in the desert, the cactus uses the water that it stores when it doesn't rain. The Saguaro Cactus is Arizona's state flower. The average lifespan for a Saguaro cactus is about 200 years. The Saguaro grows very slowly -- perhaps an inch a year -- but to a great height, 15 to 50 feet. The largest plants, with more than 5 arms, are estimated to be 200 years old. An average old Saguaro would have 5 arms and be about 30 feet tall. The 3-inch, oval, green fruit ripens just before the fall rainy season, splitting open to reveal the bright-red, pulpy flesh which all desert creatures seem to relish. This fruit was an especially important food source to Native Americans of the region who used the flesh, seeds and juice. Seeds from the Saguaro fruit are prolific -- as many as 4,000 to a single fruit -- probably the largest number per flower of any desert cactus. The Indians still make many different food items with this fruit. Gila woodpeckers like the interior of the Saguaro Cactus because it is the only plant it can hollow out for their nest in the desert. The woodpecker will drill 2 to 3 holes before it decides to live in one. It will peck right into the soft tissue that is used to store water. The cactus will fix the damage by sealing up the inside with "callous scar tissue" and that stops water loss.
The Saguaro Cactus has a smooth and waxy skin and is covered with two-inch spines that are located on the tree's vertical ribs. In May and June, the Cactus bears creamy white flowers with yellow centers that measured about three inches. The Saguaro Cactus flower can be found on the end of the branches. The flower only opens on cooler nights and is closed during the heat of midday. The stem of the cactus can be 18 to 24 inches in diameter, The Cactus and its branches grow upright as do all cacti in the southwestern U.S. When it rains the Saguaro Cactus soaks up water and holds it in its ribs. (These ribs are often taken out of the old dead Saguaros and used for walking sticks. We each have one which were given to us when we walked in the desert last spring) Since it does not rain a lot in the desert, the cactus uses the water that it stores when it doesn't rain. The Saguaro Cactus is Arizona's state flower. The average lifespan for a Saguaro cactus is about 200 years. The Saguaro grows very slowly -- perhaps an inch a year -- but to a great height, 15 to 50 feet. The largest plants, with more than 5 arms, are estimated to be 200 years old. An average old Saguaro would have 5 arms and be about 30 feet tall. The 3-inch, oval, green fruit ripens just before the fall rainy season, splitting open to reveal the bright-red, pulpy flesh which all desert creatures seem to relish. This fruit was an especially important food source to Native Americans of the region who used the flesh, seeds and juice. Seeds from the Saguaro fruit are prolific -- as many as 4,000 to a single fruit -- probably the largest number per flower of any desert cactus. The Indians still make many different food items with this fruit. Gila woodpeckers like the interior of the Saguaro Cactus because it is the only plant it can hollow out for their nest in the desert. The woodpecker will drill 2 to 3 holes before it decides to live in one. It will peck right into the soft tissue that is used to store water. The cactus will fix the damage by sealing up the inside with "callous scar tissue" and that stops water loss.
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