Approximately 45 years ago my parents purchased a home in Ajijic, Mexico in order to spend the winter in a much nicer climate than Minnesota. Three of my youngest siblings who were still in elementary school joined them.  The rest of us (13 kids in all) would visit when possible, sometimes bringing friends, in-laws and our own children.

Mexico was a real adventure and one didn’t even need a passport back then.  My Dad absolutely loved the village life, the people, the culture and started every morning with a ” Another beautiful day in Ajijic!” His enthusiasm was contagious and his growing group of eclectic friends made life both interesting and fun!

Unfortunately he succumbed to cancer at the early age of 59 and my mother ended up selling the home a few years later.

Earlier this year my sister who was one of those spending her winters there found the same home on VRBO.  Along with my youngest brother they suggested a reunion to celebrate the 100th anniversary of my dad’s birth.

Since the remodeled estate now included two additional bedrooms and a swimming pool, the possibility became a realty for seven of us! The small town was now about 5 times larger with an abundance of great restaurants, near-by pickleball courts, and even a Wal-Mart….

We were able to connect with a woman who lived behind our home and owned a beauty salon.  She remembered our mother fondly and was thrilled that we were able to visit this haven once again.