Here in Merida visiting with M. C. Twinklin’s first live elf, Billy P. and his lovely bride, Lula. While it is too hot for egg nog, there is plenty of inspiration in this magnificent old city. It is the beginning of the rainy season, but everything is already green and lush.

Merida is the capital of the Yucatan. Before arriving here, we toured Tulum and Lake Bacalar, almost to Belize. Both spots were full of old Mexican charm. With a one night stay in Valladolid, we admired their “cenote”, Spanish for sinkhole. Of course, the cenote is very old, with stalagmites and stalagtites in the connecting “caves”, more like a rock outcropping. Many people swim in them, as the water is clear as a bell, fed mainly by underground aquifers. Very lovely.

My home away from home in Merida is the Hotel Reforma, an old hacienda style hotel built in the 1800’s, with pasta tile floors and beamed 18′ ceilings.
With my friends, I will really get a taste of this city’s vibrant cultural pulse, street dancing, music, and just maybe some tequila…..after all, when life gives you lemons, grab a shot and some salt.

We are in search of something original for Christmas while here. Billy says holidays make Meridians want to set off fireworks, though ” blow things up” was his exact quote. Since we cannot return with fireworks, hopefully, we will discover a spectacular find for all to see in the fall.