10 More Thoughts on Oaxaca

1. Affection. It's a big deal here. The way people greet with a kiss on the cheek. As I mentioned before, the making out in the streets. The touching when talking. America is much more reserved in affection and emotion.

2. Siestas. Naps are nice. Many times I feel like I'm not getting enough done with a nap back home and rarely take them, however, here you stay up late so really naps don't minus one's productive time.

3. Taxi's. We've had some good drivers lately and they were cheaper as well. The more expensive the driver the more dangerous the driver. At least that's my experience. Flying at 50 mph on tight streets with uncontrolled intersections is a bit tense. Even the 65 on the main drag is crazy. They honk to let the intersections know they are coming. Honking is a constant theme here. It means: "get out of my way", "move", and "i'm coming." Did I mention no seatbelts? Yes, no seatbelts. Safety isn't primary here in Oaxaca. In the US it is, which has its benefits, but it also serves us as a good capitalistic enterprise.

4. Nightlife. People are out late. Holding hands. Laying down in parks. Eating dinner at 9-10 pm. Drinking Mezcal. Dancing. Playing music. Begging for money.

5. Soccer. As you probably know soccer is a big deal. I saw a great goal the other day. The perfect spin. The quick kick. The goalie's attempt. The passing in soccer is unbelievable. How they control the ball with such precision blows my mind. Those flying head-butts through the air --amazing. How the head can be used as such a precise guiding tool is a human feat. Head control: I don't think I have much.

6. Demandars. One guy came into the cafe and was more than begging for money or some item worthwhile he was demanding. We said "no gracias" and he was not pleased. Thankfully, he moved to another table. After hearing a commottion in the back I knew it wasn't goin well. Soon he walked past with a lighter in hand and what seemed to be a european looking man following him upset. A rotund and young mexican police-man kindly grabbed the lighter and gave it back to the european. Who said mexican police were corrupt?

7. Toilets. Yes, no t.p. in the tank. Some have lids, some don't. Sometimes there is t.p. and sometimes there is not. Flushing is optional and it doesn't always complete the job. Oh, and let's just say verde isn't just the color of salsa here.

8. Wildlife. Dogs being walked. Dog's as pets. Dog's on the streets. Lots' of dogs. Bugs too. The bugs could be classified as wildlife because they are so big.

9. Single moms. Divorce according to our family is just as much of an issue here as in the US. Single moms are prevalent. Again, I am reminded that the need for godly men is not just a US issue. Thankfully, this particular marriage of Rosita and Enrique Padre is one that is 38 years. Makes my 3 year anniversary celebrated yesterday seem small, and reminds me that the way to 38 is by reaching 3 and then celebrating our anniversary again next year and again and again...

10. Jesus and sex. I saw this art store with a big painting of Jesus' face with the crown of thorns on his glowing head. It was prominently displayed. Right behind it on the floor was a large photo of a naked white bombshell laying down with grande chi chi's barely covered. Reminds me of what is often the case, Jesus in front and lust in the back corner. Also, reminds me that both Jesus and sex sell, and sell well. Jesus may even sell more than sex. In reality though Jesus is never to be sold. He made that clear when he took the whip to those salesmen in his Father's house.