
Some days I go out onto my patio, kick back in my lounger and stare at the puffy clouds as they meander through the blue sky above. I conjure up in my mind various images as I gaze at the illusive willowy shapes as they change and drift through the blue canvas above me. A jet exhaust trail high above the earth glides by leaving a wispy tail, fluttering and weaving in its wake, creating shapes that take up momentary residence and then dissipate and disappear.

A trip into town---now that I'm essentially a full time resident at El Dorado Ranch, 7 miles north of San Felipe, I find I only go into town once or twice a week for the most part. Many of my every day needs are met near the Ranch--gas for the car, basic grocery shopping, restaurants and night life are all near at hand. But I still enjoy the leisurely drive down the Malecon, gazing at the tranquil Sea, taking in the lighthouse and the old Boom Boom building nestled just below the Shrine of Our Lady Guadalupe, which rests like a crown atop the hill. I love the brightly colored blouses, dresses, blankets and ceramic items displayed in quantity outside the curio shops, beckoning the casual shopper to come inside. The fish vendors in their trucks or vans along side the boardwalk selling the fresh catch of the day, and the wandering street merchants meandering up and down the Malecon trying to sell their wares. On a festival day, the boulevard is teaming with cars as they do the slow crawl through town, parked cars on both sides and people zig zagging across the street in between them. On slow paced lazy days, people leisurely walk the Malecon taking in the gorgeous scenery, peeking into the curio shops or stopping in at one of the restaurants for a cooling beer, margarita, taco or just shooting the breeze with each other., .

As summer approaches and kicks in, the temperatures have been rising, there is a touch of humidity in the air. The snowbirds have returned to their 'northern' homes and communities, their Baja casitas resting and waiting for their return, whenever that may be. The ebb and flow of one season into the next takes hold. Swimming pools are more crowded as those who remain try to keep cool. The underlying whir of air conditioning units or ceiling fans becomes the norm. Feeling cooped up during the hotter days, people enjoy the more temperate evenings with backyard parties and bar-b-ques with friends, or late evening picnics on the beach. Where many have left Baja until the Fall, many still remain to enjoy the summer months, festivals and events that continue through the summer. Mac n Nan's Karaoke nights with singing and dancing becomes one big pool party at La Palapa. Isaac Diaz Band, Tekila Rock, Rock Cats Band, Ed Kociela, Mike Saindon and Alex Santana continue making wonderful music regularly at Jollymon, Parrots Cracker, El Padrino, and EDR. The new dance floor and stage area at La Palapa is getting a work out, where old and new friends connect in the evening. Musicians and artists abound in San Felipe, many sharing their talents throughout the summer months. Visit the galleries, meet the artists and craft creators. Be involved in the various volunteer efforts. Enjoy the many delicious dishes that are bountiful at San Felipe's abundant restaurants. Summer is a time for relaxing, fun and frolic, yet another wonderful season in our Village by the Sea. (Dancing Photo by Diane Pilato)