I've been remiss in writing blogs of late. Probably because I have been having the most amazing time in Mexico. So here's a catch up big blog of all that has been happening and where I have been over the past few months. Now that I have this down, I will promise to keep up with my blogging and write more regularly.

So since I arrived in Mexico back in September we have been in Mexico City, Guadalajara, Oaxaca, Puerto Escondido, Chapala and Ajijic.  In no particular order (I did mention this is a big catch up blog!) here's some of the highlights of the places I have visited and what we got up to.

Xochimilco (Mexico City)

Xochimilco is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its canals stretching more than 100 square miles. The gardens, or chinampas, were constructed by the Aztecs from juniper branches, allowing them to cultivate crops on the little man-made islands and it was how the whole of Mexico city was in the past.

We journied down the Xochimilco canals formed by these islands in a colorful "trajinera" boat and enjoyed the sights and wildlife.

It was a lot of fun, very chilled out, and I even drank Tequila mixed with a Mexican Mango drink!

Casa Azul, Mexico City

we got to visit Frida Kahlo's "Casa Azul" along with Diego Rivera's monumental temple of art "Anahuacalli".

Such an enjoyable visit to both along with our Mexican guide Mireya and Casa Lu Sur Artists

Luis Barragan in Tlalpan

We visited the incredible Capuchin Poor St Clare's Convent Chapel, designed by the great Mexican Architect Luis Barragán.

Entry is at the discretion of the Mother Superior and everyone hands up their phone as they enter as the convent is a place of quiet and worship.

Photos are not allowed so unfortunately I can't show you what this modernist masterpiece of design is like - and this photo of the very ordinary front door does not indicate in any way what awaits behind it.

After the tour with one of the Sisters, Ciaran bought these great handmade rosary beads. The nuns also sell a special egg nog like drink for Christmas which includes the special ingredient of Tequila One man on our tour bought 3 bottles!

Juan O'Gorman Library Building Mural, Mexico City

Visited the National University of Mexico yesterday and got to see the most amazing library.

In 1948, Juan O'Gorman (his father was Irish!) was invited to create a mural on the library building - and what a mural he created on all four walls showing the history of Mexico.

A university education is practically free here in Mexico costing just 1 peso (50c) a year. But of course it can be challenging for many to attend with the costs of books and supplies and the need of many families for their children to go out to work and earn money as soon as they leave school.

It was a beautiful campus with stunning buildings and there was a great atmosphere in the whole place. We visited the School of Architecture and the MUCA Art Exhibition Space. Anyone who gets to study here is very lucky, and I loved it all!

Back in Ajijic

We have returned to Ajijic staying in the 360XQMX Art Residency (PIGSY is working towards a solo art exhibition in January). Below are some of the things that we are currently up to.

Spanish Lessons

We are back taking Spanish lessons since we arrived back in Ajijic. We are doing two classes a week with Javier - hopefully we can gain some fluency. 

Christmas Plans

The big event for us will be the "Feast of the 7 Fishes" on Christmas Eve. We are doing this with a group of Art Residency friends and we are all bringing a dish or two. Ciaran is bringing a Fish Dip Appetizer with crackers while I am making a Tilapia fish dish with a side of brussel sprouts (Ciaran's a fan of these!)

Trivia Nights

On Wedsday evenings we have been going to Triva in The Cocktail Bar (Tom's Bar) which has been a lot of fun. It's finished for the Christmas break but we will be back at it in January.

Saturdays take us to La Fiesta from 4pm to 6pm to watch the very good "Old Souls" band with Northern Irish lead singer Yvonne Watterson.