Photos of Chapala........

http://www.flickr.com/photos/lakechapalamexico/sets/72157622595035762/show

Chapala is shown in the above link.  Many photos of the area, the lake, some of the beautiful homes nestled in the mountains, the old heritage train station, the mailicon and the some general shots of our town.

Our home is located about 5 minutes (by car) outside of the town square.  Close enough to the lake but far enough away from the noise of the town.   It is a community of approx. 200 homes called Chapala Haciendas.  All the streets are named after birds.  We're on Flamencos.
 Funny, going from "White on Black "to "Blancos on Flanencos!"
Oh, the noise of Mexico.  In the heart of the village, cars drive up and down the narrow cobblestone streets each day (all day!) supporting a loud speaker.  They are merchants advertising the daily specials.  Very much a step back in time!  The daily water delivery truck, the pepsi cola truck, the beer truck, the propane truck, the egg lady, the taco guy.........you get the idea.  All blaring their loud speakers promoting their wares.
Then there are the firecrackers!  Not your ordinary firecrackers, these are a closer relative to a bomb than a firecracker.  These things are set off day and night when it is "festival time".  And as we've come to learn very quickly, it's always Festival time in Mexico.  There are so many Mexican holidays and festivals, that'll be a blog of it's own to follow.........
Once the sun sets, the dogs begin their vocal display. You can sit and listen to each one in it's own domain barking to the other friends down the street.  As if to say, " It was a good day in Mexico today!"
Eveining parties begin in Mexico around 11 pm.   Music, Laughter, Dogs Barking, Fireworks and the sound of the night breeze..
Note to self - (add to Shoppers Drug Mart List - earplugs!)