Tuesday, February 20, 2018

hash house harriers

Have you ever heard of a group called, "Hash House Harriers"? Me neither, until a friend mentioned it here in Merida awhile back. I finally attended this monthly group in January, and just went again for the second time in February. It's known as, "A drinking club with a running problem."

Apparently it is a worldwide thing and has a history - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hash_House_Harriers

It's a real club with formalities. We met at someone's house, whoever is hosting that month, and our club usually divides in two groups, the walkers or the runners.  We all head out and look for clues in chalk on the ground or on poles, which are arrows and circles and other marks to indicate the trail. The designated people that mark the trail are called 'hares'.
photo from Merida hash group - walking in Centro
The trail leads to a halfway destination where we stop for a beer. (Dues are collected prior so it's taken care of.) Then we follow the trail the rest of the way back to the host's house for more beverages and snacks. There are initiations for new members involving chugging your beer, and later we sing some silly songs. Members get these amusing hash nicknames after you've been there long enough.

 It's not a race and more of a social club. You'd be surprised how many of the older folks here participate especially on the crumbly streets in Centro.  It's unlike anything I've done before but is a fun experience! Who knew?

Wednesday, February 14, 2018

hearts and ash

Hello and Happy 💖Day and Ash Wednesday.

Merida heated up this week back up to 90.  Otherwise no complaints. Life is good.

Although I just lost my oldest living Aunt this week. She was a stylish woman with a quick wit. She resembled Liz Taylor back when, and considering she was pushing 97... she aged very well and had a good long ride. This photo was the last time I saw her three years ago when we stopped in Baltimore on our road-trip. It happened to be her 93rd birthday! I'm sure I wrote about this on our travel blog.
with Aunt Mildred at age 93!


 This week I tried a new yoga class that is held on the rooftop terrace of Cafe Montejo. It was a slower flow, and had a strong focus on breath which helps you stay present. At the end of class in shivasana, I relaxed a level deeper than usual and the instructor, Alma, said this form of yoga works with the parasympathic nervous system. That was awesome.

Yoga with Alma at Cafe Montejo
Staying active and positive while in this transition phase of life, and it seems to be working.😀

Grace, peace, and love.