Five of us taxied to the botanical gardens above San Miguel to hike and paint. What a ride up the cobblestone and winding streets! We were very glad we took the advice not to walk! This garden was developed to highlight the local plant life and if course was full of the many varieties of cactus and desert trees. It was rocky and very dry.
Helma and I found a tiny bit of shade and set up our easels. She chose the wide vista of the canyon and town beyond, while I concentrated on a path through the cacti. After about three hours we were hot and dry and ready to go, plus, George had hiked enough. Kathy and Julianne chose to stay a bit longer!!!
After resting and cleaning up the group walked to the complex of studios and galleries housed in an old textile mill. Our hostess Mary Calderoni has a studio there and wanted us all to come. It was a very interesting evening watching and listening to artists and musicians. We ate a light supper after at one of the cafes there...mine a tiny pork slider with wine of course. It was fun to see the crowds of people out at night.
It was passion Sunday next so at 3 am the bells began to ring and fireworks were set off to celebrate as the procession arrived at the church. The noise was almost continuous until about 9 am. No more sleep for us. Some did go to see the procession and said it was so interesting and colorful with patterns made with colored sawdust in the streets. Many musicians and clergy walked along the path.
Because we were all somewhat tired most of us hung around the casa and painted the streets or from photos. A bit of shopping and some sampling of local foods filled out the day. Tonight we ate at a nice restaurant (The only patrons) but enjoyed more of fusion style Mexican food. I am still waiting for some tamales!!!
I have never wanted to go to Mexico until I have beem reading about your trip.
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