Memories of a Mexican Day

A cold Canadian sunrise will soon give way to a tropical sunset. The thoughts of what's ahead give us the energy to wake up painfully early and slug ourselves to the airport.

The sun's rays warm the rail as we stroll down to a fruit fiesta, chocolate coated strawberry kind of breakfast, with the beach beckoning all the while.

Icy, colorful drinks quenched our thirst regularily. I can taste a Strawberry Margarita, a Mudslide, a Miami Vice, and a Piña Colada soothing my parched throat. (All alcohol free, of course!)

Mealtimes took on new meaning as we explored seafood, Italian, Mexican, French, and Mediterranean fair. My daily fix of citrus apple salad at the Beachside Grille prepared me for the excitement of the sunny hours to come.

Afternoon activities included seeking repeated thrills on gigantic waterslides, often trying to soak one another as we barrelled down on huge tubes.

I buckled into a new experience I was sure I might never have the courage to do. Ziplining became one of my favorite adventures after the first time I soared through the sky.

Just when you thought it was safe to walk down the beach, your friend grabs you for a polka, Mexican style. What's there to do but go for it in the surf and sand.

Serenity eases the heat of the day as we relaxed in the pool, taking time to unwind after the excitement of the day.

A late afternoon beach walk involved meeting some new star-shaped friends. Being able to cradle a starfish we found in the ocean was an unexpected and spiny surprise. Don't worry, they were only out of the water for a few moments.

A family portrait is of course a necessity. Standing with our toes in the waves and the wind in our hair, posing to capture a memory that will last forever, especially on winter days like today.

On the way back to our room to change at the end of the afternoon, the Coati brigade would greet us. These cute little raccoon-like guys were very interested to know if we had any food to share.

"Who wants to come to CoCo's with me?" was often heard after dinner. We consumed our weight and more in chocolate balls, cinnamon buns, and specialty coffees as we played cards and dominos with our friends.

The passing day gave way to a stunning sunset. A few more footprints in the sand were made before we returned to our rooms, ready for a good night's sleep.