mOOners in Mexico

by Kris

We love our Bigfoot truck camper; we must because we've been "full-timing" (RV speak for living in it) for almost two years and we're still happy and comfortable. All the tech gadgets, the two 125 watt solar panels, the satellite internet dish, our Macs and music gizmos aside, we try to keep the systems and accomodations simple. The original interior was pleasant but not inspiring.

We weren't sure how we wanted to personalize our home until I fell in love with a colorful picture at an art fair in Ajijic, Jalisco last spring. The artist, Luz, a beautiful young Mexicana, explained the title of her painting, "Once Flores de Mexico" to mean "Eleven Flowers of Mexico" with the ten bright amarillo flowers and the faceless woman of the vase representing the eleventh flower that is all women...I cried when she told me because I am una mamacita y abuelita (grandma) y amiga de muchas flores muy especiales.

The many colors of the picture came to life in fabric (8 yards of rich red for cushions, curtains, and valances for $22US in Morelia, Michoacán) and multi striped shawls, and brightly hued pillows depicting scenes of life in Pátzcuaro, Michoacán. The paper maché angel on the wall was created by a student of a special school in Tapalpa, Jalisco.

The cocina is brightened by the hand blown wine glasses from Tonalá; the glass holder "borrowed" from our sailboat, fullmOOn. The cheery "sun" is also from the children of Tapalpa.

The rug was hand woven by Margarita, a vendor in Chapala who is an absolute sweetheart y una amiga muy especial. Ken sewed the duvet from two queen sheets - I love a man who sews.

Framed and firmly attached to the wall and travel ready is my favorite picture.

Like all the treasures we've surrounded ourselves with, "Once Flores de Mexico" is a colorful reminder of all the places and people who make Mexico our happy second home...

mOOners