March 25, 2007

Tecolate Beach, MX
(be sure to view the map)

Life’s a beach…

Our arrival at the ferry dock yesterday was followed up with a 6 pm pot-luck dinner. There was enough food for about 3 more such dinners. The main course was batter-fried filets—fish that some of the group caught on Thursday. No margaritas this night because the drivers would later have to drive their rigs onto the ferry, doing a zig-zag course up the ramp to prevent rig damage. A few of the longest 5th wheels suffered rear- end ‘owees’ nevertheless.

Prior to boarding, we watched the ferry unload dozens of semis, buses, trucks, cars—a roar of activity at 10 pm. It was proof again that the Mexican economy is booming. Couldn’t believe the ferry could hold such a load. It swallowed up our group easily, less than 18 inches between us on the sides.

Once on board, we were whisked to our ‘staterooms,’ which consisted of 2 single beds and a combo bathroom shower. ‘Spartan quarters’.

We went down to the dining room, where we were serenaded by a mariachi band. Another giant food spread—but Janice and I exercised some self-restraint, lest our girths continue to expand. We did accept a complimentary margarita, which was the perfect sleep inducer—not that such was necessary. We were exhausted. We slept soundly on mattresses 2 inches thick.

Our rig was the last one off in the morning, and we headed to Tecolate Beach, about 8 miles distant. For the past 18 months, since we signed up for this trip, I had a vision of camping on the beach in an uncrowded setting. After arriving at the beach we were finally sent up the beach from the main group with 3 other rigs. My vision was fulfilled, and then some. As I sit here now, I am looking out the front window at the white beach in front of us, bordering an azure blue sea. A few sailboats and a yacht are offshore.

We will be here for 2 nights. Should I take a siesta, walk on the beach or don the snorkel gear? Tough decisions. Today, life’s a beach.

Dos margaritas, por favor.....