Days 8 & 9

These two days were filled with such fun things as swimming, snorkelling, and shopping!

I bought a pair of sandals, Emily bought a leather bag,

Indiana Emily

and Laura bought a poncho/sweater. Let me tell you about our favourite store at the Hacienda shopping centre that's on the resort property. As we approach the store, a young girl (maybe 10) is working on some crochet handiwork and her beautiful smile welcomes us in. The store is packed with kinds of hand-made items - the same things we've seen at other shops and in Playa. Laura asks to see a sweater at the very top row so a young boy (about 9) grabs the extender-stick so he can pull it down for her. These kids are SO sweet and friendly as they haggle with us over prices and we want to buy more from them just 'cause they're so adorable!

I always love being "wooed" by the Mariachi Band!

On Monday we took an impromptu trip to Akumal Bay at the recommendation of Felix. We chatted with a few other travellers who recommended we watch our stuff carefully as theirs had all been stolen from the beach the day before while they were in the water. So, we had a designated "stuff watcher" and took turns snorkelling. This is an absolutely amazing place to experience God's incredible creation. We saw more live coral in bright purple, big trees, urchins, sea sponges, more sting rays, and a couple SEA TURTLES!!! They are so graceful and amazing creatures to behold. I feel blessed to have had the privilege of seeing so many beautiful things. I don't even mind the killer sunburn from the day.

Kent & the kids went for dinner last night without me because I was just too sick & exhausted from the day. They saw a tram accident on their way to dinner but were still able to enjoy the Arlequin restaurant. The entrees consumed included duck, salmon, filet mignon, and portabello capuccino soup.

We have had a fabulous vacation but are looking forward to being home again. We need to nurture our over-sunned skin and do laundry! As I write this, we sit in the lobby waiting for our ride to the airport and are enjoying cool drinks together. This is such a relaxing place and we hope to return someday.