Puerto Vallarta

I have been looking forward to this trip for months and months.  Mike's grandparents have had a timeshare in Puerto Vallarta for years, but Mike and I had never been able to take vacation time in early January.  This year I knew that I would need an escape from both the cold and the loneliness in Tacoma...a trip to Mexico would be the perfect retreat.  Mike's sister Jenelle has been able to go to Mexico for the last couple of years, and I planned to take advantage of her experience and knowledge of the area.  Typically, Jenelle has vacationed with the grandparents or a group of friends.  This year, however, the trip ended up being just three of us.

Nancy (Jenelle's girlfriend), Jenelle, me

While I was worried about getting in the way or being the third wheel, the three of us had an absolutely wonderful time.  We relaxed, we explored, we ate, and we drank.  The timeshare room was great and the view even greater.

View from our balcony

A perfect place to read

Our first night out was probably the most memorable.  If anyone is headed to P.V., a trip to Pepe's is a must.  While I don't really remember the food, I do remember the world's largest margaritas (I think we even got a free second round).  Chips, guacamole, and margaritas...ahhh, the best!

Trouble and guac

Jenelle and Nancy at Pepe's

Relaxing on the beach is certainly an important part of a Mexico vacation in January.  I read at least four books over the week in P.V.  Relaxation at it's finest :)

Lunch at the bar

Bliss

The three of us had a great time on some of our day trips.  We went whale watching with a great guide who was so full of knowledge about humpback whales.  I was so happy to see such large and majestic animals so close up.  

Humpback Whale!

I love thinking back to all the beautiful sunsets we experienced that week.  One of the best sunsets we saw was during the sunset sail.  Sitting on the edge of a boat with a cocktail in hand while watching the sun set over the ocean definitely made me miss Mike.  Can you believe those colors?    

Sunset Sail

Sunset on the Water in Puerto Vallarta

Sunset from our Room

I had a blast during my week in P.V.  I am so thankful to Grandma, Grandpa, Jenelle, and Nancy (not to mention Mike for letting me go) for making everything so fantastic.  Can't wait until next year when Mike can come too.

Best Part of my Day

I really couldn't have asked for a better day.  I woke up early enough to run to the store and be back in time to possibly catch Mike on the computer.  I had to pick of a few odds and ends for my upcoming trip to Mexico.  Who doesn't love a good trip to Target?  

Many of my mornings (when I am not working) I can be found sitting on the couch with my computer in my lap...just watching and waiting to see if Mike will come online before he goes to bed.  Although I may have spent a little time watching and waiting today, I was pretty sure that Mike had already gone to bed when I decided to take Buckley on a walk.  Sad that I probably wouldn't be able to chat with Mike before I left for Mexico, a nice walk with the dog would help clear my mind (endorphins and coffee at the end of the walk wouldn't hurt either).  

Post-walk photo.

To my surprise, I got an email from Mike as I was unlocking the door.  Even though it was after midnight, Mike was still up.  Mike and I were able to Facetime.  I can't tell you how soothing it is to my soul to be able to hear his voice and see his sleepy little eyes on the screen.  Mike has been working so hard over the last couple months.  Honestly, he works an average of 14 hours a day.  When he does get back to his room, I can't blame him for falling right to sleep.  I vow to be less selfish in my requests to talk/chat/email with Mike. I know that he is putting in 100% to his job and country, and I cannot ask for anything more.  I love you Bubba...counting down the days till we can be together again.  And Buckley misses you too ;)

You may have lost your spot in the bed though!