You can almost hear the echo down Ajijic’s streets with the vacationing hordes having departed, many snowbirds already heading for the border and locals taking a little time to kick back, take deep breaths and enjoy the view. You know things have slowed down around here when there is actually parking available on village streets, near the plaza and the malecon and around popular restaurants.

Since so many readers have sent messages of hope, enquiries and even condolences upon the anticipation of the renewal of my U.S. passport, I promised all that I would let them know how the whole process came down after I had discovered (actually been informed by in-the-know readers) that the dreaded trip to the consulate in Guadalajara was unnecessary.

When he showed up we decided right away that we wouldn’t keep him. Even though he was certain this was his “forever” home when he walked through the front door, went directly to the cat food dish and then to the couch where he curled up and went to sleep, I wasn’t as keen on the prospect.