Christmas and New Years in PV 2015-2016

This holiday trip came about during the 1 month we spent at the lovely Villa Olivia in Puerto Vallarta last February.  We were hoping to again spend 1 month in January or February but alas the Villa was already booked up :(  Our lovely host at the villa, Denise, said something to the effect of "why don't you come over Christmas, I know there are still rooms available" and then added "you must stay through New Years because the fireworks from the upper deck are amazing, and of course all the guests get together for a nice little party",  Well how could I pass that up! The next thing we had to do was talk our adult children into joining us.....that was not too hard :)  So here we are all packed and ready to go! And lesson learned, I already have January 2017 booked at Villa Olivia!

Last year I know I posted a picture of a packed suitcase with some unusual stuff we take with us such as peanut butter, paper towels, a couple baggies of homemade spice mixtures for a few delectable dinners we whip up with the fabulous fresh local ingredients to eat on our lovely balcony with a killer view by candle light, can you tell I am getting excited! This year I am packing a few more items that will stay there in storage for "long term renters" such as a garlic press, potato peeler, lime juicer (for margarita's and guacamole of course) spatula.  We did purchase some of these items last year and left them in the kitchen of our unit which we again have on this trip, we will see if they are still in the drawers :) The villa allows long term renters to store a box of personal belongings.  Our neighbors at the villa last year stored beach chairs, cooler and umbrellas, which could all be very useful, may need to make a few more purchases this year. We will see how this works!

So in keeping with my first post, or actually second post, from last year I feel I must again give thanks. 

1.  I am thankful for family and friends who will be house sitting, tending the chickens, shoveling      

snow, caring for elderly dog, and transporting us to the airport.

2. Thankful that Hurricane Sandy spared the area and the people that we have come to love.

3. Thankful that our sons and their wives will be joining us to spend what should be a very special memorable time together.

4. Thankful that we are able to get away from the cold and dreary weather for a period of time... and get to run outside :)  I know not everyone thinks that is exciting....unless your have ever run on a treadmill.

5.  Thankful for airline miles.

5. Thankful for an incredible exchange rate 17.31 peso to 1 US dollar as of today.

6.  And once again just so thankful that we have the opportunity to travel to Puerto Vallarta, the place we have fallen in love with!