March 3, 2014

This would have been Dick's 79th birthday. I was 75 on February 2. I am trying this on my IPAD that I am still learning how to use.

I am at the Grand Mayan in Neuvo Vallarta - checked in on February 22 and will leave on March 8. Doug and Jennifer joined me but will leave on Wednesday so I will be here by myself for a couple of days. If this post works I plan to write some memories. Dad died on February 27th so I am thinking about my years with the people I have lost in the past couple of years. Dick died November 2, 2011; Mother died February 1, 2012; Bob is missing and presumed dead since June 2013; and now Dad. Four very important people in my life. I am thankful I had them for so long - but sometimes feel a little lonely. This is a good time to reminisce.

This is the first time I have been back to this resort for many years - will check when I get home. It is totally different. When we were last here they had torn up nine holes of the golf course and were starting to build the new upgraded Bliss and Luxx units to replace the Mayan Palace and Grand Mayan units. We took the tour and while Dick wanted to upgrade, I held out because of the senior plan that meant we did not have to pay the yearly fee unless we used the units. Then when we were 75 we only had to pay 1/2 the fee when we used the unit and at 77 no fee.  We will see what the future brings. Here there is only one Bliss unit, but there are 5 Luxx units and an upgrade to Luxx Spa. They have also opened new restaurants and a retail and food area, La Plaza, that has an extensive selection --- all very upscale. There is also a new entertainment area with a variety of acts from musicians to local folk artists.