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  • The Artisan Made Cast Iron Skillet

    The Artisan Made Cast Iron Skillet

    Like the US, Mexico seems to prefer budget to quality. I think every hostel skillet I’ve used in Mexico has a loose handle, and more often than not, half the Teflon surface has been scratched off. The skillets are made of cheap metal which quickly sears anything cooked in them. Sometimes, there’s a broken handle…

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  • Dog trainer, laborer, arborist, hero

    Dog trainer, laborer, arborist, hero

    With a work exchange, there are often many responsibilities. Such was the case yesterday when I held several different titles: dog trainer, laborer, arborist and hero. The day began with the regular feeding and cleaning up after the dogs. After those chores were done, we let each of the dogs out to play in “the…

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  • The story behind my wanderlust.

    The story behind my wanderlust.

    Covid-19 has been a challenge for everyone, and I often wonder what I’d do if I hadn’t figured out how to keep wandering. Sometimes, while I’m training a dog, I will lie down on top of it to prevent it from moving. This is done to establish dominance. Controlling movement is one of the things…

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  • My Own Magic Town

    My Own Magic Town

    I’ve been to Puerto Vallarta so many times that it’s hard to find something to entertain myself here that I haven’t already done. In fact, every time I pass by the guy on the street in front of my place, I have to say, “I’ve already done that” to his entreaties to get me to…

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  • Tapalpa plaza, where I accidentally learned to meditate

    Tapalpa plaza, where I accidentally learned to meditate

    Recently I’ve been talking with a couple friends about meditation. I’ve been resistant to it for a long time due a number of reasons. Primarily, I am already a perpetually happy and relaxed person. Secondarily, I felt like I needed someone to tell me what I’m supposed to be experiencing while meditating so I know…

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  • Dog shelter work exchange

    Dog shelter work exchange

    As I searched the Workaway site for exchanges, I came across an volunteer opportunity to care for dogs at a rescue facility in Puerto Vallarta. A work exchange is a trade where you volunteer to help out in some capacity and, in return, the host offers you a free place to stay and sometimes even…

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