Beware of Falling Palm Fronds

My family is the type of family that wants everyone to be careful about everything, all the time. Surfing, for example: "Don't go alone!" "Don't let your surfboard hit you in the head!" ""Punch sharks in their eyes and gills!" "Wear a helmet while waxing your board! Just in case." The other night we all had frozen yogurt, then went our separate ways. "Walk safe!" my aunt called out after me. I mean, I am fairly clumsy, but rarely have any intention of walking dangerously. This is the same aunt who has called me to warn me of other dangers, like angry homeless people and falling palm trees. To be more specific, falling palm fronds and seeds. I guess it's a real problem these days. I'm not sure if this is one I'm prepared to defend myself against, short of developing cat-like reflexes or permanently affixing aforementioned helmet. Today, my sister and I were in the middle of cackling about something, when mid-cackle she grabbed my arm and said with all morosity, "Be careful in Mexico." 

I have every intention of being careful in Mexico, but can't blame them for being worried. I mean, in a world where you can't walk down the street without being attacked by your local homeless person or palm tree, who can cope? I've been responsible this time and invested in vaccinations, medications, and extra naivety, but cannot account for other dangers, like excess baggage fees, or rapidly evolving land sharks.

I leave January 4th. Technically, my flight leaves January 5th from Tijuana at 2 am. If that's not something to worry about, I don't know what is! Just kidding, family. You know I love you. And don't worry about the picture above. It's entirely staged. My cousin and I weren't actually felled by the palm tree. This time. But I've heard Mexican palm trees are even craftier......

As usual, I don't know when I'll be back. And I don't know if I'll be updating the blog much this time around. It's best if I post when inspired or utterly deranged than out of obligation; and I'm not sure how interesting you'll find my daily routine, unless you'd like me to start giving a daily "Taco Texture" report in which I describe the consistency of the day's taco meat. I could also chronicle other fascinating things like the lineage of local street dogs and create hand crafted patents of nobility.

Of course, I'm sure I'll be dropping in once and a while, and I hope you will too. But until then; watch out for land sharks, and walk safe.