Maleck has always loved the ocean. Perhaps, it's the way the sand tickles his toes, or the waves pull at his feet. He was so happy to chase the waves and then as they came toward him, he would run away from them. It was his game. (This pic was taken on Christmas night)
I fell in love with these hats for Maleck and I at the local market. Emma's found hers in her stocking.
On the grounds bordering Chichen itza.
Check out the bananas
We loved the thatched roofs!
Stockton takes a break.
Emma
Before you enter the grounds of Chichen Itza, the local artisans sell their crafts. They are quite remarkable.
Our tour guide, Carlos, explained that perhaps these were remains of a baptismal font.
I love the Dr. Seuss Book, "Oh, The Places You'll Go.?" I can only imagine the places our five will go.
Our guide's name was Carlos. He has a friend who is LDS. We were able to do a little missionary work with him. As a small boy, Carlos sold goods with his father outside of Chichen Itza. Carlos was able to go to college and then obtain his tour guide permit. His education was interrupted when his father became ill and died. He then had to provide for his mother. Although Carlos was raised Catholic, he does not attend church. We told him perhaps he should go to church with his LDS friend (Mormon). He said perhaps. He explained to us that the last 3 days Carlos had taken LDS families on tours. He said, " perhaps the church is calling him."
Chichen Itza was a pre Columbian city built by the Mayan built. It is listed as one of the new 7 wonders of the world.
We felt such a sacred peace here.
Seleck loved it!
Madsen of course had to pose!
I loved the shopping. The culture of the Mayan people exhibits such artistry... the colors and textures were amazing!
Madsen bought a hand carved Jaguar from this Senor.
We spent a fun filled day at Porto Morales
The guacamole I ate while overlooking the ocean
I tell these two that they keep Daddy and I young. At ages 9 and 5 they are the heartbeat of our family. I wish they would stay this size forever. I loved watching them play together while they experienced the beautiful crystal blue water!
JOY
While the boys snorkeled, Emma, Maleck, and I built sand castles
And of course we chased a few birds. Maleck loved to feed them!
Cheers
This was our final night in Cancun. We enjoyed an amazing buffet with all of the trimmings including live entertainment. I can still hear the giggles and see the smiles on their faces.
Seleck was somewhat bribed by "Dad" to join the dancers in their final number with the rest of the willing tourists. It definitely made our Christmas in Cancun complete.
And of course on our way out, they all needed a picture with this beautiful cow.
Nothing like milking a Mexican cow
On our way back to our room, there was a sudden cloud burst. We were completely drenched.
Daddy gets a little back treatment
The Mayan Palace
Seleck in the foreground
The last morning before we departed Seleck and I went to walk along the shore one last time. We gathered shells and felt the pulse of the ocean pull at our feet. The sun was just peeking over the horizon and the sounds of the birds squawking filled the air. This was a timeless moment.
What an amazing experience. These memories I will tuck in my heart and pull out on a cold winter's day when we are old and gray. Rigby and I will hold each other's worn hands and we will piece together our memories of our Christmas in Cancun. And in the distance, we will see the smiles of our "fab five' and feel the sunshine that their giggles sprinkle upon us. We will send them a message in a bottle... the message will read.... "We love you!"
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