Birthdays are a reward for having shown up 365 days in a row. It’s like getting a badge for attendance. Gina Barreca, American academic and humorist.

Celebrating birthdays during the pandemic are downright challenging and foreboding; actually forbidden in most situations. But that didn’t stop Lake Chapala residents to mark the 99th ​birthday of dear Cleo​, our remarkable neighbor one house down and cross the street, with what’s become popular – a drive-by ​birthday!​ We’ve seen a few posted on Facebook and news programs; here was our chance to attend one.

Cleo recently lost her husband, John – they’d married in 2015; he was the younger by a few years. His memorial service brought out heartwarming support from multitudes. They were a beloved couple in the community. So it was equally emotional to witness and being part of …

Today’s parade had a great turnout of over 25 cars festively decorated with balloons, streamers, homemade signs and even a few piñatas! It was a glorious celebration as Cleo sat adorably just outside her gate, glowing with a radiant smile and thanking all participants as they streamed by.

It was a well organized event … 4 cars at a time would stop across the street from her. The occupants would then get out and carefully present her with balloons, gifts and home baked goods all while singing Happy Birthday, shouting out cheers, and blow kisses, all to great effect. Everyone wearing their ​Cubrebocas,​ face masks, of course.

We’d quickly dressed up our car with assorted found decorations: paper flowers, streamers, bows and a recycled birthday sign. David appeared with his Halloween Elton John hat, feather boa and beads and stood protruding out from our open sunroof. By dumb luck we were the 4th car in the long parade lineup. When we stopped before her, Cleo saw David in his getup and proclaimed him crazy.

Right after, I walked back over and watched all the well-wishers, even directing traffic for a bit. One of the community security guards stood by to make sure “​Susana Distancia”​ was being enforced. We all want to be back next year for the Big One Hundred!

This was a most beautiful, HAPPY celebration during these trying times; a memorable affair even without physical contact. It was a joy just to get out and share in something we all love ~ birthdays!

Here at Lakeside it seems like we have a Bug of the Week Club. David discovers or uncovers a seasonal one hanging around. As creepy as I find them, I can also admire their unique beauty and unusual markings … the almost Jade tone of a “rain bird,” a cicada that emits a high frequency, car alarm-like shrill. Local folklore is that from the 1st time you hear them, the rainy season begins six weeks hence. A welcomed relief to the heat!

​On the Menu …​ beautiful oven roasted whole Red Snapper; ginger and garlic roasted Chicken Thighs served with buttery mashed potatoes and mix of roasted vegetables; leftover Chicken Avocado Salad; Potato and Soyrizo Taquitos.

Desserts ~ David’s creations of Mexican Rice Pudding and Double Chocolate Cookies.