The dual book signings and Meg Munro art show on Basilio Badillo November 16 brought hundreds of old friends and familiar faces to one short, but very popular, block on Calle de los Cafes. It was great to see everyone again, many newly returned after summers spent up north visiting family and living their “other” lives. As always, Meg’s heart-elevating watercolors drew lots of attention, and authors Pat Henry and Gil Gevins sold close to a hundred books each – the money sure to come in handy in replacing some of what was lost to Hurricane Kenna in their oceanfront residences.

Pat lost more than $30,000 USD in art supplies and prints of paintings she did to support herself on her eight-year round-the-world voyage. Having just competed a 10-week book tour in the States, including lots of radio and television interviews, sales of her prints were just taking off. However, her attitude is “Well, I guess it’s time to start a new phase of my life.” Wow! While I’d probably be in the fetal position, she’s putting in 15-hour days whipping her condo into shape so she can get busy and respond to requests for speaking engagements. Last night I checked in on her, and it’s amazing what she has accomplished in less than four weeks. And, best of all, there were 12 – yes, one dozen – four-legged furry guys over for dinner! Seeing them alive and well was exactly the soul food I needed. They even seemed somewhat relaxed, in spite of their hardships and all that’s happened to their world – and we wonder why they are often referred to as our gurus …

Researching an article on the small town of San Francisco, commonly known as San Pancho, about an hour north of Puerto Vallarta’s City Hall, I was surprised to see how it has grown in the last few years. I used to think of it as being little more than the Costa Azul Adventure Resort. While that great getaway is better than ever, with a Kid’s Club and full plate of activities for the entire family, there are now several interesting places to stay and eat. Lunch at Los Arcos on the “main drag” was fabulous, and I hear Sandra’s up on the hill is great, too. Real estate development is booming, and some long-time Vallartans are moving there, saying it has “a really good vibe.”

I visited respected Vallarta artist Patrick Denoun at his home studio in El Nogalito November 19, gathering information for an upcoming “Lifestyles” profile. I’d long been curious not only about this artist – because so many people I know have one or more of his pieces – but about what lay along the dusty road south of town off Highway 200 that I’d never taken. The town is larger than I expected, with houses of every description, yet privileged with a powerful peace. Denoun lives in a gorgeous open-concept home fronting a creek with his wife, Cathy, 18-month-old twins Sasha and Max, and German shepherd Cooper. His uplifting work reflects his happy family life, while Sahara scenes in current pieces evoke his Algerian paternity. Following a very pleasant visit, friends and I stopped at El Nogalito restaurant-bar, a refreshing change of pace from Vallarta’s bustling spots. But should you decide to experience it, get there early – mosquitoes take over the place at sunset.

If you have any comments, questions or suggestions about what you’re reading, you’re encouraged to let me know at heather@mexmags.com.