The Lake Chapala region will once again bustle with activity over the April 8 through 24 Easter vacation period, contrasting with the subdued ambience that persisted under the two-year shadow of the Covid-19 pandemic.

With scores of humanitarian and top-rated charities now helping Ukraine, it is only fair to register and promote similar relief services for Russia.

According to the Moscow Times (with some added clarifications), here’s what a typical day looks like for Vladimir Putin.

Remember when drugs were Bufferin, Ludens, Pepto Bismol and Geritol? None embarrassed you if found hanging about for visitors to see.

Fifteen years ago, there might have been three or maybe four medical practitioners living and working at Lakeside, some moonlighting at Pemex.

(With the assistance of my Ukrainian connection)

With all the war news splashed luridly across TV, computer and phone screens, and with stories about diplomats and world leaders to-ing and fro-ing and merrily bump-ing elbows, something more real is going on at ground level among the troops, Ukrainian and Russian. We seldom hear from voices in the tanks and trenches. This is where the war actually takes place.