Spring came early to lakeside – at least compared to the late March and April snowstorms still plaguing the northern climes.

There is nothing in this world that is quite as special as the unconditional love given by a dog to an adoring owner. Adoration, faith and trust glow from the eyes of man’s best friend – and there’s nothing quite like the welcome home a dog can give a loving human.

Ooops … I suddenly knew what was in that ominous envelope even before I signed (in three places) to confirm receipt. Over breakfast last weekend a friend described this procedure as it had occurred on his doorstep when he’d received the envelope.

Remember back in the “old country” when about this time of year the chamber of commerce or some other civic-minded group would organize a “Clean-up, Fix-up, Paint-up” campaign to beautify the community?

There’s just no better way to jumpstart a surge of the pure magic of Mexico than taking time to enjoy the array of pastel blooming trees that accompany this week’s first day of spring.

Graffiti buster wanted

Antonio Enciso is looking for volunteers to help wipe out the graffiti around the Tepehua barrio in Chapala.  Enciso says no experience is needed, just a desire to help this economically-challenged community reflect what is going on behind the walls.