Events
• Ardelle Holden will be signing her mystery novels on Friday, January 3, at La Bella Vida during its Friday Fiesta (noon to 4 p.m.), featuring live music from Joel Tallboy and Louie Pavao. She will also be at the Centro Laguna Art in the Plaza event on Saturday, January 4.
• The 3rd Annual Coffee, Chocolate, and Wine Festival returns to the Ajijic Malecón on Friday and Saturday, January 18 and 19. A celebration of flavors, magic, and memorable moments, the festival will feature three different tastings/pairings each day. The schedule is as follows:
- Wine and cheese at 3:45 p.m.
- Wine and chocolate from 2:30 to 3:15 p.m. and 5 to 5:45 p.m.
- Mezcal and cheese from 6:15 to 7 p.m.
Each pairing includes three beverages and three cheeses or chocolates. The cost for each pairing is 480 pesos. Reservations at FestivalDelCafeChocolateYVino.com.
Open Circle
Lindsay Redifer presents “How Writing Makes Your Life Better” at the next Open Circle meeting at the Lake Chapala Society on Sunday, January 5, at 10:30 a.m.
Writing is an art form available to everyone, says Redifer, but it requires us to slow down and create space for our creative side. In a world that’s speeding up exponentially, taking time to write can lead not just to becoming a published author but to becoming a happier human.
Research shows that creative writing offers numerous benefits, including:
- Improved memory and sharper cognitive function
- Reduced stress and higher motivation
- Clearer communication with others
- A happier, more fulfilling life
Despite these benefits, many feel they can’t write—whether due to time constraints, feeling they have nothing to say, or the belief that no one reads anymore. With AI language models now writing books in seconds, the art of writing is at risk of being lost. However, we can reclaim this important form of expression by returning to the roots of writing, Redifer believes.
Ask an Expat
Interested in relocating to Lakeside? Whether you’re considering part- or full-time living in Ajijic, San Antonio Tlayacapan, Riberas del Pilar, San Juan Cosala, or other nearby communities, Ask an Expat can help!
The “Ask an Expat Happy Hour” offers a chance to learn everything about life at Lakeside in one place, at one time. The inaugural event will be held on Tuesday, January 7, and the series will continue on the first and third Tuesdays each month, starting at 4:30 p.m. at Casa Del Sol’s downtown inn lobby.
The event is free and open to all. No reservations are required. Casa Del Sol’s full-service cash bar will be available.
Steve Taylor, who moved to Lakeside in 2022, will lead the discussion. He’ll answer questions and share insights from his experience of relocating, first renting in Riberas del Pilar and now owning a home in San Antonio’s lower Chula Vista neighborhood. Steve will also present his “10 Expat Commandments,” offering guidance for those moving to or visiting Mexico.
“This is a conversation and learning opportunity, not a lecture,” Steve says. “I encourage participants to take notes and learn what they can do to make their stay enjoyable.”
For more information, text Steve at +1 (512) 921-6150.
Lakeside Cooking Club
The Lakeside Cooking Club hosted a wonderful holiday cooking event on December 8 at Club Positivo in Riberas del Pilar, featuring delicious appetizers and desserts prepared by members. A special thanks to all the cooks. The group was serenaded by local guitarist and singer Daniel Cordero.
The new club officers for 2025 are: President Carol Westbrook, Vice President Michele Lococo. Secretary Janis Hurt, Treasurer David Van Gorp and President Emeritus Carol Van Gorp.
The January meeting will be held on Wednesday, January 15, 4 p.m. at Club Positivo. Members and guests should mark their calendars for the Indian-themed cooking event, which will be an individual competition.
Register now for January dining and cooking at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.—guests are always welcome!