Valentine's Day, 2008 - Love Letter to Puerto Vallarta

I don't even know where to begin. I have no sweetheart this Valentine's Day, but that isn't going to stop me from writing a love letter:

Dear Puerto Vallarta,

You will never know how much I miss you. I started coming from Chicago to Mexico in the mid-80s and after 5 winter visits to Acapulco with my then sweetheart, I came to you, alone, in 1992. What a gift I gave myself!

People used travel agents in those days, so I tried my best to describe the kind of little place I stayed in Acapulco. My agent didn't know you, but she knew someone who did...and when the taxi brought me from the airport to my little "family-run" hotel, I fell in love, as I did for over 10 years of visits after that.

So, now I find myself in cold weather again, and thinking of you every day. But this time, it isn't as simple as flying or driving from Phoenix to you. That's probably what's motivating to write this now. I don't know when I will see you again, but I know I will.

What do I miss? Your beautiful blue skies, cobble stone streets, seaside walkway and sculptures, the warm nights and walking near the ocean, your downtown, funky bars, great food, crazy markets and so much more. You taught me to take nothing for granted and to cherish every second of my time with you.

So, this love letter at Valentine's Day is to thank you. Only you know all the people I met and all the memories I made when I was with you. The pictures I have included here were taken before my digital camera days, but I brought them with me to Korea to remind me of you and had then scanned to include today.

If I had a glass of "something", I would drink to you and think of you fondly. I'll close with,

I love you and know I will see you again.