An Entertaing Weekend in Puerto Vallarta

Happy Saint Patrick’s Day to all the Irish and Wannabees today; wear something green and, “May you be in heaven half an hour before the devil knows you’re dead.” And that’s mercifully it for my Gaelic!

It was a busy weekend in Vallarta, starting with Rick and Monica Miller’s fabulous pop-up, kinda pot-luck party, their first of the year. Their penthouse boasts an enormous terrace big enough for a hundred people to stroll around on, gasping at the views of the mountainside and Banderas Bay. The food table was laden with everything from a bag of potato chips to elaborately stuffed dates, banana bread, parmesan-artichoke dip with luscious fresh bread, and loads of fresh fruit and finger sandwiches.

Rebecca Stolie Stoelinga was at the mike with her guitar, keeping us entertained with an eclectic mix of tunes. She invited guests to come up and sing, and the evening quickly morphed into an Open Mic, giving Stolie a minute or two for a bite to eat and a cocktail.

Old friends clumped in corners, and we actually huddled together for warmth in the chilly night air. It was lovely to see KC back in town briefly after a long absence, and we missed the Pattersons, who are already up north.

Thanks again for sharing Miller Time, Rick, and Monica; it was a delightful soiree.

Only two Non-Impact Aerobics classes left at the International Friendship Club – IFC on March 23 and 30, led by Deborah Darr, who will fly away to Chicago for the summer on April 1. My classmates and I will miss her sweet energy and the Sunday noon workout. It’s hard when our dear friends leave.

Last night, Villa Tita hosted the Second Annual fundraiser for Vallarta School for Girls, founded by Cecil Kerfont and Francie Nguyen. The first graduating class was resplendent in black and will undoubtedly go into the world with a firm, learned footing. Good luck, young ladies! My tablemate Ken remarked on how supportive the young women were of one another and how his respect for Francie grew annually with how much she constantly gives to the community.

Lovely appetizers and cheese plates balanced rivers of wine and martinis that kept three bartenders busy all night long. Dancing ensued in front of the band, with emcee Kevin Anthony keeping his friends and fellow performers busy with solos and duets from Diego Guerrero, Effie Passero, and Alison Lo. And, Kevin too, of course!

Winners of the silent auctions should be announced in the next day or so; all of these donated items will ensure the girls’ continuing education.

Tonight at Nacho Daddy, Match That Snatch, starring Gouda Gabor and friends who will create a live game show emceed by Canadian funny gal in drag, Diana Frances. The show will recur next Monday as well, with a different cast of characters. Warning: audience members could be included and stand to win great prizes! Look for luminaries like Liberace (David Maiocco) and Pink (Eva Jimenez) to add a touch of color. See you tonight at 7:30.