Luis Villanueva at La Catrina Cantina

I do not know how it can be Friday already. I swear Monday morning I got up to go to the gym and boom! Friday. That being said, a month tomorrow, my sister Patrice arrives from southern Alberta for her winter visit. Lots to do in the house before then but the time will obviously fly away and she’ll be here momentarily!

Last night I met Sandra Bradley at La Catrina Cantina to celebrate Luis Villanueva’s eighth anniversary of moving to Vallarta. Luis and I are compulsive about remembering the precise date, how we felt, what our plans were (kinda sorta) and how we feel today about our adopted city. I have watched him grow as a singer and love his voice more each year as it matures.

Sandra and I sat with Donna Rauch and David Flannery and listened to a gorgeous duet with Luis and Sargento. In the audience, Ms. Selena Luna sat with Lupe Patterson, who I had not seen for three months! Also, Donald and Mary Ann Runaldue are back! And Alberto Mendoza has come home from touring every inch of Italy!

A close to-packed house enjoyed the excellent service and music when the lights went out. The battery-operated table lamps added a romantic, soft glow to the evening. It didn’t last long – maybe ten minutes, but affected all of the Colonia. It went out again just as I passed the old Incanto location on my way home, walking into the light that stayed on in el Centro.

I will be going to the sold-out fundraiser tonight at Casita & Garden for Vallarta Gay+ Community Center starring Effie Passero, aka Francesca Bavaro. Full report Monday morning. In the meanwhile, check VallartaCalendar.com and try to keep up with all the shenanigans happening this weekend. Join me for David Duvall’s show/birthday party at Casa Karma tomorrow.