• Chapala Bus from Ajijic to Guadalara

    There are two classes of service: Servicio Plus (aka “Chapala Plus” or “Directo” service). This is express service on cushy, air conditioned busses that make limited stops between Ajijic and the old bus station in southeastern Guadalara — the “Central Vieja” (map).  Running time: about 60 minutes.  Cost 65 pesos. Servicio Regular (aka “Regular Service”…

  • Welcome, Sofia Mae Willis!

    Sofia Mae Willis was born on December 3, 2023, my fifth grandchild … another beautiful, healthy, smart girl. She comes from a long line of independent-minded, beautiful, and intelligent women, including her Mom and the women on her father’s side. Here are some ancestors who share her middle name, from her father’s side of the family. As soon as I can, I’ll add more slides to document her mother’s side!

  • A broken leg … ugh

    Current Status: Monday, Dec. 18 I’m walking fine. Still need a little PT to strengthen the leg and resilience.  But basically, I’m 100%.  I’m CLOSING this live blogging.  It’s just history now. ——–  Live Blog  —————– Sunday, Dec. 17 As the week progressed, I walked further and further.  Yesteday I walked up to La Comer,…

  • How To Introduce Yourself: “Hi, I’m Todd Wheeler”

    On my second day as a Yale freshman, I awoke with a slight hangover from the impromptu “Welcome Us” party our entryway threw the night before.  I staggered into the common bathroom shared by the 3 rooms on my floor. My next-door neighbor Tod (pronounced ‘Todd’) was brushing his teeth.   Another man was finishing a…

  • Genetic Legacy?

    Last Friday I had some surgery to relieve the symptoms of Dupuytren’s contracture. My father had the same operation late in his life, too. It turns out to be a genetic condition afflicting primarily males of northern European descent. That means I have probably passed this along to my sons, and, less likely, to my…

  • Grass Valley

    Rt. 49 runs north and south along the west slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California, at about 3000 feet elevation. Further east are serious mountains. To the west are foothills descending to California’s huge Central Valley. It was along this route where gold was discovered in 1848, triggering the Gold Rush and the…