Beth just finished making a beautiful set of curtains for the windows. We bought the natural 100% heavy cotton in Oaxaca. These really finishe off the kitchen and give us some privacy.

We also bought three Petates, (woven palm leaves), to hide all the junk we have stored above the bathroom. They are not completely installed as we are stretching them but they look great. 

Here is a close up of the work involved. It's very hard to try and negotiate for a lower price when so much work is required to create each one.

Saturday we drove to a couple of lakes near the small town of Huayapam just a few miles outside of the city of Oaxaca. For those who have not traveled in Mexico, sites like this are a lot less common than in the States, which makes it all the more precious. We are so glad that we've found another spot to visit. Oddly, fishing and swimming are not allowed but the view was spectacular for a couple ex Washingtonians. There are three large restaurants which have seating outside overlooking the lake as well as inside. On our next trip we plan to try one.

Paddle boats are available for rent. There are several small food stands, but don't expect hot dogs, hamburgers, and fries! Instead, expect to find tortas, aguas de fruta, refrescos, sabritos, dulces and fruit with polvo de chili.