It was another typical week in Todos Santos. The weather has been consistent, with the days warm enough to make you grateful for the shade of the palms at Punta Lobos and the nights cool enough for a light sweater if you’re out late. The clear skies and calm seas are almost enough to make you forget that we’re in a desert. Almost.
There’s been a lot of talk around town about the state of biodiversity in the biosphere reserve. Apparently, the staff of CONANP (The National Commission of Natural Protected Areas) in Baja California Sur are facing off against the threat of an open pit gold mining operation. It’s a David and Goliath situation but the folks at CONANP are holding their own. They’re not using lawyers, guns, or money but botanists. They’re calling on the power of the natural world to protect their territory. It’s a reminder of the delicate balance that exists here, and the constant efforts to maintain it.
On a lighter note, there’s been some interesting chatter about the sea turtles. It turns out, the female sea turtle’s reproductive habits are something of a scandal. They mate with several males prior to nesting season and can store the sperm for extended periods of time – sometimes years. When the time is right for nesting, her body allows the sperm to fertilize the eggs, resulting in “multiple paternity” for her offspring. All this makes for a rather complex family tree for the baby sea turtles. Just another quirk of life here in Todos Santos.
There’s a sense of anticipation amongst the free diving community. Mexican champion, Estrella Navarro Holm, has been reflecting on her experiences and sharing her insights on the mental and physical challenges of the sport. I’ve heard her describe it as the most beautiful, spiritual experience – it’s what makes people free diving junkies. For those of us watching from the surface, it’s an awe-inspiring sight.
Around the cultural center, there’s been a flurry of activity. Artists, musicians, and poets are preparing for an art opening at the winery. The work of Jenelle Aubade, Dylan Lorenzo, and Jose Blanco will be on display, along with a live performance from the Jenelle Aubade Trio. The event promises to be a relaxed, intimate gathering, much like our Todos Santos retreats. There’s also some excitement as Klaudya Vega joins the Friday wine club at Las Tinajas. The combination of live music, wine tasting, and tapas is always a hit with locals and visitors alike.
And speaking of food, there’s been a noticeable shift at the market. As we move into the cooler part of the year, there’s a greater variety of produce available. Stalls are brimming with fresh fruits and vegetables, and the aroma of herbs and spices fills the air along Calle Benito Juárez. There’s something special about this time of year, when the abundance of the harvest is on full display. It’s a reminder of the richness of life here in Todos Santos.
So, that’s the week that was. Nothing extraordinary, but then, it’s the ordinary that makes Todos Santos what it is. The ebb and flow of life, the quiet moments and the small dramas, the rhythms of nature and the community that lives in harmony with it. It’s just another week in our corner of the world.