Kent: Three Little Nuggets

Holy Week in Mexico is a big deal. The week from Palm Sunday to Good Friday and Easter is full of parades, traditions, devotion, and celebration.

If you came here looking for a detailed rundown of all that… this probably isn’t that post.

We’ve tried to explain why we love living here. We’ve mentioned the near-perfect climate, the warm and generous people, the vibrant art, the rich culture, the fruits and flowers.

But I’m starting to realize there’s something I love even more than all of that.

When we decided to retire and take on some big changes, the plan always included simplifying life.

I wouldn’t necessarily recommend that everyone reduce their belongings to a few suitcases, but from this side of the decision—having done it—I can say it feels pretty amazing.

Being present has never come naturally to me. I’ve always had a long list of interests and a short attention span to match. I love that I’m curious about many things. I’m less thrilled that I rarely stick with any one thing long enough to master it.

But lately, I’ve been noticing a few things.

NUGGET NUMERO UNO: I don’t need much

A wool cap on a cool morning.
A pair of socks when it dips down to 65 degrees.
Sun on your face by mid-morning.

That’s about it.

We don’t have air conditioning or heating, and somehow… we’re just fine.

I need food, of course—but that’s hardly a problem here. Fresh fruit stands, taco vendors, neighborhood stores, small cafés, and restaurants ranging from simple to high-end.

We’ve started building up our kitchen again—with a mix of familiar Louisiana staples and ingredients for huevos rancheros.

And then there are a few things that spark joy:

A book.
Some music.
A small project.
A connection to nature.
Something that reminds me of family.

Turns out, that’s enough.

NUGGET NUMERO DOS: The most important things aren’t things

This one doesn’t need much explanation.

I’m happiest when I remember how fortunate I am—when I notice a quiet moment, or a sound, or a connection.

Love and gratitude seem to be different faces of the same thing.

My most valuable possession is the connection I have with Judi.

Forty-five years ago today, as I write this, I proposed to her on April Fool’s Day in Rexburg, Idaho. It was no joke. Her first answer was “Maybe.” The next day it became a solid “Yes.”

NUGGET NUMERO TRES: Life will meet you halfway

If I pay attention, life seems pretty willing to offer up experiences.

I’m a little embarrassed at how much time I’ve spent in the past watching TV or disappearing into YouTube.

When we were preparing for this move, we had a lot to do. Giving away our TV helped us focus—on people, on conversations, on things that mattered.

This past week has been full of new Mexican experiences and getting things done.

But it has also been something quieter.

My mind is beginning to settle. I’m sleeping better. I’m enjoying small walks. Time with Judi.

Simple moments.

And I’m realizing that maybe I don’t need to go looking for life quite so hard anymore. It’s already here.

Next week, I’ll try to balance out all this reflection with a few more stories—and maybe even a laugh or two.

Until then… adios.

— Kent

READ JUDI’S APRIL 5,2026 POST