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Raining in Loreto, Baja!  


It’s been raining lightly but steady for the past 12 hours in Loreto.   There is little wind and it’s wonderful to be snuggled up at home listening the pitter patter that we seldom hear this time of year.   It is 63F and warm.   In a few days the sun will be bright and everything will be fresh and clean.   The mountains will bloom with foliage that we forget is there, and the lush green hillsides will welcome all our spring visitors.  

The beginning of each new year is a time for reflection, resolutions, and often revamping our routines, priorities and practices to live fuller, kinder and with wellness.  For many 2018 was a year of change, trials and tribulations filled with experiences that we should learn from.   Yes, truly every year has its ups and downs, but as I grow older and hopefully wiser, I feel that there is no time like the present.  No better day than today.   These are my random pensive thoughts … don’t judge me! 

I think back to 10 years ago … Loreto Bay Company was still in business.   The only supermarket was Pescador and it was very sad, limited in supplies, and not altogether clean.   We would wake up at 7 am each Sunday to go to the Outdoor Market and get our fresh vegetables, some freshly butchered meat laying on tables and cut to order, and other miscellaneous items such as soup pots, batteries, or phone cords that you could not buy anywhere else.   There were only about 400 homes in Loreto Bay at that time, no center boulevard or gardens, or even streets let alone lighting.   Aqua Viva did not have sewer, water or electrical hookup.   What a mess!   Yet … such an adventure and triumph to be here today! 

Today, I am writing about AZUL Restaurant and what a wonderful contribution Mario and Juliann Lopez have made to our community.   Mario was born in Mexico City, and made his way to the United States.  Together he and Juliann have worked at resorts and high end restaurants in California and Hawaii.  For more details on their interesting story … go to www.gastrotecaazul.com  Their passion for each other and for food created this dream of belonging, in a warm and welcoming community that would appreciate and enjoy their efforts of culinary delights.   We are lucky they found Loreto and chose to make their home here. 

Opening in November 2016, they soon had a loyal and large following of fans and supporters.  Finally Aqua Viva had a restaurant that rivalled anything downtown or in nearby areas.  USA, Canadian, and Mexican nationals who live and visit Loreto embraced them and their concept.   Wines from Guadalupe Valley are show cased proudly and local farmers have a venue to step up and provide the best of the freshest products available.  

AZUL Bodega now invites local foodies and farmers a place to gather and buy/sell fresh products.   You can order fresh breads, pastas, and sauces, before Wed. 5 pm, for easy pick up each Friday from 10 am to 11 am.  Pick up local vegetables and meet your friends at the same time.   Visit their website for more information on AZUL menu, bodega items, and reservations.  

On this rainy day, I have taken pita bread and pasta from my freezer to enjoy a simple tranquil day!   I hope you are enjoying your Sunday as well!  

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