Thursday, January 25 – We returned to Progreso, Mexico, this morning to finish up our dental work. The trip across the border from Mission, Texas, was as always uneventful. Our appointment wasn't until 1:00 p.m. We arrived about 10 a.m. because we wanted to do some shopping in Mexico prior to seeing the dentist. It's fun to see all the sidewalk vendors and stop in the numerous shops along the way. You never know what you'll see.
A nice way to greet visiting Americans.
Shopping would have to wait because the first thing we did was to get Paul a haircut. We really likes to go to Gloria’s. He says they always cut his hair just right. And speaking of right, haircuts are only $5.00.
Then it was off to do some shopping. There are tons of stores that have just about anything you need and don’t need.
Need glassware?
How about some roosters?
Pottery?
Maybe a dressed-up pig or turtle?
Another fun occurrence is the many sidewalk opportunities to grab a margarita or a Mexican beer. Of course this is a great place to do a little people watching or enjoy a strolling Mexican musician willing to play you a love song.
Mexicans have such a sense of humor.
We arrived at the dentist about ten minutes early, and Marsha was called back right on time. She received her permanent crown and a cleaning. Since we use the same dentist in this dental group, Paul had to wait his turn but was called in to have his permanent crown cemented in place soon after Marsha was finished.
We had a brief shower while in the dentist office. We remained dry, but Progreso is not really modern enough to get rid of water in the asphalt/dirt streets. Things tend to get a little muddy after an infrequent rain shower. Luckily all the sidewalks are covered so things were high and dry except when necessary to cross the streets.
With dental work completed it was time to have a little lunch. We shared an order of Lonches at Farmacia Jessica. You get a free margarita in the restaurant with any purchase in the drugstore. The Lonches were delicious, the margaritas refreshing, and the customary Mexican musician very enjoyable.
We rarely take photos of food, but for those who do not know what Lonches are….here you go. We got four with our order. The buns were so fresh. We highly recommend getting an order at Jessica’s. 3 margaritas + 4 Lonches = $10.
It was a long day in Mexico. We arrived about 10:00 a.m., and it was 2:30 p.m., so time to head back across the border and return home. Border crossing are quick in the Rio Grande Valley. We showed our passports and were ushered through customs without any problem. They didn't even check our purchases. They only asked if we were American citizens, and if we had cigarettes or alcohol to declare. Forty-five minutes later we were pulling into the RV park in Mission, Texas.
It’s always a good idea to set your emergency brakes!
We have a couple more social events this weekend with friends, and then we head down the road early Monday morning. We are heading to Seminole Canyon and then on to Big Bend National Park. Both are located in the very isolated area of South Texas, which has very limited cell phone or internet service, so we probably won't be posting any blogs until after we return to “civilization” or find a hotspot at the Lodge. Funny how being “disconnected” is an unfamiliar event these days! If you have a suggestion of a “must see” or “must visit” place near Seminole Canyon or Big Bend, please pass it along. Thanks!
Thanks for stopping by. Hope to see y’all back real soon. Have a great time!
Always love going to the Mexico, the touristy border towns are funs too. Some good deals to be had.
ReplyDeleteGlad all went well at the dentist! Have a great time in Seminole Canyon and Big Bend NP. Sure looks like there are some amazing hikes in both areas. They'll whip you into hiking shape in no time:) Safe travels!
ReplyDeleteSome day you should join us in the real Mexico... :-)
ReplyDeleteIt's good to do dental work in a timely manner. It's even better to be done with it.
ReplyDeleteI am trying to remember the name of the restaurant we've gone to a few times in Progreso. Waiters wear black slacks and white shirts and it's a little but upscale. Oh well, can't remember but the food is mighty fine. $5.00 haircuts? I didn't know that.
ReplyDeleteWe really enjoyed our time at Seminole and BB two years ago. I think I remember you mentioning that you read my posts, so I don’t have anything to add as far as things to do and see. Have a great time.
ReplyDeleteWe stayed @ the Rio Grande village campground, near the rv park section. There is good free Wi-Fi at the grocery store, and a lot of people sit on the benches doing laundry, eating ice cream or computer stuff. Spent a week mostly hiking this side as done the other. If you are at the campground the overlook trail is great for sunrise and sunsets.
ReplyDeleteGlad your dental work went well.
ReplyDeleteThe guided hike at Seminole Canyon to see the rock art was interesting. There is lots of hiking in Big Bend, and it's all good!
This post tickled my funny bone for some reason.
ReplyDeleteWhen I first saw the title "last trip" I was thankful to know you are in good health, and must be finishing up your dental stuff in Progresso. . .and then I read that you got a "brief shower" while at the dentist. . .LOL!
Just being silly, but it really did make me smile first thing this morning.
Enjoy Big Bend NP! I know you will.
Love that dental work in Mexico. I would like to make it to Progreso one time just to see it. San Luis is so very very different since it's not geared to American tourists but I really like my dentist there. Have fun and keep good track of things in Big Bend so you can catch us all up when you have internet again.
ReplyDeleteThe stores seemed well stocked:)
ReplyDeleteWe stayed at the Cottonwood Campground which is way way in. Dry camping but so quiet and wildlife just wanders through it.
ReplyDeleteLooks like another fun day. Being disconnected can be very relaxing and enjoyable after a busy social life. Take care!
ReplyDeleteWe have our dental work done in Mexico as well and have never had any issues. Have a wonderful time in Seminole Canyon and Big Bend. Love the remoteness of that area. LuAnn
ReplyDeleteOk, so what are Lonches? You pictures capture the colorful border areas perfectly"
ReplyDeleteI love the color of the Mexican storefronts...bright and lively. I know you are glad to have that dental work behind you, and isn't it much better being so much less expensive and good quality as well.
ReplyDeleteDon't know what Lonches are, but they sure did look good!
I can't believe you are still traveling. I'm sure you are learning a lot. When will you be going HOME? Miss you, Shirl PS I also like all the bright colors!!!
ReplyDeleteOne of our friends here was talking about Jessica's last night (2/8). I think the next visit to Mexico will find our group there. We really enjoyed the lonches we had (different location) and would definitely have them again. Jessica's has the right idea - one stop shop!
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