By Sister #3

The other day I was walking down the street in Isla Mujeres and I heard my name. I looked quickly at a fellow I didn’t recognize and said a polite “hola”. As I continued to walk, it occurred to me that I had met him before. That evening I was walking down the same street and again I heard my name. This time I stopped and went into a quaint little shop to confirm how I knew this fellow (know how when you see someone out of context?) You know that you know them, but how, from where?

Then it came to me, it was Francisco. He is the nephew of my dear friend Hortencia.

He and I first met last year when my “Mexican family” had my “actual family” over for dinner.  Marcelino, Hortencia and family are such gracious hosts and we love to be together sharing food and laughs with them. That particular dinner, the extended family of aunts, uncles, and cousins were in attendance. And that’s when I met Francisco, his beautiful wife and baby and his siblings.  

Well it turns out that Francisco and his brother Samuel have just opened the sweetest little place called Cafeteria Juanita la Bendición. Named in honour of their mom. You can feel the love through the attention to detail in the place. Drips of ice cream and sparkles are painted on the walls and there is a comfortable seating area, with actual soft furnishings in the front of the place. A great place to have a seat while you enjoy a treat or a coffee. It’s also available to use for gatherings. They have a birthday party booked for this week, by people staying in the apartment next door to them who need a common space to celebrate. 

The Cafeteria is located on Guerrero just steps from the square. They will be open from 7:30 am to 11:00 pm. That evening we had ice cream cones, chocolate and strawberry cheesecake, and my brother promised to be back soon for a milk shake. My sister will be happy to see a place where she can get fries to go. I’m a fan of paletas, a Mexican popsicle of which they carry a variety.

But the show stopper is these dessert waffles. 

So I guess you could say that Francisco, Samuel and I share a family. They, by blood, and me, by friendship. Be sure to stop by to support this new business. And tell them their “Canadian cousin” Susan sent you. 

Kath’s quote: “Family is not an important thing, it is everything.” – Michael J. Fox

Love never fails.

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