(Kalanchoe pinnata) Family: CrassulaceaeAlso known as: Cathedral Bells, Flaming Katy, Goethe Plant, Life Plant, and Miracle LeafOrigin: Asia, Australia, Bermuda, Brazil, Galapagos Islands, Hawaii, Micronesia, Mascarenes, Melanesia, New Zealand, Philippines, Polynesia, and West Indies Written further about in The Civilized Jungle, Volume III and The Medicinal Jungle, Volume IIThis character...

I was able to get in another walking trip around town before the rains. Today I came down from Colonia Los Flores to Café Bean. This is a place I like for world-class cappuccinos prepared by friendly and professional baristas.Typically, I would take time to savor the coffee, but...

by Zhander P'ng It started with a thought. A baby Not a fantasy — but a real, tender wondering about bringing a child into this world with another loving human being. And as that thought came to me, I didn’t think first about names, or clothes, or what they might...

Tales from the Rainbow Throne — A Spoken Word Piece The children gather in a hush.A soft spotlight brushes a plush rainbow rug.From behind the velvet curtain enters a vision—heels clicking, lashes blinking like galaxies.Big.Beautiful.Betty. She settles into a glittered rocking chair, adjusts her crown of chrysanthemums, andopens a rhinestone-covered book. “Good...

"You may feel, at times, like you are trudging along through very thick mud to get to where you are going individually and collectively, and that feeling is there to remind you that what you are doing is enormous. This represents a huge shift in consciousness that you are...

Thoughts on Marriage Gloria "For me, it's something that started when I was young. My mom and dad were very happy and loved each other deeply. I always dreamed of having a family—something like that. So, getting married was one of my first wishes as a child." Irene "My parents divorced...

Twelve or fourteen years ago, when I was in Manzanillo, I was encumbered by the possession of trucks, cars, and boats. I drove everywhere and sailed the coast. Now I am without these things, and it’s liberating. I’m also at the age where I’d rather have someone else behind...

For Sandra Bradley—my friend, spiritual mentor, and channel of timeless wisdom—whose words in Vallarta Mirror kindle hope and reflection—I lovingly dedicate this piece. May its verses resonate with your gentle guidance and joyful spirit…and honor the miracles your teachings inspire. E.Z. The holiest place on earth is where an ancient...

That was my first impression as I stepped inside the entrance to Pacific Home assisted living facility in Colonia Linda Vista, Puerto Vallarta. Clean, fresh air, beautifully landscaped with mature trees, palms, fruit trees, grass, flowers, and kindly staff quietly exchanging with the residents, in a gentle tropical climate....

(Opuntia leucotricha) Family: CactaceaeAlso known as: Arborescent Prickly Pear or SemaphoreOrigin: Central MexicoIf its spiny needles were likened to a beard, better bring on the industrial-strength shaving cream! Many are aware of the contemporary use of Optunia family flowers and “paddles” in the making of body lotions, creams, jams, pickles,...