Morning Routine for a Local Runner and Dog Lover in Mineral de Pozos

You get a history lesson on your walk or run in Mineral de Pozos

Mineral de Pozos is a small town that feels like stepping into a different time. Nestled in the hills of Guanajuato, Mexico, it offers a quiet escape from city life with its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and a pace that invites you to slow down. Spending time here reveals a blend of history, nature, and warm local culture that stays with you. It is why I stayed. This post shares my typical morning and the special places that make Mineral de Pozos a hidden gem worth exploring and maybe even putting down routes...

Morning Routine and Local Breakfast

The day in Mineral de Pozos begins gently with the soft light filtering through the windows of my traditional adobe house. The air carries a freshness and bird songs from the ancient cedar and pine trees looming above my enchanting garden. Mornings here are peaceful, but the dogs remind me it is time to get up.

Breakfast is an important ritual for me and my pets. Two dogs and 2 cats expect to receive some nourishment and attention before I can get to my own cup of coffee. They make it all worth my wait!

Chica, my angel, patiently awaits our morning run/walk

On to a walk or run in the country-side

After breakfast, my dogs and I walk outside of my traditional Mexican adobe home, through the flower-filled entry hall, to a street leading us to the country, within 5 minutes. No leashes necessary after the first 5 minutes...

Running/Walking/Just Taking it All In

High desert in my pueblo does not mean desolate. The plant varieties are endless and it is common to see hawks, doves, and many other birds (even eagles).

Gitana, my energetic one, can't wait to get going.

Mineral de Pozos Neighbors, Friends

You don't leave my house without running into neighbors, who are also friends. It's a vibrant and warm community where the spirit of camaraderie is palpable. Most of the Mexican women here engage in the delightful daily ritual of shopping for fresh tortillas, rolls, vegetables, and fruits, all of which are essential ingredients for the meals they prepare for their families. The local markets are filled with the enticing aromas of freshly made goods, and the colorful displays of produce create a feast for the eyes. The women exchange recipes, cooking tips, and gossip while they shop, reinforcing the bonds of friendship that extend beyond mere acquaintance.

As I reflect on my years here, I realize how fortunate I am to have been embraced by this community. When you stay as many years as I have, you find yourself often invited to small family events that celebrate life's milestones—birthdays, baptisms, graduations, anniversaries, and more. Each invitation is a testament to the relationships I've built over time, and I cherish these moments of connection. These gatherings are usually filled with laughter, music, and, of course, an abundance of delicious food that showcases the rich culinary traditions of the culture.

These transactions and invitations typically take place on the street, where we meet informally, turning everyday encounters into cherished social interactions. The streets are alive with chatter and laughter, as neighbors stop to catch up on each other's lives. I love it! The sense of belonging that comes from these spontaneous meetings is irreplaceable. It’s not just about exchanging pleasantries; it's about sharing experiences, supporting one another, and building a community that feels like family. Each interaction, whether it's a simple greeting or a heartfelt conversation, adds another layer to the tapestry of my life here, making it a truly enriching experience.

Coffee and a colorful, serene, garden make every day in Mineral de Pozos something to be grateful for.

After the Run

After the dogs and I have finished exploring and putting in the miles, we return to town for a refreshing drink of water and some cooling off time in the shade of my patio trees. This is my second favorite part of the day. I feel so blessed to be healthy and sharing nature with my 4 legged friends. We are all better off for the freedom to move unencumbered by traffic, pollution, or many other people!

My first most favorite part of the day? When I've fed and hugged my critters; made my cup of coffee, and restored my gratefulness for another day by walking through the garden and marveling at the wonders of nature, all around me.