In the weeks I've been here in Oaxaca, Mexico, I've had the pleasure of getting to know some U.S. citizens who call Oaxaca home.  They are a very interesting bunch, from people of some means who live in houses they had built with fabulous views, to people who have only their social security, but who have retired here for a much better quality of life than they could have at home.  Some have moved here because their hearts have been broken by the political and cultural changes in the U.S.  One woman came for an inexpensive root canal and never left.  All love Mexico, with it's beauty, it's vibrant people, and it's easy going ways.  Every one I've have met, (about 20) is politically progressive.  One told me that of the 400 or so ex-patriots in Oaxaca, about 4 voted for Bush. All the ones I've met have Mexican friends and are active in volunteering.  Six of the ones I've met are UUs!

This is a mostly older, retired crowd.  One of the things that impresses me about them is how they take care of each other.  One friend had no less than 4 people take care of her to help her heal from a broken hip.Her Mexican housekeeper stayed 24 hours a day until she could do for herself.  "I'd do that for my mother,"  she said.  They keep track of who is sick and what they might need and who might need a ride.  

"I came here 20 years ago because it's like Italy, with it's natural beauty and people who know how to enjoy life.  But I can afford to live here", said one.