If this week’s traffic snarls and fender benders are any indication, it looks as if this winter season could be bigger than the past few economically challenged years. More snowbirds flocking back to the warmth of Lake Chapala is great news for local businesses and service providers who have struggled to keep the doors open.

People who have spent a lifetime in the northland of dramatic seasonal changes need a bit of transitional space to recognize the changes that indicate the four seasons at Lake Chapala.

We live in a world of symbols. There are thousands of simple shapes that instantly unlock a wave of images, instructions, relationships and emotions.

Pilgrimages are common here in the land of saints, virgins and procession-studded celebrations. Usually, however, the pilgrims are Mexicans with a special devotion for a particular religious icon.

“We Are the Entertainment.” I’ve used that title for several articles and talks over the years. While the details have varied, the theme suggests that while it seems the local residents are genetically kind and helpful to the expats who share their villages, it may also be that our cobblestone pratfalls, naiveté, Spanish errors, and silly antics create an abundance of free amusement.

The busier fall season is upon us. More returning winter residents are showing up each week and the annual flurry of local restaurant activity designed to attract the attention of locals and snowbirds is underway.