Abi's Deep Dive

For me this is the hardest thing about Mexico life.
The idea of living with people you’ve never met, with no established boundaries or house rules, and you also work together; that as a concept is normally enough to send me running for the hills.

I moved into my own place at 18, and the only person I have lived with for any length of time is my boy. We had boundaries and house rules, and enough space to get away from each other. We could socialise in our own spaces but also shared music, films and food. Then I lived on my own, with my art and photographs, music and garden. My house was my sanctuary. A place to entertain, or be still and reenergise. I could be loud or have peace. I didn’t disturb anyone when I turned the music up or walked from the bathroom to my bedroom naked.
Now my life is contained in three rooms, one is mine. Outside my bedroom door is chatter and exclaiming and loud films, banging cupboards, cooking and music. I escape to my noise cancelling headphones, scented candles and the photos I brought with me.

When I cook it’s as part of a queue for the space and time, if I eat at the table I join in with chatter and share stories. After 14 hours listening I often just want some space.

I’ve been working in the garden, I like the heat and it will be good when the jungle is tamed and the mosquitoes stop ruling the roost! There is a big tree, species unknown, but it shelters the garden and provides a habitat to unknown creatures. The neighbourhood is quiet and the garden backs onto someone’s courtyard. My bedroom window looks out on the same view. I only see the neighbours when it’s dark so our garden seems secluded. I’m looking forward to making a herb garden, and having somewhere to sit and read.

Days off alone in the house are sacred. Today I got to wander while I had a video call with my family, I miss them so much and the freedom to talk without anyone around felt wonderful. I made hummus, went for a run, played music out loud while I showered with the door open. Little freedoms I appreciate more now. Tomorrow I will be shopping for plants and getting ready for working away for a few days. I will be living in a palafito with five others. Sleeping in hammocks. There will be less space, more noise and long clothes both for privacy and protection against the mosquitos.

coming back to the staff house will be a treat!