Walking Moppit the Philosopher Dog this morning and she was adamant about turning up Aldama as we left the main entrance to Parque Juarez here in San Miguel de Allende.

Normally we engage in a powerful battle of wills.

Moppit will want to go left when I want to turn right.

She wants to turn around and head home for a doggie treat while I want to press on for a few blocks more.

She wants to stop and sniff every pee-drenched corner when I don’t want to break the rhythm of my steps.

She wants to stop at Cafe Hortus for a croissant while I prefer walking over to Panina for a rosemary and raspberry scone.

Only because she is brighter and more articulate than me does she get her way.

Sometimes.

This morning was no exception.

Besides, the lighting on Aldama seemed especially crisp this morning and the traffic was especially light. Good things happen on this street when the mix is right.

Plus, the stars.

The stars have been hung which gives ersatz photographers like me a fresh new way to photograph San Miguel’s most-photographed street.

Meanwhile, as Moppit and I sat in the Jardine, enjoying the flow of students, worshipers, tourists, and other dog walkers, the city crews began pulling up with truckloads of poinsettias. They will replace the truckloads of marigolds that were pulled out around Thanksgiving.

The dangling fairy lights have been hung throughout the park as well, which means that come nighttime, San Miguel will look even more like the perfect Christmas card. And just wait until the tree lighting on Dec. 8.

Moppit knew where we were supposed to go this morning. And was rewarded with an extra treat when we got home. Smart dog.

Anyway, Happy December. Let the festivities begin.