Doña Cecilia in Mexico City

And In The End.....

2008-06-03T06:23:00.000-07:00

"and in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make" Lennon/McCartney

It is with a very heavy heart that I make my last entry to the Mexico City Adventure Blog. It has been so easy to love all the people I've met here and I know they have felt it....because another difference between the Mexican and American people is that they express their feelings very openly and often (as I spoke of in my last entry).

The experiences throughout the year have been overwhelming....evidenced by the 4000 photos I accumulated. I will enjoy using these in my classroom next year to show my US students all the beautiful people and places that are so much the real Mexico. The year also gave me an opportunity to appreciate my own Mexican heritage in many different ways.

This is adios to this blog, but not to my new friends in Mexico...para siempre, with a world of thanks for sharing their incredible country with me for the last 10 months!
As life does go on .... I will be heading to South American soon... exploring both Machu Picchu Peru, its surrounding areas and Iguazu Falls Argentina!
I close now with photos from a parade I happened upon during my last bike ride through the centro historico of Mexico City...did I mention there's never a dull moment!

All Good Things Come to an End

2008-05-28T18:57:00.000-07:00

As I enter my last couple of weeks of my Fulbright Exchange, I have tried to spend more time with the people that I've met here. My students, colleagues, and friends. We have had "hasta luego" (see you later...easier than good-bye, which usually results in a big lump in my throat and tears) parties galore. I've never been so aware of the generous hospitality and love that the Mexican people readily give, as this past week. First, a dance recital one of my students asked me to attend....Areli, a beautiful ballerina and great English student too. Next, are photos of a 'cena' (dinner party) given in my honor, by a student and her family. It lasted 6 hours.....just enjoying the conversation, food (carnitas made by her dad) and music with kareoke, as her brother played beautiful guitar and we sang popular Mexican and American songs.

Also, was a breakfast gathering with my yoga group. We celebrated Dia de los Maestros (teacher day) with my yoga teacher at a restaurant and many of our group...just 3 hours. I thought we might be there long enough to order lunch too!

Next, are some photos of a gathering with all our colleagues from the Politecnico Nacional at a wonderful restaurant called 'Fondo del Recuerdo' (a restaurant called Memories! How appropriate). This one went on for about 4 hours. You get the picture that 'eat and run' just doesn't exist in this culture. People here love to get together and be together for as long as possible. It has been a wonderful treat to be able to talk and eat and just get to know each other so well. Hopefully this is a part of the culture I will bring back to the U.S. with me.

Puebla and Cholula

2008-05-19T09:22:00.000-07:00

Puebla is a city that has been known by many names. i.e. City of Los Angeles, City of Zaragoza or just simply Puebla. A city of 2million and about 5k colonial buildings, it is on the historial registry. My colleagues Nancy and Brend and I spent 3 days exploring, eating and shopping our way through this marvelous area.

This area is known for the the delicacies of mole, created in a convent here by a nun....dulces, using all kinds of fruits in incredibly creative ways. We also were impressed with a special kind of sandwiches called cemitas...very reasonably priced and quite a substantial meal. On the artist end, this is the home of Talavera, a beautiful style of tile and pottery initially brought from Iran and Iraq to Spain and then over to Mexico. It is displayed on almost every building in some way, inside and out. Even the Burger King bathroom had an impressive display! We all bought registered pieces of Talavera .... my favorite being the blue, white and yellow patterns. The majority of buildings in Puebla also have a baroque, iron and Talvera exterior which lends it to a European feel mixed with the Indigeous mood. With 5k colonial buildings, the turibus was a good way to get around and see the majority of sites at a distance.

We also toured Cholula, about 20 minutes from Puebla. It is known for its churches and pyramid called Tipanica or Chiconahui Quiahuitl...depending on who you're talking to....It holds the distinction of largest foundation in the world 500 meters wide, covering 25 acres and 181 ft. high. We entered it through the underground cave system....wow! Quite impressive but beware if you are claustrophobic. It is now as impressive above ground, given that the Spanish conquistadores made it a habit of covering pre-hispanic sites and building their own Catholic churches. Above the pyramid is the Church of the Virgen of Eternal Redemption.

We were able to see a couple of more churches in Cholula, one being 'baroque-indigenous' style...where there is a unique facade of Indigenous faces and the holy cross and saints, in one of the most opulent displays I've seen here in Mexico. Needless to say I could go on endlessly about these two areas of Mexico. It's one worth spending some time exploring.

Finally, the twin volcanoes of Popcatepetl and Iztaccihuatl are also visible from both Puebla and Cholula on a clear day...which we unfortunately didn't have this visit.

Exploring East Coast

2008-05-05T17:52:00.000-07:00

Cinco de mayo celebration here in Mexico afforded us another long week-end for touring. Hilaria, Alex and I were off to Papantla, Tecolutla, and El Tajin...all in the state of Veracruz. It also enabled me to learn quite a bit about an Indian group called the Totonacs. They have roots from the AD 100 to present day....they are know for their agricultural skills, especially growing vanilla. In fact, in June there is a whole festival dedicated to the vanilla crop and you can take tours of their plantations. Their language of Totonac is still spoken and taught in some of the schools. The town of Papantla is small and quaint with a couple of Catholic churches that lack the opulence I've previously seen in Mexico, more of a simple beauty.

I found the Papanteco people to be a warm, traditional and festive group. In the short time we were there they had a Danzon dance gathering Saturday night and native Totonac dancing and musicians on Sunday all in their Zocolo or park area.

Their claim to fame are the Volador preformers who launch themselves off a pole to the sound of flute music and suspend and descend upside down. Like the American version of bungee jumping but much more beautiful.

The trip to El Tajin was also an educational event. This type of archaeological area is unique in Mexico due to its design and it is quite impressive in size and condition of the structures....which total 15 different buildings. The largest is called Pyramid of the Niches...365 to be exact! One for each day of the year. In it's original state is was painted red and black and some of the color is still visible. It has undergone extensive restoration and was quite a site. Also, different from other areas is that you are not able to climb any of the large structures due to their delicate condition. Just touring around the area was inspirational.

Finally, we took the bus trip to Tecolutla for some fun in the sun....along with a few thousand of the local native people! It was like Waikiki beach, everyone was having fun and the beach vendors provided us with fruit flavored nieves (ice cream), shrimp cocktails, and several other types of fish snacks. Great way to relax and people watch.

Shake, Rattle and Roll

2008-04-27T19:58:00.000-07:00

My first earthquake! It was Sunday evening and I was talking to my husband on the computer when it hit. The room started to move and it made me feel dizzy, I went outside just to be safe. Nobody seemed concerned , so I stood out for a minute until it was still. Never a dull moment around here! I was told that little earthquakes are good because the ground is letting off steam a little at a time and doesn't do much damage. Below is the report from CNN forwarded to me by my daughter Juliet, who read about it shortly after it happened!

MEXICO CITY, Mexico (CNN) -- A moderate earthquake of 5.8 magnitude struck southwestern Mexico on Sunday night, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

Rafael Abreau of the USGS said there were no reports of damage from the earthquake, which was centered about 54.5 miles (87.7 kilometers) below ground, and about 100 miles (161 kilometers) south-southwest of Mexico City.

Abreau said the USGS had received reports that the earthquake had been felt in the country's capital.

Because of the depth of the earthquake, Abreau said, "we may see some minor damage."

"Yes, it scared us," Julio Lara, 38, a parking attendant in downtown Mexico City told The Associated Press. "It was strong."

The earthquake struck at 7:06 p.m. local time (8:06 p.m. ET).

Mexican Hospitality and Cooking Lesson!

2008-04-27T19:06:00.000-07:00

A colleague of ours from the Polytecnico invited us to her family's 'casa de campo' in Tepoztlán this Saturday. It has been in her family since 1936. Belen and her mother and father hosted several of the teachers and our coordination Edith offered us a cooking lesson, which I was able to video tape.

First the house, it has been totally decorated by Belen's mother with a unique collection of Mexican art work. The pottery collections were incredible as well as a variety of other genres.

On the menu were two types of chicken enchiladas with mole...poblano and negro. Edith is quite skillful in the kitchen and I think the video will be a wonderful experience for my students in the states to see when I return! She also showed us how to make agua de jamaica - aguas are made from flowers and plant leaves very much like a tea.

We also took a walk around the town of and enjoyed one of the most beautiful ice cream parlors in Mexico which serves Tepoznieves....every fruit flavor imaginable with a variety of other ingredients.

The day was a wonderful experience spent with such a beautiful Mexican family in an authentic Mexican environment.

Los Prismas Basalticos

2008-04-24T17:24:00.000-07:00

Hidden beauty...is certainly abundant in this country. Los Prismas Basalticos is a rare find located outside the town of Pachuca about 1.5 hours northeast of the D.F. The nearest town is actually Huasca de Ocampo in the state of Hidalgo. My Mexican colleague, Hilaria suggested we visit this rare natural exhibit one Sunday afternoon. I would suggest a car if you have one at your disposal. Usually we are able to conveniently maneuver our way around the country, but this area being out of the way is easier by auto. It took us 3 connections from bus to bus to taxi to reach the Prismas. The last combi bus being a real white knuckle ride over a mountain pass with lots of curves to add a little excitement until we arrived at Huasca.

The Prismas are a unique area with cascading water flowing from rock formations that look man made. The rock is cylinder shaped like long, round pieces of pipe. You can climb down into a small canyon and view the falls from all different angles. There is also a rope bridge crossing the canyon and river that is like something out of Raiders of the Lost Arc. We sat and just enjoyed the nature of this area, overwhelmed by the energy of the sound of the falls and the clean fresh air surrounding us. Great way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

Cardinal Sin - Forgetting Camera

2008-04-06T15:50:00.000-07:00

Another beautiful week-end in the D.F. Perfect for bicycle touring. My $60.00 bicycle has been a wonderful investment to get me around. It is a 1/2 hour ride to the Centro Historico from my apartment. Good way to stay in shape mentally and physically.

Saturday was a ride to the Franz Meyer Museum. For this one I had my camera....so I'll include a few of those. The museum is situated in a building with quite a history dating to the 1582 when it was a hospital, then given to an order of nuns. After a few modifications it now houses the eclectic collection of art donated by Franz Meyer, a expat German who amassed a fortune in Mexico and decided to give back by leaving his collection to the Mexican people. It includes:
1. ceramics 2. silver 3. furniture 4. textiles 5. sculpture 6. paintings
My favorite being the ceramic collection of talavera.

Never forget your camera when venturing out into the D.F. This is the rule I've lived by for the past 10 months ... guess it was time for a slip. On the Reforma Avenue where they close the streets to auto traffic for the people on Sunday's, you are able to tour leisurely, by bike in my case. There was a wonderful collection of sidewalk ceramic chile pepper artwork ... celebrating the chile pepper of course. A staple in food here, but leave it to the Mexican artisans to create with it as well. There were about a dozen huge chiles decorated with different themes and each quite unique. I will try to get back by there with camera..asap.

Next, was a visit to the Museo de Arte Moderno, one of the many museums in Chapultepec Park. It is one of the few that has eluded my visit, for different reasons. It now stands as one of my favorites! Another eclectic collection of Mexican artwork...with everything from Cubisism to wood sculptures. It has a courtyard full of metal sculptures where you can relax and enjoy the scenery. Very impressive was: Vendedora de Frutas - a huge oil drawing on cloth depicting a woman selling every type of fruit imaginable. It needs a key for identification though!

Flash Back to the 60's -Tepoztlán

2008-03-31T11:17:00.000-07:00

Tepoztlán - reminded me of a small hippie community from the 60's. This village is to the south of the D.F. about an hour. All the streets are cobblestone and a bit hard on the ankles and feet...but add to the appeal of this charming town.It is known to be an escape for the wealthy city dwellers of Mexico City on week-ends and there are some beautiful homes on the mountains behind gated walls.

On all the streets you will find holistic types of food and miscellaneous products for sale (massage for $5.00/15min) My favorite were the tamales made from plums without any lard...which is usually a common ingredient in tamales. I also tried their diabetic cookies made from all kinds of nuts and grains...delicious!

The main attraction to this village other than its ambiance, is the climb up a steep rocky trail to the pyramid of Tepozteco... a remnant of a pyramid. The top is supposedly an area of healing and spiritual rejuvenation, with an impressive view of the town below and a killer view of the Sierra of Tepozteco. My companions on this trip were two ex-Fulbright teachers from Mexico, Alex and Hilaria. Lovely way to spend a beautiful Sunday afternoon.

Shop til You Drop - Oaxaca City

2008-03-26T20:02:00.000-07:00

Just kidding, but the city is definitely my favorite for artesanias...the rich colors and designs are very unique. I bought several pieces of the black pottery they are know for, 3 Huipiles ( a very comfortable tunic type blouse), a purse, a richly embroidered blouse, Oaxaca cheese and chocolate ... you get the idea.

This area has much more than shopping to offer though. I met my fellow Fulbright colleague Nancy King and we toured relentlessly for 3 days. This included a trip to Monte Alban the 1500 year old Zapotecan ruins right outside the city, also popping in and out of several 15th century churches beautifully decorated for the Easter week that it was, seeing the beautiful Santo Domingo church ( a real jaw dropper) complete with a very historical convent next door, visiting El Tule-a 2,000 year old tree, and ate some unusual food dishes known to this area, such as chapulinas (crickets cooked in oil and onions).

Visiting the churches during this time is a real treat given the Catholic heritage that prevails in Mexico. The scents of Easter lilies on all the alters was wonderful. It was a very festive time indeed. There was non-stop celebration with music, balloons, lots of tourists and just a feeling of joy in the air.

In the convent there were many exhibits of value including a list of the 15 Indian groups out of the 56 known in Mexico that exist in the state of Oaxaca. Pluralism is overwhelming with women walking around wearing their native clothing regularly. One tribe that was mentioned in the museum and lives in a small town named Santiago Zochilo outside Oaxaca City , still practices something called El Tequio. "El Tequio es unidad que se une el pueblo". Translation is they work together to feed the entire village, growing crops, cooking and everything else. Beautiful concept.

I definitely suggest a trip to Oaxaca City! If I were going to redecorate my house this would be my 1st choice for purchases......

Visiting the Tropics

2008-03-26T12:21:00.000-07:00

It's Spring break! First trip was to the tropics or Cozumel Mexico. It is a small island in the state of Quintana Roo...furthest point south in Mexico. It is known internationally for it's high quality scuba diving on the Palancar reef and others..which are like a whole other world below the ocean. The Caribbean waters are beautiful colors of turquoise, azure and whatever color of blue you can think of. Another claim to fame it has are the non-stop arrivals of cruise ships. Every day at least four were in port except for Sunday....everyone relaxes on that day. We enjoyed unlimited shore diving in front of our hotel, I went on 2 boat dives while Brian, my husband went on a four.

We toured the island in a car one day..this consists of one main road which encircles the island in about 30 miles. The eastern side of the island is the windy side with big waves which attract surfers. The primary mode of transport on this beautiful island is scooters... I think I could live here.

San Angel Tour

2008-03-09T19:56:00.000-07:00

A book I highly recommend is Mexico City "An Opinionated Guide For the Curious Traveler" by Jim Johnson. He is an ex-pat who has lived here for about 10 years. In it are all kinds of alternative or creative tour suggestions.

This Sunday I took his walking tour of San Angel, a small colonial town about 6 miles south of the center of Mexico City. The tour is exact in what you are seeing ..with directions and great descriptions. Most of the places are popular but he also includes some more obscure locations as well....I certainly felt off the beaten path at times.

I started with Museo del Carmen, a 17th century convent...well preserved with religious artwork and even mummified nuns. Then the Casa del Risco, with a beautiful courtyard that included a fountain made from talavera plates and mother of pearl shells! Beautiful.

Next, was the Parróquia de San Jacinto, an operating church with a gilded baroque chapel and beautiful courtyard as well. The jacaranda tree (bursting with purple blossoms) were everywhere in the neighhoods....it is their season to bloom.

The next place was Plaza de los Arcángeles, a residential enclave with a small park, cobblestone streets and a plethora of bougainvilleas. Some of the houses had "Venta" or For Sale signs on them.....I thought to myself, how much to live in this paradise?

Finally, I headed over the the San Angel Inn and Restaurant, which sits across from the Diego and Frida Art Studio Museum. The Studio was designed by Juan O'Gorman and feels very personal with relics of everyday life with the artists.

The San Angel Inn and Restaurant was a real treat. It has a history dating back to 1692 as a Hacienda, then to the first Spanish Ambassador's residence, Santa Ana's refuge for planning the Battle of Chapultepec with Pancho Villa and Zapata and then into an elegant inn and restaurant. It has been visited by Princes, Princesses, U.S. presidents and many movie stars. Prices are expensive and you do get what you pay for....incredible ambiance, sustenance and libation. Perfect end to a wonderful visit to San Angel.

Ashes and Snow

2008-03-09T17:42:00.000-07:00

We are so fortunate to be in the International Cosmopolitan Capital of Mexico City! The incredible International Nomadic art and theatre exposition of Ashes and Snow is here from 15th December thru 27th April. In a nutshell:
A. sponsored by the Rolex Institute
B. Canadian artist, Gregory Colbert who studied in Paris and traveled around the world for the past 16 years to capture interactions between man and nature thru video and still-photography, resulting in this expo
C. all shots are natural....not digitally altered...done in black, white ...no color
D. 50 large-scale photographic artworks, 60 minute video, and 2 short film
E. 6,000 sq. metre bamboo building it is housed in: built by Columbian architect, Simón Veléz
complete with shallow water canals under the photographs and 3 theatres

It is free of charge for the people of Mexico City and tourists alike. The wait varies depending on the time of day etc. I waited about an hour in a very patient and organized line of mostly Mexican citizens. What can I say.... it was breath-taking and inspirational. The photos I included were posters being sold in a souvenir shop.

The Flight of the Butterfly - Magic

2008-02-25T08:38:00.000-08:00

There was music in the air again in Mexico, but in the genre of nature or butterfly wings! Sounds from these otherwise silent creatures you say? Only when you are fortunate enough to attend one of their migration stops. This week-end we visited El Rosario, migrating grounds for the countless Monarchs who make their way from Canada through the U.S. and finally Michoacan Mexico each year at this time. They arrive earlier in the year, but February you will find them mating and very active.

We hiked up the mountain at the altitude of 9,000 feet to experience the full effect of this miracle of nature. It was worth the long trek from Mexico City by car and then the hike of about an hour and 30 minutes. For the effort we witnessed millions of Monarchs gracefully flying through the air and millions more perched together on the tall evergreen trees branches, weighing them down. This is the spot where my colleague and friend, Brenda noticed the sounds of the butterflies. It was a very gentle sound..comparable to a light breeze. As they flew around together the sound was only noticeable if you stopped and listened carefully....this was truly a place where you felt at one with nature and very blessed to be there, and also one very hard to leave. After many photos and meditation, we worked our way down the trail and purchased some butterfly souvenirs. Later that day I discovered that I could close my eyes and envision this beautiful scene of the peace and gentleness of nature and it will be a treasure to me always. As a final note, the Spanish word for butterfly has always been one of my favorite:MARIPOSA.

Sweet Sounds of Music

2008-02-20T19:00:00.000-08:00

Spring is in the air, 80 degrees on both Saturday and Sunday... including a variety of outdoor concerts. This week-end , I attended an opera concert at the Casa del Lago/Chapultepec Park. It was a free event put on in collaboration with the UNAM/another public university.

Next, was a concert/dance at the Bellas Artes/Fine Arts Theatre representing dance from the north of Spain/including non-stop bagpipes!
On Sunday, there was a free outdoor concert with a charming group from Argentina, called Paté de Fuá. It felt like an outdoor summer concert in Colorado. People of all ages were in the audience enjoying the music and day.

I'm sorry I missed a Maná concert (one of the most popular rock groups/from Guadalajara) on Saturday. They played 4 different concerts/on 4 days and filled the Auditorio Nacional, which holds approximately 10,000 people for all four concerts! I thought I could walk up and buy a ticket that day, wrong! Fortunately, I saw them in the U.S. a few years ago and have fond memories.

Mexico City cultural society publishes a magazine every week called Tiempo Libre...this helps organize whats happening in the city so you can make your plans based on your individual interests. Many, many events are free! They are always well attended by the local people, who appreciate their culture in every genre imaginable. You can be well entertained on a shoe string budget if you plan it right.

Sharing My Experience

2008-02-08T17:21:00.000-08:00

Family from California, Karin and Steve and Brian, my husband all came for a 6 day whirlwind visit and tour of Mexico. They loved the museums and wonderfully inexpensive food (they were here during the Candelaria and we ate tamales for breakfast each morning!). It is so fun to show others the "real" Mexico and perhaps change wrong impressions of this beautiful country.

We toured one day on the Turibus...a double decker bus that gives you an informative and comfortable tour of the centro historico and lots of the more quaint areas around the main city. It costs 10.00/a day with a headset to hear about all the sites and you are able to get off and on wherever you desire. They were also impressed with Teotihuacan's pyramids and La Gruta Restaurant, which is on the site but in a cave! Great ambiance. Two other must sees were the Basilica of the Virgen Guadalupe and the Ballet Folklorico at Bellas Artes Theatre.

My coordinator, Edith was also kind enough to take us to Taxco for a beautiful visit to this colonial town known for it silver. Long story short, 6 days isn't really enough to see this city. I've been here almost 7 months and haven't even put a dent in seeing all the museums!

Tamaliza

2008-02-08T17:07:00.000-08:00

February 2 is the Candelaria celebration in Mexico. This is the time that officially marks the end of the Christmas celebration. The nacimientos or nativity scenes will all come down now and the lenten season started on Wednesday February 6th.

My favorite thing about the Candelaria is the tamaliza. This is a breakfast style party that includes tamales of all flavors.....mole, green chile, plum, rebanada(sliced chile and cheese), these are just the ones I was fortunate enough to try. I am told that they put just about anything else you could imagine in them as well! To drink there is a rice or corn based drink called atole. It too comes in different flavors....I had chocolate and vanilla. Another wonderful time to be together with friends and family in Mexico!

Flowers in the Winter

2008-01-27T15:51:00.000-08:00

Well it's the end of January here in the D.F. and the average temperature is in the low 70's during the day and 40's at night. Flowers are blooming everywhere. At Christmas time I was surprised to see poinsettias in the form of 10 foot trees. As I walked home today I was amazed to see a Norfolk pine tree with bright pink bougainvilleas vining their way up it..had to remind myself, yes it is winter. Freezing weather is something I am not missing this year, in Colorado it is below 0 some days. It's interesting that people here do dress as we would back in Colorado, that being apres ski boots and fur lined jackets..it is winter.

Think I'll take another walk through my neighborhood!

Going East - Xalapa and Beyond

2008-01-14T08:56:00.000-08:00

My personal goal for the second semester is to continue exploring this beautiful and intriguing country of Mexico. Also, my professional goal would be the opening of the English Language section at the Polytecnico ESCA library and help my students use it to develop their English skills. Finally, work is still in progress to have an student exchange with a prepa or high school here in Mexico and Highlands Ranch High. I have a feeling this semester will be a quick one.

This past week-end I took a 5 hour bus trip east to Xalapa for $45.00/round trip. It is also sometimes spelled Jalapa for the Spanish influence. Xalapa is about an hour from Veracruz, where Cortez made his first landing in Mexico from Spain. My fellow Fulbright colleague and friend Nancy hosted me at her apartment. Xalapa is her assignment of teaching English at a university associated with the Universidad Veracruzana. We made the most of the week-end, I had already done some research on places of interest that we could visit.

Being my first time venturing in this direction of Mexico, the scenery from the bus was quite breath-taking. We passed yucca, pine, and cactus forests and the volcanic area of Perote...most of the trip passing through the state of Puebla.

On Saturday we visited the small town of Xico (he-ko), about 45 minutes ($1.80/round trip) from Xalapa in search of the Texolo waterfalls. We disembarked in Xico and strolled for about an hour down a long stone road to reach the falls. The walk was so beautiful through banana groves and small quaint haciendas covered with all kinds of colorful plants and flowers. This area is quite humid and supports all kinds of bromelaids, orchids and variety of flowers I didn't recognize.

People in this area were so very hospitable and gracious! People caring about people and enjoying nature together!

Next we stopped in a small town called Coatepec. For being such a small town, it certainly had its share of colorful Catholic churches. The style is much more simple that in the D.F. area. We had lunch in the Coffino Caffe & Restaurant housed in a small rustic building with a courtyard full of flowers and a fountain. It is hard to believe it is January, where it's snowing back in Colorado. I tried something new called Milanesa de res, which is a narrow cut of meat breaded and cooked. ¡Deliciosa!

In the evening we met some friends of Nancy at La Casona de Beaterio, an old monastery. It was a lovely place mostly open air with live music. The band used very regional instruments, a beautiful harp, the smaller guitars and percussion instruments.

Sunday, Margarita, her daughter Miriam, Nancy and I took off for Hacienda El Lencero, outside of Xalapa.

It was a refuge for General Santa Ana back in the 1800's.

It also has a beautiful garden of exotic flowers, plants and a 500 year old tree. ( if only those branches could talk!)

We relaxed on their portico after our visit and then went over to elMuseo de Antropología. This museum houses the best collection of original stone megalithic heads from various Olmec sights. It was quite impressive indeed.

There is so much more to see in Xalapa and I hope to return soon! Muchas gracias Nancy!

Feliz Navidad y Prospero Año Nuevo

2008-01-09T18:37:00.000-08:00

Here in Mexico City Christmas is celebrated in full glory...no Happy Holiday needed..they are predominately Catholic and proud of it. There were numerous beautiful "nacimientos" or nativity scenes throughout the city.

I had the opportunity to host one of my 3 daughters, Jessica in the D.F. for 6 days. She was amazed at how much there was to do and see here and we filled the days with non-stop touring of museums and other sites. We also took a bus trip to Guanajuato, which I think was her favorite. She learned about Don Quijote in the Museo Iconográfico del Quijote, one of my favorites and we climbed the pyramids of Teotihuacan here in the D.F. and the Pipila trail in Guanajuato. She was also fortunate to see one of the many ice skating rinks that the city had constructed for the people. One hour of skating could be had free of charge for those who came out early and waited in line daily. The one in the Zocolo area was claiming to be the biggest rink in the world!

My family and a couple of friends also had the opportunity to spend 16 days at a house in Pie de la Cuesta near Acapulco for our Christmas and New Year celebration.

Was one of the most relaxing times of my life, watching beautiful sunsets every day, swimming, and laying in the hammocks and a pleasant surprise of watching the whales, who migrate through this area in December.

The caretakers of the house, Ruth and Antonio shared their traditional celebrations with us, which included the Las Posadas Christmas Eve, a brindis toast for the New Year and Tres Reyes Magos celebration of gift-giving on January 6th. For this they had chocolate and the pastry with one doll hidden in it..the person to get the doll in their piece of cake will host the tamale party for the Candalaria celebration February 5th. This will celebrate the end of winter..a bit early I think? It does seem that one celebration leads into the next. Family is always of the utmost importance in all they do We felt very fortunate to be included in the traditional celebrations here. A beautiful memory for all who came.

Temazcal - An Experience in Pluralism

2007-12-10T17:35:00.000-08:00

I'm sure everyone has had experiences that are hard to put into words in order for others to capture their full effect. I will try to describe my first trip to a Temazcal or 'cleansing igloo'.

My yoga instructor, Juan (whom everyone refers to as 'maestro')had invited us to attend a pre-Posada celebration and Temazcal cleansing trip, which he does once a month. This man is a true testament to the pluralism of two cultures. His heritage is Aztec Indian, and he practices worshiping this while including the Christian influence which could be seen during our pre-Posada activities.

The Temazcal was located at a small farm in a quaint mountain village called La Rosa. It was great being in the fresh air with animals everywhere...mostly poultry types like turkeys, chickens, rabbits and a parrot.

Our maestro went through each step carefully, beginning with sending thanks to the gods of the Sun, Moon, and Earth. We were each blessed before we went into the igloo in a beautiful event filled with all the ritual steps, which I'm sure are centuries old.

He speaks the native Indian language of Nahtual, as well as Spanish during his entire presentation. I can't begin to go through the complete process that took place inside and out of the Temazcal but suffice it to say it was overwhelming and we were inside for 3 hours!

This is the type of experience that you just must do to fully understand it's importance spiritually and physically. Maestro explained to us that the idea of the cleansing is being more accepted as a form of alternative medicine and there are two located at hospitals in Mexico including Chiapas.

After the cleansing ritual and a cold shower we were treated to enchiladas with homemade mole, a sauce that is a unique blend of chiles. The family that owned the farm and operated the Temazcal also served the dinners.

Next, we had our pre-Posada celebration. This is a Christian ritual, officially starting 26 December, imitating the night Mary and Joseph went in search of a place to stay for the birth of baby Jesus. Candles are held and there are certain songs that are sung to ask for entrance into a home and then the response from the home denying them entrance. Everyone seemed to know the songs from young to old people that were there. I was the only novice. So I settled for taking photos, which was hard because it was by now dark.
Finally, we broke the huge, colorful piñata with the maestro explaining that the hits represented the problems or sins we had committed and when it broke and the fruit and peanuts were released it represented your rewards for giving up sins. No candy was involved with our piñata.

The night ended with drinking the 'ponche' or hot fruit drink made from fruit that many had brought including sugar cane, apples and guayaba. It really hit the spot as we stood around the bond fire and shared stories about our experiences in the Temazcal and life in general in Mexico and the U.S. I was the only American.... hopefully, I represented us well. This is an experience I hope to repeat many times during my stay here ... without the pre-Posada experience of course.

Giving Thanks in Mexico

2007-11-27T07:10:00.000-08:00

Homesickness finally set in.....it was Thursday this week, which happened to be Thanksgiving Day in the U.S. Just another work day here in Mexico. I did take the opportunity to give my students a brief history of the holiday, which many weren't familiar with at all. I was able to talk to all my family, thanks to SKYPE...the free internet phone service! If you haven't discovered it you must. It seemed everyone at home had a wonderful time doing family dinners and American Football.

On Saturday our very considerate coordinator, Edith Salem decided to find a place to take us to help celebrate. There is a Marie Callender's (an American restaurant chain from CA) here in Mexico City. Their pies are wonderful and we had pumpkin and a variety of other flavors.

I have so much to give thanks for...my faith, my family and friends, my health and the experience here in Mexico. We are soooo fortunate to have Edith as our coordinator here. Edith and I were also able to spend the day together in the city doing some errands, like checking out the bus schedules for the holidays trips I'll be taking and making several stops before arriving at the restaurant. It's so easy to fill 8 hours with interesting places here in the D.F. not really having a plan. We passed the main campus of the IPN University...it is massive with many attractions of its own...like a planetarium, sports facilities, huge library and art attractions.

We made several other stops including a 1500 century Franciscan chapel with a cemetery that had obviously been decorated for the Dia de los Muertos. We also drove around the area where the Virgin de Guadalupe cathedrals (there are 3) are located. I will be taking my family there when they come. Can't wait.

Finally, before our dinner and pie we stopped at a wonderful park called "Hundido" or hidden park. In the park are individually colored trails of the routes the Olmec, Mayan, and Toltec Indians took with replicas of the stone carvings from each group. It also contains the first outdoor amphitheatre in the D.F. where classical music was playing... Beautiful area!

Our dinner was great...in attendance were my Fulbright colleagues, Melissa, her daughter Graciela, Brenda and of course Edith. Muchas gracias Edith!

There are places I'll remember....

2007-11-26T18:10:00.000-08:00

As one of my favorite Beatle songs goes....our 1st semester at the IPN just ended today. I didn't realize how attached I had become to my classes until I had to say good-bye. As a teacher or person, you sometimes form stronger bonds with a particular group or individuals that you just can't deny. This was the case with my second class and individuals in my first and third.

My second period surprised me with a fiesta...complete with tinga, which is a delightful blend of spiced chicken, to be put on a taco shell with cream, lettuce and cheese. All had been prepared by the mamá of one of my students...Sweet Lilian.

Sweet Janai brought in a delicious peach pastry.

She's the one on the left of Isaac, and to the right is Nancy. They were so considerate to make sure that I understood what I was eating and how it was to be eaten. I felt like a queen, being served and doted upon. It was hard to stop the tears from flowing as they said a cheer for me and we all shared abrazos (hugs), several times before they left. Daniel, an advanced English speaker in class tried to sum it up for everyone in a speech that I will never forget...saying that I was one of the best teachers they had ever had at the IPN. I felt like they didn't want to leave even though I had another class waiting to come in....and I certainly didn't want them to leave. The good-bye scene was repeated for my next class, very emotional for me indeed...

Next, we have a couple of weeks of testing and then the semester officially ends. Wow...hard to believe...feel like I just got off the plane. The second semester I may have some of the same students but probably not because I'm changing schedules to come in earlier and leave before darkness. My wonderful students made an impression on me about how much people can care for one another and not be afraid to express it verbally and every other way. They are people I will remember all my life.....

Museo de Arte Popular

2007-11-19T17:05:00.000-08:00

I've lost count of how many museums I've visited so far...if you count the churches then it's in the 100's. Sunday we visited this creative museum of Popular or Contemporary Art. There were a variety of materials used for the creations exhibited here: including metal, wax, paper, wood, beads...just about anything imaginable, they can create something beautiful and colorful. On special exhibit for the coming Navidad or Christmas celebration was an amazing exhibit of piñatas!
My other favorites are something that looks like giant shields, brightly decorated in themes...such as "The Tree of Life" "The Wedding" and my favorite "Arts and Crafts!

They start them young, as I observed at a workshop for children at the museums...they were making pinwheels and paper turtles.

Día de Revolución

2007-11-19T15:52:00.000-08:00

Here are the main points of this celebration: It was a civil war that began with the purpose of overthrowing Porfirio Diaz, a dictator with the desire to exploit land from the natives to enrich his own chosen group of citizen, both Mexican but mostly international. It was initiated by Mexican leaders such as Francisco Madero, Pancho Villa and Emiliano Zapata. It ended in 1911 with Mexicans trying to redeem the damage of property loss that had been initiated by Diaz.
In Chapultapec Park we ran across a celebration of the Mexican Air Force, honoring soliders from World War II.

There were also several other demonstrations that include present day conflicts, for example Obrador, who calls himself the President-elect. His situation was similiar to the very close Presidential race we had in the U.S. the last go round.

Día de los Muertos

2007-11-12T08:12:00.000-08:00

I'm a little late in describing what I saw here in the D.F during this fantastic and colorful celebration in Mexico. It is a time in Mexico when they celebrate the return of the souls of their loved ones..November 1st being for the children who have passed and November 2 for the adults. Everywhere you go there are "ofrendas"(altars) colorfully decorated with candles, marigolds, incense (important to give the souls guidance) and all the favorite foods and items of the persons they are honoring. Taking a quote from one of Mexico's finest authors, Octavio Paz "Our deaths illuminate our lives" Loved ones have the responsibility of keeping the memories of
their loved ones alive and this is the designated week to do so. I have included a variety of photos, including one for Diego Riviera and Frida Kahlo, Dolores Olmedo (whose house in Xochimilco was donated and is now a museum)

Another extremely artistic tribute to this celebration were a collection of skulls, each uniquely decorated to depict the artist style. They were displayed on a main road where all can enjoy.

Comexus Garcia Robles Reunion

2007-10-30T13:45:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, 27 October all the Fulbright Scholarship recepients in Mexico gathered for our 3 day mid-term reunion. Hadn't seen most of these folks since our send off in Washinton DC end of July.
1. Anna from Virginia in Mexicali 2. Elizabeth from New York in Huehuetla 3. Margaret from Maine in Obregon 4. Jan from Montana in Cuernavaca 5. David from Minnesota in Ensenada 6. Billy from Minnesota in the D.F. 7. Melissa from Minnesota in D.F. 8. Brenda from Maine in D.F. 9. Nancy from New Mexico in Xalapa and myself from Colorado in D.F. What stories we had to share! We each did presentations that lasted a total of 4 hours..and its only been two months. Our experiences have all been very different with some common threads.
Comexus is the organization that works collaboratively here in Mexico with the Fulbright in U.S. They did a great job of organizing all our activities with visits to local restaurants in the area including a great one called La Casa de las Sirenas...gourmet Mexican food on a rooftop!
We also had a reception with ex-Fulbright becarios (scholarship recepients) from Mexico and local directors, such as Benjamin from the Benjamin Frankin Library.
This is a resource in the area that is provided by the U.S. embassy and comes with tight security. They have a wonderful website that anyone can access though:
www.usembassy-mexico.gov/biblioteca
definetly worth your time! All kinds of resources for teaching and just perusing.

It was great spending time with all my fellow becarios and their families.

Am now off to the beautiful white sand beaches of Cancun for my birthday celebration with my husband. When I return I will report on Día de los Muertos and what a wonderful and colorful celebration it is here in Mexico and what it represents.

Festival Cervantino

2007-10-22T10:40:00.000-07:00

Friday morning we tried to leave the city bright and early in route to Guanajuato and the Festival Cervantino. I feel I must warn my blog readers if they ever attempt to drive in Mexico that the police here can be bought! It happened last week-end while we in Acapulco (100 pesos) and then again this week-end. We were so frustrated at being singled out probably because of the "Maine" plates, that we took a stand and refused to pay or deal with these 3 motorcycle cops. Advice: always have the American Embassy on your cell phone speed dial and make sure your phone is working in Mexico! After much drama and a call to the embassy these 3 young officers decided against pursing us any further and left with an apology! Consider yourself warned about driving in Mexico....p.s. the embassy is open 24/7 for help.

After the drama and the need for a shot of tequila at 8:00am in the morning, the rest of our week-end was wonderful. The drive up north was quite different from the drive to Acapulco...still very mountainous and scenic. On the road into Miguel de Allende and Dolores Hidalgo, we stopped at several talavera ceramic shops (one of the things this area is known for) and I made some early Christmas gift purchases. The prices were fantastic and the pieces are beautiful. We took a short break at a restaurant and encountered the UNAM American football team there! They were in route to their annual rivalry match with our school the Polytecnico on Saturday. College American Football is taking hold here and from the size of these boys I would say they would fair well against some of our schools in the U.S.

Next stop, Miguel de Allende, a small colonial art colony that has been discovered by Americans, in fact there is a huge retirement community there and you see many Americans around on the street. Very different from where I live in the D.F. This town is definitely worth a visit, being rich in history, the place where the Father Dolores Hidalgo, who started the move for freedom from Spain was born. It reminded me very much of small villages in Spain with the cobblestone streets and small alleyways...beautiful. Churches here dates back to the 1500's.

We arrived in Guanajuato around 4pm and after checking in at our hotel, the Camino Real...we were off to check out the Festival Cervantino. It is considered the biggest art, theater, music festival in Mexico. The streets were filled with college aged teenagers and lots of activity. Most of the big venues were sold out of tickets for their productions, we ended up purchasing one for the Auditorio del Estado and a Brazilian dance troupe....very entertaining. Other than that there were random acts of strolling musicians, mimes, Ecuadorian flute music and art and history around every corner. Saturday we visited approximately 5 different musuems and paid only $1.50, teachers are admitted free with an I.D. My favorite was the Iconográfico del Quijote. This is the museum dedicated to the author Miguel de Cervantes character Don Quixote. My second favorite was the museum, or birthplace of Diego Rivera. Each museum is so comprehensive and teachs one so about the culture and history of Mexico. This town has got to be on your list of places to visit.

Finally, on the way home Sunday we stopped in Queretaro, which claims to be the crossroads of Mexican history. They have an incredible antique water aqueduct running down the middle of town, very similiar to Segovia, Spain. Also, some beautiful churches and of course a zocolo area (center of town). Here we tried the barbacoa, and really enjoyed their open air restaurant. The temperature during the day in almost all of the towns we visited was in the 70's...very pleasant for strolling through Mexican pueblos!

La Playa!

2007-10-16T11:49:00.000-07:00

Being the small town, wide open space type, I was feeling the need to explore what Mexico has to offer outside this largest city in the world. My coordinator, Edith offered us a night at her family's ocean home. On the way out of town you have to climb into the mountains because for those of you who aren't familiar with this area, it is approx. 7250 ft. starting here in the city. So we climbed and climbed and truly enjoyed seeing the wide open spaces of the mountains outside of town. We made a stop to eat in "Tres Marias" outside of Cuernavaca. These small places offer a variety of home style cooking and barbacoa, which is lamb cooked in an underground oven.

The down point was paying all the "cuota" or toll fees on the interstate...they add up to approx. $45.00 before you arrive into Acapulco...and then there's the return! We enjoyed the sunset from the beautiful house on the beach and just relaxing. My companions were, Edith, and colleagues/friends Brenda and Bill. We recharged and returned, with one more downside, traffic making its way back into Mexico City....apparently lots of folks exit the city for the week-end. Fortunately, the memory of a great and relaxing week-end outweighed this problem. Back to work on Monday and our second set of tests starting on Thursday.

What A Great City!

2007-10-07T14:53:00.000-07:00

So many events this week ... it is hard to include all the details .... I'm going to try to summarize the week with comments and of course my favorite photos!

My students are working on oral presentations, and I was so impressed with their concentration that I had to take some shots. They will present in English, which is very stressful, but they have worked diligently and I am looking forward to hearing them on Monday.

Friday night we were invited to attend a "chareada" or mexican rodeo. It was a private event, and very beautiful with female riders showing their riding skills in full white dress, and men who rode the "Paso de Muerte". This is where they jump from a tame horse to a wild horse, while riding very fast! Two out of three made it...felt sorry for the one rider....he got up and gracefully walked out of the arena, but ouch! Not too many photos of this because of night, distance, etc.

Last week-end my friends Brenda and Bill from Winterport, Maine and I bought bikes! We were advised against it because of all the traffic, but after spending our week-end riding around a couple of different areas, this proved to be the wrong advice for us. In fact, on Sunday, the city actually closes two of the main streets in the center of town for all the folks to walk, run, bike, or whatever you choose! The streets take you to the Zocolo and all the way to Chapultepec Park. It was so great to be able to build up some speed and not be bothered with too many obstacles. Brenda says "this is their way of giving the city back to the people". ..for a few hours anyway(9am-2pm, Sunday). In my opinion, if they did it more often, it could be an answer to their pollution problem. We rode both Saturday and Sunday. Saturday, we rode in the park for many hours....touring this way gives one access to so much more. One of my favorite areas in the park is "the poet's row". They have bronze sculptures of the best Latin poets and some quotes from their work.....Sor Juana de la Cruz, Najera and José Othon to name a few...his poem is called "La Casita". We also came across a group of Indian performers that had the most beautiful instruments, a mandolin and a concha shell horn. At this place a couple of students approached us because they needed to interview someone in English for their class! We were of course delighted to tell them on film how we loved their country and hopefully our tape will be shown in their classroom!

Chapultepec Park is celebrating 100 years and with this comes lots of celebration. We happened on a stage with a mariachi band dressed in white, ballet folkórico dancers dressed in lots of colors, and a female cantante (singer). They were wonderful!
Right next to them of all things was an antique car show! Model T Fords and lots of others! They have auto clubs here too. On the way back on the Paseo de Reforma(a main street) I took photos of several unique park benches, what creativity in this city! In a city of 20 million people there certainly seems to be something for everyone...never a dull moment.

Festejar y Festejar

2007-10-01T08:15:00.000-07:00

This is the word for "party". We were included in two separate celebrations this week...a retirement party and a baby shower. The teacher, Amparo had 30 years teaching and with the new policy from the government she decided to leave now...so that she wouldn't lose any benefits. The celebration was similar to many of ours and as always tears flowed when she was asked to make a speech. She will be dearly missed.

Next, we went to a baby shower for Lulu. Another teacher who will be leaving in a couple of weeks. She brought her other son Emilio, a real sweetie, who laughed when I showed him his picture on my camera! Christina was a beautiful and gracious hostess, a teacher who had left the Poly and is teaching at a school near her home in Bosque de Aragon. We ate pozole, broke a piñata and played lotería (bingo) in Spanish.

Lesson I experienced this week-end....the Mexican people love love love to celebrate life at any occasion and love being together and just chatting. ..i.e. the baby shower went on for 8 hours!

More Museums and Native Tour

2007-09-23T16:26:00.000-07:00

This week-end I was able to scratch off my list another dozen or so museums! Saturday I spend 6 hours touring Coyacan, an "Art & Upscale " district of D.F. First, I happened on the Museum of the Intervenciones, it was like walking in an open book of Mexican history. It discussed the battles and people leading up to the Reforma or reorganization after Spanish occupation. Once again I noticed huge groups of Mexican high school students touring their history museums and taking notes and listening to their teachers.

Next, I stopped at the Museum or House of Leon Trosky. He was given political asylum in Mexico before World War II from the Stalin regime with whom he had parted ways. I guess you couldn't just part ways electively back then and he was finally met with assassination by Stalin supporters after the second attempt. His home had been turned into a protective fortress after the first attempt on his life, which is where he existed peacefully writing his works of history and lived with his wife and animals. He also kept company with many local art celebrities, such as Frida Kahlo and her husband Diego Riviera.

Sunday our director, Edith Salem from the Polytecnico, who is also a Mexican history expert, toured us around on something she called the Metro tour. Each metro or subway stop has a name and many people probably don't realize why each has its name. I know we didn't, until
today. We started at the Normal, then progressed to San Cosme, Revolucion, Hidalgo, and finally Bellas Artes. We visited places that aren't on the popular tour routes and places that are considered museums, such as several cathedrals that people attend for their Sunday services. Of special note was the Cementerio de San Fernando Tumbas, which is where many of the key players from the Reforma movement have their burial tombs. Included here are Benito Juarez and Ignacio Zaragoza. Their deaths were in the years 1872 and 1862.
The tour was incredibly informative and we were lucky to have such a knowledgeable tour leader. I have included a photo of our group, the three U.S. teachers, Edith, our director and
another Mexican teacher, Amparo.

"El Grito de la Independencia de Mexico"

2007-09-18T11:43:00.000-07:00

We made it to the Zocolo "center" of Mexico City around 10:00pm, 15 de septiembre...The opposition party of Obregon (the candidate who had lost the last presidential election recently) was holding a rally to try to sway support their way...calling himself the "real" president. Mexicans listened but didn't participate in leaving the Zocolo before "The Grito" at 11:00pm by Felipe Calderon, their current president. The situation during the election was similar to what happened in Florida between Kerry and Bush the last go round!
Back to "The Grito" which is a series of "Viva..." ....like Viva Hidalgo...Viva Allende...and finally Viva Mexico! several times. These were the key players in the movement for independence from Spain in 1810 in Guanajuato. It was moving to see 1000's of Mexican families with their children dressed in different colorful Mexican outfits and teaching them patriatism for their country. It was very peaceful and colorful with all the costumes, faces painted and oh yeah the fireworks! They were set off over the cathedral behind the backdrop of Mexican flags flying everywhere in the Zocolo!

The next day, 16 septiembre was the parade down the Avenida. It went on for about 2 hours with every military group represented including their military academies. There were flybys overhead of all sorts of aircraft from helicopters to the large aircraft and also paratroopers. The streets again were lined with 1000's of people enjoying and clapping for their military. I must also mention that it is the first night and day without rain since I've been here (since it is the rainy season). It was beautiful blue sky all day and night! Viva Mexico!

Beautiful Colors on the Zocolo

2007-09-11T07:56:00.000-07:00

This Sunday was a colorful one down at the center or "Zocolo" of Mexico City....from Aztec dancers...candy carts....decorations for the 16th September or Independance Day and even one dish they only create during this month because it is season of the "RED" pomgranite fruit, along with a "WHITE" almond sauce and a "GREEN" chile relleno.. colors of the Mexican Flag! The dish is called "Chile En Nogada" and is delicious! Truly "un monton de colores"!

Teotihuacan - Where Men Turned Into Gods!

2007-09-08T18:00:00.000-07:00

We entered the site and immediately one could feel the spirtual energy that encompasses it. For years I have taught about this site from information from a book, not really knowing the power of what I could have been teaching. You can relate the feeling to the first time you see the Grand Canyon....if you've been there.

The site has the size of an area for as far as the eye can see. Historians say that it was the biggest and most organized artisan and merchant population of the continent....born in the year 150 before our age. It flourished between 300-500A.C. and experienced decadence and destruction between 650-750 A.C. The two main pyramides named "The Sun" and "The Moon"....both still in great shape for their age...and firmly tolerate the 1000's who choose to scale the stairs to the top for a spectacular view of the whole area.

If you wonder how color was painted back in those days...there was a local artisan who was demonstrating that the eggs planted from insects in the nopal cactus gave them their red and plants could be used for yellow. ... very long and tedious process. Some of the area still has the remnants of color! I included a photo of the nopal, which also produces a delicious fruit called tuna.

My guides and companions were Carlos and Luis, local Mexicans who enjoyed the visit as much as myself, even though they grew up visiting it with their school groups and family.

Enjoy the photos ... some of my favorites, so far!

It's Been a Month

2007-09-05T08:25:00.000-07:00

Hola! I'm closing in on my 1st month abroad. My students are preparing for their first testing period. They are called parciales and take place 3 times in one semester! We have been working hard to prepare for success on these tests. My husband, Brian made his first trip to the DF or the largest city in the world. He learned so much, especially about what taxi to take from the airport! (Only take ones from the airport labeled "Taxi") .
We also enjoyed touring the area and visiting Plaza Mayor in the Zocolo area of Mexico City, very rich in history before the arrival of the Spaniards, this area is known as the main part of the lost village of Tenochtilan. These piramides are below the rest of the buildings in the area because they were covered when the Spaniards arrived in the 1500's. ...."Cafe Tacuba" - excellent restaurante in the area..an old nun's convent with original stainglass and tile!
On Saturday we went outside the city to Tepotzotlan. Luck was with us and we attended the first annual Ballet Folklorico! Dancers were all very young and talented, wearing dress from their respective regions of Mexico. I think my favorite might be Oaxaca, sooo colorful! Represented as well were the Aztec dancers outside of Museo Nacional de Virreinato...a richly decorated church ... painted with gold, gold and more gold. Very European...took 12 years to build in the 1600's by the Spainards as a Franciscan Monastery.

Brian did a great job of representing the "gringo" holding his own and eating the local food and comida mas picosa(hottest food)! He also did a presentation to all my students speaking on the Denver Water Board (where he works) and its place in Colorado. The kids asked wonderful questions and wrote a reflective summary as well. Next up will be my trip to Teotihuacan this week-end and the following week-end of 16 de septiembre or Independance Day in Mexico!

Students Wearing HRHS!

2007-08-30T07:24:00.000-07:00

Today I distributed a variety of Highlands Ranch High School t-shirts to my students at the Instituto Polytecnico Nacional. All these t-shirts were donated by the schools various clubs, especially generous were the Student Senate group! Muchisimas gracias say the students, they quickly put them on for this group shot of two of my classes.

My students are working very hard to learn English and sometimes have to work all day before coming to school. I appreciate their efforts and will do my best as the year goes on to help them improve their language skills. The school is a public university and my groups are in the Marketing Program. They know English will be essential to their success in the business world.

Museums in Mexico City

2007-08-28T08:55:00.000-07:00

The past few week-ends, I have had the opportunity to visit many incredible areas here in city. One of the most comprehensive being the Museo de Antropologia de Mexico, it is located in the Parque Chapultepec. There were authentic scenes from many of the Indian cultures represented and beautiful garments worn by each. I was even able to take several photos to give you a better visual idea of what I saw! One of the textile styles were created by the Huipil Indians called "La Malinche". They date back to the pre-hispanic era. Clothing distinguished indigenous groups and economic class.

Another interesting fact from this museum is that the Nahuatl Indian language from the Nahuas Indians date back 4200 years! The definition of the Nahua = tied to Earth and Fruit.
Some of tribes represented: Los Mayos, Tepehuanos del Norte, Los Pimas, Los Papagos, Yaqui, Guarijroc, Seris, Raramuri. As you can tell the history here is overwhelming and incredibly interesting.

Represented is a depiction of the Aztec Stone, which contrary to belief does not represent a calendar, but is called The Stone of the Sun and was a sacrificial altar.

Enjoy these beautiful photos!

Food in Mexico

2007-08-23T20:36:00.000-07:00

We have many Mexican food restaurants in the United States and I wonder where they have been hiding some of the delicacies I've tasted in the last two weeks. My favorites were a restaurante called "La Birria Restaurante Mejor de San Rafael". They only served this one dish, birria, an increible blend of rich spices, with meat, vegetables and some of the best corn tortillas ever! It was as much about the experience of sound as it was the food...nortena band downstairs and mariachi upstairs.

Also, by our school, "Rinconada del Casco", is located in a colonial house and serves a $4.00 or $5.00 menu, all inclusive of delicious and regional dishes, all as tasty as the other, always including a fresh squeezed fruit juice.

We attended a dinner hosted by Fulbright alumni at their home in the state of Mexico. They graciously served something called a taquisa, or collection of dishes. They included a variey of regional dishes, my favorite being the tinga de pollo, or shreaded and spiced chicken.

All for now, look forward to sharing the Highlands Ranch t-shirts with my students tomorrow! It will definitely be a photo opportunity!

Mas fotos

2007-08-23T20:21:00.000-07:00

2nd Week in Mexico City

2007-08-23T18:53:00.000-07:00

Hello all! Time is going by really fast. The past weeks have been such an awakening for me...living in a different country. I can truly say Mexico as we know it from books and visits to resorts does not do it justice. I have visited many places in the city so far, and find the people here to be hard-working, kind, and have a great love for enjoying life, family and friends.

This past week-end we happened on parks where people got out and danced a dance called "danzon" all day! It was quite an experience to see people of all ages taking the lessons being offered and dancing away. There were a variety of celebrations going on including a "feria" of indigenous Indian people near the Bellas Artes area.

We were very fortunate to have been here while the Mexican cultural society was having a 100 years of Friday Kahlo exposition. People patiently waited up to 5 hours to get into this exhibit. We were fortunate to have waited a mere 2 hours. The exhibit was well set up to divide her work into paintings of herself and the dear, dear notes to her beloved Diego Rivera.

I will include a variety of photos from the week-end here, including a boat trip down the Venice of Mexico, Xochimilco.

Preparing to Leave the U.S.

2007-08-09T09:59:00.000-07:00

August 9, 2007

A few days after my return from Washington DC and the Fulbright Orientation. It has been a whirlwind of trying to prepare for a year abroad. I have already shipped 4 boxes of books that were collected from colleagues and my students last school year. I look forward to sharing the English literature with Mexican students. My departure from the U.S. will be on Saturday 11August.
My first day at the new school in Mexico City will be Monday! I'm very excited.

My exchange teacher Paola Trejo is already on the job at Highlands Ranch High School. The students will be very lucky to have her to share first hand culture from her country.

Enjoy some of my favorite photos from the Fulbright Orientation in DC. It was quite a lovely send-off for teachers from incredible places and the U.S. teachers going to those wonderful places to teach. Our goal will be build bridges between their nations and ours and leave a lasting and positive impression of Americans!
Quite a challenge!

2007-08-02T15:04:00.001-07:00

Final Day of Orientation

2007-08-02T14:19:00.000-07:00

It is Thursday, 2August final day of orientation....what a whirlwind of information and meeting people from all over the world set to go on their own adventures!

There is one common thread between us all as educators, do our best for our students. Each of us has the goal of sharing our own culture and knowledge with their prospective schools.

I will let the photos speak for me now....included are pictures of our welcome meeting with some of the flags represented .... my fellow Fulbrightees and touring around Washington DC. Enjoy!

Fulbright Adventure Begins!

2007-07-31T08:47:00.000-07:00

The long wait is over and the adventure has begun! It is July 29th 2007, I am in Washington DC with approximately 300 people from all over the United States and their exchange teachers from all over the World! There is an incredible amount of diversity..... Poland, Finland, Latvia, Senegal, United Kingdom, Germany, France...just to name a few! Also represented are teachers from all over the United States including Hawaii. I will post some pictures of the dinner tonight with everyones flags later today.
love, doña Cecilia :-)