Thursday, December 20, 2007

Un Otro Fiesta

The beautifully set tables

A new friend, Laura


Heather needs redirecting

Last night I attended my first Christmas party in Peru. The residents of Pat’s Place went by private bus to the girl’s orphanage which is also run by New Covenant Creations Ministries, the “organization” my sister is with. I use the term organization loosely since this group has not done a great job of organizing thus far in regards to taking care of my sister, but I don’t think I really want to go there right now… The bus was driven by Edgar. He and his family will likely be featured in a future blog. The bus was full of people and gifts.


At the orphanage, we were treated to a lovely meal of roasted chicken and french fries. There was also a lettuce salad which seems to be uncommon in Peru, and no rice! For desert, there was a parfait of mint jello, a half a peach and peach yogurt with whipped cream and a cherry on top! The tables were arranged like a fine dining restraunt, with a candle and centerpiece. There was even a bottle of wine on each table. Que lindo! (How nice!)


There was a piñata after dinner. It was Papa Noel's head. All of the children took turns swinging. When it was still intact after all of the children had their turn, there were requests for some of the adults to take a swing. The picture posted is Heather having her turn. First she had to be redirected, as she was swinging for the people at the back of the stage rather than the piñata, but she did connect with all of her swings. The last person to have a try was Bridgett, the “manager” of the orphanage. It took three swings, but she did manage to break the piñata (finally!).


No party is complete without gifts. All of the residents of the orphanage and Pat’s Place received two pairs of shoes. The staff received watches. And then there was cake. I was too full to eat any more, but I did have a small taste of the frosting which is similar to the “fake whipped cream” frosting in the states, but much richer. It is called Chantilly.


The next installment in the monkey saga: The carpenter who was finishing the roof is building a larger home for the monkey. It will be about 7 feet tall and about 5’ x 3’. Much nicer. I cannot wait until he gets to move in. Today, I gave him some of the sweet potato from my breakfast, and he really liked it. We also put a baby toy with a mirror next to his cage. He likes looking at his new “friend” and seems much happier today. Anybody who would like to help pay his mortgage is welcome to chip in…


Notice: For anyone who happens to be following this blog close enough to notice and or be concerned, I will not likely be able to post tomorrow. I will be spending the entire day with a friend of my sister who is a doctor. We will be at a government hospital. I am very excited to have the chance to see what healthcare entails here.

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