Well, we made it and it has been a whrilwind since we got here. In the two days since we arrived we have not stopped eating it seems. We went to the outdoor market which is essentially a flea market with everything from cows to shot glasses, from salted cod to fried green bananas and more. I have never seen such a place, it puts the Buckley tractor show to shame for variety in a marketplace. For food we had fried plantans with pork, both really good with a couple different kinds of rice.
Then, what I call an elephant ear Puerto Rico style. Rolled flour paste with bits of salted cod, deep fried into a glorious mass of artery clogging perfection. The first was great but the second weighed heavy on my stomach and judgement for sensible eating. So much for losing a little weight while I am here.
After this it was on to the Parranda, the celebration of the Puerto Rican Christmas or Day of Three Kings. Here on the 6th of January the island starts the Kings celebration of the birth of christ. Honoring the event with food, drink and lots of music. Large families get together and as Gilbert said "in Puerto Rico everyones invited". We went to a house on top of a hill on a road made hundreds of years ago with no idea that cars were coming.
No less than 70 people with smiles and open arms full of welcome. I am immeresed in the culture the first day here and you couldn't wipe the smile from my face. Elders from 91 and women with babies just 2 weeks old rock stepped to the latin music and verse. The verse sang sometimes by the 88 year old brother of many siblings and is made up as they go along, a story of anything they want to say to the "familia" present. Verses are everything from why they were there to someone singing drink, drink drink a little shot.
He would say two or three sentences at a time and and 4-5 women would repeat the same, all into microphones with guitars, a quatro and topped off with bongos. Everyone sang, danced and enjoyed this outside while the home and surrounding neighborhood was a buzz of celebration.
Russ! This is amazing! I am so jealous! The pictures are beautiful. Too bad it is so far, I am looking for a 3 day vacation spot. Some place warm and weather friendly! Michigan is the pits right now!
Take care of yourself and keep having a great time!
Melody
Posted by: Melody | 01/17/2009 at 06:26 PM