A New Kind of Blog

There is a world of information about Ecuador. It is one of the most popular countries for people who want to retire to a place where the dollar goes much farther than in the US, a place for adventuresome families who want to experience a new language and exciting culture. However, much of what you read or hear does not touch on the practical, the problematic, or the local information necessary to make things work. There are many blogs which are basically daily diary’s from people who live here. But this blog will be different. We know how hard it is to get accurate and timely information. We have been through it. All of us who live here have learned step by step and we question whether it is necessary to have every newcomer reinvent the wheel. We hope this blog will help shorten the learning curve. There are many hurdles but all are surmountable. What is required is patience, an understanding of local ways, and a realization that you are going to live in a country which is not the same as the US, Canada, or Britain. Our choice was to live in the wonderful city of Cuenca in the Southern Sierra but this may not be your decision and you will therefore have to look further to find the answers you need for different areas like the coast or the Amazon. Please realize that all the suggestions and ideas are based on our experiences. Ecuadorian regulations change rapidly and must be checked before you make any investments or major decisions. Please email us at Sailorburr@gmail.com and let us know if you have any questions or comments.

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

The annual children's Christmas parade


Each year the day before Christmas Eve, the people of the city of Cuenca get their children, cars, and horses all dressed up to celebrate in a massive parade. It is loosely organized and has no central theme except to present the children in costumes that herald the Christmas season. No amount of words can replace the photos of these faces.



One of the many marching bands



Tired children on a movable manger scene


Almost all of the children in the parade were surrounded by caring parents who helped them cope


Yesterday, these sheep were probably out in the fields. Today, they are on parade.



Two beautiful Senioritas



If you look closely, you will see that the blanket on the horse is made of fruits and vegetables.




On this horse, the blanket is made of candy bars. The baby is asleep under his father's protective umbrella. 


Jonny couldn't resist petting the sheep


It is hard to see just  how extravagant this float is


A girl's marching band playing the recorder


Sheep on parade


Three little Americans in the hot sun


My favorite


35,000 people and we saw only one policeman


A miniature truck with its load of children


Think of the hours of work to make these floats


A staggering load of candy and fruit


Christmas carols by an accordian man


A tired horse and his keeper


Just around the corner from the park, a truck was parked that was filled with food. Women passed out free bananas, popcorn, bread, and soup to anyone who wanted something to eat. 

Hope you enjoyed these photos of one of the nicest days any one could spend honoring the children of Cuenca.













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