The Weekend

Saturday brought about a little road trip with Brenda and Clarke to Gualeceo. The drive there is quite beautiful. Although we've been several times, there is always something different to see. For the first time we saw the Capel de Calvario, which sits on a hill overlooking Gualeceo.

There were four angels hanging around outside the church.

A sculpture of an angel outside the church.

This is the view from the church.

We left Gualeceo and drove back towards Paute looking for a place to have lunch. Clarke and Brennie had previously eaten at Fritadas de Certag. It was filled with locals.

There were lots of patrons, delicious aromas, and entertainment. A group, which looked like a family was providing mariachi music. The principle songster was the little boy, who had an incredible voice.

During one of the songs, the boy and the man were bantering back and forth in song. They were quite good.

The pork is cooked out back. The day was quite warm, so cooking over a wood fire didn't seem very appealing.

This pig was being prepared out front in the traditional style.

After a delicious lunch of pork, we returned to Gualeceo to shop at the market. Amidst the vegetables that were for sale, was this little guy, fast asleep.

Market scenes.

On our way out of town, we stopped at the orchid farm. Upon entering, you're engulfed in an entrancing aroma. What a great day!

Sunday was a very special day in Ecuador; the first census since the mid 1980's was taken. It was far more organized than any in the US. Henry had already completed the lengthy questionaire for us; therefore, the census taker, a high school student, Ricardo, had only to transfer the information. This is Ricardo, our census taker.

No one was allowed on the streets from 7AM until 5PM. Police patrolled, by car and horse. Everything was extremely quiet.

This was our first Ecuadorian census and we were thrilled to be a part of it. Upon completion, we received the official seal of approval on our door.

Monday morning found us at the Vega Studio in Turi. This is the entrance. The seconds are outside on the ledge.

A beautiful vase.

Other pieces.

A view of the gallery.

His house.

A mural at the entrance.

Vega is a renown ceramist in Ecuador, having designed murals throughout the country.

After having bought 3 framed tiles, we went to the Burgues factory that is building the cabinetry for the apartment of Jim and Angie. The factory was hidden in a neighborhood behind our apartment. This quaint building houses the design studio.

The craftsmen were very efficient and used modern equipment.

The morning ended with lunch at Gourmand with Jim, Angie, George, and Carol. Then it was off to Supermaxi with the Evans. There's always something to do.

Until next time,

Mick and Kathy