Tio Juan Girls - Saw dust Carpets

March 31, 2012 - You can see I am just a little behind on my postings. Today, the Tio Juan Girls and Mi Casa boys are particpating in the Holy Week Celebrations that starts next week. The city closes down from Wednesday, April 4 - 8th. Today and next week throughout Guatemala families, friends and groups will gather to create sawdust carpets that are called 'Alfombras'. They are so time consuming, intricate and beautiful when they are completed. The girls were so excited to see us when we showed up on Saturday. They love their picture taken and then I make a collage and post the pictures at the clinic. The older girls and boys at the orphange make the carpet while the younger ones observe.

Behind the girls you can see the size of their carpet and a young many scattering the sawdust to complete their out line. They were making quite a large one today.

Stencils are used to create their design. I read where stencils are passed down from generation to generation. They take such pride in their work. The sawdust is tinted with brightly colored dyes and sold by the bag in most markets. They will use flowers, fruits, greenery and figurines to depecit the Savior and Mary.

We didn't get to see the finished product but the sad part of this entire day was Guatemala had a down pour of rain mid-afternoon and destroyed all the beautiful artwork displayed below. Fascinating to watch the different individuals come up with their design. Older citizens were sitting in the shade along the road watching and I am certain reminiscing of the 'good ole days' when they were on their knees in the streets doing the very same thing. Vendors lined the streets seeling cotton candy, drinks, food items,candy and etc. It is a big event for the Catholics.

Pictures of the Tio Juan girls and boys watching all the activity for the day. You might see Elder and Sister Johnson in a couple of the photos. We love these kids.