homecoming.

The beautiful flowers waiting for me in my room upon my return from Guatemala.

cerro de la cruz.

Here’s a shot of the cross at Cerro de la Cruz, on the northern outskirts of Antigua. The first time I made the trek up there, it had been raining so I didn’t bring a camera. I’m glad I got to make it there a second time on a beautiful warm afternoon, my last day in Antigua! This is a beautiful spot because you can see the whole of Antigua, with Volcan Agua bounding the south side of the city.

shrine to coffee.

I liked all these coffee decorations at Cafe Don Diego on 6a Avenida. The rest of the cafe is adorned likewise.

despedida.

The whole gang on “graduation day.” Look at all those diplomas!

CIRMA was a great experience, but I’m glad to finally be on summer break, kind of for the first time this season! It’s just been work, work, work – since January, really. Now to relax for three weeks straight!

birthday party.

Our host mom’s friend Luis celebrated his birthday tonight, and Thelma not only threw him a party but went all out with the decorations. It was quite festive.

leftovers.

The flowers from the feria were almost prettier the next day in the sunlight.

feria.

Today was the feria of Santiago de los Caballeros, probably the most important festival of the year in Antigua. Hundreds of people, both local and foreign, came out to socialize and enjoy the live music.