A week before coming home for Christmas, I had the opportunity to experience yet another Ecuadorian (and Latin) tradition: a
Quinceañera. The most special part of this celebration was that it was Ana's niece who was turning 15, so I was once again invited to Mascarilla, where Ana grew up during her summers home in Ecuador. Knowing Michelle digs these unique experiences as much as I do, Ana invited her to come along to see how the Borja Minda's celebrate with Melissa in style. My sleepy brain (blamed at least in part on the big plate of ravioli I've just consumed...and the torta...and the Argentinian wine NieNie brought over in celebration of our holiday) isn't coming up with the words to describe the event with the articulation it deserves, but I'm excited to share it with you through the following photos...
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| Ane, the shoe bearer. The birthday girl wears flats until she's been blessed by the priest. Heels seem to be a right of passage. |
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| Walking to church for the Quinceañera bendición. |
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| Ladies looking lovely. |
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| And the kings of cool. Really, I was taking notes this night. |
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| About the walk down the isle. |
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| Hermosas at the dance and dinner following the blessing. |
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| Choreographed dances -- part of our pre-dinner entertainment. |
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| That's a lot of dudes who look like they're about the propose... |
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| ...maybe in a couple more years. |
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| Seriously just exuding coolness. |
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| The arch for the angel of the evening. |
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| Belle of the ball. |
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| So many thanks to Ana and her family for their hospitality and the invitation to be part of such a special event. |
Now, Merry Christmas to all, and to all a goodnight.
Amor,
Jame
