La Manga and Another Celebration

La Manga is a small fishing camp down a dirt road, past all the bars and restaurants of Algodones Playa.   They have no running water, no sewer system and no electricity.  They certainly have some incredible views and fabulous people.  Several people and businesses in San Carlos have been working diligently to bring much needed supplies and education to the children of this community.  They now have a school there and many patrons donated toys and clothes for Christmas.

One of the colorful homes there

One, not so colorful, but with an incredible view

The school

As a thank you to donors, La Manga teacher, Monica Luna, and many of the local children and parents presented a Christmas Posada and thank you dinner for us gringos.  The children presented dances and songs in costume and enjoyed showing off their shell sculptures and Christmas ornaments that they had created themselves.  Boo was very popular with the kids.

The community center

Alfonso, showing me his picture on the tree

The reindeer

Boo with his new friend, but having eyes only for me

Monica, the kindergarten teacher, leading the children
through the neighborhood, looking for room in an inn

The traditional posada is a reenactment of Mary and Joseph's quest to find a room in an inn. We followed the teacher through town to several homes where they sang songs asking for a room.  Being turned down repeatedly, they finally are offered a place in a stable.

The innkeepers singing that they have no room

Another "no" from the inn keepers here-check out that view!

Finally!  And look at that sunshine on the baby Jesus!

Jesus was a real live baby!  He looked really happy to get out of all that light.

The festivities ended with the children singing the piñata song and each child taking several whacks at this huge piñata until candy was shared by all.  All the households of La Manga brought food for a  meal they served all of us. 

After we left, we understand that Santa visited the children and that all the toys were distributed.  Boo was getting a little bored with everyone touching and petting him, so we went on our merry way.  It was a delight-full day!