Celebration Time

I am such a blessed man. Yesterday was a special day for me. My friend Zia had invited Oscar, a shaman from the Otavalo region to come to Vilcabamba to lead the solstice ceremony. He also offered individual cleansing ceremonies. So I received a cleansing. Oscar asked if there was anything on my mind. I mentioned that Susan had passed a year earlier. I still miss her so deeply.

During the ceremony Mother Mary came to me and said that I could let Susan go, that she was on a good journey. Mother Marry then enveloped me in her love and said that she would take care of me.

After the ceremony we celebrated, a week late my birthday at El Mexicano restaurant. So many old friends who have supported me during the last year were there .

Last Thursday I gave a talk to some of the Tumianuma ladies about building soil fertility. They also celebrated my birthday with me, with coffee and a speciality of this area.

This Sunday morning I also received gifts, honey, a special pillow, cake and a salad breakfast from one of the Garden ladies.

WOW. So much to appreciate and be grateful in life.

This morning I was tidying up and going through some old photos. I am including a photo from my farming days. Joan, my late wife, kids and inlaws. Enjoying strawberries from the farm. Now my children are in their mid forties with their own children. Again I am so grateful for my wonderful children and grandchildren

I should also mention that in Ecuador, pueblos still celebrate Christmas with community events. Often with free lunches and then games for the children. Most people participate, from babies to abuelos or grandparents.

On Saturday I enjoyed a community lunch and got to know some of the community. I missed the dance as it starts around 10pm. Today I watched the kids games for a couple of hours. Even Santa was there.

It’s sort of strange, starting a new life at 76 But it is an adventure. It's good to feel so much love.