La Pollera

On Monday, St. Ed's took the morning shift at Nutre Hogar. We all agreed the babies were in a much better mood than when we saw them last Thursday, probably because it is cooler in the morning and they are well-rested. It was fun to recognize the babies we had held and played with last time, and try to re-connect with them. Some have earned nicknames, like "Crabby Car Guy" a toddler who seems to have the corner market on a Little Tykes car and sits in it all morning pointing with his finger in the direction he wants the volunteer to push him.

Crabby Car Guy

We cut our shift early to go down the street to a local public grade school called La Primavera, where the children wanted to put on a show for us. Much like a student in the US might take Irish dancing or other cultural dance lessons, here in Panamá, many children learn to sing and dance the traditional Pollera. It is a matter of great pride for them. I had seen pictures on the wall in my host family's house of their daughter all dressed up in the Pollera costume, and my host mom explained to me that a whole costume takes more than a year to sew, because of all the hand stitching and embellishments. Plus, they cost hundreds of dollars, so it is quite a commitment. The boy's costume is considerably simpler- jeans, leather sandals, a rough canvas shirt and straw hat. Go figure.

In case you are interested in learning more about the history of the Pollera, check out this link:

http://panamaliving.com/polleras.html

After they danced, the students were very eager to practice their emerging English skills with us and pose for pictures with the Gringos.

After lunch, we headed back to Nutre Hogar to make up some of the time we lost by going to see the Pollera. While we were there, we were treated to a real Panamanian downpour. Anyone who has been in the tropics in the rainy season knows how intensely the rain comes down. It was awesome for the babies and us alike.

The day ended with a tertulia, or check-in meeting, at the best coffee shop/bakery in town, interestingly enough named "Cheesecake." It was great for just the St. Ed's group to get together and really talk about our experience so far, compare notes, and air concerns. I am happy to report that ALL of the boys seem very comfortable with their host families, all are in good health (except my poor husband Nathan), all are eating well, and most are even noticing that they are beginning to think and respond in Spanish without even realizing it. 

A plate of brownies and M&M cookies helps you feel at home in Panama.