It didn’t start that way; I awoke to horrifying news from Colorado. Thank goodness blogger buddy Chris called and the heart that beats in Oaxaca beckoned.
First stop was the “Al Son del Valle,” an exhibition of canastas from 17 villages in the central valleys of Oaxaca. These are baskets that are carried on the heads of women during calendas (parades); you may remember them from previous posts on the convites in Teotitlán del Valle. The art of crafting canastas and the traditions and culture they represent have been proudly and lovingly passed down through the generations.
San Antonino Castillo Velasco canasta decorated with Flor Inmortal, the flower that never dies.
Canasta from San Mateo Macuilxóchitl
From San Jerónimo Tlacochahuaya, these canastas are lit and become pinwheels of fireworks at the end of a calenda.
Canasta of Las Chinas Oaxaqueñas of the city of Oaxaca
Canasta from Tlacolula de Matamoros.
Canasta from Zimatlán de Álvarez made of crepe paper.
Muchas gracias, Oaxaca, I needed that!
Mexican Peso Converter
View From Casita Colibrí 
Thanks for shifting focus from Colorado. Sadly in the USA anyone can buy an assault weapon and kill innocents for sport. Viva Oaxaca!
Glad to oblige… Oaxaca provides great lessons in being present.
Love your site — your photos and text are wonderful. I visited Oaxaca about 4 years ago for about a week during the Los Ninos celebracion. Loved it! Keep up your good work.
Muchisimas gracias — your kind and encouraging words are much appreciated!