Friday, February 18, 2011 — A city of museums — what a gem!

I ended up at the Templo Mayor Y Museo today because I thought that was where I was meeting JP and Yael. Well, a little misunderstanding is something we can all manage once in a while. So I did this magnificent archaeological museum solo. I was moved to tears, the collection is so amazing and it is so magnificently installed. I've never seen such a gorgeous installation. This museum is built on the ruins of the ancient Aztec temple. Since 1978 they have been finding more and more artifacts to add to their already stunning array. I'm coming back armed with all the light weight literature I can find and will love sharing it with some of you.

I spent some time outside the entrance to this great place and watched huge numbers of students and their teachers or stewards being welcomed by the museum staff at the door. No chicle! Every tenth or so entrant walked over to the disposal can and relieved himself of a wad of gum. The usual rambunctious students were well in evidence as they danced compulsively or whirled around. Still.... I have never seen such beautiful young people, all in different good looking uniforms, eager to enter this hallowed building. They were so well behaved, so interested looking and evidently so well prepared for what they were going to see. I was impressed and more than a little sad that I don't always see these kinds of scenes at home as much as I see here or in France. They are avid note takers, copying what they have time for from the helpful, really informative placards.

I practically fell asleep yesterday before I could tell you that I visited the Museo de Arte Popular. They have, among other things, a Beetle/Volkswagen completely covered in beads by the Huichol indians who make wondrous artifacts using beads and bees' wax. At the opening at Sandra's I met a woman who is paid by the government to consult with the Huichol indian women of Nayarit. Sandra works for the same governmental agency and is soon scheduled to work with some women in Dorango. I didn't see the Huichol demonstrating yesterday, but I have seen them in Yelapa and they demonstrate amazing ability to focus and concentrate in the midst of all kinds of distractions.

Twice this afternoon after the museum, I walked through a magical market of indian wares. I bought a shaker instrument and a medium sized set of pipes, two necklaces made from beautiful green beads. Sandra Lindstrom gets one of them and who knows about the other. Also bought "dream catcher" earrings for Kathy and me. The second time I went there I watched the Aztec dancers for a long time and actually made several recordings to share with you. They are really quite something. Toward the end of my stay a fourish year old girl child danced with them and it's hard not to crack up as she mimicks the steps. Her dad was nearby watching very proudly. It is definitely enough to fill your hear.

Buenos noches quieridos amigos.