Santiago Atitlan

OK, this story is a great one...........Katy and I are having breakfast at Rancho Grande. They are known for their pancakes and fresh strawberry jam. Katy and I were at a table near the window and a family was eating at a table across from us.

The pancakes are served on a separate plate and I took the last one of ours. When this family finished their breakfast, they got up and left. Katy, SPOTS an untouched pancake that remained on their serving plate. She whispers, "Have they left? Is anyone behind me?" I tell her to go for it!! She jumps up quickly, snatches the untouched pancake and proceeds to enjoy it!!!

Katy and her snatched pancake!!! What a score!!

We went to the boat launch and find a boat that is going to Santiago Atitlan. It was a great morning to be on the lake!

When we arrived, we walked to the central area. Katy found a friend in the park.

These four men were sitting in the park, chatting up a storm and enjoying the morning. I still want a pair of their pants!

This is the Catholic Church in the park area.

The Mayan Believers are not allowed to pray in the main area. They are only allowed to pray in designated areas inside. Their prayers are so fervent and heart-felt.

We found a young boy to take us to see Maximón. Every year he is in a different house. As we walked through the streets, I asked the young boy a few things. He told me that he believes in Maximón and also God. He said that Maximón heals people and give people food, clothes and health. He said he is also scared of him. He did not have alot to say about God.

Maximón is always dressed in typical clothing, wearing a hat and smoking. The two men on the sides took money and then put it under the statues arms. One man was kneeling in front and reading a book to him.

The flowers are alwasys very pretty.

Then it was time to return to Pana.

Katy introduces Chiquita, her new parrot. She visited a couple of stores for her friend. Last year, she purchased a peacock that lives on her patio. She named her peacock, Nakko, so now Nakko will have a friend.

I will introduce you to the true Chiquita when I return home.

Our drive to Chichi was uneventful and we are always thankful for that.

We stopped near Los Encuentros and bought Tomasita some flowers. We visited her and Jaime during the evening. We then went to Chichi for a late ice cream. It was really good.

Tomorrow, we will go to Antigua in preparation for Katy's flight home.