February 1, 2023
I look at yesterday and it seems like such an improbable series of chance connections that took me from being a somewhat lonely traveler with not much focus, to be sitting with the indigenous chief and his wife alongside the famous photographer and videographer Diego Huerta in Erongarícuaro.
Let’s look back. I came to Pátzcuaro feeling a little lackluster and aimless in my travel and photography. But my old friend, Sharon, from 40 years ago, knew a retired couple here from Washington DC, Eileen and Bernard. Eileen and Bernard wrote me a few weeks ago and suggested I stay at a guest house called Yolihuani where a number of international development people came streaming through. They also took me to Tzintzuntzan archeological site where I met the young Purépecha ball game players. And they introduced me to Shelly, a retired professor of anthropology living here in Pátzcuaro, who in turn educated me on the events that would take place in Erongaricuaro yesterday and today. She organized a ride with Beth, the wife of the indigenous leader who brought back the almost forgotten New Year celebration, long suppressed by the Spanish. And now I’m here, in the thick of if meeting so many new friends. It’s pretty amazing.
Now to some images!
Men and women walked the route , 15 km per day over the mountains.
Eric, You are meeting many interesting folks and getting beautiful photos of beautiful people. Enjoy reading of your many new experiences.
OK, I’ll just say it. You are the consummate traveler. Holy cow!
And when it’s all a gift, you just have to take it and go with it.