Bombs away!

What a perfect timing to arrive here we thought last Monday when we were told that it happens to be the Cochabamba-week, which means a whole week of special events and celebration. The next day the protests here in Tiquipaya started, which practically made it impossible to leave our home. Luckily the situation calmed down on Friday, so were able to enjoy the last bit of the Cochabamba week.  

To the honor of the Cochabamba day, which is on the 14 of September we spent Friday evening enjoying a free concert at the stadium and a parade in the city. I have to say that it felt a bit absurd that on the day before we met soldiers near our house, and the next day they were marching and playing orchestra music in a parade. Among city workers, volunteers, soldiers, marines (even though Bolivia doesn’t have a coast!) and others there where schools represented from all around Bolivia, apparently orchestra-activity is a huge thing here. Also some of our girls from Corazon Grande were playing in the parade, and for them it definitely was an important thing. 

Lampshades on parade!

You might say that our first week here was a bit more challenging than usually, as the atmosphere in general was a bit anxious and the every day routines had to be adjusted to the situation as the girls didn’t get to school and some of the staff couldn’t get here. I also have to admit that there were moments when I felt a bit restless due to the unawareness of what’s going on, but maybe it’s better to have a rough start than get surprised later! Also the fact that even some taxi drivers are afraid to drive us home because of the distant place we live at says something. But mama don’t worry; we take good care of each other and ourselves :) Off to a new, and hopefully more peaceful week!

Pyromaniacs at the Andes!