This past weekend was Carnaval here in Ecuador. Thousands of people descended upon the coast to spend time and party at the beach. We were rather lucky here in Punta Carnero, as our beach only was mildly busy compared to the beach in Salinas. It did, however, take on a life of its own of a rather intriguing excitement. We had planned to just stay at our house during this four day celebration which started on Saturday and went until Tuesday. On Saturday, the fun and festive atmosphere lured us to take a walk on the beach to see what it was all about. We were not at all disappointed. The families, friends, children and pets were all having a wonderful time on the beach. There were vendors selling ice cream, slushies, coconut milk, beer, soda, hats, sunglasses, movies... you name it. On Tuesday, the last day of the celebration, our friends James and Cecilia came out from Salinas to enjoy our much quieter and wavier beach. We had a blast playing in the waves. Plus we enjoyed a few cervezas sitting on the beach after our swim. It doesn't get too much better than that. It was, in a way, sad when it was all over, although we certainly enjoy our quiet beach again, which is why we chose the Punta Carnero area.
Yesterday was Valentine's Day here as well. It is very much celebrated with many mylar heart balloons and Valentine's Day gifts for your sweetheart being sold on the street (just like Phoenix : ) John and I chose to celebrate by going to a movie in the afternoon. We saw Lincoln (which wasn't exactly a romantic movie) and it was very good. Hollywood is good when they have you on the edge of your seat to see if the 13th Amendment was going to be passed. Geez!!
When we left the movie theater and went over to our corner to wait for the bus, a huge parade of el Presidente Rafael Correa supporters went by. It was rather exciting. There was loud music playing and people yelling and flags flying and loudspeakers speaking. It seemed to go on forever! The reason for this exciting demonstration of political support is that the election is on Sunday, February 17. Sunday, now that is a novel idea for an election day. Not so many people have to take off from work to go vote, which is good, because here it is highly suggested you vote if you are a citizen or resident with a cedula. You can face a fine if you don't vote. From what we have heard, Correa is a heavy favorite and there isn't any real competition for him. There are several others running against him, though. Interesting fact; there is an alcohol ban from yesterday through election day here. No alcohol to be consumed or served during this time. Keeps everyone with a clear head, I guess.
Our construction is moving along. It is just about time to think about getting the pool started in the back yard. There are still many details to finish in the house, along with the larger project of the beach bungalow room being torn apart (wood ceiling and wood wall being removed and replaced with termite proof cement). Looking forward to a grand opening hopefully by the end of April to early May!
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