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simpsca

Sep 10, 2011, 9:36 PM

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I know it's early but...

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I know it's early to think about Christmas but some older folks in Jocotopec need some cheer at Christmas (posted for a friend):

"Although it's only Sept., I'm planning the Nestipac Posada for the Ancianos (old folks) coming up in December. Seeing that the kids are overwhelmed with toys and candy but the elders forgotten, I and 3 Mexican friends began in Joco 25 years ago with 60 guests at Yoli and Howard Fryer's restaurant. This grew to over 300 annually, with a mass, a lunch and gift of a blanket. Door to door collecting from village shopkeepers helped defray costs until, we had to stop.

Two years ago, sitting on plastic chairs in the street, about 20 oldsters received a blanket or a 2nd hand sweater; we drank cokes, and a couple of the older women sang or offered a poem.

Last year attendees zoomed up to over 80, plus shut-ins. Agroup of young folks provided wonderful entertainment, and the neighborhood cooked up a large pot of hot chocolate which we served with pan dulce. The party was held in the front courtyard of the Nestipac church, admitting only the oldsters and helpers.

Given the economic situation, my main concern this year is presents. If you'd enjoy purchasing a blanket, sweater, piñata (filled), 2nd hand sweater, poncho, socks, glove, whatever, that's great! If you prefer donating cash, we have been able to negotiate some great discounts, such as the store in Joco that last year sold sweaters at 20 pesos each! Cashwould also help with with food, drink etc.

In 2010, after interviewing two of the women, I learned that neither of them had ever had a real Christmas present as children, so I gave them each a little doll.I could tell by the look on the faces of the others, that they also would have liked a toy.So, small dolls also welcome.

The projected date is likely to be during the week before Christmas and New Years. If you would also like to come by and share a cuppa, you'd be most welcome.You could also help handing out presents, etc.

Please send me an email: rauchlosdos[at]yahoo.com or phone 763-0657. We will offer pick-up locally if you can't bring things to my house. In gratitude and friendship, Phyllis Rauch

p.s.I would appreciate it if anyone on other area Forums/Groups would pass along this message."