Our neighbours, Chuy and Lori, told us yesterday that their grand-daughter, Alejandra, was being crowned as the Queen of her elementary school, which is just down the hill from the Casita. Not wanting to miss the chance to meet royalty, Mike and and I were at the school bright and early this morning to witness the coronation. The music started playing at 7 a.m., loudly, so we didn't have to worry about sleeping in.
It was so much fun - they had food for the kids (hot dogs and also fish cerviche which is something you don't see served in Canadian schools), everyone got a balloon (even us), and the music was provided by a local group who played typical music from this part of Mexico - loudly. We were the only non-Mexicans there but I think some people recognized us and we certainly felt welcomed. I'm sure they wondered why on earth we were there!
To be honest, we're not really sure how the queen is elected - Chuy originally mentioned something about collecting empty pop cans, but I think he must have been referring to something else. His English is better than our Spanish but we all do a fair bit of guessing during our conversations.
It really is a huge deal to these girls though - no matter how they are chosen. The dresses are spectacular, they have all had their hair and nails done, and the make up is expertly applied. Plus, the Queen of Carnaval is there, in person, to crown the Queen. Wish you could have heard the cheering when she arrived - especially from the boys!! I`m sure every little girl in Mazatlan dreams of being Queen of Carnaval when she grows up.
The boys looked pretty good too!
The newly elected Queen even had a dance with her Dad - poor Grandma Lori was in tears at this point! Chuy, by the way, stayed at their Taco stand, which is on the street beside the school. He climbed a ladder and watched the whole thing over the top of the fence!
Hi Sandie,
ReplyDeleteHow neat that you got to be a part of that! You got a peek into the culture that a lot of expatriates never get to see.
The can collecting was probably part of the campaign for queen. I have seen girls collecting cans and soliciting donations at street corners, on the beach, and at the bars and restaurants along Olas Altas and Plazuela Machado.
They raise money for tshirts, posters, and the all-important parade for their campaign, and, of course, the dress.
Ultimately, the king and queen are elected by the student body. It's kinda like class president.
Jennifer
I've got to tell you I just loved the picture story of the children and parents in the queen for a day competion.The expressions on their faces just touched my heart.As well you did a fantastic job telling their story too that's cuz I know that you still have that school yearbook editor stuff in your blood from grade 11.
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