Santo Domingo
The view from Corazon del Pueblo
The hereafter re me
- Christopher Stowens
- Oaxaca, Oaxaca, Mexico
- Musician, photographer, videographer, reporter, ex-officio teacher, now attempting to be a world traveler
Friday, February 3, 2017
Julia Martinez Bautista - 100 years!
How wonderful it was to be at the celebration in Teotitlan del Valle, for one of the village's most esteemed citizens, Julia Martinez Bautista and for her birthday as she crossed the century mark. Doña Julia is the matriarch of a large extended family and mother of Emilia, one of our favorite people and one of the best cooks ever. Mother and daughter....
Yes, one hundred years of life and her story is a remarkable one. A century in one of the most magical and traditional Zapotec villages in all of Mexico. She lives alone and still go to the market every day.
We joined the celebration at the church where there was a mass after which she was greeted by a band.
Then everyone processed through the streets to her home.
The guest of honor arrives.
It was time for lots of food, drink, music and dancing. The party was short by Zapotec standards... only one day, but one that went very late into the night, not like the four day affair last week. I have lots of shots of her over the years, mostly from the weddings of her grandchildren, which I was lucky enough to attend.
One of my favorites is her sorting corn for Sergio and Virginia's wedding.
Her hands tell the story.
It was such an honor to be there and to see so much love and respect for this remarkable woman.
Felicidades, Doña Julia,. Here's to the next hundred.
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4 comments:
Chris,
Very beautiful photo's and story.
You and Shannon have a great relationship with the people of Teotitlan and it comes through in your photo's and stories.
You can see that you have the spirit of this wonderful town in your soul.
Steve in Connecticut
Gracias, Steve. Yes, it is such an honor to get deeper and deeper into this village and its culture. The more we learn, the less we know, but the more we give, the more we get back. The place has been so good for us and taught us so much. Plus, good food and great friends!
Truly beautiful and represents culture and a beautiful life filled with love and celebration. May Teotitlan Del Valle cherish her 100 yrs of live for 100 more yrs.
Wonderful story and you have had the honor of photographing Julia for years. The beautiful lines on her face, tell her character and shows the beauty of aging. Her long white hair, gives her wisdom. Her hands represent the years of work, hard work, and still doing it. Her eyes to her soul. The Queen of Teotitlan Del Valle. May she have many more birthdays and you have the honor of photographing her. What a wonderful life you & Shannon have.
Peace
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