Of Goddesses and Food...

It's crunch time.  The city is absolutely packed and there are so many things to do... well, you can't do them all.  Friday, it was the annual Festiva des los Moles in the Botanical Garden and the beginning of the competition to see who will be the Diosa Centeotl, the young woman who will lead all the guelaguetza activities.

First, the food,  there were close to twenty different moles from which to choose.
The appetizer plate with quesillo, a chile relleno, a some delicious chapulines!

There were way too many dishes to sample, but it was fun trying a spoonful of many of them.

OK, sometimes more than a spoonful.

And soon, it was almost all gone.

Always a fun event with so many people working behind the scenes.

And right outside the botanical garden, the competition to determine la 2018 Diosa.

I barely caught the end of event.  In fact, it was over, but still great photo ops.

These women always not only look wonderful, but each gives a speech on the special qualities of their village.

And they are all loud and proud.

They, like most all Oaxacans, can declaim!

And who won?   I know, but did not get her picture... yet.  Much more to come... way too much to possibly cover, but it will be fun trying.  You should be here!!