L. Swenson photos: Christmas Eve Day in Guatemala

We went out on Christmas Eve day to the market to do our shopping. While passing through the Central Park, I spotted this old man getting his shoes shined. He was such a classic figure, that I had to ask if I could take his picture! Most often, the shoe shiners are little boys from about ages 5 and up.

Jonathan's new love--Jessica. She was the daugther of the caretaker of the Santa Rosa Apartments where we stayed. They played together every day, and even now he is talking about Jessica. Here he is demonstrating to her what Sponge Bob is doing in the book.

This is Jessica's brother, Jonathan, and Victor's good friend. They played together all the time when we lived at the apartments before, and had a great time renewing their "auld acquaintance."

The market, busy at any time, was absolutely an insanity on Christmas Eve.

This fruit is called "nisperos." We don't have them here (what a pity!) They are delicious, and the best way I can describe them is they have somewhat the texture and flavor of an apricot, but much sweeter. None of the tanginess. Inside are several medium sized smooth brown seeds, instead of a pit.

One of the infamous "chicken buses!" We didn't get the chance to ride on one this time--could it be because we had so much other transportation???

Not your basic supermarket bananas.

The volcano looms at the end of the market street. You can see Abraham and I in deep discussion in the lower right hand corner. I think he was telling me how all the fireworks stands exploded and burned after someone inadvertently lit a fire nearby (or perhaps a firework.) 45 businesses in all burned to the ground. We heard the explosion from our apartment one morning, all the way across town. It went on and on and on! And no insurance coverage for these business owners to replenish their stock. Many depend on fireworks sales at this time of the year to carry them through the rest of the year.

The highlight of Victor's trip--buying fireworks! (puro Guatemalteco--pure Guatemalan!) The tradition here is to light fireworks at midnight on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve, and really, all throughout the holiday season. Many Guatemalan children save all year to buy fireworks.

Weighing the grapes, under Abraham's watchful eye. Every time we needed to buy something at the market, he would accompany us, to be sure we got the best price! He is always telling me, "when they see your blue eyes, they charge you more!"