Baby Shower in Mexico

In my time, I have attended many showers to welcome a child.  All US showers were similar...a group of women...guessing games...refreshments and  gift opening.   

Our Mexico experience was different.  Our friends own a family restaurant.  Everyone works there and works hard.  One daughter, Maribel, work at the restaurant every day and takes slow times to study for her engineering degree.   The mother, Juanita, and I forged an unlikely bond.  Juanita speaks no English and my Spanish causes five-year old children to laugh. And Juanita makes great tortillas!

After proudly showing us Maribel's graduation photo, Juanita invited us to a baby shower where Maribel and her husband were welcoming their first child, Antonio.

   

 

In Mexico, the baby is named before birth.  Please meet Antonio's parents, both proud and pregnant.

A baby shower in Mexico is a family and friend event.  Of the 70+ people attending, Doug and I were the only gringos.  We were warmly welcomed. Those who spoke a little English greeted us in English where others greeted us in Spanish.  One baby slept in Doug's arms while his mother ate.

 

Life is short.  You might choose to eat dessert first but don't forget the six delicious kinds of tacos.  Be sure to visit the hot dog stand and don't forget to pick up a hamburger as you pass by.  Drinks, anyone?

The clown was the Master of Ceremonies.   First, she held a microphone to Maribel's stomach so Antonio could speak to his parents and share his hopes and fears about meeting them.  Both parents were moved to tears as were many of the guests.

Next, the blindfolded parents diapered and dressed a baby doll with little success.  Then young couples were coerced into risque balloon popping.  How well can you carry a baby bottle on a wooden paddle?

 We thank the family for our invitation. and welcome baby Antonio to a wonderful family.

PS  Juanita let me know that Antonio had arrived safely by C-section and invited us to meet him in the fall.