Colombian Culture, Colombia Adoption and Raising Colombian Kids

A Labor of Love

2012-02-15T08:10:00.004-07:00

Have you ever wondered what a Colombian Foster Mother is paid each month? I have, and guess what they are getting a raise. This week ICBF announced that their 5, 429 foster mothers, who were not paid anything for their labor (just a small subsidy to pay for the child's needs), will be paid the grand amount of $40,000 -$50,000 pesos -- this is about US$20 a month for their work.

Definitely a labor of love and not a money making venture!

New Adoption Request Form

2012-02-14T00:01:00.000-07:00

Colombian officials have a new form for you to use when requesting to adopt from ICBF. Here is a link to the form

https://www.icbf.gov.co/icbf/directorio/portel/libreria/pdf/FormularioSolicituddeAdopcionenColombiaFebrero13de2012.pdf

Latest Wait List Published

2012-02-13T14:42:00.005-07:00

GOOD NEWS!!! There was a new wait list posted today, February 13, 2011.

Remember, the ICBF Wait List applies to adoptions through ICBF only -- not through CASAS PRIVADAS. It also ONLY APPLIES TO NON-COLOMBIAN FAMILIES. It DOES NOT reflect special needs children. The definition of special needs are children with disabilities, children over 8 years of age, and sibling groups of 3 or more.

The dates that have moved are in BOLD.

Also, this list only reflects that there are no more dossiers at the national office prior to the date shown. Dossiers from before January 2008 in the 0-23 months category, for example, may still need a referral, but they have already been sent to a region and are no longer waiting at the national office.

Age of Child ------- Date of Application Approval by ICBF

Child 0-12 months ------ Jan - 2008
Child 13 - 23 months ---- Jan - 2008
Child 2 - 3 years -------- May - 2007
Child 2 years ----------- Feb - 2008

Child 3 years ----------- Feb - 2008
Child 3 - 4 years -------- Feb - 2008
Child 4 years ----------- NOT LISTED ON NEW FORM
Child 4 -5 years -------- Jan - 2009
Child 5 years ----------- Oct - 2009
Child 5 - 6 years ------- Oct - 2009
Child 6 years ----------- NOT LISTED ON FORM
Child 7 years ----------- Oct - 2011

2 Siblings 0 - 4 years --- MAY - 2008
2 Siblings 0 - 5 years --- Feb - 2008
2 Siblings 0 - 6 years --- Sep - 2009
2 Siblings 0 - 7 years --- Apr - 2010
2 Siblings 0 - 8 years --- Mar - 2011

AWESOME ICBF VIDEO on ADOPTION

2012-02-03T00:01:00.000-07:00

Ok, I so wish this was in English, but even if you cannot understand all the words, you can understand that when children find a family there is joy.

New Wait List -- Dec 19, 2011

2012-02-02T08:07:00.001-07:00

GOOD NEWS!!! There was a new wait list posted today, November 24, 2011. I hope that this is a sign that we will be getting a new wait list more often, but I will not hold my breath. For now, there has not been much movement, however for those waiting for slightly older children there has been some movement in the SIBLINGS category.

Remember, the ICBF Wait List applies to adoptions through ICBF only -- not through CASAS PRIVADAS. It also ONLY APPLIES TO NON-COLOMBIAN FAMILIES. It DOES NOT reflect special needs children. The definition of special needs are children with disabilities, children over 8 years of age, and sibling groups of 3 or more.

EVERY CATEGORY HAS ADVANCED THIS TIME!!!

The dates that have moved are in BOLD.

Also, this list only reflects that there are no more dossiers at the national office prior to the date shown. Dossiers from before December 2007 in the 0-23 months category, for example, may still need a referral, but they have already been sent to a region and are no longer waiting at the national office.

Age of Child ------- Date of Application Approval by ICBF

Child 0-12 months ------ Dec - 2007
Child 13 - 23 months ---- Dec - 2007
Child 2 years ----------- Jun - 2007
Child 2 - 3 years -------- May - 2007
Child 3 years ----------- Dec - 2007
Child 3 - 4 years -------- Dec - 2007
Child 4 years ----------- NOT LISTED ON NEW FORM
Child 4 -5 years -------- Jan - 2009
Child 5 years ----------- Oct - 2009
Child 5 - 6 years ------- Oct - 2009
Child 6 years ----------- NOT LISTED ON FORM
Child 7 years ----------- Jul - 2011

2 Siblings 0 - 4 years --- MAY - 2008
2 Siblings 0 - 5 years --- Feb - 2008
2 Siblings 0 - 6 years --- Sep - 2009
2 Siblings 0 - 7 years --- Apr - 2010
2 Siblings 0 - 8 years --- Mar - 2011

ICBF VIDEO

2012-02-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

I was sent this link to an ICBF -- Instituto Colombiano de Bienestar Familiar -- (Colombian Institute for Family Welfare) -- video in English. It explains all of the missions of ICBF. It is not just about adoption.

Overall Adoption Numbers

2012-01-26T00:01:00.002-07:00

According to the year end statistics, the overall number of adoptions was down last year. From a near record breaking year in 2010, with a total of 3,058 adoptions, to 2,713 total adoptions in 2011.

I find it interesting the these statistics show drops in adoptions during 2 years of change in Colombia. In 1993, Colombia began implementing Hague rules and suffered a drop in the numbers of Adoptions. In mid 2006, the Authorized Institutions aka Casas Privadas came under greater scrutiny because of "irregular practices". This resulted in changes in late 2006 and 2007, which in turn, led to fewer adoptions. Clearly, Colombian adoptions have rebounded, and today, there is more confidence in the adoption process.

ICBF Show # of Waiting Families Per Year

2012-01-25T00:01:00.002-07:00

ICBF has just published its 2011 year end Adoption Statistics Report. I thought I would start with a look at the number of families on the waiting list. While this report does not show the number of families waiting for each age group, it does show how many families are on the wait list for each approval year.

According to the report, there are 127 COLOMBIAN families (down from 151 last year) waiting for referrals. While there are 2,723 (down over 200 from last year) foreign families who are also waiting. Below is the graph that shows how many foreign families are left on the waiting list from each of the last 5 years.

Tunes for Tuesday -- Fatiniza

2012-01-24T07:26:00.002-07:00

When I was little, I loved the Muppet Movie. It was the early days of VHS, so I watched it dozens of times. I think I had the whole thing memorized. In one part, Gonzo the Great tells Fozzie Bear that he wants to “...go to Bombay India” so that he can become a movie star. Fozzie proceeds to tell him that, “You don't go to Bombay India...you go where we're going...Hollywood.” Gonzo replies, “Sure, if you want to do it the easy way!”

Today's singer for our Tunes for Tuesday spotlight is a little like Gonzo. Born in Bucaramanga, Colombia, FATINIZA moved to Dubai. In Dubai, she has become a superstar. Her debut album garnered “Best Local Artist” Award nominations for Dubai in 2010 and 2011. She performed at the Formula 1 Grand Prix finals in Abu Dhabi. She has performed for the rulers of the United Arab Emirates and Dubai.

So, now that you are a star in the Arab world, what do you do? You try to conquer your native turf – COLOMBIA. [Do you get the Gonzo connection?]

After her success abroad, Fatiniza returned home to sign with a Colombian record label and then release her first album in Colombia, and I say ... NOT BAD! Give Fatiniza a try!

In Spanish:

In English:

Abandoned Child -- News from Colombia

2012-01-18T20:44:00.003-07:00

This week in the town of Villagarzón, in the Department of Putumayo, a 13 month old child was found abandoned on the doorstep of a home in the San Carlos residential area.

According to the Police, the child was found with a note which stated that the child's parents were both adolescents and the mother younger than 15 years old. The mother had not received support from the child's father nor from her own family. It stated that she was suffering from economic problems and she could no longer care for the child.

The note also stated that it was the mother's desire for the homeowner to take responsibility for the child.

Instead, the homeowner called the police when, from her window, she saw a small child on the street screaming.

The child, who was reported to have been in good health, was left at the disposition of ICBF.

TUNES FOR TUESDAY -- Salsa Is Dead

2012-01-16T21:32:00.003-07:00

Yes, you read it right. Salsa Music is dead. In Tunes for Tuesday, we have traveled through the origins, birth and evolution of this genre, and I was waiting for the end of the happy holiday season to break this more disconcerting news to all my readers. This may not be news to some Salsa followers, however. Some of you might have suspected it was so, and yet others may now acknowledge that they were in a deep state of denial.

The only ray of hope that remains here is that this is just my opinion, so some of you may choose to continue to cling to your nostalgia and ignore reality. But allow me to explain my point: I believe that Salsa's slow and painful death began soon after the genre reached its Golden Years in the late 1970s and 1980s. The late 80s saw the advent of a group of performers who hijacked the genre, and began producing something they labeled "Salsa Sensual" (no translation required here). This movement became extremely popular and soon invaded radio waves everywhere. Sure, it helped spread the rhythm. But by the time Salsa moved from the underground to the mainstream (and became the most played genre on the radio), what people were listening to was as diluted as its performers' sense of modesty. The old artful songs became archaic classics.

As with any other fad, however, the new sex ridden Salsa was bound to be temporary, overplayed, quickly forgotten, and then replaced. While on life support, Salsa produced some venerable hits. But it has since died and was buried. The last nail in the coffin was the songs by Marc Anthony
(aargh).

But since Salsa is Dead, Long Live Salsa! Here's one of those Songs that started its demise:

Tu me Quemas (ahem, You Burn Me) by Eddie Santiago

Sofia Vergara on Plaza Sesamo

2012-01-11T07:11:00.002-07:00

Juanes on Sesame Street

2012-01-05T00:01:00.000-07:00

Just in case you missed the premiere last Fall. Here is Colombian rock star JUANES teaching the kiddos Head, Hands, Feet and Move in Spanish.

Colombian Holidays 2012

2012-01-03T07:35:00.002-07:00

Many an adoptive parent has been set back a few days by the observance of one of the many Colombian holidays. Here is a list of the official National holidays. This list was established by Law #53 in December of 1983. On these days, courts close, ICBF offices are closed, and many tourist attractions also close. So, if you will be in Colombia on these days, be forewarned. To this list, you might add department or city holidays such as the closures in Barranquilla during Carnaval or in Manizales during the Feria.

1st January New Year's Day -- Año Nuevo

6th January* Epiphany -- Epifanía or Reyes Magos --Celebrated 1/9

19th March* St. Joseph's Day -- San José

5th & 6th April -- Maundy Thursday & Good Friday -- Jueves y Viernes Santo

1st May Labour Day -- Día del Trabajo

21st May -- Asención Day (40 days after Easter)

11th June* -- Corpus Christi

18th June* -- Sacred Heart -- Sagrado Corazón de Jesús

2nd July -- Feasts of St. Peter & St. Paul -- San Pedro y San Pablo

20th July National Independence Day -- Grito de la Independencia

7th August Battle of Boyacá -- Batalla de Boyacá

20th August* Assumption Day -- Asunción de la Virgen

15th October* Columbus Day -- Día de la Raza

5th November* All Saints Day -- Todos los Santos

12th November* Independence of Cartagena City

8th December Immaculate Conception -- Inmaculada Concepción

25th December Christmas Day -- Navidad

*The exact holiday does not fall on a Monday, however, the holiday will be observed on Monday. This is called a PUENTE or bridge.

Clip art:

http://classroomclipart.com/cgi-bin/kids/imageFolio.cgi?direct=Clipart/Calendar&img=6

Feliz Año Nuevo

2012-01-02T08:36:00.006-07:00

Colombian Mommy

Colombian Daddy

and the Colombianitos

Wish you a

Feliz Año Nuevo!

What to Play This New Year's Eve 2012 -- The Required Songs

2011-12-30T00:01:00.000-07:00

No Colombian New Year's Eve party would be complete without the following two songs. The first is played at exactly five minutes to midnight. The other at midnight.

Faltan 5 para las 12 by Miguel Zebarce

Yo No Olvido el Año Viejo by Tony Camargo

What to Play This New Year's Eve 2012 -- Salsa & Merengue

2011-12-29T00:01:00.000-07:00

Here are El Tiempo's Salsa and Merengue suggestions for a Colombian New Year's Eve.

Extraño tu amor by Guayacán Orquesta.

Perdón by Willy García

'Qué nos pasó' (Combo de las Estrellas con Golpe a Golpe).

Esa muchacha by Los hermanos Rosario

What to Play This New Year's Eve 2012 -- Vallenato

2011-12-28T00:01:00.002-07:00

The newspaper, El Tiempo, published a list of the music that every Colombian should be playing this New Year's Eve at their party. Here goes the Carribean music -- mostly Vallenato selections from that list. Look forward to the Salsa list tomorrow.

Ella y tú by Joe Arroyo.

La gringa by Silvestre Dangond.

La plancha by Los cantores de Chipuco.

Lo que tú necesitas by Jorge Celedón and Jimmy Zambrano.

La señal by Daniel Calderón and Los Gigantes.

Tu número uno by Peter Manjarrés y Sergio Rodríguez

Holy Innocents Day

2011-12-27T00:01:00.001-07:00

December 28 is the Dia de los Santos Inocentes. A traditional Catholic holiday, it is meant to remember the children that were slaughtered by the order of King Herod when the Three Wise Men did not return to tell Herod where the child King could be found.

El Dia de los Santos Inocentes is similar to the U.S. way of celebrating April Fool's Day. It is a day for playing pranks on people, fake news reports, and jokes.

If you'd like to prepare your family a special Santos Inocentes dinner in honor of this holiday, Check out the recipes and crafts that Family Fun magazine has for April Fool's Day. It is a fun way to introduce kids to this Colombian holiday.

http://familyfun.go.com/april-fools-day/april-fools-day-recipes/

El Año Viejo 2011

2011-12-26T17:31:00.004-07:00

Tonight, for our family night, we are going to make our Año Viejo. But, what exactly is an Año Viejo. The Año Viejo is a life size doll made out of old clothes and stuffed with straw and newspaper (and illegal fireworks in Colombia -- we skip this part). This doll hangs out, usually on the front porch, for the week between Christmas and New Year's. Just before midnight on New Year's Eve, people set fire to the Año Viejo. It is burning the old and bad of the past year in preparation for the new.

In our family, we write down something we want to burn away along with the doll and stuff it in side. When we used to live in the city, it was not possible to burn our doll. Now, out here, surrounded by water, we burn the darn thing!!! So, therapeutic. I will include pictures after we make it.

NOVENA Day 9

2011-12-24T16:23:00.001-07:00

December 24 --Day NINE of our Christian Novena

Scriptural Basis -- Matthew 2:1-12

Message/Activity -- The wisemen brought gifts to the baby. What gift can we give the baby? We end by retelling the entire story and then moving the Kings to the manger and placing baby Jesus in the manger. We share family gifts.

Here are the links to the Catholic Novena if you are doing that.

In Spanish:

http://es.catholic.net/aprendeaorar/688/2097/articulo.php?id=26390

Here it is in English:

http://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/prayers/view.cfm?id=939

NOVENA Day 8

2011-12-23T16:19:00.000-07:00

December 23 --Day Eight of our Christian Novena

Scriptural Basis -- Matthew 2:1-12

Message/Activity -- Wisemen visit the Christ child. They brought 3 gifts. Make a treat and bring it to 3 widows or other people. Carol to them and offer the gifts.

Here are the links to the Catholic Novena if you are doing that.

In Spanish:

http://es.catholic.net/aprendeaorar/688/2097/articulo.php?id=26390

Here it is in English:

http://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/prayers/view.cfm?id=939

NOVENA Day 7

2011-12-22T11:54:00.003-07:00

December 22 --Day seven of our Christian Novena

Scriptural Basis -- Luke 2:8-17

Message/Activity -- After the Shepherds visit, they share what they have seen. In our day, people who have come to know Christ and his Gospel also share his word. Tonight we work on a missionary project (send letters to missionaries, help supply needs to a missionary, etc).

Here are the links to the Catholic Novena if you are doing that.

In Spanish:

http://es.catholic.net/aprendeaorar/688/2097/articulo.php?id=26390

Here it is in English:

http://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/prayers/view.cfm?id=939

NOVENA Day 6

2011-12-21T08:53:00.002-07:00

December 21 --Day six of our Christian Novena

Scriptural Basis -- Luke 2:6

Message -- No Room In the Inn -- Often at Christmas time, we have No Room for the real meaning of Christmas. Our Inn is full of cards, presents, wrapping, parties, etc. This is the night to focus on offering the Baby Jesus room in our Inn. We watch a Nativity Movie and then talk about other Homeless people.

Activity --

Movie and then make a donation to the Homeless shelter.

Sounds Track: Two Songs

Let Him In by Micheal McClean

Homeless by Micheal McClean

Here are the links to the Catholic Novena if you are doing that.

In Spanish:

http://es.catholic.net/aprendeaorar/688/2097/articulo.php?id=26390

Here it is in English:

http://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/prayers/view.cfm?id=939

NOVENA Day 5

2011-12-20T09:15:00.003-07:00

December 20 --Day five of our Christian Novena

Scriptural Basis -- Luke 2:6

Message -- Swaddling Clothes in a Manger -- Swaddling clothes were long strips of cloth used to wrap the baby. Jesus did not have fancy clothing or disposable diapers when he was born. In our community there are many people who do not have money to buy fancy clothes either.

Activity --

Go through closets and make a donation to Goodwill, or prepare a newborn kit for the Hospital to give to low income mothers.

Sounds Track: Away in a Manager

Here are the links to the Catholic Novena if you are doing that.

In Spanish:

http://es.catholic.net/aprendeaorar/688/2097/articulo.php?id=26390

Here it is in English:

http://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/prayers/view.cfm?id=939

NOVENA Day 4

2011-12-19T00:01:00.001-07:00

December 19 --Day four of our Christian Novena

Scriptural Basis -- Luke 2:4

Message -- Importance of knowing your Lineage -- Joseph was of David. We also have wonderful ancestors that give us a feeling of our own self worth. We are building our own family now and some day our stories will be important to our descendants.

Activity -- Share stories or a story of an Ancestor's Christmas or just a story from their life. Add to our family scrapbook a story from this year. Go out and buy family gifts and wrap gifts for each other.

Here are the links to the Catholic Novena if you are doing that.

In Spanish:

http://es.catholic.net/aprendeaorar/688/2097/articulo.php?id=26390

Here it is in English:

http://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/prayers/view.cfm?id=939

NOVENA Day 3

2011-12-18T00:01:00.001-07:00

December 18 -- Christian Novena Alternative

Scriptural Basis -- Luke 2:1-3

Message -- Joseph and Mary had to go to Bethlehem to be Taxed. Explain what Taxes are used for.

Activity -- Have the children contribute a "Tax"from their money to support a donation to Toys for Tots or an Angel Tree child, etc. Buy the gift with the child's TAX, wrap it (if appropriate) and let the child deliver it to the donation spot.

The sound track for tonight also includes Juanes version of Burrito de Belen.

Here are the links to the Catholic Novena if you are doing that.

In Spanish:

http://es.catholic.net/aprendeaorar/688/2097/articulo.php?id=26390

Here it is in English:

http://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/prayers/view.cfm?id=939

NOVENA Day 2

2011-12-17T00:01:00.005-07:00

December 17 -Day two of our Christian Novena

Scriptural Basis -- Matthew 1:18-end -- The Story of Joseph

Message -- Joseph was Jesus' "adoptive" father. He took care of Jesus, taught him, and loved him. There are many children around the world that do not have an adoptive family to love and care for them.

Activity -- Do an orphan related service project. (Example: donate money or goods to a reputable charity).

Soundtrack -- I Was Not His Father by Micheal McClean in his Forgotten Carols CD.

Here are the links to the Catholic Novena if you are doing that.

In Spanish:

http://es.catholic.net/aprendeaorar/688/2097/articulo.php?id=26390

Here it is in English:

http://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/prayers/view.cfm?id=939

NOVENA starts tonight

2011-12-16T10:37:00.004-07:00

As a primarily Catholic country, Colombia celebrates the holiday season with many Catholic traditions. One such tradition is the NOVENA. While here in the US many people celebrate 12 days of Christmas, in Colombia the Novena is 9 nights long. It starts on the 16th of December and ends on the 24th. That makes tonight the start of the NOVENA. Not being Catholic, I am unsure of the details. However, if you are a Catholic family with Colombian children this could be a great way to incorporate Colombian tradition in your home. Here is an interesting link on Catholic.net that seems to indicate which prayers are to be said on each of the nine nights (In Spanish).

http://es.catholic.net/aprendeaorar/688/2097/articulo.php?id=26390

Here it is in English:

http://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/prayers/view.cfm?id=939

Again, as a non-Catholic family, we have decided to create our own Christmas Novena. It helps us focus on the true meaning of the Christmas season and gives us a connection to our Christian, our American, and our Colombian Heritage. Over the next few days, I will share our ideas with you so that perhaps if you are not Catholic and you are interested in implementing a Novena in your family, this approach might be helpful.

December 16

Scriptural Basis -- Luke 1:39-56 -- Mary leaves to visit her cousin Elizabeth

Message -- Discuss the importance of our extended family in strengthening and supporting us.

Activity -- Prepare and send Christmas cards to grandparents, aunts and uncles, and cousins.

This is also the night that we begin to move the 3 Kings closer to the manger.

Pictures from Noche de Velitas

2011-12-12T22:33:00.004-07:00

77 visitors, 70 homemade bag lanterns, 5 gallons of milk, 4 cans of whipping cream, lots of cookies, our Noche de Velitas -- Priceless!!!

The Official Start of Colombia's Christmas Season

2011-12-07T07:26:00.003-07:00

December 7th is the official start of the Christmas (Navidad) season in Colombia. December 7th is the Catholic Holiday called the Día de la Anunciación. However, both Catholics and non-Catholics celebrate tonight by placing candles and lanterns and lights all over the front of the house and along the sidewalks. It is known as the Día de Velitas or El Alumbrado.

In our family, we celebrate by placing red, white and brown paper lunch sacks -- each filled with sand and a lighted candle -- around our front yard. This year to our Open House Celebration, we have invited over 80 guests. We invite them in shifts (29 from 5:30-6:30, 29 from 6:30-7:30, 26 from 7:30-8:30). People are to bring a plate of American cookies (this is the mingling of cultures part of the night) and we provide the Colombian Hot Chocolate, the music, and the lantern making supplies. Our guests make their own paper sack lantern and place it in front of our house. When we are all finished, it looks pretty cool. I will have to post some pictures later :).

In Colombia, the entire neighborhood would be outside and you can hear music, laughter, and singing. There is also plenty of dancing. Here in the States, we are the only ones on the street celebrating, but it makes for a meaningful evening with our kids.

Fascinating Info for Parents of Tantrum Throwers

2011-12-05T08:56:00.001-07:00

New Wait List -- November 24, 2011

2011-11-24T21:03:00.002-07:00

GOOD NEWS!!! There was a new wait list posted today, November 24, 2011. I hope that this is a sign that we will be getting a new wait list more often, but I will not hold my breath. For now, there has not been much movement, however for those waiting for slightly older children there has been some movement in the SIBLINGS category.

Remember, the ICBF Wait List applies to adoptions through ICBF only -- not through CASAS PRIVADAS. It also ONLY APPLIES TO NON-COLOMBIAN FAMILIES. It DOES NOT reflect special needs children. The definition of special needs are children with disabilities, children over 8 years of age, and sibling groups of 3 or more.

EVERY CATEGORY HAS ADVANCED THIS TIME!!!

The dates that have moved are in BOLD.

Also, this list only reflects that there are no more dossiers at the national office prior to the date shown. Dossiers from before December 2007 in the 0-23 months category, for example, may still need a referral, but they have already been sent to a region and are no longer waiting at the national office.

Age of Child ------- Date of Application Approval by ICBF

Child 0-12 months ------ Dec - 2007
Child 13 - 23 months ---- Dec - 2007
Child 2 years ----------- Jun - 2007
Child 2 - 3 years -------- May - 2007
Child 3 years ----------- Dec - 2007
Child 3 - 4 years -------- Dec - 2007
Child 4 years ----------- NOT LISTED ON NEW FORM
Child 4 -5 years -------- Jan - 2009
Child 5 years ----------- Oct - 2009
Child 5 - 6 years ------- Oct - 2009
Child 6 years ----------- NOT LISTED ON FORM
Child 7 years ----------- Jul - 2011

2 Siblings 0 - 4 years --- Apr - 2008
2 Siblings 0 - 5 years --- Feb - 2008
2 Siblings 0 - 6 years --- Sep - 2009
2 Siblings 0 - 7 years --- Apr - 2010
2 Siblings 0 - 8 years --- Mar - 2011

Whatever happens, don't let the kid get cold!!

2011-11-21T00:01:00.000-07:00

Having lived in a city with sub-zero temperatures, it is hard to imagine why temperatures in the 40s or 50s could possibly be so frightening. However, in Colombia they are -- especially for children. I am pretty sure that is has something to do with El Sereno.

(For a more detailed explanantion of this phenomenon, please read Colombian Daddy's post: http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2010/05/el-sereno-or-el-chiflon.html)

Anyway, while in Colombia, be prepared to receive your child bundled in multiple layers. Also be prepared for the myriad of critical looks and comments you might receive if you later take said child out in what we more cold-hearty folk would consider weather appropriate clothing.

Here is another unique tidbit. Even on sunny days, the fear of getting a whiff of a cool draft will keep a child covered in plastic. I guess this has the added benefit of keeping the child sleepy in a low oxygen environment :).

Note: In the picture, the mother is enjoying a sunny, dry, warm day in her SHORT SLEEVED T-shirt. Meanwhile, somewhere under the plastic and at least 2 blankets (one yellow and one green) their is a well-bundled sleeping (and sweating) child ever so well protected from the Sereno.

TUNES FOR TUESDAY -- Buscandote

2011-11-15T00:01:00.001-07:00

Last week I mentioned Fuentes Records' second spin off band, The Latin Brothers. Although this band included some of the musicians from Fruko y Sus Tesos (and even Joe Arroyo once sang for it), it was led by Piper Pimienta. Piper's unmistakable voice and the sound of Luis "Tomate" Mesa on piano are the band's trademarks. The song Buscandote (Looking For You) is from Latin Brothers' second album, Dale al Bombo (Hit that drum), released in 1975.

Here is a performance by the band, including lead singer Piper Pimienta (and some goofy dancers):

Buscandote by The Latin Brothers

Myths for Monday -- Punta de Lajas Legend

2011-11-14T06:43:00.005-07:00

According to Legend, in the Cerro del Vita region of the department of Vichada, there is a large rock in the Punta de Laja area. Under that rock is a tunnel that leads to a secret city. When she does not want to allow fishing, the queen of that city, Rosita, leaves the city and turns into a pink dolphin (tonina). In her form of a tonina with a white spot on her neck, she chases away the fish and the fishermen. She takes their nets. When the fisherman recognize her, they leave the area.

TUNES FOR TUESDAY -- You Will Cry

2011-11-08T00:01:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, Tunes for Tuesdays is the section of this blog where we discuss music and artists from Colombia. Also, those (both) of you who faithfully read my entries have probably figured out that my section actually appears on most Tuesdays, that occasionally we talk about music and artists that have little to do with Colombia, and that for some time now we have been discussing the history of Salsa music. If you are new to the blog, by click on the Tunes for Tuesdays link and read a few entries to help you catch up.

Now, I finally have an excuse to introduce one of my favorite non-Colombian Salsa songs. Around the mid 1970s, Fruko y Sus Tesos had become the Colombian powerhouse of the genre, but they faced some serious competition from several talented foreign artists. Indeed, in its desire to outdo its rivals, Fuentes Music would spin off another great band, The Latin Brothers. But more on them later because what this entry is about a competitor from Venezuela.

In 1975, Oscar D'León (or De León) released the song that would forever identify him, Llorarás (You Will Cry). Lyrics and all, I think this one of the best instrumentally crafted Salsa songs ever. The percussion and the piano grab you at the outset and D'Leon's unmatched voice keeps you listening. The lyrics are just the garden variety "girl, you will suffer because you made me suffer" Latin romantic stuff. But even with that, this is a great song, and one that is well known and recognized in Colombia as a Salsa classic.

Llorarás by Oscar D'León

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Here's Live :

Corruption Resolved?

2011-11-07T14:08:00.004-07:00

A few days ago, Colombian Daddy and I were talking about growth and prosperity in Colombia. Out of no where, CD says, "You no what is holding Colombia back?" "What?" I responded. "the incredible amount of corruption that permeates the government."

Fast Forward.

This past week, Colombian president Juan Manuel Santos announced MAJOR REFORMS to the government. These reforms have as their purpose, "Creating a more efficient, transparent State." IE Consolidate and eliminate waste -- change name, change image.

He eliminated the Colombian DAS (think the FBI of Colombia). But, it has been replaced with a new title Dirección Nacional de Inteligencia (DNI) which will be in charge of intelligence and counter intelligence exclusively as immigration will now fall to the Unidad Migracion Colombia (UMC) which is part of cancilleria and is administered by the Executive branch.

There are a legion of changes, but perhaps the one that would be most interesting to adoptive parents is the change in ICBF. ICBF has been its own ministerial position. ICBF is in charge of more than just adoptions, they have responsibility for the health and welfare of all Colombian citizens. They have feeding and care programs for children in families. They are responsible to investigate, prosecute abuse and abandonment of children ensuring that their legal rights are restored. They have programs for seniors. They have parenting classes and nutrition programs.

One of the changes proposed by Santos is the dissolution of the Ministerial position of ICBF, rather, ICBF will now be under a new umbrella with several other former positions. The new department will be the Administrative Department of Social Prosperity and Inclusion. ICBF, as well as the Council for prosperity, Housing, and the Victims Unit will now all be a part of this new National Agency. The director of the agency is Bruce McMaster.

As a result of these changes, the Director of ICBF, Elvira Forero, resigned. She will be replaced with Diego Molano.

FYI, the director of ICBF has as subdirectorate in charge of the issues related to adoption. This is called the Office of Protection. In that Office are three subdirectorates: subdirector of protection (think Family Advocates), subdirector of legal prosecution, and subdirector of adoptions. Because of the layers of adiministration that are above the adoptions unit, and the requirements of the current laws in Colombia, it is likely that no changes in adoptions will occur. What remains to be seen is whether or not the new ICBF director will institute any changes, either way any changes will be far down the road in the future.

CELEBRATING 3 YEARS -- TOP ADOPTION RELATED POSTS

2011-11-01T07:16:00.003-06:00

Here are my picks for this blog's top 10 adoption related posts.

#1 The Best Thing We Did in Bogota

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2010/09/one-familys-return-trip-best-thing-we.html

#2 Adult Adoptees Perspective on Name Change

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2009/03/adult-adoptees-perspective-on-name.html

#3 What Adult Colombian Adoptees Wish Their Parents Knew

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2009/02/adult-colombian-adoptees-what-they-wish.html

#4 You Family's New Culture

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2009/02/you-familys-new-culture.html

#5 Transracial Parenting -- this post was provided to me by a fellow adoptive mother --THANKS AGAIN!

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2009/04/transracial-parenting-advice-from.html

#6 Searching for Birth Families

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2009/07/searching-for-birth-families-and-birth.html

#7 Older Child Adoption, What We Wish We Had Known -- this post was also provided to me by a fellow adoptive mother -- THANKS AGAIN!

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2010/02/what-we-wish-we-would-have-known.html

#8 Does Your Child (even one adopted as a toddler) Need ESL

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2009/09/does-your-child-need-esl.html

#9 Preparation for Coming Home and its partner post The Car Seat

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2009/07/preparation-for-coming-home-been-there.html

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2009/07/car-seat-preparation-been-there-done.html

#10 Dual Citizenship

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2010/03/doowl-situhzen.html

Triqui Triqui Halloween

2011-10-31T00:01:00.000-06:00

Two years ago. I posted about the Colombian Version of Halloween. Might I recommend that you read the informative post.

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2009/10/colombian-halloween.html

CELEBRATING 3 YEARS -- History

2011-10-27T08:19:00.002-06:00

Here are my favorite posts about Colombian History:

Pedro Pascasio Martinez. This is my favorite story of Colombian independence. [It helps that my husband's family is distantly related to this guy -- but such a cool story for any Colombianito]

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2009/08/pedro-pascasio-child-hero-with.html

Sebastian Belalcazar

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2010/09/one-familys-return-trip-goodbye-bogota.html

Juan Jose Rondon

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2010/08/one-familys-return-trip-afrocolombian.html

Colombian Independence and the Flower Vase

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2010/07/bicentennial-of-colombian-independence.html

Bochica

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2009/09/bochica-fascinating-story.html

Aquiminzaque

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2009/03/muisca-indigenous-names-from-hunza.html

CELEBRATING 3 YEARS -- Top Recipes

2011-10-26T07:00:00.003-06:00

Here are my favorite recipes -- mostly from Abuelita Carmen.

#1 -- Abuelita Carmen's Empanadas de Carne -- originally posted on December 19, 2008

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2008/12/abuelita-carmens-colombian-empanadas-de.html

#2 -- Abuelita Carmen's Tamales Boyacenses -- This delicious, yet time consuming treat is a staple of Christmas or New Year's dinner -- originally posted on December 29, 2008

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2008/12/abuelita-carmens-tamales-boyacenses.html

#3 -- Abuelita Carmen's Caldo de Papas -- originally posted on March 24, 2009

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2009/03/abuelita-carmens-caldo-de-papas.html

#4 -- Abuelita Carmen's Limonada -- originally posted on May 14, 2009

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2009/05/abuelita-carmens-limonada.html

#5 -- Brazo de Reina -- originally posted on May 24, 2010

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2010/05/produce-alone-is-worth-trip-brazo-de.html

BONUS:

Meet Abuelita Carmen:

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2009/05/celebrating-average-woman-abuelita.html

CELEBRATING 3 YEARS -- TOP MUSIC PICKS

2011-10-25T07:57:00.003-06:00

I'd like to highlight what I consider to be the best music posts from the past three years. I hope you'll take the time to check them out.

#1 -- History of Salsa Series -- started on March 15, 2011

If you have missed the wonderful series that Colombian Daddy has been providing over the last 7 months, you have really missed out. Known as Tunes for Tuesday, he has provided a great history into the development of this Colombian sound. Read his first post in the series here:

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2011/03/tunes-for-tuesday-intro-to-salsa.html

#2 -- Pombo Musical -- originally posted on March 16, 2010

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2010/03/pombo-musical.html

#3 -- Francisco el Hombre -- originally posted May 28, 2009

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2009/05/francisco-el-hombre-legendary-man-that.html

#4 -- The Colombian National Anthem (with English Translation of Chorus and 1st verse) -- originally posted on April 14, 2009

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2009/04/national-anthem-of-colombia.html

#5 -- A la rueda rueda - Colombian Ring Around the Rosie -- originally posted on February 3, 2009

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2009/02/la-rueda-rueda-colombian-ring-around.html

CELEBRATING 3 YEARS

2011-10-24T10:36:00.003-06:00

Three years ago this week, I started the Raising Colombian Kids Blog. I did so in hopes of filling a need for more information -- in English -- for families with Colombian Kids. In the first weeks, I had just a few followers, and now -- though I still cannot say that I have thousands. I am happy to be reaching many of you. This week I wanted to highlight some of my favorite posts from the past.

Today, I wanted to highlight some of my favorite blogs from the past. Please take time to read them :)

Here are my top 5 posts on appropriate etiquette in Colombia:

#1 The Colombian Concept of Time -- original post date January 8, 2009:

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2009/01/colombian-concept-of-time.html

#2 Taxi Etiquette -- original post date July 1, 2010

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2010/07/one-familys-return-trip-taxi-etiquette.html

#3 Bus Etiquette #1 -- original post date June 28, 2010

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2010/06/one-familys-return-trip-bus-etiquette-1.html

#4 Bus Etiquette #2 -- original post date June 29, 2010

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2010/06/one-familys-return-trip-bus-etiquette-2.html

#5 Bathroom Etiquette -- original post September 16, 2010

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2010/09/one-familys-return-trip-bathroom.html

Image:

http://www.freeclipartnow.com/education/awards/3rd-place-barnstar.jpg.html

LATEST ICBF WAIT LIST

2011-10-22T07:56:00.004-06:00

This most recent Wait List was published by ICBF on October 21, 2011. Once again, there has been a lot of movement. Great news for adoptive parents and for Colombian Children!!

Remember, the ICBF Wait List applies to adoptions through ICBF only -- not through CASAS PRIVADAS. It also ONLY APPLIES TO NON-COLOMBIAN FAMILIES. It DOES NOT reflect special needs children. The definition of special needs are children with disabilities, children over 8 years of age, and sibling groups of 3 or more.

EVERY CATEGORY HAS ADVANCED THIS TIME!!!

The dates that have moved are in BOLD.

Also, this list only reflects that there are no more dossiers at the national office prior to the date shown. Dossiers from before December 2007 in the 0-23 months category, for example, may still need a referral, but they have already been sent to a region and are no longer waiting at the national office.

Age of Child ------- Date of Application Approval by ICBF

Child 0-12 months ------ Dec - 2007
Child 13 - 23 months ---- Dec - 2007
Child 2 years ----------- Jun - 2007
Child 2 - 3 years -------- May - 2007
Child 3 years ----------- Dec - 2007
Child 3 - 4 years -------- Dec - 2007
Child 4 years ----------- NOT LISTED ON NEW FORM
Child 4 -5 years -------- Jan - 2009
Child 5 years ----------- Oct - 2009
Child 5 - 6 years ------- Oct - 2009
Child 6 years ----------- NOT LISTED ON FORM
Child 7 years ----------- Jul - 2011

2 Siblings 0 - 4 years --- Apr - 2008
2 Siblings 0 - 5 years --- Feb - 2008
2 Siblings 0 - 6 years --- Sep - 2009
2 Siblings 0 - 7 years --- Feb - 2010
2 Siblings 0 - 8 years --- Feb - 2011

Interesting Strike in Colombia

2011-10-20T19:13:00.000-06:00

The New Cocaine

2011-10-19T00:01:00.001-06:00

Colombia has long been know as the world's leading cocaine producer, but did you know that it has long been Latin America's largest producer of gold? Over the last few years, Colombia has continued to increase its gold production doubling it from what it was 2 years ago.

This means more $$$$ is available and many groups are vying for control of the money -- multinational companies, guerilla groups, drug cartels, and other criminals all want in on the action.

You can hear an interesting report here:

http://www.npr.org/2011/08/10/139347972/foreign-policy-downgrade-good-as-gold-literally

Five Years Ago Today

2011-10-13T07:34:00.002-06:00

In 2006, we initiated our adoption from Colombia. Within 4 months, our dossier was happily on it's way to Colombia. On September 28, 2006, we got news that our dossier had been approved and was being sent to Bogota Region.

We had requested a young sibling group -- preferably twins. Then, just 2 weeks later, on October 12, 2006, we received a strange call. Someone -- not from our family -- in Colombia was trying to contact us. My husband called back and spoke with the adoptions committee chair in Bogota [I just want to point out that this is HIGHLY unusual and would require a lengthy explanation, but it would suffice to say that he had spoken with her previously because we were in a unique situation and had had a host of problems].

The Conversation:

The question: Were we married to the idea of siblings? They didn't have any at the time. Husband's answer: Ok, we would consider one child.

The statement: Great, because the Committee had assigned us a little boy, 21 months old. This child's psychologist had recommended that he be placed in a two parent home where the mother would be a stay- at-home mom. Our family's dossier showed up on the same day as his adoption paperwork and we fit the bill. Would we be interested?

Husband's answer: Yes.

The statement: He is "divino" -- divine. She then proceeded to read excerpts from his Biopsychosoial report to us.

Three days later, we received that FED EX package with his official referral. I hugged the FED EX guy. I opened the package and went straight to the photo. Despite his clothes that were like 5 sizes too big, he indeed was divine -- and he still is.

Road to Brazil 2014

2011-10-12T00:01:00.000-06:00

The race to find out whether or not Colombia will go to the World Cup has begun. Yesterday, they played game #1 against Bolivia -- and won 2-1. Here are those ever important GOLES!!

Special Needs Little Angel Needs a Family

2011-10-10T12:54:00.000-06:00

Recently, I received permission to post the following information on my blog in hopes of generating interest in the case of this little angel. She is 17 months old, born in Bogota, and needs a forever family that understands what parenting a special needs child is all about.

This beauty was born premature at 29 weeks. Because of her prematurity, she has suffered a number of complications. These include pulmonary dysplasia (which is improving) -- read more here:

http://kidshealth.org/parent/medical/lungs/bpd.html

And hypertonia -- read more here:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hypertonia

The latter is being treated with physical therapy at the moment.

If you are interested in providing a loving home for this child, please send me an e-mail to the address listed above on my blog. I can put you in contact with someone who can get you more information.

Wednesday's Wonders: Pandebono

2011-10-05T00:01:00.000-06:00

Pandebono just screams Valle del Cauca!! It is a delicious cheese bread, but ever so hard to get right here in the U.S. I have tried several internet recipes to no avail. However, I did find one that I like. Well, it is an acceptable approximation, even Colombian Daddy approved. I refer you the the following website for the recipe. However, please not that while the title of the blog is My Colombian Recipes, a lot of the recipes are not Colombian. I also haven't tried many of the recipes, so I can't vouch for their authenticity. I think the key to this recipe is the Feta cheese -- just enough, not too much.

http://www.mycolombianrecipes.com/pandebono-colombian-cheese-bread

TUNES FOR TUESDAY -- Wilson "Saoko" Manyoma

2011-10-04T00:01:00.000-06:00

One of the best known lead singers from Fruko y Sus Tesos is Wilson "Saoko" Manyoma. I have mentioned him before when I spotlighted "El Preso" as one of the top songs most Colombians would recognize. (http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2011/01/tunes-for-tuesday-songs-most-colombians.html).

El Preso is Fruko's anthem and an achievement in Colombian salsa. Manyoma sang this song just like he did many of Fruko's hits from the early 70s through the 80s. Here it is, translated this time. (He doesn't say Borgona, as the translation reads. He says Gorgona, which used Colombia's Alcatraz, an island prison off the Pacific coast, and which is now a natural park.)

And here's another one of Manyoma's performances:

Los Charcos (The Puddles) with Fruko y Sus Tesos:

Myths for Monday -- La Tunda

2011-10-03T00:01:00.001-06:00

The myth of La Tunda comes from the Colombian Pacific region (think Buenaventura) and is common among Afrocolombians throughout today's department -- Valle del Cauca (fondly called el Valle). It is used to scare people into behaving correctly. So, here goes:

La Tunda

La Tunda, when seen as herself and not in one of her shapeshifting forms, is a very ugly woman. Some people say that one of her feet is shaped like a MOLINILLO (the wooden stick used to stir chocolate in Colombia). Others say that the foot is made of the root of the tingui-tingui tree. The other leg looks like that of a child. Either way, it is not very appealing.

She hunts along the coast for children who have not been baptized (los moritos), disobedient children, and unfaithful men. To each of them, she appears as their mother or another loved one and lures them into the jungle. Once in the jungle, she feeds them shrimp and crab that she farts on. Something about that fart hypnotizes her prey and makes them stupid. When a person has succumbed to her fragrant food, they are said to be entundados. A person entundado then follows and loves the Tunda and rejects humanity.

The encounter with the Tunda is always tragic, unless a combination of the godfather, godmother, priest and parents come to the rescue.

Here are 2 songs about the Tunda. Be forewarned that the video in the second is kind of gruesome. It comes from a movie made about the Tunda and shows her eating a person and farting on the shrimp -- probably not appropriate for kids.

TUNES FOR TUESDAY - A La Memoria del Muerto

2011-09-27T00:01:00.000-06:00

When Fuentes released Fruko's second album, A La Memoria del Muerto (In Memoriam), in 1972, the lead singer was Edulfamid Molina Diaz. A tall, skinny man, Edulfamid became known for his great voice, reminiscent of the best Cuban singers, and for his peculiar dancing style. He would forever be remembered as Piper Pimienta.

He sang many of Fruko's Salsa hits, and was part of several different bands. Ironically, the words he sang in the title song of A La Memoria del Muerto would be used during his own funeral. Tragedy had been chasing him around Colombia. In the 80s his son was killed during a shooting, and in 1991 his house went up in flames with all his music inside forcing him to cancel concerts. In June 1998, Piper was assassinated in front of his home in Cali. He had just won a civil lawsuit over royalties.

But, as he sang: "On the day I die, I don't want cryings or rosaries. . . I just want my friends to dance in my memory. . . ."

So here it is,

A La Memoria del Muerto by Fruko y Sus Tesos. Piper Pimienta on vocals:

Myths for Monday -- Los Tunjitos

2011-09-26T00:01:00.001-06:00

Today's myth takes us to the department of Tolima. However, before we can get to the myth, we need a brief history lesson. So, let's go back to the 1500's..............

Not many years following the discovery of Bogota, the original conquistador of the area, Gonzalo Jimenez de Quesada, set out to explore the area of what is today known as Tolima. There he found three fierce groups of natives: the Coyaimas, the Natagaimas, and the Pijao. Of the three, the Pijaos stood out for their brutality. They loved to mark their paths with the bones of their enemies. The Pijaos (now extinct) were a tough group to conquer -- I could write a series on these guys. Suffice it to say, they left a trail of death and destruction in their wake.

These Indigenous groups (and the Muisca) buried small dolls, made of pure gold, with their dead -- called Tunjos. It is from this tradition, that we get today's myth -- Los Tunjitos. This is a goody for those wanting to get their kids to stay in bed -- ok just kidding let's not cause them psychological damage -- here goes:

Legend has it that at dusk, these little guys sneak out of the grave and begin to wander. Their favorite hangout is near small streams or creeks. There they either cry a horrible, other worldly, scary cry, or laugh with a terribly, frightening, other worldly laugh. They are the greatest fear of rural children as many a child is told that if they don't stay in bed, the Tunjitos will get them.

Foto:
http://www.banrep.gov.co/museo/images/ninos/O3363601_Orfebre.jpg

Wednesday's Wonders: DIABOLINES

2011-09-21T00:01:00.001-06:00

DIABOLINES -- there is probably not a person from Sucre that has not purchased these little treats. These are delicious toasted cheese snacks that are famous in the region. Made from Tapioca flour, eggs, salty cheese, milk, salt and butter. They are worth a taste, albeit a small one if you want to watch your figure.

Here is a website with a recipe. Unfortunately, it is for making a HUGE batch, and unfortunately I do not have access to salty cheese, so I did not try to reduce the amount and make it myself. But if you are interested, a libra or pound in Colombia is equal to 500 grams, not the same as a US pound.

If anyone attempts this recipe, let me know how it turns out.

http://diabolinescorozaleros.blogspot.com/2011/02/diabolines-corozaleros.html

TUNES FOR TUESDAY -- Fruko's First Album

2011-09-20T00:01:00.001-06:00

In 1968, Julio Ernesto Estrada, Fruko, toured New York as the percussionist for the Corraleros de Majagual. He was already curious about Salsa music, and his intrest became cemented here as he met and performed next to the big names of the new genre: Tito Puente, Richie Ray, Bobbie Cruz, Willie Colón, Hector Lavoe, and the Ray Barreto Band.

As Fruko reminisced during his interview with La W Radio Station in Medellín, it was during one of these trips to New York that on one occasion a television hostess asked him on camera, if he and his band were bringing "la hierbita" from Colombia. This was a deliberate pun. The Corraleros had a hit song called "La Hierbita" or Yierbita (grass, lawn). But "yierbita" was also a euphemism for a less innocuous, yet very popular plant smoked during the sixties. The song was a catchy clean tune. I guess "quiero sentarme contigo en la hierbita, en la hierbita, en la hierbita. . . ." (I want to sit with you on the grass. . . .) can be construed in a number of ways. Colombia was already developing a reputation, and not only as a country with great music.

Perhaps it should not be a surprise then that after creating his own band, Fruko y Sus Tesos (Fruko and His Tough Guys) and releasing their first Salsa album in 1970, Tesura (Toughness) he decided to pose for the cover looking like a thug with a gun hanging from his neck. This is how Colombia met Salsa music. Tesura only sold about 400 copies, but Fruko's new sound still managed to generate great interest. The tough guy look was also keeping in style with what Willie Colón had been doing in New York.

Here are two samples: The infamous La Hierbita by Los Corraleros de Majagual

and from the album Tesura, Improvisando by Fruko y Sus Tesos

Myths for Monday -- El encanto de la ciénega de Pajaral

2011-09-19T00:01:00.000-06:00

In the Department of Sucre, you will find several swamps. Among them is the Pajaral swamp. It is known as the Enchanted Swamp.

See it on a map here:

http://www.indexmundi.com/z/?lat=7.3827778&lon=-73.9530556&t=l&r=280&p=cienaga_pajaral&cc=co&c=colombia

In the rainy summers, the waters of the swamp become deep and turbulent. On those hot, wet summer days. Strange things have reportedly happened in the Enchanted Swamp.

First, years ago, in the waters of the swamp, there would appear a giant catfish. It was so large, that to catch it became the goal of many a fisherman. In fact, men came from all over for a chance to catch the giant fish. But, no one could harpoon it. Even a well aimed harpoon would be deflected. The fish was thought to be enchanted.

Next, one particular August, years ago, both a cow and a pig were seen standing in the middle of the swamp, as if they were dry land and not in the middle of a deep swamp.

Finally, a man by the name of Joselito Álvarez, swears that while fishing in the swamp early one morning, he heard the sound of someone else casting in their net. When he turned to see who else was in the swamp, he saw only a human skeleton standing near him. He became so afraid that he began to run and got lost in the swamp. He was lost for two days before he was found walking around in a daze.

Leonel Alvarez? Can He Do IT?

2011-09-15T07:05:00.002-06:00

Recently, Colombia's Coach for the national soccer team resigned in disgrace. Last week, a new coach was named == Leonel Alvarez. Learn more about him here:

Wednesday's Wonders: Caldo de Papas

2011-09-14T07:25:00.003-06:00

In Santander, as well as in other departments, this breakfast treat is very popular. Give it a try.

Caldo de Papas

Step #1 --Place the following ingredients in a pot.

8 cups water
3-4 whole green onions with the roots and green stem chopped off

AND one or the other of the following:

3-4 ribs with rib meat OR 3-4 chicken legs with skin.

Step #2 -- BOIL these three ingredients until you have a great broth. Remove the meat/bones (use these in another recipe as typically the meat is not served with the soup).

Step #3 -- ADD:

Several peeled potatoes sliced in 4-6 lengthwise slices. (I prefer Yukon Gold which when peeled are about fist size – in this case I add about 5 potatoes).

1 teaspoon of salt -- or salt to taste

Step #4 -- BOIL until the potatoes are soft and begin to disintegrate. Add more salt if necessary.

Step #5 -- SEPARATELY, mix about

1 teaspoon of FINELY chopped green onion with
½ teaspoon of FINELY chopped cilantro

for each serving bowl you plan to fill with the Potato Broth. Place the onion cilantro mixture in the bottom of each individual serving bowl and then serve the broth and a few potatoes in each bowl.

DELICIOUS! This is one of my favorite Colombian breakfasts.

TUNES FOR TUESDAY -- A Living Legend

2011-09-13T00:01:00.000-06:00

In March 2011, in a copy cat show that the Radio Station La W dares to call Salsa Con Estilo (an alleged homage to the original), the young host interviewed Julio Ernesto Estrada, Fruko, and called him "A Living Legend." That part might be true, he is a legend. And there were several things Fruko said during the interview that caught my attention because of their historical value.

Fruko said that his Great grandfather, Luis Felipe Rincón, came from Santiago de Cuba to Colombia to work on the construction of the famous Colombian railway, the Ferrocarril de Antioquia. Work on this rail began in 1874, and when it was finished in 1929, it finally linked the remote area of Antioquia with the rest of Colombia. The Ferrocarril was hailed as an engineering achievement because as the the people from Antioquia say, their mountainous terrain is only comparable to certain mountain ranges in Mars.

Fruko's great-grandfather helped build the Tunel de la Quiebra. Fruko recalls, "They started one group on one side of the mountain and one group on the other, till they finally met right in the middle. And they did it without computers!"

The tunnel links the town of Puerto Berrio with the City of Medellin. Today, the railroad carts are gone, but the entrepreneurial Paisas have adapted motorcycles which run on the rails and give tourists a taste of its 4 km of complete darkness.

Fruko also said that his musical genome carries Cuban and African genes. "Even as a kid, I wanted to play this happy music", he said. And then he revealed another secret to his musical genome: It was his uncle, Jaime Rincón, who wrote a song, an incredibly embarrassingly Colombian song, called La Cuchilla. And although simply knowing this song shows my social class, I couldn't resist! Here it is,

by Las Hermanas Calle: La Cuchilla.

Why is this so bad? Well, cover your kids' ears and I will tell you. No, I better not. They are just a series of gruesome tongue in cheek threats on an estranged lover's life, and the music reeks of cheap pub . . . but anyone who has taken a bus ride in Colombia will recognize it.

Photo: http://www.flickr.com/photos/pe5pe/2412878121/

Myths for Monday -- La Mechuda

2011-09-12T00:01:00.001-06:00

In Santander (and also Antioquia), today's department, there is a myth about a woman with LONG, messy hair. She covers herself with her long hair, that reaches down to her feet. She wears a LONG dress and has, you guessed it, LONG fingernails. Her name is La Mechuda, though some do call her La Cabellona.

According to the men that have seen her, she is beautiful, with a beautiful face.

She seems to appear and disappear randomly, but always seems to be in a hurry. Those that have seen her report that it appears like she is floating.

In Santander, when she appears, it is with the distinct purpose of scaring only women.

Miss Colombia

2011-09-07T00:01:00.000-06:00

I have to preface this with the fact that I am NOT a huge fan of beauty contests -- however, this point of view is not shared by most Colombians. Five years ago, while in Colombia for our adoption, I sat with the whole family and watched the Miss Colombia spectacle. Anyway, for those of you dying to spend your evening watching the event, here is a preview. This is the interview with Miss Colombia.

TUNES FOR TUESDAY - The link between Salsa and Ketchup!

2011-09-06T00:01:00.001-06:00

A few entries ago, we started heading towards the point where Salsa, Fania, and Colombia definitely intersect. We found out that if such a point actually exists, it would have to be Antonio Fuentes' music label, Fuentes. We talked about Antonio's trip to Philadelphia in the 30s, his return to Colombia, the establishment of Fuentes in Medellin in the 50s, and the creation of the Corraleros de Majagual Band. And that's where life happened and we got interrupted.

Well, the Corraleros the Majagual began touring around Colombia and abroad. By 1967, when they toured Venezuela, one of the kids who used to carry instruments and run other errands for the band, had become their new timbalero or percussionist. The kid was sixteen years-old and his name was Julio Ernesto Estrada. Julio's face and especially the gap between his two big front teeth seemed to resemble the character used in the commercials of a brand of ketchup in Colombia at the time, Salsa de Tomate Fruco. Faithful to our Colombian tradition of complete disregard for political correctness, Fruko, became Julio's name from then on.

And now you see where we are headed with all this. Yes, Fruko brought to the band a new sound, a sound that was already floating around in New York, the sound of Salsa music. And Colombia was fertile ground for this budding genre. With ports over both the Pacific and the Atlantic, the country had already harbored African and Cuban rhythms such as Son Muntuno and Charanga from which Salsa originates. Fruko and Fuentes took it to the next level.

Here's a song from Fruko y Sus Tesos' album "El Violento" (1973), Salsa Na Ma (Salsa Nada Más, or Nothing But Salsa). A raw jam, this song features "Tomate" Mesa on piano and organ, Fruko on bass and persussion, and the background voice of Joe Arroyo.

For more on Fruko and the meaning of SUS TESOS, read this blast from the past:

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/search/label/Music?updated-max=2011-04-19T00%3A01%3A00-06%3A00&max-results=20

TUNES FOR TUESDAY - Yamulemao

2011-08-30T00:01:00.001-06:00

After a summer break, Tunes for Tuesdays is back.

Much has happened since our last entry in this series. Most notably, Joe Arroyo passed away in July at a clinic in Barranquilla, Colombia. He was only 56 years old. Colombians lamented, cried, remembered, and then sang and danced to Joe Arroyo's music. "It's the best way to say good bye" they said. It was yet another excuse for a big party in Barranquilla, a city that has never experienced a shortage of such opportunities.

All the big names in Colombian music had something to say. From Shakira and Juanes to Fruko, who cried on camera. Even the President of Colombia made a public statement. Abroad, Willie Colon and Oscar D'Leon, among others sent their condolences from the USA, and the BBC reminisced about a time when Island Records distributed his music throughout Europe. Then others also reminisced: that it was Fuentes who discovered him in 1972, that he used to sing in brothels in Cartagena as a little boy wearing a bucket on his head, that he came from the African Barrios of Cartagena de Indias, that there he learned the language of a Senegalese tribe whose words he often incorporated into his songs, that at the top of his success he was using crack cocaine, that he created his own music genre, the Joeson.

The usual Colombian-style controversies followed: That --yet another-- "exhaustive investigation" should be conducted to determine whether his wife had exploited him during the last months of his life by making him appear at concerts while terribly ill. That his surviving relatives were quarreling over the control of his fortune. That at age 56, a simple case of pneumonia should not kill anyone were it not for the Colombian health care system. . . . All the while a Soap Opera about his life continues to run with strong ratings and with a realistic end to come soon. En fin, it is another episode of Macondian proportions in our Colombia.

But here's a curious song by Joe Arroyo, Yamulemao:

More Than Half Special Needs

2011-08-29T07:32:00.005-06:00

So far in 2011, Special Needs Adoptions have made up 55% of all the adoptions in Colombia (534 of the 977 adoptions). THIS IS AMAZING!!!!! To gain some perspective, look at the list below:

In 2002, there were 349 -- 13% of all adoptions.

In 2003, there were 392 -- 22% of all adoptions.

In 2004, there were 356 -- 15% of all adoptions.

In 2005, there were 383 -- 15% of all adoptions.

In 2006, there were 608 -- 22% of all adoptions.

In 2007, there were 776 -- 25% of all adoptions.

In 2008, there were 730 -- 31% of all adoptions.

In 2009, there were 824 -- 30% of all adoptions.

In 2010, there were 889 -- 30% of all adoptions.

What is changing? As waiting lists for healthy children have become longer, many adoptive families have become more willing to look into other options, and this includes adopting larger sibling groups, older children, and children with physical or mental disabilities or special health issues (like HIV +).

Here are a few blogs from families that adopted THIS YEAR that you might find interesting:

Colombian HIV+ adoption:

http://vanderzwaagfamily.blogspot.com/

Older Child Colombian Adoption:

http://agoodboyforagoodman.wordpress.com/

http://theperfectsummerforamiracle.blogspot.com/

Large Sibling Group Colombian Adoption:

http://lenzfamilyadoption.blogspot.com/

http://ouradoptionjourneytocolombia.blogspot.com/

http://steppingstonemommablog.blogspot.com/

Other Special Need Colombian Adoption:

http://colombiabigskyconnection.blogspot.com/

If you have a blog for your adoption of any SPECIAL NEEDS category child/ren and would like to share it so that other families can gain insight into the process and perhaps consider a special needs adoption also, please include a link in the comments section and I will also post it on this list.

More Colombians Adopting In Colombia

2011-08-26T00:01:00.000-06:00

Another way of seeing the growth of Colombians adopting form Colombia is to see the statistics from this year. Not only are there 124 Colombian families waiting to adopt, but so far this year Colombians have adopted more children than foreign families.

Here are the numbers:

Since January 1, 2011:

551 children have been adopted by Colombian families

while

960 children have been adopted by Foreign families

This means that 57.4% of all the adoptions in Colombia so far this year have been to Colombian families.

Just for perspective:

In 2010, 53% of the adoptions were to Colombians.

In 2003, 35% of the adoptions were to Colombians.

In 1991, 28% of the adoptions were to Colombians.

In 20 years, the number of Colombians adopting form Colombia has more than doubled.

Movement in the Wait List Categories

2011-08-25T00:01:00.001-06:00

If you compare this new report with that from the final 2010 report, you will see that the number of families waiting has decreased and increased in the following way:

THERE ARE NOW:

0 families from 2006 DOWN 19 families.

2007 DOWN 94 families.

2008 DOWN 43 families.

2009 DOWN 45 families.

2010 DOWN 24 families.

2011 UP 121 families.

What happens to these families? One of three things is happening.

1- The family gets a referral for the age range they requested.

2- The family leaves the list or puts their application on hold. This can happen because of pregnancy, another adoption (domestic or foreign), family issues (divorce, job loss, weariness, etc.).

3- The family changes age range or sibling category. This has been happening quite a lot in Europe. Families that have been waiting for a couple of years realize that by changing to the sibling category their referral will come faster. So, they change categories and move to near the front of the sibling list because of the length of time they have already been waiting. This is also why the sibling list has increased wait times.

NEWEST WAIT LIST -- AUGUST 19, 2011

2011-08-24T00:01:00.005-06:00

This most recent Wait List was published by ICBF on August 19, 2011. Once again, there has been a lot of movement. Great news for adoptive parents and for Colombian Children!!

Remember, the ICBF Wait List applies to adoptions through ICBF only -- not through CASAS PRIVADAS. It also ONLY APPLIES TO NON-COLOMBIAN FAMILIES. It DOES NOT reflect special needs children. The definition of special needs are children with disabilities, children over 8 years of age, and sibling groups of 3 or more.

Several dates have advanced again this time!!! YEAH!!!

The dates that have moved are in BLUE.

Also, this list only reflects that there are no more dossiers at the national office prior to the date shown. Dossiers from before October 2007 in the 0-23 months category, for example, may still need a referral, but they have already been sent to a region and are no longer waiting at the national office.

Age of Child ------- Date of Application Approval by ICBF

Child 0-12 months ------ Oct - 2007
Child 13 - 23 months ---- Oct - 2007
Child 2 years ----------- Nov - 2006
Child 2 - 3 years -------- Apr - 2007
Child 3 years ----------- Mar - 2007
Child 3 - 4 years -------- Mar - 2007
Child 4 years ----------- Jun - 2007
Child 4 -5 years -------- Apr - 2008
Child 5 years ----------- Jan - 2009
Child 5 - 6 years ------- Nov - 2008
Child 6 years ----------- NOT LISTED ON NEW FORM
Child 7 years ----------- Feb - 2011

2 Siblings 0 - 4 years --- Jan - 2008
2 Siblings 0 - 5 years --- Jan - 2008
2 Siblings 0 - 6 years --- Mar - 2009
2 Siblings 0 - 7 years --- Dec - 2009
2 Siblings 0 - 8 years --- Jan - 2011

Foreign Families on the ICBF WAIT LIST

2011-08-23T00:01:00.002-06:00

Yesterday we learned that there are more Colombians (living both inside Colombia and Expats) adopting form Colombia. While this is SUPER news for Colombian children, it does mean longer wait times for foreign families, though at this time only slightly because we are not talking hundreds of Colombians.

Today, let's take a look at the number of families currently on ICBF's Foreign Family Wait List. DRUMROLL PLEASE.

2,880

Here is how that 2,880 is broken down.

227 families waiting since 2007

721 families waiting since 2008

707 families waiting since 2009

745 families waiting since 2010

480 families waiting from this year.

ICBF's report does not show how many families are waiting in each age range category, though this would be helpful. It is possible, however, to look at the last posted wait list and see that all age ranges from 0-4 years 11 months had families waiting from 2007. Even those waiting for 2 siblings 0-4 and 0-5 were still in 2007 on the last published wait list in May of 2011. See it here:

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2011/05/newest-icbf-wait-list-may-10-2011.html

ICBF WAIT LIST STATISTICS

2011-08-22T00:01:00.000-06:00

ICBF recently published its mid-year report (July 29, 2011) on Adoption statistics. I intend to highlight this report over the next few days. Today, I wanted to adress the number of families currently approved to adopt through ICBF.

As of July 29, 2011, there were 124 Colombian families on the Colombian wait list. This list is prioritized over all other lists. In years past, there was practically no wait list for Colombians.

When we processed our adoption in 2006, there was NO COLOMBIAN FAMILY WAIT LIST. The referrals were practically instantaneous. For example, we submitted our paperwork to ICBF and were approved within 2 weeks. The week following our approval our dossier was sent to the Bogotá regional office and the next week we had a referral -- 4 weeks total. Now, that was considered fast even then, but most of the Colombian families we knew at the time were going through the same process in no more than 6-8 weeks.

Today, however, it seems to be taking 3-6 months from submission to referral. Why? Because there is now a Colombian only wait list. This list has the greatest impact on children ages 0-36 months because it seems that many Colombian families are most interested in adopting healthy younger children -- though this is changing some.

This truly is great news for Colombian children. It means more children will grow up with a connection to their homeland and home culture.

How does this impact other waiting families? It will inevitably make the wait longer for foreign families because Colombian families jump to the front of the line -- no matter how long others might have been waiting.

Tomorrow I will discuss the number of families on the the Foreign Family Wait List.

Colombia's Rural Health Care Workers in Danger

2011-08-16T00:01:00.000-06:00

This is Colombia --Bienvenidos

2011-08-12T10:01:00.001-06:00

Just had to share this video. So, Colombia!!!!

Colombia's Glacier Park

2011-08-11T09:02:00.004-06:00

Surprisingly, Colombia is the land of many glaciers...or at least it was. In the 1800s, there were 18 glaciers in Colombia. Today, there are 6. You can hear a report from PRI's the world below.

http://www.theworld.org/2011/08/watching-colombias-nevados-park-glaciers-melt-away/

Picture:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/triangulodelcafe/5078071791/

Colombia Wins in Last Minute

2011-08-10T08:01:00.002-06:00

Last night I got to watch the game on ESPN 3. Colombia pulled out a controversial last minute win when James (pronounced HA mays not Jay mz) Rodriguez scored on a free kick.

Here are the highlights:

Colombia Victorious Again

2011-08-08T00:01:00.004-06:00

Saturday Colombia beat Korea 1-0. This means that they are moving ahead and will play Costa Rica Tuesday in the Group of 16. Here is to hoping they win and move on to Quarter Finals :)

For now, enjoy watching Colombia's goal against Korea.

La Invitación -- Jorge Celedón & Jimmy Zambrano

2011-08-04T00:01:00.008-06:00

More Colombian Love Fest. At the opening ceremonies of the Under 20 World Cup, Jorge Celedón sang the following song called "La Invitación" (the invitation). It is a welcome to Colombia for anyone who wants to visit.

Here are the lyrics and partial translation for the song:

Como te quiero Colombia! -- How I love you Colombia

Saludos desde Colombia a todo el mundo, -- Greetings from Colombia to the whole world

con esta canción que nace en el corazón, -- with this song that is born in my heart

perdonen si con mi canto les interrumpo, -- forgive me if with my song I interrupt you

les pido 3 minutitos de su atención, -- I ask you for 3 minutes of your attention

Les quiero contar del valle y de la montaña, -- I want to tell you about the valleys and the mountains

de como se ve la siembra color marrón, -- how the crops look brown (golden) in color

de como huele mi tierra cuando la bañan, -- how my land smells when it is washed (by the)

goticas de aguita fresca que manda Dios. -- drops of fresh water that God sends.

CHORUS

Mi tierra santa, me dijo que les hiciera la invitación, -- My holy land has told me to extend to you an invitation

a la parranda, -- to the party

ay para que cantemos juntos con mi acordeón -- so that we can sing together with my accordion

Por el Carnaval que hay en Barranquilla, -- about the Carnival in Barranquilla

por el Monserrate de Bogotá, -- about Monserrate in Bogota

por esas bonitas Ferias de Cali, -- about the beautiful Cali Fair

Festival Vallenato en Valledupar, -- the Vallenato Festival in Valledur

por las bellas playas de Cartagena, -- about the beautiful beaches in Cartagena

Santa Marta y Fiestas del Mar,

por el aguardiente y las cosas buenas, -- about the Aguaardiente (Colombian liquor) and the good things

Café de Colombia ven a tomar, -- Colombian Coffee you need to come and drink

por la Feria de las Flores que hacemos en Medellín, -- about the Flower Fair that we do in Medellin

la parranda en mi Guajira, -- the party in my Guajira.

y las arepas de maíz, -- and the corn Arepas

por mi gente que es tan buena, -- for my people that are so good

y a mi nombre de mi nación, -- and the name of my nation

Colombia te abre las puertas, -- Colombia, who opens to you its doors

de su inmenso corazón. -- and its immense heart.

Ay hombe! San Andrés y Providencia,

Ayayay

Para el San Pedro, pégate la rodadita

y de ahí para Bucaramanga, la ciudad Bonita

Pensaron que iba a olvidarme de lo mas puro,

de la que me dio la vida y me hace feliz,

lo sabe el niñito santo y todito el mundo,

ay que las mujeres mas bellas están aquí,

los Llanos bailan alegres con el joropo,

el porro de mi Sabana ven a sentir,

Ay las hembras bailando cumbias nos vuelve locos,

Y juro que cuando vengas también a ti.

REPEAT CHORUS

Ayayay

Y al Carnaval de Blancos y Negros…

Vamos, vamos!! Aquí te hago la invitación

Al Cuna de Acordeones, Villanueva

Sincelejo y Montería, bailen, bailen…

Sigan pa los Aguinaldos Boyacenses

y el Carnaval de Ocaña

Cúcuta, allá voy, allá voy, ahí nos vemos…

Colombia Wins Again

2011-08-03T00:01:00.000-06:00

Last night Colombia beat Mali (2-0), for its second victory in Sub20 group A play. Here are the goles.

Focus on Colombia

2011-08-02T00:01:00.001-06:00

Last week, the PRI program, The World, reported on the Under 20 World Cup. Here is a taste of what you can hear on the report:

"Compared to the main World Cup, the U-20 is small potatoes. There’s no bidding war to host the event, which is played every two years...Still, it’s a chance for Colombia to show off. The matches will be played in Bogota and seven other cities. 500 million people around the world will watch them on TV. They’ll learn about Colombia’s natural beauty, booming economy and improved security, even as a drug-fuelled guerrilla war grinds on. Cristian Bonilla, the Colombian team’s goalkeeper, said they’re proud that so many countries are participating and so many tourists are coming.'Perhaps they will come away with a different image from what foreigners normally think about Colombia,' he said. Bonilla and his teammates will be playing for more than national pride."

You can hear or read the whole report here:

http://www.theworld.org/2011/07/colombian-teenagers-kick-off-junior-world-cup/

COLOMBIA WINS FIRST GAME

2011-08-01T00:01:00.001-06:00

Okay, if you were expecting Myths for Monday, you'll have to wait another week. This week I am dedicating the blog to following the Under 20 World Cup being held in Colombia. Today it is the amazing and decisive victory (4-1) of Colombia over France in the first game of the tournament. BTW, France was the European champion, so this is a BIG DEAL in Colombia.

Here is a Colombian tradition, watching the GOALS -- GOLES (GO lays -- in Spanish) -- of the game. You can see the 1st goal, made by France. Then, it is a Colombia love fest as you watch the 4 Colombian goles.

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOL!!

DE COLOOOCOLOOOOCOLOMBIAAAAAAAAA!!!

Official Under 20 World Cup Song

2011-07-28T00:01:00.000-06:00

The Colombian duo (from Cartagena) Dragón & Caballero have created the official song for the Under 20 World Cup.

Check it out:

Wednesday's Wonders: Sopa de Patacones

2011-07-27T00:01:00.000-06:00

Here is a typical dish that you will find in Risaralda. It is called Fried Green Plantain Soup in English or, in Spanish:

Sopa de Patacones

Ingredients

2 green plantains, made into patacones -- see a former recipe I posted here

http://raisingcolombiankids.blogspot.com/2009/09/my-cunadas-recipe-for-patacones.html

1 quart (or a liter) of broth

1 medium onion
3 cloves garlic -- mashed or blended in food processor

2 large potatoes peeled and chopped into cubes
1/2 cup green peas (optional and not included in all recipes)
1 chopped carrot (optional and not included in all recipes
1/2 pound of beef (preferably flank steak)
Cilantro (finely chopped) to taste

Salt and Pepper to taste

Different recipes use different spices including -- oregano, thyme, or bay leaf or a combination of two or three of the above. I recommend trying the soup first without the spices and then adding in what you like and giving it a try.

INSTRUCTIONS:

Cook the meat, peas (if fresh and not frozen), onion and garlic in the broth. Add the carrots and potatoes. Allow the mixture to simmer until the potatoes are soft (add peas if frozen).

When the potatoes are soft, season the soup. It is now ready to serve. Pour into bowls and top with cilantro. Place 2 patacones into the soup propping the patacones on the side of the bowl so that they are only about halfway into the soup.

I found a picture here of the finished product here:

http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/r3ZqJqJo6oCV3I2D4SYYkQ?select=UfTD011OYEGHOA5iXfR0ZA

TUNES FOR TUESDAY -- Los Sabanales

2011-07-26T00:01:00.002-06:00

I was preparing to make the connection between Fania, Fuentes and Colombian Salsa, and to finally make sense of all the stuff we have been discussing, when I received a request for this song. It is also by the Corraleros de Majagual. Colombians in their forties (and older) will remember it as a perennial classic in our collective Christmas Music playlist. This genre exhausted its coolness a while ago, so younger Colombians will deny recognizing this song. The truth is: not only do they recognize it, but have danced to it at more than one party, most likely around 3 am when everyone was taking a break from dancing to the faster rhythms.

Los Sabanales by Los Corraleros de Majagual

Myths for Monday -- El Espanto de la Calle del Miadero

2011-07-25T00:01:00.001-06:00

In the department of Risaralda, in the city of Pereira, there is a story of a Ghost that forms the basis for today's Myth for Monday. It is called El Espanto de la Calle del Miadero.

According to this Legend, a ghost walks the streets of the Calle (street) called el Miadero also known as the Calle Real in Pereira. This ghost appears to be a long black shadow. With it's long ghostly arms, he beckons you to come closer. As you approach, you will see that he has an unusual face -- a white mask that looks like a skull. As soon as the ghost scares you, he will disappear. So, if you are heading for Pereira, beware.

Wednesday's Wonders (On Thursday): Bananos Calados

2011-07-21T00:01:00.000-06:00

Today's recipe comes from the department of Quindio. It is a great dessert: Toasted Bananas

Ingredients

8 Tablespoons Butter, melted
1 Tablespoon Lime Zest
2 Tablespoons fresh lime juice
3 Tablespoons Sugar
8 Bananas

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350° F.

2. Mix the first 4 ingredients and poor half of it on the bottom of a sprayed, Pyrex pan.

3. Peel the bananas and cover them with the other half of the sugar mixture -- you may want to use a brush.

4. Place in the oven for 20-30 minutes or until the Bananas turn a light brown.

5. Serve them hot with cold milk or ice cream.

I found an alternative recipe for Bananas Calados here:

http://www.mycolombianrecipes.com/fried-bananas-bananos-calados

Happy Día De La Independencia

2011-07-20T00:41:00.001-06:00

The 20th of July is a Colombian national holiday in celebration of the first movement for Independence from Spain which began on the 20th of July 1810.

On this day, a group of citizens known as Criollos (those of Spanish descent born in the Americas rather than in Spain), went to Don José González Llorente´s home (a Spaniard) on the pretext of borrowing a flower vase for a dinner that was to honor the Royal Commissioner Antonio Villavicencio. This event, without any apparent significance, unleashed a confrontation between the Criollos and the Spanish that ended in the eventual independence of Colombia.

The roots of this conflict are found in the years leading up to the 1810 Flower Vase Incident. The Spanish ruled through local governments called Juntas and Cabildos. In the Juntas that were held in the years prior to 1810, the Criollos were very poorly represented -- 36 Spanish representatives to 9 Criollos. The Criollos were very dissatisfied. They felt that their needs were not well represented and many had secretly begun to discuss creating an independent nation state.

In an act of protest, they had soon formed a secret group or Junta that included several prominent Criollo civil authorities and intellectuals. They began meeting in the homes of the members and then moved their meetings to the Astronomical Observatory, whose director was Francisco José de Caldas.

In the meetings, they devised a plan to provoke a limited and temporary public disturbance or conflict which could then give rise to the overall public feel of discontent with the Royalists of Spain. Their hope was to then take control away from the Spanish.

They chose to stage the event on the 20th of July because it was Market Day (Día del Mercado) and the main Plaza (La Plaza Principal) would be full of common citizens. On that day, a little before noon, Luis de Rubio went to Llorente's store to ask to borrow a flower vase as a decoration for the dinner in honor of Villavicencio. Llorente denied his request explaining that he had let others borrow the vase and they had done damage to the vase and it was losing its value as a result.

At that very moment, Francisco José de Caldas "happened" by in the company of Antonio Morales. They greeted Llorente and then de Rubio began explaining that Llorente wouldn't let him borrow the vase and Morales began yelling toward the people at the square that Llorente was using bad language in referring to Villavicencio and other Criollos. Something that Llorente categorically denied. Meanwhile, the other members of the group began to disperse through the crowded Marketplace yelling things like: "They are insulting the Americans!" "We want our own Junta!" "Down with the government!" "Let the Bonapartes die!" etc. The people in the market began to become enraged. Indians, Mestizos, Criollos, rich and poor began to throw rocks and break windows. The Viceroy, the military, and the Spanish began to worry. The Criollos declared a new government "la Junta de Gobierno" which was to replace the Viceroy.

This was just the beginning -- Colombia's first step toward independence. There were many additional protests, considerable violence, and a war before Colombia would become independent.

While in Bogotá, I recommend that you visit the Museum of the Flower Vase or the House of the 20th of July. Take pictures with your kids and teach them the history of Colombian Independence. It is located on the North/East corner of the Plaza de Bolívar.

Below you will find the information about the museum.

20th of July Museum or the Home of the Flower Vase (Museo el 20 de Julio o Casa del Florero)

Open: Tuesday – Friday 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Saturday & Sunday 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Address: Calle 11 No.6-94, Bogotá

Telephone: 3344150, 3360349

Tours are always available in Spanish. However, I believe you can schedule a tour in English or perhaps other languages prior to your visit.

TUNES FOR TUESDAY -- Los Corraleros de Majagual

2011-07-19T00:01:00.002-06:00

Let's continue with the story of Antonio Fuentes and his Fuentes Music Label. In 1954, Antonio moved his label to Medellín. This was a time when many costeños were moving to cities inland carrying their music with them. It is said that at that time in Bogotá the Catholic church questioned the new fashion and trend of respectable people dancing like blacks. Yet, by the 1960s, Fuentes had become the most important music label in Colombia. Twice a year the label released -- and still does -- its Cañonazos Bailables (Cannon Blast or Explosive Dance Hits), a collection of the best of Musica Costeña of the previous six months which sold like hot cakes throughout Colombia.

Now, Musica Costeña was much more than just the well known cumbia. It also included gaitas, porros, merecumbé, and vallenato. Fuentes created a studio-based, all -star band: Los Corraleros de Majagual who played all the genres. The Corraleros included some of the most well known conteño artists of the time, Lizandro Meza, Alfredo Gutierrez, Eliseo Herrera, and Calixto Ochoa. Both the name of the band and the individual artists mentioned remain household names in Colombia to date. They were the musical pioneers that propelled the Costeño rhythms, and even Salsa music, as we will see, to unprecedented levels of popularity.

So here they are -- Los Corraleros de Majagual singing FESTIVAL EN GUARARE.

Myths for Monday -- La Rodillona

2011-07-18T00:01:00.001-06:00

In Antioquia, and the Eje Cafetero (the Coffee Growing Region) Caldas, Risaralda and Quindio (today's department) there is a myth about an old woman with big knees. Here it is:

La Rodillona (The Woman with Big Knees)

In this area lives a old, wrinkled woman. She has a long, hooked nose, grey hair, and bright, red eyes. Her most recognizable feature are her very large knees. Sometimes, she can be seen on the side of the road holding her head in her lap.

She walks the country roads looking to scare people, particularly lovers. It is said that her laugh is terrifying and devilish.

When she is not out scaring people, she helps them lose their way on dark nights.

Your only protection against the Rodillona is to have a screaming baby -- apparently this is the only thing more scary than she is. :)

Colombia Hosts Mundial Sub-20

2011-07-14T00:01:00.000-06:00

The Under 20 World Cup is being hosted by COLOMBIA from July 29-August 20.

Colombia is in group A and will be playing the initial rounds against France, Mali, and Korea. If you are in Colombia, you can catch some of the games. Team Colombia will be playing in Bogotá on July 30th at El Campín against France. They play again on August 2nd against Mali. Their final match in the group stage of the tournament will be on August 8th against Korea.

Other matches are being held in Medellín, Armenia, Cali, Pereira, Manizales, Cartagena and Barranquilla. FYI, the USA did not qualify. But, here is a link to the other games:

http://www.fifa.com/u20worldcup/matches/index.html

Wednesdays Wonders: Tacaho

2011-07-13T00:01:00.004-06:00

Here is a recipe that is common not only in Putumayo but throughout the Amazon.

Tacacho

Ingredients

5 Green Plantains, boiled for 20 minutes and then mashed

Salt to taste.

1 Tablespoon lard
1/4 pound chicharrón (pork skin) in small pieces, if unavailable use bacon crumbles or ham chunks -- all precooked
1-2 Tablespoons finely diced onion

Instructions

Mix all ingredients together. Then, make it into balls from golf to baseball size. Some people eat the balls this way. Other recipes suggest that you fry them in oil or bake them in the oven.

TUNES FOR TUESDAY -- Discos Fuentes

2011-07-12T00:01:00.005-06:00

I think we have established quite well that Fania Records greatly influenced the development and recognition of Salsa music as a genre. But, how does all this connect with Colombia? Well, that's our next topic. Bear with me because we are going to go back in time again as we search for the intersection of Salsa Music with Colombian music.

This story begins in la Costa, the Colombian Caribbean coastal area, where the historic cities of Santa Marta, Barranquilla, and Cartagena are located. From these port cities, the slave trade spread the African musical influence throughout the region. Here in the Caribbean Region of Colombia, African music continued to evolve, mix, and change until it eventually spun out cumbia and vallenato among other rhythms.

It was in Cartagena that Antonio Fuentes was born to his wealthy parents in 1907. In 1920, Antonio was sent to the United States to finish High School. Apparently, during a break from his studies, Antonio visited Philadelphia's RCA studios. There he saw music being recorded and pressed to cylinders and the original 78 rpm vinyl discs.

Antonio was so impressed and inspired by what he saw that upon his return to Cartagena, he established a radio station, Emisora Fuentes, in 1932. Two years later, in 1934, he founded the iconic Discos Fuentes record label. Colombians old enough to remember vinyl records will remember the traditional yellow label. Colombians not old enough, just ask your parents or grandparents, or look around the room where the equipo de sonido is kept, you will find one.

Anyway, with his record label and radio station, Antonio Fuentes began introducing his growing audience to costal rural traditional rhythms such as mapalé and porro. This is remarkable because Colombian musical mainstream up to that point had favored rhythms that had a more European pedigree, namely bambucos and pasillos. These European based rhythms were also the music of the white elites who ruled the country from the cold altiplanos of the interior. Thus, Antonio Fuentes' station and label, ushered the beginning of the Costeño music invasion that would overtake the entire country of Colombia.

Let's pause here to sample a Mapalé. This is perhaps the fastest of Colombian folkloric dances, which is a very important fact in our story, as we shall see. . . This one is performed by street dancers in Cartagena.

Myths for Monday -- The Churumbelo

2011-07-11T00:01:00.004-06:00

The Churumbelo area is found near Mocoa, in the department of Putumayo -- today's department. In the Churumbelo area are many waterfalls. On the highest part of one of the falls, a family from the Inga tribe left inscriptions on the rocks. The Churumbelo is legendary for the people of Mocoa. This legend gives us today's Myth for Monday.

La Leyenda Churumbelo -- The Churumbelo Legend

The legend tells of a water fall that cascades into a lagoon. At the bottom of the lagoon one can see a doll the size of a child made of solid gold. Many people have gone looking for the Chumubelo gold, but the spirit that lives there -- the god of the mountain -- makes the treasure hunters become lost or entangled in the jungle. In this way, he can't prevent them from ever being able to find the lagoon with the golden treasure.

Orden de Boyacá -- Highest Colombian Honor

2011-07-07T00:01:00.000-06:00

The first military decoration in Colombia was created in 1819 and given to those who stood out participated in the Battle of Boyacá. This award was then forgotten for a century. Then in 1919, the government of Marco Fidel Suarez reestablished the award as a military decoration.

In 1922, a decree established that the "Cruz de Boyacá" (Cross of Boyacá) could be awarded not only to military leaders, but also to foreign dignitaries.

In 1930, Decree #1247, converted the Cruz de Boyacá into the "Orden de Boyacá" (Order of Boyacá). This new Orden de Boyacá could be awarded to not only the military, but also to civilians. There are several classes in the order, but in order to win the award in any class the person must have offered outstanding service to Colombia.

This week it was announced that a WOMAN -- Yvonee Nicholls -- will be receiving the award at the ceremony in August. You can read about her here:

http://www.eltiempo.com/gente/yvonne-nicholls-recibira-la-cruz-de-boyaca-_9757264-4

Wednesday's Wonders: Papas Chorreadas -- Smothered Potatoes

2011-07-06T00:01:00.000-06:00

PAPAS CHORREADAS -- Smothered Potatoes

INGREDIENTS

12 small lightly salted boiled potatoes (with or without skin)
½ cup chopped onion
1 cup diced tomatoes
½ Tablespoon butter
1 Tablespoon oil
¼ teaspoon salt (this can be optional)
¼ teaspoon pepper
3 Tablespoons milk
1 Tablespoon flour dissolved in the milk
1 teaspoon chicken broth granules (I use Herb Ox) dissolved in the milk

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Fry the onion in the butter and oil.
2. When it begins to brown add the tomatoes, salt and pepper.
3. Cook for 5 minutes
4. Add flour milk mixture and allow to thicken.
5. Place the sauce over the potatoes and serve.

TUNES FOR TUESDAY -- El Día de mi Suerte

2011-07-05T08:20:00.003-06:00

Last week we discussed Hector Lavoe and his contribution to the world of Salsa. Before moving on, here is one more Lavoe song that should be a part of anyone's Salsa collection: El Día de mi Suerte -- My Lucky Day. The lyrics tell the story of a boy for whom nothing ever goes right. His mother dies leaving him alone with his father, then his father dies, he needs to work to eat, he grows up and finds himself totally alone. In spite of all of his problems, he maintains the belief that his luck will change, but Cuando Será (When will it happen)

The chorus states:

Pronto llegará el día de mi suerte

Sé que antes de mi muerte

Seguro que mi suerte cambiará.

Soon my lucky day will come,

Before I die, I am sure

That my luck will change.

/div>

Myths for Monday: Man's Arrival to Earth

2011-07-04T00:01:00.001-06:00

The Indigenous people known as the Barí (also known as the Motilones) live on the boarder between Colombia and Venezuela on the Catatumbo river in the Department of Norte Santander. There are just over 3,000 members of the tribe. For nearly 400 years, they managed to resist colonization. Then in the 20th century, oil companies began to drill for petroleum on their lands. As a result, roads were built into the area and people began to move into the region. The reaction of the indigenous peoples was violent and there were many violent confrontations up through the 1960's. In an attempt to help pacify the Indians, missionaries in the area intensified their work and eventually the violence subsided.

Today's myth comes to us from the Barí -- and you science fiction fans will love this one.

Sent From Another Planet

The ancestors say that the Barí originally inhabited another planet. Unfortunately, they were not good stewards of that planet. They destroyed it through deforestation and other unsustainable practices. God, upon seeing this, was worried for his children. He began to look for another place for his children to dwell.

After observing many planets, he found one very special one. It was 3/4ths part water, and the land was covered with rich vegetation.

Happy with his find, he ordered all of his children to cut their hair, which was very long. Using the hair, he made a long braid. The braid was so long that it reached from one planet to the other. The end of the braid on the Earth side was on top of the Bobalí hill (in Convención, Norte de Santander). It was there that the first interplanetary travelers arrived.

Baby Abandoned

2011-06-30T00:01:00.004-06:00

Report from yesterday's newspaper "El Tiempo":

"A hermaphrodite child was abandoned at a hospital in Chinchiná, Caldas. According to personnel from the Colombian Institute of Family Welfare (ICBF) at the Risaralda regional office, the child was born a month and a half ago and suffers from multiple complications.

She has already been operated on in order to define her gender, however, she is still receiving oxygen and is using a feeding tube.

The ICBF psychologist in charge of the case stated that the child was registered with the name María José. Her mother was a sex worker in the area and has already manifested her desire to place the baby for adoption because she cannot take responsibility for the child.

As a measure for the reestablishment of the child's rights, she in now under the care of a foster mother who has been receiving training as to how to care for the child when she leaves the hospital."

Clearly, if María José eventually receives a declaration of adoptability in the next few months, she will be added to the list of over 8,000 children that are available for adoption, but have some sort of special need. Is there a reader of this blog that would consider adopting a child like María José?

Wednesdays Wonders: Helado de Paila

2011-06-29T00:01:00.000-06:00

Here is an interesting little piece of trivia. The Pasto Indians have been enjoying ice cream (well more like sherbet) for centuries. The natives used ice from the Cerro Cumbal (see Monday's Myth) and mixed it with salt. Then they would place a paila (a container) made of copper in the ice. The paila was filled with small portions of the recipe below. Then, it would be constantly stirred until it hardened.

Ingredients without milk:

1 quart of fruit pulp any kind you like -- mango, passion fruit, blackberry, etc.

1 cup sugar

2 egg whites

Ingredients with milk:

1 1/2 cups sugar

3 large eggs
3 cups cream
1 1/4 cups fruit pulp

If you don't have ice from a mountain or a copper pot, you can try an ice cream maker. Then, check out this video.

TUNES FOR TUESDAY - El Cantante

2011-06-27T19:27:00.002-06:00

When speaking the words Salsa music, Fania, and Puerto Rico, the name of Hector Lavoe immediately comes to mind. We are about to move on from the Fania era of Salsa, but before we do, we have to dedicate one entry to "El Cantante", The Singer.

He was born in 1946 and his actual name was Hector Juan Perez Martinez. Why Lavoe, then? Well, I'm pretty sure the origin of Lavoe is this: Hector had a great voice, unique in the world of Salsa. His friends would call him Hector La Voz, Hector The Voice. Now, if you are from the Caribbean, there's no need to pronounce the "s" sound at the end of any word, (so La Voz turned into La Vo), and if you have a catchy nickname like that and you move to New York, you have to Anglicize it, hence, LaVoe, Lavoe.

Soon after he moved to New York in 1967, Hector met Willie Colón and Fania. Over the next ten years, the three on them produced the albums that would solidify Salsa music as a genre. But Willie had a hard time keeping up with Hector's fast lane life style. At the same time, while Colón and Lavoe continued to collaborate, Fania began pushing them to become solo artists.

Eventually, Hector's career stalled and his life took a tragic turn. His mother-in-law and his son died. He fractured his legs when he jumped out the window of his burning apartment. He became even more entangled with drugs. Before a concert in 1988, he jumped out the window of his Hotel. The 10 story fall did not kill him, but rendered him unable to sing again. He died of AIDS in New York in 1993.

At some point, in an attempt to help Hector Lavoe jumpstart his career, Rubén Blades gave him a song he had written: El Cantante. Ironically, this would become Hector's best known song. It is a story about a lonely famous star who battles his loneliness off stage. "I am the singer, very popular everywhere, but when the show ends, I am just another human being . . . Today I am here to give you the best of my songs. . . . And no one ever wonders if inside I suffer or cry . .."

Myths for Monday -- The Pasto Version of Creation

2011-06-27T00:01:00.002-06:00

One of the indigenous peoples of today's department, Nariño, will offer us their version of creation today. The indigenous group is the Pastos.

Cumbe -- the First Father

The stories that relate the creation of man tell how man came from the marriage of elements with opposite qualities -- up and down, inside and out, and the symmetrical and asymmetrical. This confluence of qualities occurred with the marriage of a hill called Cumbal and a lake called Bolsa. In the area that unites the hill and the lake called the Piedra de los Guacamullos, a container made of clay was found. In that container was found the first man and woman. The man was the Cacique Cumbe and his wife. It was from them that all men descended.

When Cumbe died, he was returned to the Cumbal. It is from that hill that he continues to watch over his people. It is from that hill that he has promised to return.