I was so excited to receive a July invitation to a Fiesta de Quinceanera for Miss Isabelle. Isabelle, is the younger sister of my friend and former colleague Nellie.
The fiesta marks a girl's transition into womanhood. What a beautiful purpose for a party. In my culture the world moves so swiftly often times without much pause to recognize and savor important moments. For my friends daughters we wrote them letters expressing gratitude for their past and hope for their future. I gave Isabelle a note too, and a pretty necklace.
Little salt shakers were dressed to look like the celebrated 15 year old.
The excellent escort Brody helped to meet guests, danced with the lovely Isabelle and danced with the guests and patrons of the party. Some of the patrons bought food, the cake, dress etc. I loved the communities contribution to the celebration.
There was excellent foods, seasoned pork, tamales, green beans, refried beans, carrot corn salad, fruit, and flavored waters.
My favorite by far was rice water that was slightly spiced with cinnamon.
There were two cakes with a bridge connecting the two. I imagine the bridge symbolized the crossing from childhood to womanhood.
Here I am with Sara (also from Marshalls) and Nellie. Sara's husband Joe likes to dance, but Sara doesn't. I danced it up with Joe. It made me so happy!
There were many special touches. Isabelle's father and brother carried around totes filled with ice sodas, and beers. A mariachi band played 15 songs and left for another party and then a DJ played Latin and contemporary music. There was a dance for the patrons. And then there was a dance that circle around Isabelle and Brody while they danced with guests. It seemed tribal to me and it seemed filled with petitions for blessings on Isabelle.
Great times!
