Feliz Cumpleanos from Venezuela!

Ricardo's family went above and beyond this year for Alexander's birthday. They rented a huge house with a pool and lots of fun things to do for 2 whole days. All of his family came out to celebrate which included lots of eating, drinking, singing, dancing, game playing, and fun for everyone. Alexander's Godfather and Ricardo's best friend Carl and his fiance were in tow which was so great for everyone. We haven't seen most of them since the last time we went there which was 4 years ago. They are all so warm and welcoming that you just can't help but feel like one of them...even if your blond haired and blue eyed. :) Alexander's Madrina did all of the decorations, ordered the cake, and set it all up for him which was beyond amazing. The pinata was full size and the cake...it was gormet! Some of the decorations were hand made like the balloons and the posters. She did Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles on everything! The kids had the best time. And, Ricardo's Abuela Mieta was there to celebrate with us which was really special for Ricardo. He loves her very much and we never know how long Mieta will be around since she's near 90 and is a bit fraile. She's just a sweety though and we're so thankful to have seen her on this trip!

Dinner at Madrina Grice's House

Last Thursday we headed to Ricardo's cousin Gri's house to have dinner with her, her husband Conan, and their son Danillo and Ricard's Aunt and Uncle. Their house is so nice! It's in a secured neighborhood and it's obvious they care very much for their home and the yard. Alexander was stoked as soon as we told him they had a dog! Gri is Alexander's Godmother and in Venezuela Alexander calls her Madrina Grice (pronounced gr-eye with a rolled R of course). Alexander got lots of cool gifts and so did we. I'm not sure why I didn't get one picture if Grice or Danillo!  Ricardo's family is the best! Don't get me started on the food...YUM! 

Happy Birthday Little Manny

Alexander turned 5 today! I can hardly believe that 5 years ago today he was born into our lives. God has certainly blessed us with this silly, smart, funny, talented, sweet little boy. Each day with Alexander is a blessing and a welcomed challenge. We love you little manny!!!

A day with the fam

Our second day in Valencia was spent with some if Ricardo's family eating and walking in the park which was super fun. We are at a great Chinese place and for 9 people it cost around $35! Can you believe that??? We hadn't met little Santiago (or Santi as get call him) so that was pretty great for us. He's such a cutie. He insists on wearing a superman cape everywhere he goes. Sometimes he only answers to Superman! After lunch we headed to the park. 

The squirrels and pigeons like to be hand fed which was so cool. I took some photos of the huge Bamboo that grows in the parks. They take VERY good care of their parks. I can tell you that I have never in my life seen a cleaner and more up to date park bathroom in my life! 

Sorie (sore-e-a), Santiago (little guy), and Wilfredo (Ricardo's cousin) 

Wilfredo's dad (Ricardo's Uncle Wifredo or Tio Will)

Juana (Tio Wifredos girlfriend) feeding the pigeons and squirrels with Tio Will and Wilfredito. 

Goodbye Curacao

Venezuela Day One

We arrived in Valencia (Ricardo's home town) on the 8th at about 8pm. The flight from Curacao to Valencia is like 40 minutes so it was quick and easy. We were of course greeted by not only his mom but his uncle and his girlfriend which was great. The warmth of the Latin culture can be overwhelming if you don't know what to expect. It's not like what most people have ever seen. Like Ricardo said, if he let them, there would have been 50 people at he airport to welcome us. No joke! Alexander was extremely excited to see his Abuela and eat his favorite aripitas especial...special aripas which are like little cornmeal cakes boiled and eaten with butter and Parmesan cheese. He said he was going to eat them for breakfast, snack, lunch, and dinner! Ha!!!

Venezuela 2013

For those of you following our blog while we're on the South American tour, I will post pics as soon as possible. I've had a bit of trouble using Wifi down here but thankfully I can still text. HA!

Last day in Curacao

He went from awake to passed out in 5 minutes. I guess 90 degree weather and marathon swims with his new friend Eve will do that to a boy! 

Local cuisine

Goats meat, chicken, rice, plantains...yum!

Just another Monday on the beach...

Dinner on the beach!

Sunday in Curaçao

While we may be eating cereal out of hotel cups, it doesn't take away from 10 hours of straight uninterrupted sleep and drinking coffee on a balcony overlooking this...