On a saturday afternoon in 1943, the Paricutin Volcano, in the highlands of Michoacan, sprung up beginning with a small crack beneath a man´s feet (who amazingly lived to tell the tale).  Within 9 years it was a full sized volcano.  For the first couple of days after the earth began spewing lava, covering a church, the local folks thought the end of the world had come.  Then, on the following Monday, 3 scientists arrived from Guadalajara, and announced that it was the birth of a volcano.

The church surrounded by lava flow (and a Griffin in the bottom right corner).

Amazingly the altar of the church remained unsathed.  Next to it reads a sign that says, ´The Volcano Respected this Altar´.  People continue to use the altar.



Turns out the Molcajete is good for grinding coffee too!  Thanks for the coffee Rob!



Last day in Ticla we all piled into the truck and went to watch the local kids play soccer in a tournament. (Above: Erwin, Wendy & Navidad)



Frida Kahlo commemorated on a 500 dollar bill... take note United States!  I´d love to see a female artist on an American bill.  I think I´ll have to spec that one up for the Department of Treasury.

Mexican Rodeo!  Yes those are kids watching bull riding from the rails.