Ano Viejo-The Old Year

Poor Widow

After spending Christmas with family in Orlando, Justin and I returned to Quito on the afternoon of the 31^st.  And while we were still heartbroken over losing Howie, we were determined to try to start the New Year off on a positive note.

I’ll admit that last year I think we were both a little too shy to get in on the traditional Ano Nuevo celebrations – burning effigies in the streets, paying alms to the men in drag (symbolic widows of the Ano Nuevos) harassing cars at street corners. But this time we dove right in. First, I picked up a bottle of champagne from the duty free store in the airport. Next, we walked down to the corner to purchase an Ano Viejo.

This is a stuffed doll effigy with paper mache face that is supposed to symbolize the old year. The faces on these things are all slightly terrifying, and the fact that their bodies are made of what appear to be old infant clothing is a dad unsettling. However, we picked an ugly old hag doll, paid $5 and then returned home.

Creepiest Shopping Experience Ever

Next we scouted out a good patch of sidewalk to set this thing on fire. Armed with Ano Viejo and two plastic cups of cheap champagne, we set off. Justin spent about 15 minutes trying set this thing ablaze. Finally, we had to tear holes into the onesie it was wearing and light some of the shredded newspaper stuffing inside. After much ado it finally started to burn. We sat on the curb sipping our champagne and watching the flames.

a lighter, our

Got One!

Next it was time to make an affirmation for the New Year and as is Ecuadorian custom, to jump over the Ano Viejo as it burns. We thought about the loved ones we lost in 2015. Though they may no longer be with us on this earth, we know they live on in Eternity and in our hearts, stories, and memories.

And with that, we jumped over the old year and landed with two feet into the New.

Leave 2015 Behind