Writingpatino's Blog

About: Mary Olivia Patiño

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That Friday began auspiciously as I drove through colorful downtown to the Centro Museo Alameda. Just the name of the museo, Alameda, brings nostalgia. I felt like a seasoned tourist as I passed several vacationers, taking in the delicious sights and smells of freshly baked pan dulce and reposteria at Mi Tierra, while staving off the desire to taste as I walked through the restaurant. Stepping outside I took a photo of the vibrantly beckoning market wares, knowing the framed 'sacred' image of La Virgencita, surrounded by countless souvenirs in a stall, will continue to inspire me. So began my first meeting of the day with the director of Regalo Gift Shop and Botannica at the Museo. This first encounter promised an opportunity to collaborate with a presentation on my upcoming book and documentary on sacred spaces. Yes, a good beginning. After the interview, seated next to other hungry guests at the counter at Mi Tierra, with my plate of calabazita, rice and beans, I was in 7th heaven. I could not help but remember that moment, when as a child, I sat in that same restaurant at another counter. While my mother, 'la guera' (as she was called), moved gracefully among tables, setting down glasses of water or cups of coffee, I'd sit with my two sisters. My task: to dry the newly washed glasses. Occasionally, a diner would give me a dime for a 'tip'. As I ate, I looked up at several historic photos lining the walls, hoping to see my mother in her younger days; but no, her face did not look back at me. That's okay-the image of mi mama, pencil behind her ear, carrying heavy trays filled with delicious plates of huevos rancheros, chilaquiles, papas, frijoles y salsa and hot tortillas is still alive in my memory! How did she do, I wonder? How could she carry such heavy trays? I think of that, once in awhile, when I see her hands shaking a little, now in her later years. The above images sit in my 'niche' of memories. They are an indelible part of who I am.

Posts by Mary Olivia Patiño:

• July 9, 2011 “Great are the works of the Lord, exquisite in all their delights.” Ps 111:2

• July 9, 2011 Jackie Mendez at Las Mujeres Despedida

• July 9, 2011 Dolores Cortinas reads her humorous response to a writing prompt. Las Mujeres Despedida.

• January 11, 2011 A memory shared brings a tangy zest to life.

• January 11, 2011

• January 11, 2011 A cup of tea and warm memories

• January 11, 2011 Our stories age with the wisdom of centuries.

• January 11, 2011 Writing with Angels

• January 11, 2011 A restful place in the countryside

• November 10, 2009 Creative Writing Opportunities

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