Our Cuban Mission in pictures.

Josh and I were lucky enough to be involved in a religious mission to Cuba recently. What we learned was these people are hard working, friendly, extremely creative, unbelievably industrious  and hopeful. They do not cook spicy foods, most do not have cell phones and they sustain a life on very little outside help. They believe in education for everyone. But a bellman makes more in a day than a doctor does in a month. I left with a great sense that the new leadership is helping them become a more modern independent society, little by little.


Che' is everywhere.

His monument is as big as he is.

The cars are insane. Every American model pre-58. In all shapes and sizes and varies states of decay. Josh channels Dean Martin in front of one at the Hotel Riviera. 

This one in Trinidad was waiting for the wedding party inside the church.

On the way to the beach, in our 37 Ford convertible.

The red Chevy took us around Havana.

Lots of other transportation is available in Havana.
Street cab/bicycle.

The bubble taxi.

And in the countryside. The horse draw taxi.

The buildings are amazing. All, as well, in states of decay. But just beautifully colored with paint, or graffiti or laundry.

A home in the very poor interior. Walking his goat.

Ahhh, yes the graffiti and the art in Cuba was pretty amazing. I was very excited about seeing it and it did not disappoint. So much. Just a small collection here.

Yes, Josh and I purchased some art, too.

I heart Cuba!

We went to the Cuban Ballet. So perfect. The music monotone and repetitive, but to see what the dancers could do together, how chaotic, but united. Was Cuba.

I guess you can't be a tourist in Havana and not go to the Tropicana. So, we did. I did not have very high expectations, as I have been to the Krewe of St. Ann in the French Quarter at Mardi Gras, most of my adult life. I have seen many queens in very little clothes with extra large headdresses parade around to music before. But, I have to say, it was a great time and great show. Bottle of rum for everyone.

The  street music in Cuba is astoundingly good. There was always a group in every restaurant we went to. Playing the crowd and selling CDs of their music. Josh became a favorite among them for purchasing said CDs. Probably because he was such a willing participant. Needless to say, we came home with a fine selection.

Guitar Hero of Cuba.

A few of my favorites of people and places and street life. Increible o Fabuloso!

The beach at Santa Maria. 20 minutes outside Havana. Totally untouched.

Teri T takes it all in.

Vegetable street vendor in old Havana.

Street parade. So patriotic.

The kids are dressed in colored uniforms by grade level.

Men and their chickens.

The baseball park, where Cubans get together and debate American baseball. Josh gave out baseball cards one day.



Waiting for the party.

Baskets for 2 Cucs.

Josh's cigar friend.

Cuban McDonald's.

This way.

A rainy colored day.

The Jewish cemetery in Santa Clara.

View from the Revolutionary Museum.

The Cuban bus stop. No bus is coming. but hopefully there will be a cart or bicycle willing to take them where they need to go.

At the Jewish Tempe in Havana.



Work, study, defend.

The funniest thing our guide said when we asked where we could get a Cuban Sandwich was, "In Cuba, it's just called a sandwich." Josh having one here.

Viva Cuba!!