9.30.2024
Bailando Caporales Yo Me Conoci
Allillanchu!
It's been a while since I've posted on this blog...but I wish to give my readers a big virtual hug and I hope everything has been well! And if it hasn't - it's okay, because we all have our ups and downs but there's always a way to stand up after we fall. I've acquired a new hobby that I've been longing to do for a long time, and after several years of being too shy to do so, I finally did it and it has CHANGED MY LIFE!
What strikes me most is how dance brings together Peruvians from all walks of life. Whether it's fellow Peruvian-Americans like myself, those who immigrated at a young age, or recent arrivals, we all share a common desire: to stay connected to our roots. Through Caporales, we've found a powerful way to express our heritage and keep our Peruvian identity alive in a new land.
Every performance is more than just a dance; it's a representation of the towns in Peru where Caporales is cherished. As we move to the rhythm, we're not just entertaining – we're embodying the passion and traditions of our ancestors. This connection to our homeland is palpable, creating a bridge between our lives here and our cultural origins.
But it's not just about the dance. Our gatherings are a celebration of all things Peruvian. We share stories in our native Spanish, savoring the familiar sounds of home. We indulge in traditional Peruvian cuisine, each bite a reminder of family gatherings and childhood memories. Our customs and traditions, preserved and practiced, become a living link to Peru.
These experiences have shown me the incredible resilience and unity of immigrant communities. Despite the challenges of adapting to a new country, we've created a home away from home. Through dance, language, food, and shared experiences, we've built a community that honors our past while embracing our present.
As I continue my journey in Caporales, I'm filled with pride and gratitude. Pride in my Peruvian heritage, and gratitude for this beautiful community that keeps our culture thriving across generations and borders. In every step and every beat, we dance not just for ourselves, but for the spirit of Peru that lives on in each of us. This dance has changed my life, changed me...BAILANDO CAPORALES YO ME CONOCI.
10.10.2017 / family, futbol, mundial, new zealand, peru, peruvian, peruvian-american, russia, russia 2018, soccer, world cup
Hoy Es El Dia
Buenas noches a todos,
Today is the day...hoy es el día. I've been my father's soccer watching companion for as long as I can remember, my earliest memory being the 1998 World Cup in France. Through soccer we've created a special bond that's so dear to me and that I'm sure many of you can relate to. That's the beauty of soccer, it's power to unite and instantly turn your day from a bad one to the best one in a manner of seconds. It's power to make us feel home despite being thousands of miles away.
Just like the Peruvians at home, we've suffered through the lows like when Peru missed the World Cup in 1997 by a difference of one goal and screamed our hearts in the highs like when Peru tied the Argentina game in 2010 in the last few minutes, a game they didn't deserve to lose.
Right now Peruvians all over the world are all united, with butterflies in our stomachs thinking about this paramount game. A game that can bring us back to the world cup after 35 years. Win or lose I know I will fall into my father's arms with tears in my eyes of happiness. Of happiness of all the wonderful moments this soccer team has brought us and the immense pride we have to wear the Blanquirroja today.
Que viva el Peru carajo!
Buenas noches a todos,
Hoy es el día que todos hemos esperado. Desde pequeña he sido la que acompañaba a mi papá por las mañanas para ver partidos de fútbol, como una fiel hincha. Mis recuerdos más tempranas son la de la Copa Mundial de Francia de 1998. A través del fútbol mi papá y yo hemos creado una relación muy cercana y especial para mi, y esa es la belleza del fútbol, su poder para unir y instantáneamente cambiar tu día de uno malo a uno bueno en solo unos segundos. Su poder de hacerme sentir en Perú aunque este miles de millas de distancia.
Igual a los Peruanos en casa, nosotros también hemos sufrido cuando perdimos la clasificación al mundial del 1998 por una diferencia de un gol. Y también hemos llorado de la emoción cuando Peru hizo un gol en el último minuto empatando a Argentina en el 2010, un partido que no merecimos perder.
Hoy Peruanos en todo el mundo estamos unido, no importa en qué partes del mundo estemos. Con mariposas en el estomago y con un nudo en la garganta pensando en este partido tan decisivo. El partido que nos podría regresar a un mundial después de 35 años. Ganen o pierdan, se que está noche con lágrimas en los ojos abrazare a mi padre de felicidad. De felicidad de todos los grandes momentos que nos ha brindado este equipo y con inmenso orgullo de vestir la blanquirroja nuevamente.
Que viva el Peru carajo!
Today is the day...hoy es el día. I've been my father's soccer watching companion for as long as I can remember, my earliest memory being the 1998 World Cup in France. Through soccer we've created a special bond that's so dear to me and that I'm sure many of you can relate to. That's the beauty of soccer, it's power to unite and instantly turn your day from a bad one to the best one in a manner of seconds. It's power to make us feel home despite being thousands of miles away.
Just like the Peruvians at home, we've suffered through the lows like when Peru missed the World Cup in 1997 by a difference of one goal and screamed our hearts in the highs like when Peru tied the Argentina game in 2010 in the last few minutes, a game they didn't deserve to lose.
Right now Peruvians all over the world are all united, with butterflies in our stomachs thinking about this paramount game. A game that can bring us back to the world cup after 35 years. Win or lose I know I will fall into my father's arms with tears in my eyes of happiness. Of happiness of all the wonderful moments this soccer team has brought us and the immense pride we have to wear the Blanquirroja today.
Que viva el Peru carajo!
Buenas noches a todos,
Hoy es el día que todos hemos esperado. Desde pequeña he sido la que acompañaba a mi papá por las mañanas para ver partidos de fútbol, como una fiel hincha. Mis recuerdos más tempranas son la de la Copa Mundial de Francia de 1998. A través del fútbol mi papá y yo hemos creado una relación muy cercana y especial para mi, y esa es la belleza del fútbol, su poder para unir y instantáneamente cambiar tu día de uno malo a uno bueno en solo unos segundos. Su poder de hacerme sentir en Perú aunque este miles de millas de distancia.
Igual a los Peruanos en casa, nosotros también hemos sufrido cuando perdimos la clasificación al mundial del 1998 por una diferencia de un gol. Y también hemos llorado de la emoción cuando Peru hizo un gol en el último minuto empatando a Argentina en el 2010, un partido que no merecimos perder.
Hoy Peruanos en todo el mundo estamos unido, no importa en qué partes del mundo estemos. Con mariposas en el estomago y con un nudo en la garganta pensando en este partido tan decisivo. El partido que nos podría regresar a un mundial después de 35 años. Ganen o pierdan, se que está noche con lágrimas en los ojos abrazare a mi padre de felicidad. De felicidad de todos los grandes momentos que nos ha brindado este equipo y con inmenso orgullo de vestir la blanquirroja nuevamente.
Que viva el Peru carajo!
9.16.2017 / daca, dreams, familiy, here to stay, immigrants, immigration, peru, peruvian-american, undocumedia, warriors
Mis Guerreros!
¿ Imaynalla kachkanki?
Yes, I have been MIA from my beloved blog and readers but I have a pretty good excuse, I got a new job over the summer that has been taking up most of mental energy and well in terms of physical energy, I've become immersed in different activities that have kept me exhausted. I decided to try kickboxing and I ended up loving it more than I imagined, it's an amazing way to get in shape and let out all that stress! I've also decided to try Colombian salsa and Brazilian samba classes after contemplating it for a while and they're both dances that require very quick feet movement. These are all things that bring me immense happiness and I've lately just been doing things that bring value to my life. No one will care or push you through your internal fears more than YOURSELF so always remember, to TREAT YO' SELF!
On that note, my blog has always been in the back of my mind, and now more than ever with what's been going on in the past few weeks with DACA. You guys are going through a difficult time and I would like to share a quote to anyone going through difficult times:
Life in general, the life of an immigrant and being part of an immigrant family is one filled with many obstacles but think about all that we've gone through until this moment. Find strength in all the times you 've pushed yourself through the lows of your life and overcame them. You know what is something we all have grasped from these painful experiences? We. get. through. them. Fate puts these experiences in our lives to make us stronger and wiser...guerreros, warriors.
This may sound cliche but my parents are my heroes. When I'm in a situation where everything just seems dark and it's impossible to get out, I think of all that my parents have done to get to where they are now. Our parents didn't have the option to say "It's impossible" when they got here, there was no turning back. These experiences gave us the thick skin and perseverent mindsets that have made us unstoppable.
Achieving a dream never comes easy, and for those who do have DACA and for those that didn't qualify, the path is not as smooth and filled with bumps along the road, but never lose faith and get to the finish line. The plan you originally had may not work but change the plan, not the goal.
If you need anyone to talk to for some uplifting, I without a doubt am all ears and you can email me or send me a message through my instagram; kay_monge
Also, application fees are very expensive ($495) and by going to Undocumedia's page you can help sponsor a DACA beneficiary!
To donate, click here
And to see what other ways you can support the #HeretoStay efforts, click here
With much love and support,
Karen
Yes, I have been MIA from my beloved blog and readers but I have a pretty good excuse, I got a new job over the summer that has been taking up most of mental energy and well in terms of physical energy, I've become immersed in different activities that have kept me exhausted. I decided to try kickboxing and I ended up loving it more than I imagined, it's an amazing way to get in shape and let out all that stress! I've also decided to try Colombian salsa and Brazilian samba classes after contemplating it for a while and they're both dances that require very quick feet movement. These are all things that bring me immense happiness and I've lately just been doing things that bring value to my life. No one will care or push you through your internal fears more than YOURSELF so always remember, to TREAT YO' SELF!
On that note, my blog has always been in the back of my mind, and now more than ever with what's been going on in the past few weeks with DACA. You guys are going through a difficult time and I would like to share a quote to anyone going through difficult times:
Tough times don't last, tough people DO
- Robert H. Schuller
Life in general, the life of an immigrant and being part of an immigrant family is one filled with many obstacles but think about all that we've gone through until this moment. Find strength in all the times you 've pushed yourself through the lows of your life and overcame them. You know what is something we all have grasped from these painful experiences? We. get. through. them. Fate puts these experiences in our lives to make us stronger and wiser...guerreros, warriors.
This may sound cliche but my parents are my heroes. When I'm in a situation where everything just seems dark and it's impossible to get out, I think of all that my parents have done to get to where they are now. Our parents didn't have the option to say "It's impossible" when they got here, there was no turning back. These experiences gave us the thick skin and perseverent mindsets that have made us unstoppable.
Achieving a dream never comes easy, and for those who do have DACA and for those that didn't qualify, the path is not as smooth and filled with bumps along the road, but never lose faith and get to the finish line. The plan you originally had may not work but change the plan, not the goal.
If you need anyone to talk to for some uplifting, I without a doubt am all ears and you can email me or send me a message through my instagram; kay_monge
Also, application fees are very expensive ($495) and by going to Undocumedia's page you can help sponsor a DACA beneficiary!
To donate, click here
And to see what other ways you can support the #HeretoStay efforts, click here
With much love and support,
Karen
-The Chic Engiruvian
4.05.2017 / flooding, huaicos, immigrants, mocoa, natural disasters, new york, peru, somosperu, unasolafuerza
Peru & Colombia Need You
Rimaykullayki everyone,
It is my hope that through this medium I inspire or motivate at least one person to go out and donate to these causes. Every little bit counts and every little bit can make a change.
I hope everyone's been having a productive and not so stressful week so far, and if you are, you got this! In NYC its been raining a lot these past few days which is normal during this time of the year but in Peru and Colombia, its been raining more than usual. Due to global warming and the cycle of El Niño, countries like Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru have been suffering from heavy rains that have lead to flooding and mudslides. In Peru we refer to these effects as huaicos and while our April showers are bringing May flowers, the torrential rains in these countries have been devastating, killing hundreds of people and leaving thousands upon thousands of families homeless with no food or water and susceptible to diseases. This is the worst Peru and Colombia have experienced in terms of natural disasters in many years and both governments didn't expect and weren't ready for the level of damage these huaicos have left.
Every morning for the past few weeks I've been following what's been going on in the northern part of Peru, the one most affected by the huaicos. Cities like Piura, Lambayeque, Trujillo and districts like Chosica that are near rivers have been greatly affected and the floods have brought diseases from the carcasses of animals in the roads which puts those living on the streets in greater danger. In terms of numbers, almost 1 million citizens have been affected by these huaicos, leaving over 130,000 homeless and about 100 dead. Through all the pain, there have been beautiful acts of humanity that have inspired the entire nation.
 |
| Edgar Humberto Álvarez. the Colombian artist of this inspiring work. |
On Sunday, Mocoa, a city in the southern part of Colombia near the borders of Peru and Ecuador, suffered from heavy rains that led to a huge landslide of mud that has left over 250 dead so far. Half the city of Mocoa was affected, leaving thousands without a home, damaged infrastructures, no access to electricity, gas, telephone, and sadly, many looking for loved ones. This tragedy happened quickly and unexpectedly which is why there's many missing now.
 |
| Mocoa, Colombia |
It's heartbreaking to see so many suffering and I know it's sometimes difficult to figure out how one can help being far away. I've been reading and talking to family in Peru and a friend from Colombia on how we can help. Here are a few of the best options I've come to find:
- If you have family or a very close friend you trust in either Peru or Colombia (or both) you can send them money to buy food, clothes, water, medicine, etc to help out. My mother and I did this 2 weeks ago and through Whatsapp my aunt (Tia Eli who is such a sweetheart 💓) showed us the things she bought. That weekend she went with some friends to go help distribute the items, so we have that joy in our hearts to know that these things have gone directly to the hands of those who need it the MOST.
- Buffet Peruano Benefico, on Sunday April 9th, from 12-5:30 PM the restaurant Jalea Peruvian Cuisine in Hicksville, NY will be donating all their proceeds from this buffet. There will also be entertainment. Tickets for Adults will be $30 and for Children, $10.
- Desde Lejos, Contigo Peru!: Recaudor de Fondos, on Saturday April 29th, from 1- 6 PM there will be a dance with many Peruvian artists in which all the money will be going to the damnificados. This will take place in la Iglesia San Bartolome in Elmhurst, NY.
- Marathon Unidos Por El Peru, on Sunday April 30th from 12 PM at La Boom in Woodside, NY where the donation fee will be $10.00.
- Consulado Colombiano en New York on Sunday April 9th from 3-9 PM the embassy in NYC will have artists, music and delicious Colombian food in which donations will be received for those affected from the Mocoa natural disaster.
* There is still not many events here for the Mocoa tragedy considering that it happened recently. If I find more, I will be adding it to the list so check for updates.*
It is my hope that through this medium I inspire or motivate at least one person to go out and donate to these causes. Every little bit counts and every little bit can make a change.
#SomosPeru
#TodosConMocoa
#UnaSolaFuerza
Despues de cada derrota, comienza la reconstruccion. I know that these tragedies will result in stronger infrastructures and most importantly a stronger and more united nation. 🌄
Blessings to you all,
Karen
-The Chic Engiruvian
2.15.2017 / blogging, dreams, family, immigration, life, love, peruvian, peruvian-american, sushi, valentine's day
How is it February already?!
Happy 2017 my lovelies!
This past month and a half has been filled with new changes that have taken time to adjust to and I really feel like I'm now in a position to get back on the blogging grind. Also the truth is that lately I haven't felt the inspiration to pour out my heart into this blog like I did last year and I didn't just want to write whatever for the sake of putting content into this blog. I have jotted down a list of things I plan to write about on this blog on my beloved bando 2017 planner for the next couple of months and I'm very excited!
Besides that, I will like to sort of update you on a few things I've been up to and share with you some of the things I did for:
- New Years which was one of the best thus far 🎆 (besides my Ano Nuevo in Peru)
- The going away party I planned for my sister who is studying abroad in Europe 🗺
- Some protests I attended (cause Immigrants Make America Great Again) 🗽, and
- A few pictures that I took yesterday for Valentine's Day 💖
New Years 2017
This was my first New Year's Eve that I spent away from my family and instead spent it alongside my boyfriend, his sister who came to visit from Los Angeles, and her best friend. His sister is friends with a DJ who's a party promoter for JunXion and they planned an incredible, one of a kind event! The party took place at the Paper Factory Hotel in LIC and the place was divided into different rooms that each had their own theme. There was an electrical Chinese dragon going around, aerialists, contortionists, body painters, drummers, and incredible performers that made the night memorable (sober or not). Some of the people who attended came in costumes and you danced around fairies and even an astronaut! The place was filled with nothing but positive vibes and I highly recommend any of their other events, you can check out their events here.
Johanna's Going Away
My jojo bear is currently in the Netherlands studying for the Spring semester and to celebrate I decided to throw her a going away/ early 21st birthday party with the help of my mom and her two besties. It was definitely not as easy as I thought since she's such a chismosa and I really didn't want her to even sense that there was any type of planning going on. I also don't know the majority of her friends and what type of food they will all like that is affordable yet delicious and presentable and I couldn't think of a better option than...PERUVIAN FOOD 😋. The place we went to is Mezquite Restaurant which has both Peruvian and Mexican plates, it's BYOB (yas!), and there's an Italian bakery AND awesome family owned liquor store across the street. It was difficult bringing her into the restaurant (did not expect that at all haha), but overall it all went great with the yummy food, moscatos, and the company of her great friends. Miss and love ya jojo.
SJW
It's been not even a month since the inauguration of...that person, and the country has literally gone haywire under the power of someone who is not even qualified to be president. As a first generation American, the order of the Muslim Ban ( which has thankfully been taken away) blew my mind not only as a human being, but as someone who lives in a strong Muslim community. Going to these protests gave me hope in the future of this country and that we do have an impact in what happens in this country. I've been told that going to these protests is a waste of time but history has shown that peaceful protesting not only increases the visibility of the cause but it demonstrates the power we the people have. Politicians and federal judges notice this and make the moves to go forward and make our voices heard.
Valentine's Day
Yesterday was literally the fastest I have ever gotten ready for a date.I got ready in less than an hour and anyone who truly knows me is probably shocked because I'm very well known for taking forever to get ready. My bf made a reservation at our favorite sushi spot for 8:00 pm and I got home at 6:45 pm!!! I still don't know how I managed to be ready by 7:35 pm but I did and I will be in awe from that achievement for a very long time haha. We ended up being in a food coma after underestimating their bento box but overall we had a great time laughing over random stuff and reminiscing on our past V-Day's experiences. So thankful for you. Also, shout out to the sushi restaurant with the sweetest waitresses, Aji Sushi House in Ditmars Blvd in Astoria, Queens.They were so busy yesterday yet were so accommodating to everyone and their food was bomb af 👌.
I will be posting a Peruvian goodies haul very soon!
Buenas noches and love always,
Karen
-The Chic Engiruvian
This past month and a half has been filled with new changes that have taken time to adjust to and I really feel like I'm now in a position to get back on the blogging grind. Also the truth is that lately I haven't felt the inspiration to pour out my heart into this blog like I did last year and I didn't just want to write whatever for the sake of putting content into this blog. I have jotted down a list of things I plan to write about on this blog on my beloved bando 2017 planner for the next couple of months and I'm very excited!
Besides that, I will like to sort of update you on a few things I've been up to and share with you some of the things I did for:
- New Years which was one of the best thus far 🎆 (besides my Ano Nuevo in Peru)
- The going away party I planned for my sister who is studying abroad in Europe 🗺
- Some protests I attended (cause Immigrants Make America Great Again) 🗽, and
- A few pictures that I took yesterday for Valentine's Day 💖
New Years 2017
This was my first New Year's Eve that I spent away from my family and instead spent it alongside my boyfriend, his sister who came to visit from Los Angeles, and her best friend. His sister is friends with a DJ who's a party promoter for JunXion and they planned an incredible, one of a kind event! The party took place at the Paper Factory Hotel in LIC and the place was divided into different rooms that each had their own theme. There was an electrical Chinese dragon going around, aerialists, contortionists, body painters, drummers, and incredible performers that made the night memorable (sober or not). Some of the people who attended came in costumes and you danced around fairies and even an astronaut! The place was filled with nothing but positive vibes and I highly recommend any of their other events, you can check out their events here.
Johanna's Going Away
My jojo bear is currently in the Netherlands studying for the Spring semester and to celebrate I decided to throw her a going away/ early 21st birthday party with the help of my mom and her two besties. It was definitely not as easy as I thought since she's such a chismosa and I really didn't want her to even sense that there was any type of planning going on. I also don't know the majority of her friends and what type of food they will all like that is affordable yet delicious and presentable and I couldn't think of a better option than...PERUVIAN FOOD 😋. The place we went to is Mezquite Restaurant which has both Peruvian and Mexican plates, it's BYOB (yas!), and there's an Italian bakery AND awesome family owned liquor store across the street. It was difficult bringing her into the restaurant (did not expect that at all haha), but overall it all went great with the yummy food, moscatos, and the company of her great friends. Miss and love ya jojo.
SJW
It's been not even a month since the inauguration of...that person, and the country has literally gone haywire under the power of someone who is not even qualified to be president. As a first generation American, the order of the Muslim Ban ( which has thankfully been taken away) blew my mind not only as a human being, but as someone who lives in a strong Muslim community. Going to these protests gave me hope in the future of this country and that we do have an impact in what happens in this country. I've been told that going to these protests is a waste of time but history has shown that peaceful protesting not only increases the visibility of the cause but it demonstrates the power we the people have. Politicians and federal judges notice this and make the moves to go forward and make our voices heard.
Yesterday was literally the fastest I have ever gotten ready for a date.I got ready in less than an hour and anyone who truly knows me is probably shocked because I'm very well known for taking forever to get ready. My bf made a reservation at our favorite sushi spot for 8:00 pm and I got home at 6:45 pm!!! I still don't know how I managed to be ready by 7:35 pm but I did and I will be in awe from that achievement for a very long time haha. We ended up being in a food coma after underestimating their bento box but overall we had a great time laughing over random stuff and reminiscing on our past V-Day's experiences. So thankful for you. Also, shout out to the sushi restaurant with the sweetest waitresses, Aji Sushi House in Ditmars Blvd in Astoria, Queens.They were so busy yesterday yet were so accommodating to everyone and their food was bomb af 👌.
I will be posting a Peruvian goodies haul very soon!
Buenas noches and love always,
Karen
-The Chic Engiruvian
12.10.2016 / alan garcia, alianza lima, chapecoense, copa america, family, futbol, new york, new york city, peru, peruvian, soccer
De La Victoria A La Gloria
Rimaykullayki!
*por si acaso, esta es mi primera vez escribiendo en español despues de mucho tiempo **
*por si acaso, esta es mi primera vez escribiendo en español despues de mucho tiempo **
La gente de Alianza Lima se va, se va...
Hace una semana todo el mundo amaneció con la devastadora
noticia que el avión que tenía el equipo brasileño, Chapecoense, y también muchos
periodistas brasileños, había estrellado. Nomás sobrevivieron 6 personas, 3 de
ellas jugadores del equipo, y al cielo se fueron sus compañeros de la vida.
En este avión fallecieron jugadores con un futuro muy brillante en el
futbol que se murieron con los ánimos en alto para jugar la final Copa Sudamericana
con Atlético Nacional de Medellín, Colombia. No habrán
podido jugar ese partido tan esperado, pero salieron triunfadores. Al fin
ganaron la Copa Sudamericana y más importante, se ganaron los corazones
del mundo entero. Nunca los olvidaremos, igual que nosotros los peruanos nunca olvidaremos a los potrillos de Alianza Lima que también tuvieron ese trágico
destino igual que el Chapecoense.
Y sobre el cielo de Lima, llegaron hasta
la cima, y sobre el cielo de Lima se quedarán...
Hace dos días fueron 29 años, que en un día como el 8 de diciembre,
el Perú fue impactado por unas de las tragedias mas conmovedores en toda su
historia, El día en el que todo el equipo de Alianza Lima, con su entrenador y cuerpo técnico que estaban en el Fokker (un
avión de la marina de guerra del Perú), fallecieron. Nomás hubo un solo sobreviviente,
el piloto que estrello el avión quien ahora dicen que vive en Australia. Al
cielo se fueron jugadores que hacían parte de una de las mejores generaciones del futbol peruano que querían llevarnos a
otro mundial después del 1982 y un entrenador increíble. Marcos Calderón, quien fue el
entrenador del equipo peruano que ganaron la Copa
América en 1975. Ese día... también
se fueron esas alegrías que alumbraban al Perú en unos tiempos bien oscuros políticamente.
No volverán, no volverán...
En 1987 el Perú estaba bajo el gobierno de Alan García, quien con su gobierno aprista y corrupta inspiro a muchos peruanos como mis padres de irse del Perú. Trajo al Perú en una gran recesión económica donde la gente ya ni tenía suficiente para comprarse un pan o taro de leche por la inflación. Mi padre, quien era ingeniero en esos tiempos, tuvo que trabajar como policía también porque el dinero no era suficiente. La gente, quien estaba con el alma caída por estos tiempos de frustración encontraban felicidad al ver su equipo triunfar. Eso es lo maravilloso y mágico del futbol y los deportes en general (pero más el futbol). En tiempos oscuros, como en aquellos tiempos en el Perú, estos chicos se rompían el alma en la cancha para traer esa felicidad tan necesitada para su gente. Ellos no les debían nada al Perú, pero ellos se ponían ese peso en sus espaldas y por eso siempre valdrán un Perú.
En 1987 el Perú estaba bajo el gobierno de Alan García, quien con su gobierno aprista y corrupta inspiro a muchos peruanos como mis padres de irse del Perú. Trajo al Perú en una gran recesión económica donde la gente ya ni tenía suficiente para comprarse un pan o taro de leche por la inflación. Mi padre, quien era ingeniero en esos tiempos, tuvo que trabajar como policía también porque el dinero no era suficiente. La gente, quien estaba con el alma caída por estos tiempos de frustración encontraban felicidad al ver su equipo triunfar. Eso es lo maravilloso y mágico del futbol y los deportes en general (pero más el futbol). En tiempos oscuros, como en aquellos tiempos en el Perú, estos chicos se rompían el alma en la cancha para traer esa felicidad tan necesitada para su gente. Ellos no les debían nada al Perú, pero ellos se ponían ese peso en sus espaldas y por eso siempre valdrán un Perú.
Cuando la gente venía con el alma caída a casa después de
ganar una miseria que era común en aquellos tiempos, en el 75’ con Francisco Morales Bermúdez y en el 87’
con Alan García, ¡nuestro equipo
peruano nos daba la vida! En los 70's
el
Perú era el país que hacía temblar a los grandes como Brasil, Uruguay,
y Argentina. Mi padre, con
mucha alegría que se transmite por el brillo en sus ojos, me cuenta como era
vivir en esos años dorados. Los años
dorados que inspiraron una generación de chicos para que ellos también sean
grandes y lleven el nombre del Perú en alto.
y al vernos llorar por
ellos, pidieron permiso al cielo, y con los negritos nuevos
regresaran...
Al perder básicamente todo el equipo, excepto 4 que
no habían bordado por estar lesionados y cosas de la vida, ya no se veía un
futuro promovedor para el Perú. La Alianza Lima era uno de los mejores equipos peruano,
pero ese día hinchas del Sporting
Cristal como mi padre (¡y yo!), del Universitario, del Melgar, todos se unieron al dolor de los aliancistas. Ese día todos fueron uno y la
solidaridad que es una de las características más hermosas y humanas que
existe, se veo en los gestos de muchos clubs en el Perú y también a nivel
mundial. La U, quien es el gran rival de la Alianza, fueron uno de los primeros
en ofrecerse en dar algunos jugadores para que tengan un equipo de 11. Otra
gran sorpresa fue del equipo chileno, el Colo
Colo, quien presto a 4 de sus
mejores jugadores, y con este gran acto de solidaridad de un país que es el eterno
rival del Perú todavía se aprecia hasta hoy y los Aliancistas le hicieron una canción.
Alianza Lima y Colo Colo, simplemente uno solo...
Y nomas dos años después, Alianza Lima pudo levantar otra
copa Sudamericana como lo hubieran hecho en 1987. Otra vez alegrando a su
gente, y aunque ahora no estén pasando por sus mejores momentos, este equipo sabe
que nuevamente podran ser gloriosos.
y volverán, y volverán...
Y con esto quiero concretar que tengo la FE que el equipo Chapecoense, que está
pasando por unos de los momentos más dolorosos en su historia, volverán a
alegrar a sus hinchas que les serán fieles por toda la vida, generación a generación.
Con diferentes jugadores que jugaran a todo dar, a sudar y llevar en alto la
camiseta que llevan puesta y con jugadores en el cielo que los estarán guiando
por toda una eternidad.
También, tengo la fe que algún día voy a
poder gozar al ver a mi Perú darlo todo en un mundial, igual que mi padre. Que
gritare y los alentare igual cuando fui a verlos jugar en Foxborough,
Massachusetts para la Copa América contra Brasil. Nunca olvidare ese día tan
especial, el primer partido que fui a ver con mi papa y fue un partido HISTORICO. Esta es la magia del
futbol, una magia que existe hasta en los momentos más dolorosos para
alegrarnos la vida.
Que tengan una bendecida y feliz fin de semana.
Con mucho cariño,
Karen
-The Chic Engiruvian
Un video de lo que sucedio el 8 de diciembre:
12.06.2016 / dancember, family, gratitude, immigration, itsjudyslife, pencils for promise, peru, peruvian-american, unhcr
Count Your Blessings
Hello there,
It's finally December! Christmas is just around the corner (as well as finals week but lets get our minds off that just for a bit) and I know many people that have their mind set on all the gifts they yet have to buy for their friends and loved ones. I think we should also take some time to reflect on the billions of people in this world that have their minds set on how they're going to make it through the next day. I was actually going to write millions when I then decided to google how many people in this world are living in poverty and it's really heartbreaking to see the statistics that are part of our reality. Just a little over three billion people live on less than $2.50 a day and at least 80% of our world population lives on less than $10 a day...and to think that there's that 1% of individuals that owns 50% of the world's total wealth.
Knowing this makes me feel so thankful and full of gratitude for the circumstances I was born into which is better than 80% of the world. Escaping from the inflation and terrorism that was occurring in Peru, my parents didn't have much in the beginning and we were very humble yet very rich. Very rich for the simple fact that we had a roof over our heads, running water, yummy food to fill our bellies, and to be living in a nation where my sister and I had many freedoms and opportunities we would've been deprived of if my parents stayed in Peru.
We have the tools and laws in this great nation where with an education and hard work, you can make what you dreamed as a child a reality. There's so many children who wish to have the luxury of being able to go to school and become the person they envision themselves to be, and it's so important for us to not take that for granted. To not take for granted whatever tools we have here in this country, because by simply having access to the internet and by simply owning an electronic device, you are so much far ahead and wealthier than over half the population in this world!
Every single person in this world, as our brothers and sisters, deserve to have the right to every single life necessity. No one should be sleeping tonight on an empty stomach which happens very often for example in Yemen where their children are currently suffering with severe malnutrition. Every child deserves the chance to make their dreams come true and have the right to an education and not have to drop out to start working at very young ages. We have the means to restore faith in so many people around the world and an impact so much greater than a Huda Beauty Rose Gold palette for a make-up lover can for Christmas and it doesn't take much!
I don't have much, but I know for certain that the little amount I can give to some charities has contributed in making a difference in someone's life. And that by little by little, when we all come together, that 20% of us (especially that 1% on the top), we can make a great impact and monumental step forward in helping eradicate the severe poverty that is still existent. My mom always tells me,
It's finally December! Christmas is just around the corner (as well as finals week but lets get our minds off that just for a bit) and I know many people that have their mind set on all the gifts they yet have to buy for their friends and loved ones. I think we should also take some time to reflect on the billions of people in this world that have their minds set on how they're going to make it through the next day. I was actually going to write millions when I then decided to google how many people in this world are living in poverty and it's really heartbreaking to see the statistics that are part of our reality. Just a little over three billion people live on less than $2.50 a day and at least 80% of our world population lives on less than $10 a day...and to think that there's that 1% of individuals that owns 50% of the world's total wealth.
Knowing this makes me feel so thankful and full of gratitude for the circumstances I was born into which is better than 80% of the world. Escaping from the inflation and terrorism that was occurring in Peru, my parents didn't have much in the beginning and we were very humble yet very rich. Very rich for the simple fact that we had a roof over our heads, running water, yummy food to fill our bellies, and to be living in a nation where my sister and I had many freedoms and opportunities we would've been deprived of if my parents stayed in Peru.
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| My loves |
Every single person in this world, as our brothers and sisters, deserve to have the right to every single life necessity. No one should be sleeping tonight on an empty stomach which happens very often for example in Yemen where their children are currently suffering with severe malnutrition. Every child deserves the chance to make their dreams come true and have the right to an education and not have to drop out to start working at very young ages. We have the means to restore faith in so many people around the world and an impact so much greater than a Huda Beauty Rose Gold palette for a make-up lover can for Christmas and it doesn't take much!
I don't have much, but I know for certain that the little amount I can give to some charities has contributed in making a difference in someone's life. And that by little by little, when we all come together, that 20% of us (especially that 1% on the top), we can make a great impact and monumental step forward in helping eradicate the severe poverty that is still existent. My mom always tells me,
"Lo ultimo que se puerde perder es la fe" ~ "Faith is the last thing we can lose"We CANNOT allow them to lose hope in a better tomorrow. Here are some charities that are my favorite and where donations will be great Christmas gifts to give:
- itsjudyslife and benjimantv with their Dancember movement. Every December, they dance every year for their viewers in order to raise money for the charity of their choice. Other Youtubers also tend to tag along and I know this year is supposed to be HUGE! The charity of their choice for 2016 is feedONE, a Convey of Hope initiative where they plan to raise $500,000 to feed children in poverty.
- Angelina Jolie with USA for UNHCR, a charity that focuses on providing aid to dislocated people, refugees, where sadly the numbers keep increasing. They help those who are fleeing Aleppo and Mosul as well as many other places.
- Pencils of Promise where since 2009 they have been able to build 380 schools. It takes $35,000 to build a school, so if just the people of NYC each gave one dollar to this charity, and in NYC there's 8.4 million people, that would make 250 schools. Just one city with 1 dollar.
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| Gotta add a Mulan quote up in here because Disney can be deep. |
Count your blessings this holiday season and try to give the gift of opportunity and faith to those who need it so much. So little can do SO much.
With lots of love,
Karen
-The Chic Engiruvian
11.27.2016 / changes, dreams, eleanor roosevelt, fearless, gratitude, los angeles, peruvian, peruvian-american
Fearless Changes
Hello there,
Don't be scared to go with your gut feeling and what your heart is calling for. Don't be afraid to try new things, whether it be a new vegetable or a new hobby. Don't be judging to get to know someone just because of their appearance or religion or sexual orientation. Being scared, afraid, and judging are all fears, fears that are stopping you from being open to experiences in your life that you may come to love and value. I know so many people who have these fears ingrained in them and they are deprived of so many wonderful experiences.
A few years ago I was very fearful of many things, of thinking in a different way and leaving someone I was used to be around always. I was afraid of change because I was so comfortable with where I was. Little did I know, that this mindset and this person didn't go in sync with the kind of person I wanted to become. The decision to make this change in my life suddenly happened and I'm no longer the person I was when I started college and that itself has been very rewarding to me. I now care more about what I need to do to achieve the goals I've set for myself and what I can do to better myself in order to help out my community with my heart and soul. To be surrounded by only people who truly love and care about me, no matter how few of them it can be and to try new things that will lead me to enriching experiences. I became exposed to new places and new opportunities that I wouldn't have known of if I didn't make these changes.
If you are in a position where you're afraid of change and feel fearful of the unknown and uncertain, just know that, "Things happen for a reason"(life motto). What would've happened to the bird in the nest if it decided to stay comfortably and safe in there? It would've never learned to fly and discovered all the incredible places in this beautiful world of ours. Every mistake you may make comes with a lesson that will make you a wiser and better version of yourself. Every experience in life, whether it be bad or good, is intended to bring you closer to your dreams and purpose in life.
I believe that we are all destined to do something great in our lifetime, with a special gift that no one but YOU has. Destined to live life fully and this is only possible if we are courageous to overcome the fears that live in our mind and stop you from making the changes in your life that will lead you to your life purpose.
This week, challenge yourself and do something different everyday, BIG or small.
With love,
Karen
-The Chic Engiruvian
Long time no see! I've been a bit busy these past few days with assignments, work, and catching up with my sister who lives in Massachusetts and was back for Thanksgiving break. I've also been pretty pensive...can you believe that this week it'll be December, the last month of the year?! It blows my mind how quickly this year went by and also all the things I was able to do that I had my mind set on doing back in 2015. Many of these goals I achieved wouldn't have been possible if I wasn't fearless and accepted making some changes in life. Without overcoming whichever fear you may have, you will never see the change you want to see in you...in your life. In the words of Eleanor Roosevelt:
"The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experiences."This quote happens to be my reflection of the day in my beloved National Geographic book, Daily Gratitude: 365 Days of Reflection (click on the title if you are interested in purchasing it). Through being fearless and accepting change, I've had wonderful experiences this year that have been enriching to my soul and have helped me in discovering who I am. Helping me to become the very best version of myself.
 |
| Overlooking Los Angeles from the Griffith Observatory. Always a dream of mine to go here at night. |
A few years ago I was very fearful of many things, of thinking in a different way and leaving someone I was used to be around always. I was afraid of change because I was so comfortable with where I was. Little did I know, that this mindset and this person didn't go in sync with the kind of person I wanted to become. The decision to make this change in my life suddenly happened and I'm no longer the person I was when I started college and that itself has been very rewarding to me. I now care more about what I need to do to achieve the goals I've set for myself and what I can do to better myself in order to help out my community with my heart and soul. To be surrounded by only people who truly love and care about me, no matter how few of them it can be and to try new things that will lead me to enriching experiences. I became exposed to new places and new opportunities that I wouldn't have known of if I didn't make these changes.
If you are in a position where you're afraid of change and feel fearful of the unknown and uncertain, just know that, "Things happen for a reason"(life motto). What would've happened to the bird in the nest if it decided to stay comfortably and safe in there? It would've never learned to fly and discovered all the incredible places in this beautiful world of ours. Every mistake you may make comes with a lesson that will make you a wiser and better version of yourself. Every experience in life, whether it be bad or good, is intended to bring you closer to your dreams and purpose in life.
I believe that we are all destined to do something great in our lifetime, with a special gift that no one but YOU has. Destined to live life fully and this is only possible if we are courageous to overcome the fears that live in our mind and stop you from making the changes in your life that will lead you to your life purpose.
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| With the sister at LACMA clinging for dear life. |
With love,
Karen
-The Chic Engiruvian
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| Wearing aviators while leaning on an aviator mural. |
11.15.2016 / civil engineering, cornell university, earthquakes, engineering, family, geophysics, gratitude, jean-baptiste massieu, minority, new york city, peru, stem fields, tio
In Your Memory, Tio Felix
Good morning, good evening, or good afternoon...wherever you are,
In the words of Jean-Baptiste Massieu:
This passion became your passport to several opportunities that took you to many places around the world. You were one of the first Peruvians to travel to Antarctica on an expedition to research the tectonic plates that shake this planet we all call home. You were also invited to Japan to share your research in the movement of tectonic plates where you bought me a kimono, a kimono I still have with me 20 years later and greatly treasure. From Japan you were invited by Cornell University to speak to the Geophysics Department there to share your knowledge. If it weren't for this invitation where you needed to travel to the United States for the first time, I wouldn't have met you, and this is something I'm so thankful for.
When you passed away, aside from grief, I felt a great sense of regret and frustration, frustrated that I was never able to see you again after that one visit because of our past circumstances and regret that I never got to share with you my passion for the sciences and the way things work, the same way you did (as well as my father and Tio Moises, both engineers). Now that I'm older, I feel so grateful for the few memories I got to make with you, from that visit when I was 2 years old in which my mother tells me that before even greeting them after not seeing them for so many years, you said "No, no, a donde esta la princesita?!" and that's when you carried me into your arms for the first time. And let me tell you, I was very picky, and it was an amazing thing to see me greet you with such ease and trust...la sangre llama. Throughout the years, I got to speak with you on the phone a couple times and I always remember you telling me to continue excelling in school and to be the best student I can be. Education was emphasized greatly in our family, you being a testament to how far an education can take one.These few memories I reminiscence them with happiness, eternally grateful for the moments I got to spend and speak with you.
I'm grateful for being your niece and having followed your footsteps in fields very similar to each other, you'd be surprised to see how similar geophysics and civil engineering are and the fruits from merging them together. I struggled so much my last year of high school figuring out what I wanted to major in when I realized being a doctor was not something I felt that was my calling. When I discovered civil engineering and how much I connected with this profession since it included my three loves which are science, math, and helping others...I immediately thought of you. I realized how much I can help others and I know it was you that helped me out and looking out for me from above.
Studying engineering has been incredibly more challenging than I expected and I made many mistakes (emphasis on many haha), but besides my parents, I would think of you and how much I wanted to become a person that will make you proud the same way you have inspired me and the rest of the family. Whenever I would feel discouraged which has happened many times and there was a time I almost entirely gave up, the thought of you would eventually come into my head. Even though you're not physically here, I feel those pushes of encouragement from above during these low times. It would've been awesome to have you be my partner in the projects I will be doing as a civil engineer in the coming years which one of them will definitely be helping the impoverished communities of Peru that are continuously promised schools by the government and ultimately aren't built, but I know from above you'll be guiding me into the right path, through the ups and downs.
You've taught me that when it comes to your goals, there are no limits, especially when you really want it. To push through the boundaries that have been imposed to me as a double minority in my field, being both a Latina and female, and to do all that I can to help others using my profession.
All that I do, I do for my parents, family, and few loved ones who are my biggest fans, but I also do it thinking of you. Knowing how much more important it is to do something that will bring you the wealth of helping others instead of material/monetary wealth. It is this type of wealth that I find truly more rewarding and I know you did as well.
Feliz cumpleaños Tio Felix, always in our hearts and thoughts, siempre en nuestros corazones y pensamientos. Although dead, you're more alive than ever with every memory of you. Aunque ya no estes con nosotros, estas mas vivo que nunca, con cada recuerdo, revives en mi corazon.
-Karen
The Chic Engiruvian
Btw, here's a video of him speaking to our family, giving us life advice like always:
In the words of Jean-Baptiste Massieu:
"Gratitude is the memory of the heart"This was my quote of the day in my National Geographic, 365 Days of Reflection book, and I couldn't help but think of you. Today also happens to be your birthday, another birthday without you, another year of feeling that same knot in my throat I felt 12 years ago on the day we found out you had gone on to a more peaceful place...to a paradise where you no longer felt any pain and where you're now more alive than ever. It is also another year of reminiscing all the many accomplishments you achieved in the few years we had you with us. Despite the humble beginnings and struggles you experienced from being the second oldest from a family of 7 children, you as well as the rest of my 6 uncles and aunt, including my father, are all college educated, graduating from some of the best universities in Peru. Your interest in the way our Earth is composed of and the effects of the many earthquakes that strike Peru sparked a passion for physics and geography...geophysics.
This passion became your passport to several opportunities that took you to many places around the world. You were one of the first Peruvians to travel to Antarctica on an expedition to research the tectonic plates that shake this planet we all call home. You were also invited to Japan to share your research in the movement of tectonic plates where you bought me a kimono, a kimono I still have with me 20 years later and greatly treasure. From Japan you were invited by Cornell University to speak to the Geophysics Department there to share your knowledge. If it weren't for this invitation where you needed to travel to the United States for the first time, I wouldn't have met you, and this is something I'm so thankful for.
 |
| Clearly always eating haha |
I'm grateful for being your niece and having followed your footsteps in fields very similar to each other, you'd be surprised to see how similar geophysics and civil engineering are and the fruits from merging them together. I struggled so much my last year of high school figuring out what I wanted to major in when I realized being a doctor was not something I felt that was my calling. When I discovered civil engineering and how much I connected with this profession since it included my three loves which are science, math, and helping others...I immediately thought of you. I realized how much I can help others and I know it was you that helped me out and looking out for me from above.
Studying engineering has been incredibly more challenging than I expected and I made many mistakes (emphasis on many haha), but besides my parents, I would think of you and how much I wanted to become a person that will make you proud the same way you have inspired me and the rest of the family. Whenever I would feel discouraged which has happened many times and there was a time I almost entirely gave up, the thought of you would eventually come into my head. Even though you're not physically here, I feel those pushes of encouragement from above during these low times. It would've been awesome to have you be my partner in the projects I will be doing as a civil engineer in the coming years which one of them will definitely be helping the impoverished communities of Peru that are continuously promised schools by the government and ultimately aren't built, but I know from above you'll be guiding me into the right path, through the ups and downs.
You've taught me that when it comes to your goals, there are no limits, especially when you really want it. To push through the boundaries that have been imposed to me as a double minority in my field, being both a Latina and female, and to do all that I can to help others using my profession.
All that I do, I do for my parents, family, and few loved ones who are my biggest fans, but I also do it thinking of you. Knowing how much more important it is to do something that will bring you the wealth of helping others instead of material/monetary wealth. It is this type of wealth that I find truly more rewarding and I know you did as well.
Feliz cumpleaños Tio Felix, always in our hearts and thoughts, siempre en nuestros corazones y pensamientos. Although dead, you're more alive than ever with every memory of you. Aunque ya no estes con nosotros, estas mas vivo que nunca, con cada recuerdo, revives en mi corazon.
-Karen
The Chic Engiruvian
Btw, here's a video of him speaking to our family, giving us life advice like always:
Always remember to fight for what you truly believe in, no matter how absurd everyone else may think, your faith in yourself is all that matters.
11.07.2016 / beauty, book recommendations, diane guerrero, immigrants, immigration, influenster, october favorites, peru, peruvian, peruvian-american, skin care, voxbox, wet n' wild
~ October Favorites ~
Hello there,
The first week of November has quickly gone by and I'm sure most of us cannot wait for this week to be over with already. To sort of get my mind away from all this election drama (btw, PLEASE vote!) I've decided to make a list of my ultimate favorite items for the month of October. Some of these items have made a huge impact in my life and I know that they also would to my readers so I couldn't help but share them with you. If you happen to be interested in any of these items, I will be including links to purchase these 11 products. I hope you all had a productive and positive Monday and a wonderful rest of the week and once again, PLEASE vote tomorrow.
The first week of November has quickly gone by and I'm sure most of us cannot wait for this week to be over with already. To sort of get my mind away from all this election drama (btw, PLEASE vote!) I've decided to make a list of my ultimate favorite items for the month of October. Some of these items have made a huge impact in my life and I know that they also would to my readers so I couldn't help but share them with you. If you happen to be interested in any of these items, I will be including links to purchase these 11 products. I hope you all had a productive and positive Monday and a wonderful rest of the week and once again, PLEASE vote tomorrow.
11.02.2016 / alfajores, catholic, el señor de los milagros, immigrants, mes morado, new york, new york city, peru, peruvian-american, picarones, san benito, the lord of the miracles
Mes Morado in NYC
Wuynas nuchis!
Besides June (birthday is on June 11 btw) and December, a month I eagerly look forward to every year is October. In Peru, October is known as Mes Morado aka The Purple Month (cue Purple Rain please) and this month is filled with stunning processions every Sunday honoring El Señor de los Milagros ~ The Lord of Miracles, as well as eating yummy turrones and picarones with their orange scented honey. I'm about 3,648 miles from Lima,Peru but this doesn't stop my family and I from celebrating this very special month for millions of Peruvians all around the world.
We had the opportunity to attend two processions here in New York City and eat all the things that we would traditionally eat in Peru. That's the magic of New York City, there's people from all over the world, making sure to do all they can to keep their traditions alive despite being thousands of miles away. I hope that this past month, New Yorkers, regardless of their beliefs, were able to feel the moving devotion that can be felt from the fervorous chants of the women with white veils carrying the incense that perfumes the air for blocks, to the tears of gratitude in the eyes of the 32 men and the many others around there, overwhelmed by the sense of hope this image gives us, for the many hardships many of us have to deal with by immigrating to this land of opportunities.
This procession is extremely special, it's the largest procession that takes place by the Catholic community, every year. Peruvians that have immigrated to other countries have continued this tradition in their new homes for their children and later generations, and now there's processions in over 260 cities worldwide. I had the chance to attend two in NYC, one at Saint Patrick's Cathedral on October 16th and another at Saint Paul the Apostle Church on October 23rd , both were done by a group known as Hermandad de Cargadores y Sahumadoras del Señor de Los Milagros de NY, INC. (you can read about them here). New Yorkers have been able to witness processions that were once very small in the initial beginnings of the group on September 30th, 1971 and now thousands of Peruvians attend, in full faith that el Señor de los Milagros will be by their side in the most difficult of times and thanking Him for his miraculous blessings.
As a first-generation Peruvian-American, this experience has always been very overwhelming to me, especially when I see my mother's eyes filled with tears, year after year, through our roller coaster adventure in this country. Despite it being pretty emotional seeing so many people in tears. there's a sense of beauty in seeing all these immigrants, from all over Peru (mostly Lima though) come together. Seeing parents talk to their young ones explaining what makes this christ so miraculous and special to us (you can read about how the Lord of the Miracles came to be here) and the sense of enjoyment in seeing all these "entrepreneurs" selling Peruvian goodies like alfajores, tamales, Sublimes, Besos de Mosa, turrones, picarones, etc etc and finding the best ones and bargaining for the best prices of course!
I definitely look forward to sharing this tradition with my children just like my parents did with my sister and I, no matter where in the world I may find myself. We are the ones in charge of keeping our culture and traditions alive and the ones responsible to stand up for them. Without them, we would all be the same. This is what makes us unique, our fingerprint. We are a nation of immigrants, with thousands of traditions and cultures to share and embrace, how much luckier can we get?! If only we all had this same mindset, what a beautiful place this would be.
~ The original image of El Señor de los Milagros can be found at the Santuario de las Nazarenas in Lima, Peru. The mural was painted by an Angolan slave in 1651 and the image is still intact after several devastating earthquakes and the Spaniards who tried to destroy it were never able to do so.~
With lots of love,
Karen
- The Chic Engiruvian
P.S: A link to a video about how a procession in Peru looks like, click here
Besides June (birthday is on June 11 btw) and December, a month I eagerly look forward to every year is October. In Peru, October is known as Mes Morado aka The Purple Month (cue Purple Rain please) and this month is filled with stunning processions every Sunday honoring El Señor de los Milagros ~ The Lord of Miracles, as well as eating yummy turrones and picarones with their orange scented honey. I'm about 3,648 miles from Lima,Peru but this doesn't stop my family and I from celebrating this very special month for millions of Peruvians all around the world.
We had the opportunity to attend two processions here in New York City and eat all the things that we would traditionally eat in Peru. That's the magic of New York City, there's people from all over the world, making sure to do all they can to keep their traditions alive despite being thousands of miles away. I hope that this past month, New Yorkers, regardless of their beliefs, were able to feel the moving devotion that can be felt from the fervorous chants of the women with white veils carrying the incense that perfumes the air for blocks, to the tears of gratitude in the eyes of the 32 men and the many others around there, overwhelmed by the sense of hope this image gives us, for the many hardships many of us have to deal with by immigrating to this land of opportunities.
 |
| Carrying the image around Rockerfeller Center |
As a first-generation Peruvian-American, this experience has always been very overwhelming to me, especially when I see my mother's eyes filled with tears, year after year, through our roller coaster adventure in this country. Despite it being pretty emotional seeing so many people in tears. there's a sense of beauty in seeing all these immigrants, from all over Peru (mostly Lima though) come together. Seeing parents talk to their young ones explaining what makes this christ so miraculous and special to us (you can read about how the Lord of the Miracles came to be here) and the sense of enjoyment in seeing all these "entrepreneurs" selling Peruvian goodies like alfajores, tamales, Sublimes, Besos de Mosa, turrones, picarones, etc etc and finding the best ones and bargaining for the best prices of course!
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| Picarones |
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| Alfajores |
~ The original image of El Señor de los Milagros can be found at the Santuario de las Nazarenas in Lima, Peru. The mural was painted by an Angolan slave in 1651 and the image is still intact after several devastating earthquakes and the Spaniards who tried to destroy it were never able to do so.~
With lots of love,
Karen
- The Chic Engiruvian
P.S: A link to a video about how a procession in Peru looks like, click here
10.23.2016 / familiy, gratitude, peru
Heart of a Fighter - The Sacrifices of Volunteer Firefighters in Peru
Good morning, good evening, or good afternoon,
This year I was blessed to spend my New Years in Lima, Peru for the first time with my huge family and warm next door neighbors which you can watch part of that experience in my Peru vlog to get a glimpse of it. Well, a tradition that is typically done to bring in the new year is something that's known as La Quema de los Munecos, dolls that are made up of old clothes and burned. This is done in representation of letting go of negative energy and bad luck. As you can imagine, this is dangerous because of how flammable clothes is and how easily the flames can get out of control.
Sadly, this very nightmare occurred that night a block from me when some kids had placed fireworks in their muneco (smh) and the sparks got into the school nearby .Luckily we had a firefighter among our neighbors. While the fire truck was coming, he first screamed out to see if anyone was in there and luckily there wasn't and then he stormed into his house and asked the neighbors to get buckets of water to help ease the fire. Without any hesitation, he climbed over the gates of the school and did all he can to end the fire. The firefighters soon came afterwords and in the end there were very minimal burns to the school which could've been a whole other story if it wasn't for the quick actions of our neighbor the firefighter who btw was definitely not even in his 20's.
This situation quickly replayed in my head as I watched the news earlier this week in shock over the disappearance of three firefighters who had gone in to try to rescue a man trapped in the inferno of a fire that occurred in La Agustino where there was a shoe factory and a health government building (which was going to be checked for corruption reasons). I was even more devastated when they were found dead.
In the United Stated, firefighters are paid well, have all the latest material and gear, and are given several benefits; deserving for risking their lives everyday to save ours, the utmost sacrifice. In Peru, that's not the case. Becoming a firefighter there is like being initiated in a beautiful brotherhood where they VOLUNTARILY sacrifice their life everyday, and they wouldn't even want to be a firefighter anymore if it meant that they had to get paid. It's still incredulous to me that these men go through so many ordeals, but to them it's still a complete honor to be able to serve others. This has been going on since 1860 and many times you see entire families that have been involved in this brotherhood for generations, their own legacy.
These men, who are asked of so much...are given so little. You would think...hey, if you're not getting paid for protecting and saving the lives of those in danger, might as well allocate money in order to provide them with the necessary equipment. Also, wouldn't you think that these heroes AT LEAST deserve a proper pension after retiring or health insurance benefits when they're injured from putting their life on the line? Unfortunately, nope. Peru is a country where politicians that spend their time in Congress playing PokemonGO and sleeping are paid WAY too much money, money that can be used to benefit the lives of many, even their own.
On average per week, there are 190 fires and 1,050 car accidents (how surprising) that goes on in Lima and in the whole country, there are only 12,000 firefighters that carry this heavy weight. They are only given one bunker gear, an oxygen tank that lasts only between ~ 30-40 minutes, and one pair of boots. The boots are typically worn out quickly so they then have to resort on using old ones from others which can many times not even adequately fit them. The firetrucks are very outdated, for the past 80 years, some of their equipment and gear has been renovated only 3 times so eveyone does their part in taking really good care of everything. They don't have an adequate health insurance, many times injured firefighters have been dismissed and turned down from hospitals for this very reason. They aren't given a pension after they're 70 years old, money is only given if they DIE and in that case, their families can be given at most...only 68,000 soles, about 22,250 dollars, that's if they die.
So many sacrifices on their behalf and it's so disheartening to me that the government and the people themselves don't take the action of doing something to help these heroes out, they need our help. I've seen first hand the passion these men and women have in this job where they are willing to give what's most sacred to us, our life. They have kids and loved ones waiting for them at home with great pride in what they do, even if it means not seeing them ever again. They don't ask for any monetary pay, only for money to go into getting the material they need to save as many lives as possible and also a proper health care and pension which they are SO DESERVING OF!
I've realized that true happiness is not found in seeking things of monetary value, those things don't come in the tomb with you. True happiness is found when you can make an impact in someone's life, leaving memories that no one can ever take away from you. This is exactly the reward for these heroes, los Bomberos Voluntarios del Peru.
How will you impact someone's life today?
Karen Monge
-The Chic Engiruvian
This year I was blessed to spend my New Years in Lima, Peru for the first time with my huge family and warm next door neighbors which you can watch part of that experience in my Peru vlog to get a glimpse of it. Well, a tradition that is typically done to bring in the new year is something that's known as La Quema de los Munecos, dolls that are made up of old clothes and burned. This is done in representation of letting go of negative energy and bad luck. As you can imagine, this is dangerous because of how flammable clothes is and how easily the flames can get out of control.
Sadly, this very nightmare occurred that night a block from me when some kids had placed fireworks in their muneco (smh) and the sparks got into the school nearby .Luckily we had a firefighter among our neighbors. While the fire truck was coming, he first screamed out to see if anyone was in there and luckily there wasn't and then he stormed into his house and asked the neighbors to get buckets of water to help ease the fire. Without any hesitation, he climbed over the gates of the school and did all he can to end the fire. The firefighters soon came afterwords and in the end there were very minimal burns to the school which could've been a whole other story if it wasn't for the quick actions of our neighbor the firefighter who btw was definitely not even in his 20's.
This situation quickly replayed in my head as I watched the news earlier this week in shock over the disappearance of three firefighters who had gone in to try to rescue a man trapped in the inferno of a fire that occurred in La Agustino where there was a shoe factory and a health government building (which was going to be checked for corruption reasons). I was even more devastated when they were found dead.
In the United Stated, firefighters are paid well, have all the latest material and gear, and are given several benefits; deserving for risking their lives everyday to save ours, the utmost sacrifice. In Peru, that's not the case. Becoming a firefighter there is like being initiated in a beautiful brotherhood where they VOLUNTARILY sacrifice their life everyday, and they wouldn't even want to be a firefighter anymore if it meant that they had to get paid. It's still incredulous to me that these men go through so many ordeals, but to them it's still a complete honor to be able to serve others. This has been going on since 1860 and many times you see entire families that have been involved in this brotherhood for generations, their own legacy.
These men, who are asked of so much...are given so little. You would think...hey, if you're not getting paid for protecting and saving the lives of those in danger, might as well allocate money in order to provide them with the necessary equipment. Also, wouldn't you think that these heroes AT LEAST deserve a proper pension after retiring or health insurance benefits when they're injured from putting their life on the line? Unfortunately, nope. Peru is a country where politicians that spend their time in Congress playing PokemonGO and sleeping are paid WAY too much money, money that can be used to benefit the lives of many, even their own.
On average per week, there are 190 fires and 1,050 car accidents (how surprising) that goes on in Lima and in the whole country, there are only 12,000 firefighters that carry this heavy weight. They are only given one bunker gear, an oxygen tank that lasts only between ~ 30-40 minutes, and one pair of boots. The boots are typically worn out quickly so they then have to resort on using old ones from others which can many times not even adequately fit them. The firetrucks are very outdated, for the past 80 years, some of their equipment and gear has been renovated only 3 times so eveyone does their part in taking really good care of everything. They don't have an adequate health insurance, many times injured firefighters have been dismissed and turned down from hospitals for this very reason. They aren't given a pension after they're 70 years old, money is only given if they DIE and in that case, their families can be given at most...only 68,000 soles, about 22,250 dollars, that's if they die.
So many sacrifices on their behalf and it's so disheartening to me that the government and the people themselves don't take the action of doing something to help these heroes out, they need our help. I've seen first hand the passion these men and women have in this job where they are willing to give what's most sacred to us, our life. They have kids and loved ones waiting for them at home with great pride in what they do, even if it means not seeing them ever again. They don't ask for any monetary pay, only for money to go into getting the material they need to save as many lives as possible and also a proper health care and pension which they are SO DESERVING OF!
I've realized that true happiness is not found in seeking things of monetary value, those things don't come in the tomb with you. True happiness is found when you can make an impact in someone's life, leaving memories that no one can ever take away from you. This is exactly the reward for these heroes, los Bomberos Voluntarios del Peru.
How will you impact someone's life today?
Karen Monge
-The Chic Engiruvian
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