Wednesday, Si?

Our friend, Ben, is currently on a motorcycle trip across America/South America. I am so impressed with the courage he has. I don't know that I could do what he's doing but, what an experience it must be! He has been traveling since just after our wedding in October and is due to return later this spring. We can't wait for him to arrive home safely and hear all about his adventures in person.

Ben was able to attend our wedding although, I'm sure he was anxious; he departed just days after we were married. While opening our cards and gifts, we came across Ben's gift with a card on which he had written a promise that he would send us something from South America. Never did we expect that when he was thousands of miles away, he really would send us something from South America. But, for the short time I've known Ben, (which is since the summer of 2009) he has proven to be one of the most sincere, thoughtful people I've ever met.

Above are the animals he sent to us, and below are the email exchanges sent between Aaron and Ben telling the story of Mickey and Fello (we named them.) I did edit out parts of the email just for the sake of privacy.

Hey Kid,

We are completely stoked with our new friends Mickey (penguin) and Fello (bull). We can't wait to hear the story behind where you found them. As soon as I showed Jessi she was all smiles and said, "I can't wait to hear where Ben got these guys from. He is such a great guy."

So, when you get a minute to relax, drop us a line and let us know the story behind these two. They have a special spot on our bookcase far from the reach of Rocko and Shredda, who so desperately want to play with them.

We know you are enjoying yourself, like you do everywhere you go, keep on having fun, ride safe and we can't wait to see you soon.

Love,
Aaron and Jessi

Ben's response:

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Pickle Smoocher.

I'm really glad you like the presents. They are handmade in Mexico by women from the Zapatista Army of National Liberation. They live in the highlands of Chiapas, Mexico. Chiapas is the poorest state in Mexico. I certainly got off the trail on this one as I took a small collectivo (local mini-bus) to their village about 1.5 hours outside of San Cristobal. They spoke to each other in their local Mayan language (which I didn't understand). They spoke to us few in Spanish (which I also didn't understand) but fortunately there was a guy from Spain to translate for me.
The Zapatistas have been in a war with the Mexican government for decades. They only want to live their simple lives but they feel the government won't let them. The government won't give them land to live, raise their families, tend to crops. On new years day in 1994 they stormed the cities in protest (among other things) the commencement of NAFTA the North American Free Trade Agreement which they feel doesn't help their people and instead helps big corporations. Many were killed by the military. Since then their war has been mostly political but there is great tension. All around their village is surrounded by Mexican military stations. When we entered we had to show our passports and state our political views. They don't consider this village part of Mexico but instead autonomous. They have very strong beliefs for education and womens equality. They are very talented craftspeople and one of their specialties are these handmade stuffed animals. I bought these directly from the Zapatista woman who made them. I really hope you like them and I thought you would appreciate the culture they represent.

Their war continues today and their future is uncertain. If you're interested in learning more check this out: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zapatista_Army_of_National_Liberation

Merry Chrismas, Feliz Navidad, and Congratulations on your marriage! I can't wait to see you when I get home. Let's get some hiking in!

How cool is that? Ben nailed our personalities when he picked these for us and he supported something big.

Ben, we absolutely love our gifts. You are so thoughtful and we can't wait for you to come home, when you're good and ready, safe and sound.

Now, that is a Wednesday Oui, Si?

If you want to hear more about Ben's travels, visit his blog at: http://afewmoremiles.com/