Here Piggy, Piggy. Here Piggy, Piggy.......

Today was a good day and we were thrilled to have an invitation to from one of the San Lucas teachers for lunch. They had invited a few other, too, and Padre Juan Carlos and Maria took us all up to their home. The first thing to know about Peruvian culture is that you are supposed to eat EVERYTHING on your plate or the host is offended. Helping make our large portions in the US look like a child's plate here. Lunch lasted from 1 to 4 p.m. Our first plate was a large dinner plate with 2 1/2 inches of potatoes and cheese. I was somewhat surprised when the second plate came out. They had been saying we were going to have "rabbit." Now I know that they sometimes call guinea pig (cuy) "rabbit." They had slaughtered some of their precious animales to share with us. We went out to see the "herd" of 50 or so cuy in back. There are four clasifications here- smooth, whorled-up to 7 whorles or what I would call "cowlicks," curly, and long-haired (look a bit like a Yorkie!). Actually, there is a new bigger strain newly developed and they are being marketed in Japan! Here is an example of a before and after shot! We found the cuy to be tender and somewhat like chicken. The dish had a wonderful aroma, too. The family members were so gracious and considerate hosts. We ate as much as possible, but still couldn't finish our plates. It was a wonderful visit and one we will remember.