Dances with Beans

A caffeine addict's paradise! I actually don't drink coffee, but I thought some of you might appreciate this :) Also, forgive the poor picture quality--I've been using my dad's camera and am having upload issues.

Sweater- Vintage (from Keepin' it Chic), Pleather shorts- Stradivarius (in Colombia), Shoes- Jeffrey Campbell, Hat- Forever21, Earrings- Vintage, Necklace- Urban Outfitters, Cuffs- Vendors in Costa Rica and Cancun

I accompanied my younger cousins on what seemed like an endless shopping trip to one of the largest malls in Bogota. Never in my life have I seen so many stores devoted solely to women's clothes, shoes, and accessories. No random kitchen or electronic stores. No Brookstone massage chair pit stops. Just clothes. After a while everything started to look the same and I became hypnotized.  Stradivarius was a great discovery-- think Zara but cheaper! As far as the Litas, they were probably the least practical shoe to bring on vacation, but I had to give these paisley babies a whirl.

I now find myself in Armenia, the agricultural region, for a little more R&R away from all the craziness of the city.  Each day we've been going on a different excursion. Take yesterday for example.  I didn't think it was possible. A coffee themed amusement park? How was Juan Valdez going to entertain me for 9 hours? 

I was oh so wrong.  El Parco National de Cafe boasts some of the more interesting attractions in the country. I hate to be lame, but it was both educational and fun! (I hear you puking a little).  I learned more than I ever wanted to about the life of a coffee bean-- there was even a coffee ballet show.  Men leapt around with satchels of beans as the women twirled with bouquets of flowers.  There was a wedding scene involving the bride being snatched away by various lecherous coffee farmers and accused by the groom of cheating. In the end, all was well, and the audience got a taste of the major Colombian dance styles.  My dad was moved to tears saying it reminded him of his childhood.  I can't say that I relate, but I will never look at a cup of coffee quite the same way!