This past August, Benny and I took a much needed, heartwarming trip to my mother's hometown of Talpa. Talpa is your typical Mexican little town or "pueblo", whose main attraction is Our Lady of the Rosary of Talpa, a "Sister Virgin" who is adored by many devoted catholic people from all over, including me!! Talpa has several "Fiestas" throughout the year, this is when thousands take pilgrim trips to visit the virgin.
We visited Talpa during it's "off" season, which I personally prefer. Being in Talpa was refreshing, physically, mentally, and spiritually. We stayed at my grandparent's home and spend lots of quality time with them. The lifestyle in Talpa is very different than here in L.A. It's much more laid back and people seem very friendly. Computers and cell phones are seldom used for communicating and socializing. It's a place of cobblestone streets and where everyone knows everyone, outsiders are easily spotted. Church bells tell you the time of day and call the next mass.
This was Benny's first visit, and I was happy that we both were able to connect with our family culture and traditions. I look forward to visiting again soon.
