This is the year my Christmas won't be Made in China. Instead of the usual commercial shiny things we all know and love, I'm aiming for a simpler reminder of what the holiday is all about. Decorations, cards, and gifts will reflect skill, art, and natural materials instead of glossy plastic and machined perfection. Â My sources will be local craftsman, a few boutique stores, and several charities.
A stroll through the mercado de artesanias in Masaya, Nicaragua last weekend was the starting point.
Just a typical aisle in the market which is located in an old colonial building with plenty of light and a restaurant on one side.
Most of the textiles in the mercado are from Guatemala. We saw scarves, table runners, and placemats but only a few larger pieces.
The terracotta pots on top look like smiling faces. Or maybe the Kool-Aid jug guy.
I had a sizzling pollo a la plancha after a day of hard shopping and it was delicious. Washed it down with a local beer and was ready to spend a little more!
This beautiful plate is typical of the colors and motifs found in Nicaraguan pottery.
