While developing my relationship with Mayu’s artisans in rural Peru, I was living with Angela (on the right) and her gracious family. Angela was my “abuelita”, or host grandmother during my two years in the Peace Corps. She is one of the most genuine and giving women I’ve ever met. Her family (and she had lots of grandchildren) was always first. In fact, the majority of my abuelita’s days were spent cooking on her wood-burning stove.

I know we can’t understand the video below. However, as Quechua is considered a dying language, it is important to preserve as much of Angela’s culture as possible. Speaking of culture, take note of Angela’s knitting. She taught me to hand spin, dye and weave pure sheep wool. Let me tell you, I gained a much greater appreciation for everything hand-made while spending time with both Angela and Mayu’s artisans.

“Mayu” means river in Quechua. Read more about the meaning of Mayu.

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