North Star to Southern Cross

2/17/08

a history lesson from La Paz, Bolivia



We have now reached La Paz, one of the capital cities of Bolivia (alt. 12, 400 ft). This is a bad picture of a stuatue of past President Gualberto Villarroel that stands in the square in front of the presidential palace. We´re not sure why he has a statue in his honor because in 1946 he was dragged by vigilantes from the palace and hung here in the square. Our theory is that he stands as a reminder to today´s president that this could happen to you (the people are very powerful). Since 1825, Bolivia has had 192 different presidents/governments. Thus, most presidents know that their time in office is limited, but hopefully it doesn´t end like Villarroel´s.

10 comments:

DAD said...

I think Italy has had that many since WW2. Doesn't seem like a career field does it? ART
PS Sorry we missed your call. Will look fwd to the next one.

Anonymous said...

Andrew and Jen,
Today is the 18th and your birthday Andrew, just wanted to wish you many happy returns of the day.
Truly loved the picture of your bus floating across the lake! Sara

R.J.B. said...

Happy Birthday Andrew!! And a Merry President's day as well.

Anonymous said...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANDREW!

I miss you around the office, just nagging women as far as the eye can see. Machu Pichu looks awesome, very jealous. Hope you enjoy your b-day.

Kevin

Kristy&Jason said...

Just now catching up with your adventures - the picts are awesome! U know my fav so far was the lifesize popcorn bag :) H-B Andrew! Love ya,
Slo

Anonymous said...

Happy Birthday Andrew! Hope you had a good one traveling to your destination! We love you!
The Boers Bunch

Anonymous said...

Hello, Hello,

Thanks for the great sight. I feel so very happy for you two. What a great adventure. I can't wait until you are with the kids and can let us know how to pray for them. Happy Birthday Andrew! The older you get the greater we love you. Hope you had a day worthy of your birth. We love you guys very, very much. Alice for all the Hutchins

Anonymous said...

ummm. I should have said, "Thanks for the great site. " Sigh.... the pictures are a great sight... yeah, that's what I was thinking Alice

Granny Esther said...

Happy Late Birthday Andrew, and Happy Travels to both you and Jen. I love to read your blog. It looks very beautiful and dramatic in Bolivia. The children at the orphanage are going to love you so much.

Anonymous said...

Right on! Looks like a great trip to me. I am definitely jealous. I am glad the visa situation worked out. Now just keep clear of the coca farms and you should be fine.

Jordan