
After all the hours of preparation we wished to open our Centre in the style which is customary in Cyprus, and having become a member of the Orthodox Church, it was very special to have our Village Priest attend to bless our enterprise.
They say ' never work with Children and Animals' - well this day incorporated both these and more elements - (I admit to frayed nerves in bringing them all together)
Out local Muktar ( Michaelis Solonos) has been so very supportive of the project, and his words regarding our efforts were most warming and encouraging.
Of course, without a real live Pandalitsa the Donkey in attendance it just would not have been the same, as my Pandalitsa sort of kicked the whole thing off in the first place. - Our celebrity visitor was exceedingly well behaved - and I'm told it's many years since there was a donkey in the middle of Kouklia, whereas at one time, there were around 1000. (probably about the same number as there are cars today)
Our Pandalitsa was actually only one month off giving birth, - and we wish her well - new project, new baby donkey - great symbolism.- Hopefully both will thrive and grow - I know I will be there to visit the maternity ward when the little donkey arrives.
I was delighted to have the Kouklia Kids attend - and admit to a tear or two when they came up for their blessing. - The Kouklia Kids will be attending the Centre for Art classes starting in May - so they are all part of it.
I hope for a return visit from our celebrity Donkey, and many thanks to our Priest and Muktar for making our opening day so very special.