Babies on Backs

There are so many babies on backs here!  The roads and sidewalks are way too uneven for strollers.  These photos were taken at ASELSI's Christmas party.  Lots of people here carry all sorts of things in fabric...

The children of the family also help carry loads,
especially when the mom is carrying a baby.

The bundle on the left (with the orange stripe)
has a baby inside.  They usually cover up their
young babies completely.  The red bundle on the
right is something else... maybe food or jackets?

It is very common to see a mom with a
baby on her back and another young
child (or two) by the hand.

This mom is readjusting her child.
Notice the boy in the background on the
left with a bundle around his forehead.

Here is another boy (in front) with a bundle.

The baby on the right (in the purple fabric)
is being carried in front.  They seem to do this
when they are planning to nurse.

Sometimes, you might see a backpack.

This man's bundle is bulky, maybe
something they use for cooking.

When we first arrived in Chichicastenango, I bought some fabric and tried carrying Veronica.  She was so heavy (about 25 lbs then) that my shoulders and back burned after only a few minutes.  Plus, she kept slipping down in the fabric, so I had to hold her in.  I realized it is better to start with young babies and build up muscles!