Mola’s, Eagle Ray's & Handmade Jewelry

Thursday 6^th January

Sitting on deck this morning we saw an eagle ray leap from the water right by the side of us, and then again a little further away.  This area is supposed to be frequented by many eagle ray’s, I hope we get to see some when we’re snorkeling.

Eagle Ray swimming past Daisy

A few of the other sail boats left this morning, so it’s much quieter here now.  A couple of local Kuna came over in their dugout canoes offering fish and molas for sale.  We bought a beautiful mola for $40 from one couple that came over with their 2 grandchildren; I intend to frame  it when I get home.

The Kuna lady I bought the mola from

Molas are a world-renowned symbols of Kuna culture.  These oblong works of art are made using several layers of fabric in bright contrasting colors.  Patterns are cut into the separate layers, which are then stitched together along the curve of the cut, a process called reverse appliqué.  They traditionally use precise geometric patterns in vibrant colors. The designs will often include fish, turtles, butterflies, parrots or other creatures commonly found in the islands, some abstract designs can also be found.  The molas vary in price from around $15 to $80 depending upon the amount of work involved.

Katherine, from one of our neighboring boats came over to show us her selection of hand made jewelry, she makes everything from local materials, coconut shell, seeds and  Tagua nuts, also known as vegetable ivory.  The selection and quality of her work was truly amazing bearing in mind that she and her husband make everything on board their boat. Danni and I bought a necklace each and one for Nicolette.

Kathering showing us some of her handmade jewelry

Late morning we took the dinghy ashore to Green Island where we swam off the beach, played with a neighboring boats dogs, collected shells and took photographs.

We bought 3 fish from some local fishermen and barbequed them for lunch with chicken, langoustine and coconut rice, it was delicious.  I’ll really miss the fresh fish when I get home, it taste’s so much better straight out of the ocean.