Alejandra's Quincienera

Tonight was a very special night for Alejandra - tonight, all of Casa Shalom celebrated her quincieinera, her 15th birthday party that marks the passage from girl to young woman. She got a new dress and shoes and had her hair and make-up done by her friends. Enjoy the photos of Alejandra's special night!

The birthday girl in her new dress

Director Jorge Mario played the role usually played by the father, and escorted the birthday girl to her party.

Alejandra's house mother Beatriz, some of her house mates, and director Jorge Mario pray for Alejandra during the ceremony.

Everyone enjoyed a very special dinner of tamales - (L to R) - Celia, Florentina and baby Fatima, Ada and Sonia.

Cesar enjoys his tamales, which are cooked in banana leaves over an open fire.

The candles are lit

The birthday girl and her cake