Sometimes it's Just Not What it Seems

After waking up on Cinco de Mayo morning, we started hearing what sounded like gunshots. After we talked about it and decided it couldn't be gunshots because "nobody has guns in Mexico", we decided it was cannons. Oh...they were probably doing a re-enactment that had to do with Cinco de Mayo. That brought up the question: "What really is celebrated on Cinco de Mayo"? It really has very little significance in the whole of Mexico and generally isn't a big celebration....it is NOT a celebration of Mexico's independence from Spain, which is a BIG day and recognized on Sept. 16th. Cinco de Mayo signifiies a victory over the French army by a rather small group of fierce soldiers in the State of Puebla, Mx. Kinda a David vs. Goliath victory. The day has become a much more recognized day in the USA by Mexicans...where it really is just a day to celebrate their heritage and pride. Knowing this, it explains a lot to me...that is, I have asked Mexican friends in the past why Cinco de Mayo was celebrated and they could never say.

But, hey, I'm all for that....just another day to throw a pachanga.

We found the source of the cannons, and can only assume what we saw and heard had nothing to do with Cinco de Mayo...but we will probably never know for sure what it was all about. You see, cannons were being fired at Santiago Park and what we observed appeared very strange to us. There were a group of Mexicans carrying a large cross into the Catholic Church at Santiago. On the cross was a black figure with long black, curly, wily-looking hair. The figure was nailed to the cross similar to depictions of Jesus nailed to the cross. There was a group of maybe 50 Mexicans and some were carrying large colored banners - purple, white, or gold. It was a solemn affair and we felt a little uncomforable gawking and taking picures.

We left shortly and headed to the grocery store. We went to the Chedraui down south and bought shrimp and fettucini, avocadoes, and homemade bread for dinner. Terry made it clear he really splurged on the bread....7 pesos and 50 centavos...about 60 Cents! Seriously, the whole meal was about 20 USD which is a real splurge for us! It was the best meal I've eaten since leaving the US...my husband is THE BEST COOK EVER!!!

Fettucini Alfredo with Shrimp, Bread and Garlic/Butter for Dipping, and Avocado Salad....Terry is the BEST!

We took the yellow bus line out north to the Gran Plaza Mall and did some look-seeing in the afternoon. Then headed home where we cooked and celebated Cinco de Mayo and watched the biggest full moon ever. (although it was nublado)