Contrary to popular gringo belief, Mexican Independence Day is NOT Cinco de Mayo (May 5th). Independence Day is celebrated on the 15th of September every year. People do many things to show their patriotism. In fact, September is the “mes de la patria” (patriotic month). The whole month is devoted to celebrating their independence. People put up flags and decorations all over. This is a video collage of Mexican flags set to the music of the Mexican National Anthem. I wish it could have been better, but I haven’t had much time.

The height of the celebration is on the evening of September 15th, where the President will come out of the government building and re-enact the “grito de la independencia.” He will shout, “Viva Mexico!” There will be grand celebration with typical food, dancing, and singing. We are going to a party, so hopefully, I’ll have more video of this special holiday.

Israel and Lupita got married on Saturday. It was the first wedding I have ever officiated, so I was a little nervous. There are a lot of different things that they do in their weddings here in Mexico that we don’t do in the US. So, I learned a lot in preparing for this wedding. It turned out to be a fun time. I hope they do well together.