For anyone who is here and interested, tonight should be "El Grito" - the huge mass affirmation of independence. It happens in Plaza Republica across from the Catedral. Lots of people, lots of shouting, lots of fireworks, lots of fun. Last year, we could hear the cries of ¡Viva México! from our house. The shout usually happens at 10:00 pm.

Tomorrow, Independence Day, there should be some parades with children adorably dressed up like the peasants who fought for independence. I don't know the time and location of any this year, so if anyone knows of any, I'd love to hear.

We made the mistake of going to Walmart today. What a mess that was. Everyone is getting ready for Independence Day parties. The Tecate girls were there dressed in very short, ruffled skirts banded in the colors of the Mexican flag. Walmart has moved ALL of the liquor to the front of the store, right by the door, in big towering displays for the holiday. It made it very tough to get in and out of the store.