Cinco de Mayo—or the fifth of May—commemorates the Mexican army’s 1862 victory over France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War (1861-1867). A relatively minor holiday in Mexico, in the United States Cinco de Mayo has evolved into a celebration of Mexican culture and heritage, particularly in areas with large Mexican-American populations. Cinco de Mayo traditions include parades, mariachi music performances and street festivals in cities and towns across Mexico and the United States.
A group of 65 men, women and kids headed to Tijuana to visit an orphanage on this celebratory day. Twenty of us brought cooked turkeys, others brought the fixin’s, but all brought big smiling hearts. The children here knew little about the battle, but learned alot about love, gentle touches and kind gringos. It was a WONDERFUL day spent with these abandoned children who live below poverty level but yet thankful for the tiniest things — things we take for granted. … a stove to cook on, flushing toilets, bottled water, menu variety, a bedroom with less than twelve others to share with, unbroken toys, more than two changes of clothing, etc. We left with tears wishing we could take some home, but hopeful the day of joy left sweet memories in their hearts till we see them again.
If you have any interest in joining me for a “work day” at the orphanage, please call. There are many small maintenance projects, doggie grooming, laundry, cleaning of the yard, child care and delivering of toys, food, etc that need to happen.
It was a wonderful day of giving ….