May 5, 2012 – El Día de la Batalla de Puebla

Cinco de Mayo. It’s a date that speaks about a fight for freedom.  Today, commemorates the Mexican army’s unlikely victory over French forces at the Battle of Peubla in 1862. When I read the story again last night, the powerful message that came through loud and clear: the need for freedom inspires courage and ingenuity to stand up to the powerful aggressor knowing, without a doubt, you are the weaker challenger. Some people think Cinco de Mayo is Mexico’s Independence Day. That is celebrated on September 16th , arguably the most important Mexican patriotic holiday. However, May 5th was a tipping point, a great symbolic victory for the Mexican government which strengthened the resistance movement to continue the fight.

The question that remains –  would we have been as brave?

The Coast of Mexico

Afternoon tea with my family – paid for with cash!!!

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Why more people are ditching credit cards – Money – TODAY.com.

http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/42688903

There is a subtle, yet profound, difference between austerity and frugality.   For me, it is similar to being in a grey prison or celebrating freedom under a blue sky.  Controlling the desire for consumption signals an increase in personal creativity.  I can see why people are ditching credit cards!