VIVA MEXICOOOOOO

Well, it was another wonderful trip to Monclova! One of the youth members from there invited us to attend a Quincenera (like sweet 16, but at age 15), and, remembering all the sweet memories from my 15th birthday party, we packed the car and headed 3 hours south. Only problem is.... we got lost on the way to the party and missed it! :( Yeah, it was a bummer.... But, this is Mexico, and we didn't waste the night away -- we managed to have ourselves a nice and relaxing night. There are definitely more restaurants and attractions in Monclova than there are in Piedras Negras, so it was nice to be away from the day-to-day lull of life around here.

------------------------------------------------------

This week is Independence Week here in Mexico. The 16th of September is the actual Independence Day, but from the 13th till the 17th, there are celebrations and other events that the locals celebrate. Last night we commenced the festivities by heading to the plaza downtown after church services to see the activities and eat all the delicious food! Every year, each state sets up a tent and serves their local and traditional dishes for everyone to enjoy. We ate food from the Yucatan last night -- some yummy Panuchos and Empanandas filled with cheese. YUMMY! There was just one state right after the other. I'm hoping we go back tonight and every night this week to try the different food! I also bought some fresh bread, which was gone in a flash, and hope to get some more before the week is up.

About half of the stands with all the delicious food!

13th - Children Hero's Day

14th- no celebration

15th - Grito del noche (Midnight Yell -- VIVA MEXICO!!)

16th - Mexico's Independence Day

17th - the youth and young adult group from church is getting together to celebrate the birthday of our beloved youth leader, Esteban (Steven), and welcome some new members who have joined our group.

------------------------------------------------------

Josue has asked me to start soliciting that we are in need of desks, tables, and chairs for the CAIMAS school. We are beginning our training in November, and so we have just a few short months to find these materials. If you know of anyone or any organization that may be able to help us, please contact me ASAP -- (972)965-6866 or almanza.rachel@gmail.com or via SKYPE @ almanza.rachel

Be Strong in the Lord,

Rachel