Sunday, Sept. 16, is Mexican Independence Day

A co-worker clued me in that Sunday, Sept. 16, is Mexican Independence Day, or Grito de Dolores.

She grew up in Brownsville, Texas, and said her mother wouldn't let the children out on the streets that day because many people celebrated by shooting off their guns, not unlike the way some people in Gaston County celebrate New Year's Eve.

So watch for fireworks on Sunday. And find good ways to celebrate with Merry Oaks neighbors. Another co-worker suggests these ideas:
"Go eat at a fine Mexican dining establishment. ... I recommend Maria Bonita on Rea Road and the Azteca on Independence in Matthews. Have a few margaritas! Or venture onto Sharon Amity and Central and grab a few tacos. Or tune in to Univision (Ch. 63) on Saturday night to watch the fireworks from Mexico City."

If you want to connect more with our neighbors or work on your Spanish, check out that co-worker's shared blog, Enterese.

(Personal note: Apologies for lack of postings. Life intruded. If you're a Merry Oaks resident who would like to help keep neighbors up to date with news beyond basic Google Group messages, let me know by posting a comment).