The Fifth Of May
What is the point of American's celebrating Cinco de Mayo? It is not our holiday. There are many transplants that have good reason to celebrate, but we really don't have to take notice. Now I can stop being literal and say, why not? Its a great excuse to visit with friends or have a party. I welcome any opportunity to have fun. I don't like pass up foreign culture experiences.
This year, Scott and Joanne invited us to their house for a Cinco de Mayo party. It has been some time since I last saw Pete, Heidi, Scott or Joanne. I was excited. Before driving over to Highlandtown, Teresa and I traveled up to Hampden. We planned to visit a paper boutique for wedding invitations. We also had lunch at Holy Frijoles. Lunch at a famous local Mexican spot was perfect for Cinco de Mayo. The burritos are served packed with beens and meat. Whats not to love? After a very large lunch, a couch nap was in order. We didn't make the party until late evening.
After knocking on the wrong door, we joined the party at the back patio. The coolers were filled with Mexican beer. I added some Sol to the collection. Skippys flowed from the large dink cooler, and homemade mango salsa sat on the kitchen counter. I probably eat Mexican four or five times a month so, my stomach was in a happy place.
While the sun was setting over East Baltimore, we chatted on the patio. It was just cool enough to be comfortable. I enjoy catching up with old friends. Pete is making it through grad school. Joanne is pushing through as well. The big news was Pete and Heidi's engagement! She described her much anticipated ring which sounds amazing. Scott describe his every changing neighborhood. Each time I stop by their way, the streets are improving. Of course, the visit wouldn't be complete for Teresa unless she met Disco and Jungle. These two large fluffy male cats were lounging in the upstairs bedroom. She couldn't get over all their hair and thought they were adorable. By this time, we kept the party inside, but we soon left for Shortys. Scott, Pete and Jon were djing as Neighborhood Watch.
Shortys is still a wonderful spot at Clinton in Foster. Is that Highlandtown? Bolton Hill? I don't know... No one can compete with the custom drinks. They always have Magic Hat No. 9 on tap. Last but not least, the fantastic music! It seems a shame, they had to cut back on the volumn. Apparently, new neighbors complained -- horrible. Teresa and I lucked out with two seats at the bar. We listened to Scott and some of Pete. They were wearing what looked like Power Rangers masks. Crazy. Unfortunately, we couldn't stay for the entire show. At 9am the next morning, I had a soccer game.
So, I celebrated my Mexican heritage with a burrito, mango salsa, Sol, Skippys, music and great friends. I hope no one takes offense. I like to embrace other cultures when possible. Highlandtown is no Guadalajara, but we had a memorable day.
