Cinco de Mayo and Me

I have been celebrating Cinco de Mayo for as long as I can remember. My fondest memory is close friend, Lisa (the big sister I never had), who is also Mexican introducing me to the culture and her infamous bean dip. She moved off to Tacoma, Washington and I kept it going. Then going off to college, I continued to celebrate while others would ask, "What is Cinco de Mayo?" As I moved on to adulthood, my annual ritual continued. I have watch others become more and more aware as the parties have grown all around Charlotte and become more popular. I am so excited to have more people join me in the festivities.

I've seen some recent controversy about the true origin of Cinco de Mayo. Some believe that it is not the celebrating Mexico's independence and others have their own opinion. To me, Cinco de Mayo is about celebrating life, family, and friends. I just love to celebrate (what party planner does not?) and accept any opportunity to do so. This year in my true Cinco de Mayo fashion, I am looking forward to my sister being by my side- as always. I'm celebrating my year of blessings, loved ones and giving myself a chance to "let loose". I invite you to do the same and leave you with one of my favorites - The Margarita recipe (courtesy of! Enjoy!

·  Salt, for rimming the glass (optional -- I, personally, hold on the salt)

·  Ice

·  1 1/2 ounces tequila (blanco, 100 percent agave)

·  1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice

·  1/2 ounce Cointreau (simple triple sec adds calories and gives me a "heavy" feeling)

If using salt, place in a shallow dish. Moisten the rim of a rocks glass with a dampened paper towel, then dip in salt.If using salt, place in a shallow dish. Moisten the rim of a rocks glass with a dampened paper towel, then dip in salt.