She knows we have to say goodbye....

Angel laid on my chest and filled my face with kitty kisses. Trying to give me enough of them to ease my pain and hopefully carry me through in her absence. Our time is fleeting. How I wished I could turn back the clock.
When I look at her I can't convey to her the the love
I have, or how great this loss is to me.
Especially how I'll miss her everyday.

Angel always loved blogging, more so putting in her opinion.

She has been my constant companion through my darkest hours and has brought my greatest delights for 16 years.

As my dear friend said to me..."they're the ones we whisper our greatest fears to."

"We have a big favor to ask of you."

My circle of family and friends is very tiny here, so finding solace can be distant.
This is where I'm reaching out to you.

I know you understand with all your heart what these furry companions mean to us.
I would like to compile a scrapbook with all your comments.
Whether your a pet owner or just a lover of animals, would you please be willing to share your thoughts in the comment forum.
If you have or had a fur buddy I'd love to read about your journey.
"Could you also invite your sweet (blogging) friends to stop by as well?"
I "truly" appreciate anyone who would be willing to leave a comment at this fragile time.

Sweet Angel you have left a permanent paw print on my heart that will last forever.

The Angel in my life.

Angel's been in my life for over 15 years. She is my constant companion and comfort. Especially now as I struggle through a personal event. My heart aches as I wait to hear the results from her vet. Please keep us in your thoughts as we go forward. I know how much you find unconditional love from your fur babies too. They bring our greatest joys.

Preparing for a Fiesta! 

For many revelers, the Fifth of May has come to mean Margaritas and Mexican food, and spring weather. But Cinco de Mayo isn't the celebration of Mexican independence, as many believe, nor is it celebrated throughout Mexico. Festivities are generally confined to the state of Puebla, where, in 1862, Mexican troops defeated an invading French army nearly double their strength. Citizens there still mark the occasion with a military parade honoring the Battle of Puebla, followed by a fiesta filled with music, dancing, and, food.

In the U.S., though, Cinco de Mayo is rapidly becoming a favorite springtime celebration. Whether you blame it on the aggressive advertising of Mexican beer companies or credit Chicano pride and a growing interest in Mexican culture  along with the cuisine..... the fact remains that May 5 is the perfect excuse to entertain.

Méxican Folklórico Dancers

A folk dance is performed in celebration of a special event. The dancers are wearing the region of jalisco dress. Every region represents their own rich cultural heritage through their interpretive dance and costume.

The dresses have an array of vibrant color's.

To become an accomplished dancer it takes years of vigorous training, so

children start practicing at a very young age.

Every female dancer will have (colorful) ribbons braided into her hair or wear a flower headpiece for her performance.

The accompaniment for the perfect fiesta...... is a
Mariachi band!

The food is an integral part of the celebration!

I focused on authentic meals that are as complex and rich as Mexican culture itself. My dishes are not commonly found in a Mexican restaurant, but would be found on every Latinos dinner table. Add drinks and a festive setting, and you've got the makings of a fabulous fiesta.

Nuestra cena mexicana

I found these little maracas and repurposed them into napkin rings.

The tissue flowers are a traditional Mexican decoration.

Main course ...chilaquiles

Made with corn tortillas, enchilada sauce, ground beef, spices and lots of cheese!

Garnish with sour cream and sliced avocado.

We like a little tomato and lettuce with our chilaquiles.

Fideo with frijols refritos

I refer to this dish as... Mexican spaghetti, the pasta is similar to angel hair that's been cut into tiny strands.

The fideo has a tomato sauce base with chicken broth, onions and comino (cumin).

Topped with refried beans, salsa, green onions, cilantro and sour cream.

It is typical to eat with tortillas... for scooping
 (in place of a spoon or fork)

Dessert.....pan dulce

"Conchas" are a lightly sweet bread that has a sugar-shell pattern on top.

An "Empanada" is a turnover with a pumpkin , jam, or cream filling.

"Besos" consists of two round domes with a “kiss” of strawberry jam and coconut,
 (my favorite!!)

No fiesta would be complete without a Piñata!

So I made you a mini version of a "sombrero."

Created from a swatch of chile pepper fabric and gathered crepe paper.

Here are the treasures you'll find inside when you crack it open.

Hot Tamales, chocolate gold coins and confetti.

De mi familia a la suya,

Feliz Cinco De Mayo