Cinco de Mayo (pronounced [ˈsiŋko̞ ðe̞ ˈma̠ʝo̞] in Mexico, Spanish for “Fifth of May”) is a yearly celebration held on May 5, which commemorates the anniversary of Mexico’s victory over the Second French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza. The victory of a smaller, poorly equipped Mexican force against the larger and better-armed French army was a morale boost for the Mexicans. Zaragoza died months after the battle from an illness, and a larger French force ultimately defeated the Mexican army at the Second Battle of Puebla and occupied Mexico City.

More popular in the United States than Mexico, Cinco de Mayo has become associated with the celebration of Mexican-American culture.

When I awoke this morning I most certainly hadn’t any inclination to celebrate Cinco de Mayo though I admit it has become a household catchphrase even without knowing its meaning. But the lovely sunny day did not go unnoticed.  With uncommon purpose I completed my morning amalgam of ablutions and breakfast then headed directly to basement where I collected my bicycle, donned my helmet and rode onto the street. The lustre of the day was palpable!

The pattern of my cycle aligned with the flat surfaces.  Hills were right out! I have succeeded over time to create a pleasant outing criss-crossing streets throughout the neighbourhood, never going far from home, circling about the domestic stencil. Afterwards I settled in the garden upon an armchair, prolonged myself and blissfully dozed.

But my objective today was not confined to legacy of the sunshine. The sunshine was but a welcome backdrop to that further preoccupation of mine – driving a motor vehicle. So convinced was I of the imperative of the drive – and recognizing the similarity of the ritual to that of my late father – I momentarily imagined that my father’s being infiltrated my own and drove on the open highway. Even were he not present in any form whatsoever I knew he would be pleased with my own attention to the vehicle and its manifestation.

The Ford Motor Company has produced a fine vehicle. The muscle of the machine is undeniable without being obtrusive. The sound and seating adjustments are exact. As is my custom I lowered all the windows and opened the landau roof. The wind blustered in the cabin of the car. What an ideal way to appropriate the advantage of the day!

Meanwhile we continue our incremental journey to the other side of the River. This morning we met with the estate agents regarding the sale of this place. As expected all went well; and we collectively agreed that it was a desirable unit. At the same time we shared thoughts about the new place, how inviting it is to inhabit a place freshly painted and new! And the covetable vantage of the property looking both upriver and downriver bordered by parks and walkways.