Texas Independence Day, March 2nd, is always a special day for me. It always begins by going to the memorial ceremony at the Texas State Cemetery. There state dignitaries, Texas Revolutionary Era reeactors, interested visitors and downright patriotic citizens show up for the speeches and musket fire. It is a time to honor the men & women who created Texas and those who have continued to make Texas what it is. It's always a moving ceremony and well worth your time. Mark it on your calendar for next year.

Saturday was the Texas parade put on by the Celebrate Texas organization. this is a great group of people who stage several events in the hopes of keeping the memory and spirit alive. They are to be commended in the face of so much apathy. Texas Independence Day used to be a big deal in Texas years ago. As more and more people have moved to Texas from other places, the real possibility of the dilution and the watering down of the Texas spirit and Texas traditions is a reality. Celebrate Texas tries to keep Texas in the front of our minds. Marsha Johnson, Harvey Ford and Roger Moore and a host of others work on this throughout the year. These are special people to me. Thank you for all you do to remind us of what a special place this is we call home.

These events have become traditions for me. Every Texas Independence Day you'll find me in the thick of the various Texas celebrations. I may not have been born here but I could not be any prouder of the heritage that is Texas.

L8R. Check back soon. There's lots going on...