It has been a long time since I’ve been to a bridal shower, and played all these curious games meant to entertain the guests. “La Loteria.” commonly referred to as Chalupa here in the Rio Grande Valley, is a traditional and very popular game with an interesting history. According to historians, the game has its origins in 15th century Italy, among the upper social circles of the time. It was introduced in colonial Mexico in 1769 and quickly became the preferred game at fairs and popular events. It is pretty much like Bingo, but instead of numbers and letters, Loteria consists of colorful characters of folk life such as the dandy, the little devil and the topless mermaid, and who can forget el negrito. There are a total of 54 different characters in this game.
Throughout the years, and in the 21st century, new Loteria designs have been introduced. The latest one I remember had to do with all things San Antonio, Texas. But nothing prepared me for the new game, designed especially for future brides that I just found in Progreso, Mexico. What future bride does not dream of owning a broom, a mop, a blender and a toaster? I am sure all of them right?
My blood rushed and my stomach turned when I saw those cute cartoons meant to depict the thoughts and life of a future bride. What were they thinking? And who designed this game? I was curiously stunned. I say curiously because I was not angry, for they’re cute pictures, but I was rattled. I really did not know how to react. My favorite mantra took over saying “Allow, and let go of any judgment.” So I went ahead and took a photo before continuing with my shopping not without thinking what pictures could form the new future bride Loteria.
What do you think should be included in this modern version? Here are some ideas.
1- The Pill
2- The FB Status Change
3- The Ex…
4- The Bank Account
5- The College Degree
There are 54 cards, so we have a long way to go!