Wow. It is seriously hard to believe that the Houston Tea Party Society, headed up by the indefatigable Felicia Cravens, held its first protest rally in downtown Houston. My, how the time flies! And what an impact they have had in the Houston area, spawning many smaller groups, training hundreds of new political activists, and perhaps changing the landscape for Harris County Republicans. We'll know more about that next Wednesday morning.

That's right, one year ago, on February 27, 2009, between 250 and 500 people (depends upon who you ask) showed up at Discovery Green park in downtown Houston to protest the incredible spending from the previous Bush administration and the new Obama administration. Many laughed and made jokes but one year later, few are laughing and the jokes have turned to the type of smears you get when someone doesn't understand something and cannot reasonably argue with them.

I must admit it has been a fun year for me. I've met, quite literally, hundreds of new friends. Some will become long-term friends, others will jump ship as they realize I'm not going to go along to get along. As has happened in the past week after I told the world about Roy Morales giving money to the puke. That was disappointing but it happens and I'm not about to change. I'll keep on keeping on, trying to show the HCRP a better way. It is what I do.

Tomorrow, the HTPS is having an anniversary party. And, in typical fashion, they are using it as an opportunity to train people. That is one of the foremost differences between the HTPS and other groups, their agenda is to train and make a long-term impact. They have tried like heck to remain non-partisan even as Democrats shun them and mock them. And as some criticize them for being too close to Republicans. I commend them for doing their best and appreciate all of the hard work that they have done. And what they have accomplished.

There is no question that the HCRP will be different because of the influx of new precinct chairs. If the voters do their job and change leadership, the difference will be noticed immediately. If not, it will take longer but the current chair should know this - they will not stand for the smoke and mirrors of the past.

Here are a few pictures I culled out but the original pictures from a year ago are still online, still unedited and lots of them. Amazing how many people I now recognize by name when I scroll through them.

To Felicia, Josh, Natalie, Claver, Chelsea - Happy Anniversary! You guys rock. I'll see you at Casa Grande tomorrow!