Yesterday here in Mexico we celebrated the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, one of the most important dates on the Mexican calendar. It's an experience - rich in spiritual and cultural traditions - that I've enjoyed a number of times throughout my life.  I'd like to share some of my photos from yesterday's visit with you, and you can find them online here.

With an estimated 5-7 million visitors journeying to the Basilica in Mexico City each year it is the most visited Catholic pilgrimage destination in the world. The site recognizes the location where nearly 500 years ago, Juan Diego revealed the magnificent image of the Virgin of Guadalupe emblazoned on his cloak after she appeared to him three days earlier on December 9, 1531. It's an image that moves the faithful and endures to this day.

Now is also very much a time and the season to give thanks for our own blessings, be with family and look ahead to the promise and hope of 2012.

That spirit of hope and wish for prosperity is very much evident here in Mexico and in the U.S. And, although we know the year ahead will be one of economic challenges and political change, with presidential and congressional elections reshaping the look, feel and direction of political leadership on both sides of the border, - there are many reasons to be optimistic. In fact, the Council of the Americas recently led a conference highlighting what we might expect from Latin America in the coming year.

As another year draws to a close, I want to express my appreciation to friends, clients and my colleagues at both White & Case and Vianovo. To each of you, our work together and the many personal and professional friendships I've forged with you over the years means so much to me and for that I am grateful.

With best wishes to you and your families for a joyous holiday season and a prosperous 2012, I am,

Sincerely,

Antonio Garza