What It's Like Growing Up Puerto Rican
Start writing a post
Lifestyle

What It's Like Growing Up Puerto Rican

Or at least, how it was for me.

91
What It's Like Growing Up Puerto Rican
https://az616578.vo.msecnd.net/files/2017/11/16/636463892932623918-320039574_Puerto-Rican-group-Jacksonville-Beach.jpg

Okay, so it's no secret that Spanish people tend to produce larger familes. Right? Well, my family is no exception. Seriously, it's huge. Both of my grandparents, had children with two marriages, so that adds up. I can't count my first cousins on two hands, and I really can't tell the difference between my first cousins and my second cousins. It's all the same, and it was amazing growing up in this family.

Growing up, some of the time I remember most are the holidays. When we were young, I remember dressing up, and going to some family member's house (it wasn't always the same), and seeing family whose name I couldn't even remember.

My family is the type where you have to say hi to every single family member! We didn't always see each other, so it's always nice to see their faces. You just never see a frowning face.

I can pinpoint my first introduction to dance at one of these Christmas parties. There's always salsa playing at all these parties. When I was younger, I was pretty shy. I would just kinda sit off to the side, on a couch or something. Well, I remember my uncle dance over to me, and take my hand, and lead me out dancing. I thank him every day for doing that because I love dance, so much.

I had the best time at the last gettogether my family had. It was the first time anyone had seen me in 2 years. It just so happened that I was pregnant too, and showing. Everyone was so happy to see me, and even moreso, because of that bundle of joy brewing. Every single "Hello," was a kiss, a hug, and a belly feel! It was great. I couldn't stand around, so I'd make my rounds to everyone, and then find somewhere to sit. Nobody seemed to mind.

I love having the type of family where you can go so long without seeing each other, but you can talk as if no time has passed at all. I love spending that time with all my family, surrounded by decorations, food, and music. (And alcohol for the adults!) I also learned how to play pool at these parties.

We have our share of laughs, that's for sure. My dad likes to crack a lot of jokes, and his brother does the same, or just act like a fool. It's a great way to spend the holidays, and anyone would enjoy themselves here.

Growing up in my family, you experienced a lot, and heard a lot of Spanish (whether you spoke it or not). You have a loud party, instead of a quiet dinner. You have a pig instead of chicken, and you have a time full of smiles and laughter, instead of awkward silences.

My family has definately made me who I am today. Caring, loving, family oriented, and wanting one of my own. I have no doubt that it will come in time, and for now, I'm pretty happy with the one I already have.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

48117
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less
a man and a woman sitting on the beach in front of the sunset

Whether you met your new love interest online, through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

Challah vs. Easter Bread: A Delicious Dilemma

Is there really such a difference in Challah bread or Easter Bread?

30545
loaves of challah and easter bread stacked up aside each other, an abundance of food in baskets
StableDiffusion

Ever since I could remember, it was a treat to receive Easter Bread made by my grandmother. We would only have it once a year and the wait was excruciating. Now that my grandmother has gotten older, she has stopped baking a lot of her recipes that require a lot of hand usage--her traditional Italian baking means no machines. So for the past few years, I have missed enjoying my Easter Bread.

Keep Reading...Show less
Adulting

Unlocking Lake People's Secrets: 15 Must-Knows!

There's no other place you'd rather be in the summer.

954492
Group of joyful friends sitting in a boat
Haley Harvey

The people that spend their summers at the lake are a unique group of people.

Whether you grew up going to the lake, have only recently started going, or have only been once or twice, you know it takes a certain kind of person to be a lake person. To the long-time lake people, the lake holds a special place in your heart, no matter how dirty the water may look.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Top 10 Reasons My School Rocks!

Why I Chose a Small School Over a Big University.

174404
man in black long sleeve shirt and black pants walking on white concrete pathway

I was asked so many times why I wanted to go to a small school when a big university is so much better. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure a big university is great but I absolutely love going to a small school. I know that I miss out on big sporting events and having people actually know where it is. I can't even count how many times I've been asked where it is and I know they won't know so I just say "somewhere in the middle of Wisconsin." But, I get to know most people at my school and I know my professors very well. Not to mention, being able to walk to the other side of campus in 5 minutes at a casual walking pace. I am so happy I made the decision to go to school where I did. I love my school and these are just a few reasons why.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments