The apartment was filled with more than 15 people, all Puerto Ricans and one Spaniard. What was the purpose? First, eat. Second, socialize. And last but not least, keep the culture away from home alive. That day our home became the place where you could feel closest to the island. From the food, the music, and the extreme socialization skills that we carry around like a backpack.
Let's talk about the food... From the turkey to the dessert, the table was overflowing with recipes from the island, coming from our parents and grandparents. Through FaceTime and messages, they gave instructions on what to do, how to do it, and when to do it. I want to applaud Melody (my girlfriend) and Patricia (our friend) because they both said: “We want to make the turkey and rice.” So it was. The rest contributed with other sides, snacks, and desserts. Suddenly, like Puerto Ricans we are, they brought so much that we didn't know where to make room, but who says no to more food?
As I said, without thinking much about the downstairs neighbor, we filled the apartment. And, although there were people we knew a few months ago, people who we came to meet that same day also arrived. And, again, as Puerto Ricans we are, it seemed as if we had known each other before and we were waiting for that day to reconnect. The conversations that took place between each other were open arms. So it made sharing one full of laughter and more laughter.
I don't forget that there was a Spaniard among us and he went crazy with the “bombas” we started singing. Oblivious to our culture, he saw how we played “pleneros”, the “Bombazo Navideño” played in the background and we added “bombas” so that he could witness a little of everything. This season is eternal on the island and is essentially characterized by the food and the type of music that reappears in our culture. And, if he wants, we bring him a “parranda”, why not the full experience?
In the end, everyone helped clean up before leaving, took turkey for the week, and hugged each other. Melody and I feel proud to have been the hosts of this activity, the happiness that people showed was what we wanted to see. For a moment, I felt like I was at home celebrating the holiday, that's how we wanted everyone to feel and I think we achieved that. I am thankful for November, it was the month where the results of the previous months began to be seen, among them, these people.
Spanish Version - Friendsgiving: Edición Boricua
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No demuestres demasiado al español! Jajaja