This month's cover features my personal memories and favorites of Christmas. Annually, my grandfather Martinez would travel to Mexico to deliver toys, clothes, shoes and food to orphanages. When he returned he would bring a star-shaped piñata filled with Mexican candy. He also brought a figurine of the Baby Jesus to be placed in our decor, to remind us of why we were celebrating. I was blessed to also have my grandparents Castro as neighbors. I loved preparing tamales with them. I was the eldest grandchild and was the only one allowed to help, until later. My grandfather would share Christmas stories about their past. We would have canela (cinnamon tea) or hot chocolate to further warm our hearts. We would celebrate Las Posadas at Our Lady of Grace Church, as well as a community-wide celebration of Día de la Virgen. My grandmama would make buñuelos on Christmas Eve or morning. There was always plenty of food and many memories no matter the economic situation. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
