My country is known for being the land of four worlds. We have the coast, mountainside, the Galápagos, and the Amazon. Within each of these worlds, many families live with riches— not money, but a connection between the people and the land. But after moving from Ecuador to the U.S., I lost a part of myself. I do not know much of my family's history or their home, but family values are still family values. “The world may have wanted a son, but God has sent me you.” My father, a man of little words, has shown me that life is better if you are ready to step out of tradition. While my mother still holds me in place just in case things do not end well. Maybe starting new traditions isn't as bad as the older generations think. But something we will never stop doing is having fun during la semana de carnaval. A week long event where you can pull pranks on everyone. It's something we still do to this day. Even newer generations here in America still throw colored flour and water to one another as part of the celebrations. It's mostly celebrated from the end of January to the beginning of February. And like every celebration there's food. A personal favorite of mine is chaulafan, the Ecuadorian name for fried rice, specifically the Chinese-inspired fried rice dish and is often made with chicken, pork, beef, shrimp, and vegetables. And is mostly enjoyed as a regular everyday dish. And is something I always enjoy making with my mom and sisters.

– MAT

Relationship:  unknown unknown