Quinceañera: The a coming of age

This weekend is my niece's Quinceañera. Many have asked if the Quinceañera will be traditional or more "up to date". If traditional means having a hip-hop group who will be "jerking", if its means a Hello-Kitty theme, or if it means pink and black as the theme...then of course it is. Actually, to my surprise my niece wanted to dance the mambo. She wanted to enter the stage with an old Tin-Tan Pachuco introduction....I guess it is traditional after all?

Until Death Do Us Part

Two years ago my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer. In her battle against cancer, I've had the opportunity to understand and see my parent's courage, strength and unconditional love. Although our family has seen the terminal effects cancer, my mom faced cancer like a warrior. Her language barrier, fear of cancer, or lack of "medical insurance" did not prevent her from facing this illness head on. Perhaps it was her faith, or perhaps it was her inner strength; I know it must have been both. But like any warrior, my mom had great support - my dad. I have been very fortunate to have my parents who have been great examples of unconditional love, courage and strength.