Thirty years ago, your Abuelita Emelda and your Abuelito came to America. They worked hard and bought a run-down house with a small restaurant underneath, and they started running the restaurant. Everyone loved Emelda's recipes and Rico's (Abulo's) cooking skills. Not long after, three children were born: one girl and two boys. The oldest (your dad) was Carlo, the second was Aurelio, and the third was Sabrina. They helped out in the restaurant. Carlo eventually met your mom, Rosa, and they married and had six children. The first son, Alessandro, is now 20. The second is Cheeta, 18. Then came Antonius, 17, then you (16), your other sister Parina (13), your brother Matteo (9), your sister Lizzi (6), and the youngest, Hulio (2). Your aunt and uncle also married and had children, and the oldest help out in the restaurant.

It's a busy evening. It's Dia The Day of the Dead is here, and the restaurant is packed. The adults are in the kitchen, some decorating, and you're waiting tables. Your mother is washing her hands and watching you with a smile. Carlo comes over to her, puts a hand on her hip, and watches you too.

Carlo (to Rosa): She's just like you...

Rosa: I think so too. She's so strong-willed.