You Grew up Latino if You Recognize These 20 Things
If you grew up in a Latino household, there are certain universal truths that you can't help but agree with. From the mystical powers of "Vivaporu" to the joyous chaos of family gatherings that always, always, start later than planned, being part of a Latino family isn't just about shared ancestry; it's about a collection of hilarious, heartwarming, and sometimes hair-raising experiences that bind us together.
The Power of Vicks Vaporub
Better known as "Vivaporu," this powerful potion could supposedly cure everything from a headache to a broken heart. It was your abuelita's answer to all ailments. Got the flu? Vivaporu. Twisted your ankle? Vivaporu. Existential crisis? Well, you get the picture.
The Fear of La Chancla
Disney's Coco
Ah, la chancla - the infamous flip flop, often wielded by moms and abuelas, ready to fly at the speed of light to discipline a misbehaving child. It was a symbol of authority that taught you how to toe the line...pun intended.
Telenovelas as a Family Affair
You know you grew up Latino when your family's schedule revolved around the air times of their favorite telenovelas. Your abuela's tears during a dramatic episode were as gripping as the overly shocking on-screen action.
The Magic Word, "Ahorita"
This elusive term could mean in five minutes, five hours, or even five days. This vague time frame was somehow universally understood, but only added to the confusion of our non-Latino friends.
Sancocho Sundays (for many Latinos as this is a regional Caribbean-inspired dish)
Photography by Culinaria Nativa del Tatamá
The tantalizing smell of a simmering pot of sancocho filling the house on a Sunday was the epitome of comfort and family time. It didn't matter if the weather was 100 degrees outside - sancocho was a year-round delight. If you're Mexican, substitute for caldo, pozole, or menudo.
Cascarones at Easter
Photography by David
The thrill of smashing what took hours of painstaking work to create beautifully decorated, confetti-filled eggs on the heads of unsuspecting cousins during Easter celebrations. The glitter aftermath? Priceless.
Living in a Novela
Conversations with your tías could sometimes feel like you're in a telenovela, complete with dramatic plot twists, excessive hand gestures, and long pauses for effect.
El Cucuy and La Llorona
Promotional poster for "Cucuy the Boogieman" movie
Forget the boogeyman, these legendary creatures were the ones who kept you in check during your childhood. Their tales were the classic scare tactics, cautioning you against staying out too late or not going to bed on time.
Fabuloso Everything
Before there were fancy scented candles, there was Fabuloso. This cleaning product was the perfume of your home, leaving an undeniable smell of a clean house.
Dancing is Non-negotiable
Merengue, Salsa, Bachata, Cumbias, Rancheras...you were probably dancing before you could walk. From family gatherings to Christmas parties, dancing wasn't just expected; it was required.
The Invasion of Tupperware
Photography by James Salvas
Any large gathering meant you were going home with a random assortment of Tupperware filled with leftovers, from arroz con pollo to frijoles negros.
Blasting Music on Cleaning Day
Saturday morning cleaning sessions weren't complete without a booming soundtrack of Latin hits. The louder Marc Anthony or Marco Antonio Solis sang, the faster you mopped. And if you were trying to sleep in, the more you wondered if you'd ever be able to actually get some extra sleep on the weekend.
Quinceañeras
Sweet sixteen wasn't a thing. It was a grand quinceañera - a dazzling celebration of culture, family, and the journey to womanhood, or nada.
Morning Rituals with Cafecito
Coffee wasn't just a morning beverage; it was a rite of passage. Sipping on the strong, sweet elixir as a family, often accompanied by pan dulce, was an experience that shaped your mornings and energized your day.
The Power of the Sobremesa
The art of lingering around the table after a meal, sharing stories, and cracking jokes. A simple dinner could easily extend into the wee hours of the night.
Being Late is On Time
Arriving "fashionably late" was just a normal part of family gatherings. An invitation for 6 PM? It was universally understood that meant 7 PM or later.
No Secret is Safe
News traveled faster than light in your family. Before you even got a chance to announce something, everyone already knew. The chisme express was always running. From engagements to pregnancy announcements, your family was the original social media.
The Respect for Saints and Spirits
A house full of religious icons, saints, and the ever-watchful ojo protector. Your childhood was a blend of Catholicism and ancient superstitions.
Packed Cars on Road Trips
Photography by Mark Hodson
Family road trips weren't just for your immediate family. They also included cousins, aunts, uncles, and sometimes even neighbors. And don’t forget, everyone always brought enough food to feed a small village and hand-me-downs to give away.
Love is Louder
Above all, the loudness wasn't just about volume. It was about passion, vibrancy, and love. From booming laughter to fiery debates, everything was done full-heartedly.
Here's to the loving chaos, the unforgettable memories, and the strong sense of community and tradition that is growing up Latino.
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