In this episode of La Vida Blended, hosts Mila and Donnell share their journey as a multiracial couple navigating the complexities of holiday traditions. Mila, Latina, and Donnell, Black, come from different cultural backgrounds, and merging their family celebrations has been both challenging and rewarding.
Mila reflects on her childhood holidays, shaped by poverty and trauma, where the focus was less on gifts and more on finding contentment. Donnell, on the other hand, grew up in a large, joyful family where the holidays were about togetherness, food, and laughter. When they first celebrated together, Mila was overwhelmed by Donnell's large family gatherings, while Donnell found Mila’s quieter, intimate celebrations a bit of an adjustment.
Through compromise and communication, they’ve found ways to blend their traditions, creating new ones that honor both cultures. Mila shares the concept of familismo—the Latino value of family loyalty and interdependence—which plays a big role in how her family celebrates. Together, they’ve made space for both sides of their heritage, from Hotel Rodriguez holiday visits to the Latino tradition of an ofrenda honoring loved ones.
Mila and Donnell’s story is a reminder that the holidays aren’t about choosing one tradition over the other, but about creating something meaningful together. Tune in for inspiration on how to blend traditions and make the holidays your own.
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Until next time, embrace the blend!
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