These stories remind us all that knowing where you came from helps you understand where you’re going. Six of us remain from a family of ten: Mario, Linda (that’s me), Lita, Andy, Angelo, and Carmie. Our Mom, Melba Nuñez de Bodden, hailed from La Ceiba, Honduras, while our Dad, Vicente Antonio Sales, was a unique blend of Filipino and Creole from Chicago. We grew up in the culturally rich neighborhoods of Englewood and Roseland during the vibrant 1970s, crafting our own universe of fun and belonging in a world that often felt foreign. Inside our lively cocoon, we embraced a medley of accents and dialects, a colorful tapestry that shaped our identities. Each episode celebrates the richness of living between cultures, filled with humorous anecdotes, cherished traditions, and powerful family narratives.

Spoiler alert—some stories may be tough to hear, but they serve as a testament to our healing journey. As our brother Tito would say, “We either put the fun in dysfunction, or we take it out.” Whether you’re exploring your own cultural identity or simply enjoy authentic family storytelling, prepare for both laughter and inspiration as I share what it was like growing up different in a world that wasn’t quite ready for us.