Mi gente,
For the past year, I have been preparing for Sunday, June 9, counting down the days and dreaming of riding on the float and proudly waving my flag to my people at the annual Puerto Rican Day Parade in NYC.
Well, mi gente, those good thoughts all came to a crashing halt on Saturday when I realized I was too sick to travel from Los Angeles to NYC (I've had bronchitis for the past week). I couldn't believe this was happening to me. I attend the parade every year and this year I was scheduled to ride Mr. Javier Solano's float along with Sky Blu from LMFAO, Sensato, Wilmer Valderrama and Reek Rude.
This year's theme for the parade was, "Celebrating Your Health!"
How ironic is it that I currently have bronchitis and a sinus infection? Everyone knows that I'm one of the healthiest people on the planet and being in shape, staying fit and helping others stay fit is something I take very seriously.
Anyhow, I had so much fun at the parade last year and I was looking forward to being on the float with Wilmer and my mom and my daughter, Shaniece. We were going to dance to reggaeton and check out the colorful floats and the array of gorgeous Salsa dancers!
It's always such an honor to be a part of the historic event and feel the excitement and enthusiasm from everyone in attendance. As a Boricua, we are proud and we take pride in our roots (how can we not? We are badass!). And although my heart was broken because I couldn't make it this year (bronchitis, I hate you!), I felt a little better when it occurred to me that I'm Puerto Rican. It's in my blood. I don't have to be at a parade to celebrate my roots, my culture and my gente, because Puerto Rico will always be in my heart!
That said, my heart and I will definitely be at next year's parade. A girl's gotta dance!
Besos,
Evelyn