I know I can be pretty irreverent sometimes. Another Cuban recently called me out, saying that I obviously like the "jodienda.*"
*To mess with people. From the root word, "joder," which means to joke about something. However, I should warn you that even though it's accurate, it's not really a word you want to trot out to impress someone's Cuban grandmother with, but that's not important right now.
So I enjoy taking my little 90 Mile Marker when I travel and I like to photograph it in various random places because it's kind of kitschy and fun. And I crack myself up.
I'd like to mention right here that when this little baby is in your purse along with your phone charger cord, it presents a challenge for the TSA, and you may or may not have to do some fast talking to get out of airport jail, but that's a story for another day.
Having said that, I have to also say, that I love what it represents. I love that it reminds me of how near and yet how far my family has come. And that makes me smile.
When I started reading each and every comment, I was a bit overwhelmed. I wish I could send one to each one of you who took the time to tell a little bit of their "Coming to America" story. I encourage you to go back and read the comments left on the previous post. It's sobering to realize that every Cuban you meet here in the U.S. has a story. An amazing, heartbreaking, life-affirming story. Thank you all for sharing. I truly love you for that.
When I went to find my little 90 Miles Marker Souvenir, I saw that I had not one, but two (!) to give away.
So I went to Random.org and entered the number of entries (except for the doubles) and came up with these two.
Congratulations to the following readers:
So, Allyson and Yovani,
Please send me an email with HEY, MARTA! I WON STUFF ON YOUR BLOG! in the subject line (so that I don't accidentally delete it). Please include your home address and I will send out your little 90 Miles to Cuba souvenir.
90 Miles. So near and yet so foreign.
Thank you all again for playing. You always make me smile.
How do I get one of these?!