My object is called a Molino (mo-lee-no). My parents got this molino from Mexico a very long time ago. My mom uses the molino as a cooking utensil. When we got the molino it was not assembled. It is very heavy because it is made out of stainless steel. As you can see in the picture above, you put food inside the hole. Then you spin the handle and the food comes out, across the spinning handle. My mom uses the molino to grind beans for tamales, with rice and mole with chicken on the side. I chose to represent this object because as far as I can remember it’s been a fixture in my kitchen. The molino is important to my family because we use love cooking as a family traditional Mexican food. So, for instance, the molino to grind beans for tomales. When my parents cook tamales it means that it is a special occasion. That’s almost like a tradition in the family although sometimes we cook tamales because we are a happy family. Like for my communions we eat tamales because it was a special day to represent our connection with God. Also for ever New Year my mom makes tamales to a new beginning and a fresh start. Every time I see the molino it brings a smile to my face. I smile because when I see the molino it means my family is going to gather together. I’m proud to be Mexicana and to have parents that work hard to give my sisters and I a better opportunity.

– Michelle Rojas

Relationship:  Child of im/migrant Child of im/migrant