Aurelio Pino in my Life!

My grandfather, Aurelio Pino is one gift I received when I was born. Today, December 2nd is his birthday… and I definitely want to celebrate him.

This picture was on his birthday back in 2005.

He was a successful man in many ways. He owned businesses. He put himself to school and graduated with honors from the University of Havana as a Lawyer. Then, he became a very well respected Judge in the city of Holguin, Cuba for many years.

In 1980, when the Mariel Cuban Exodus, he decided to come to United States to live his last years in total freedom… he was then 73 years young.

He worked hard and saved money… and 11 years later, September 14 of 1991… he was able to bring my parents and myself to this great country.

Today, I want to THANK him for all he did for our family. Thanks to his vision, his love and his persistence, we have been able to enjoy our freedom and become successful.

I still remember when he picked me up from school every afternoon. I remember how he shared his favorite fried plantains with me at dinner time. I remember how he taught me to say my first few words and numbers in English when I was around 5 years old.

As an adult, I remember the great conversations we had about business and politics while we both enjoyed a nice cognac after dinner.

He passed peacefully at 99 years young in 2006.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY and THANK YOU for all your love!

I LOVE YOU!!!