A Grave in a Haystack

Welcome back to my blog. Today, I will tell you about our journey to find my parents' grave site in Puerto Rico. After arriving in San Juan, we headed to my brother's place in Fajardo, preparing for the following day's trip. Our destination: Quebradillas, on the island's northwest side, to locate my parents' grave.

Upon arriving at the cemetery, I was shocked by its disorganized state. However, we were determined to find the site, as my parents wished to be buried in their hometown. My older brother's previous attempt six months prior had failed, making us anxious about our chances. After combing through the area for an hour and forty-five minutes, with the temperature rising, My younger brother Jose excitedly announced he had found the grave. We took pictures and captured an aerial photo for future visits.

In my research, I discovered my grandfather on my mother's side, Luis Ramos, was born in 1887 in Guajataca, Puerto Rico, during the reign of Alfonso XIII, King of Spain. Eleven years later, my grandmother also on my mother's side, Francisca Acevedo, was born, the same year the United States defeated Spain in the Spanish-American war. The Jones-Shafroth Act, granting Puerto Ricans U.S. citizenship, was enacted in 1917. I was honored to meet my grandfather in 1967, a year before he passed away, connecting me with history.

"A Grave in a Haystack" Part II

Welcome back to "A Grave in a Haystack" part two. Our fun-filled day in Puerto Rico continued after a quiet dinner at a local restaurant. We retired for the night at an Airbnb and woke up early the next morning.

On Sunday, we had breakfast and headed to Fajardo, the island's easternmost point. After a two-hour drive, we arrived at my brother's house, Jose. We enjoyed adult beverages and a delicious dinner of prime rib, fried bananas, avocado, Puerto Rican rice, beans, salad, and freshly baked bread. My brother and I reminisced about old times, honoring our parents in a beautiful moment.

On Monday, we spent the day at the beach, the condominium pool, and shooting hoops. My brothers and I are very competitive when it comes to sports, we all played in school, and I like to talk some smack while attempting challenging shots to win the game of horse. In the evening, we planned our next trip to New York and New Jersey, set for the following week 27 June - 1 July.

We had a great time in Puerto Rico, and if the Big Apple (New York City) adventure is anything like this gathering, then count me in, I'm down like a clown. Stay tuned for the continuation of our journey.

 

Left, Jose's youngest brother, center, big brother JR, and right, myself.

San Juan Puerto Rico, at destination wedding.

Welcome to LFVelez (La Family Velez) blog. My name is Eddie Velez, born in Brooklyn, New York one of eleven children raised by Puerto Rican-born parents, Carmelo and Sofia Velez. The purpose of my blog is to share the reunion that my brothers and I were finally able to have after 40 years of only seeing each other every four or five years because of differences of opinion and lifestyle. I will share some of the moments that we enjoyed together during our recent reunion trips to Puerto Rico. When my father passed away in 1986 my mother kept our family together. Shortly before my mother passed away one of her wishes and last requests was that we seek each other out and find time to share stories, laughter, and togetherness the way she envisioned a family should behave. My target audience is anyone who values family. My family is my most cherished possession, and they mean everything to me. I hope that by sharing my blog and pictures with you, I can convey the true joy of family togetherness. If my blog resonates with you, I encourage you to consider finding a way to forgive others if possible and come together to enjoy the love that family shares.

Eddie Velez

W945118@usm.edu

Hello everyone my name is Eddie Velez, I'm a retired veteran from the United States Air Force with over 26 years of service. I am married with two adult children, I love to cook, listen to music, and love to be around family. While on earth my family is the most important treasure I possess, six sisters and five brothers.

I plan on graduating in December 2024 from the University of Southern Mississippi Gulf Coast campus with a bachelor's in Spanish. I intend to continue to be retired and enjoy what life's journey has in store for me. 

I hope you enjoy my page and follow me as I share some family moments with you.