On the 26th of December, the family held a memorial for my cousin Sergio. He was full of life and a beautiful person who always made others smile. His lively soul loved fun foods, family, and Cielito Lindo.

Angela and Paul S. set up some pictures, memory books, and Facebook wall posts dedicated to Sergio.

Long red nails and red lipstick epitomize my Grandma. Here, she is talking to, not scolding, Marissa and Vinnie. Her finger merely adds to whatever she is talking about.

With wrinkles of the wise and an unforgettable cowboy hat, Grandpa takes a break from singing to listen to the many other family musicians.

Not only do we have a family full of musicians, but a family full of artists. Paul P. uses his vintage polaroid as his everyday camera to capture genuine pictures of friends and family.

In lieu of Grandpa Flores showing up to the celebration of baby Jesus at 5:15 a.m. (it's getting later and later every year), Stevie Salinas brought his karaoke machine which led to George Strait, Tejano music, "Because I Got High," and Backstreet Boys (Mexican style).

Paula, Mom, Paul Palacios, and Stevie sit on the infamous leather couch as Stevie shows off his karaoke machine. I'm going to assume Mom and Paul P. think Stevie is crazy.

"Where is the real music?" Grandma inquired as she entered the living room. The real music typically includes "Carabina Treinta Treinta," "Ay, Jalisco" and "Cielito Lindo" instead of the karaoke version of "Because I Got High."

No matter what, Tio Oscar is always at every family event. He's quiet, stealthy, and always has a distinct look on his face. Through the karaoke singing fools, Tio Oscar sits quietly, sipping his beer.

Ironically enough, for most of these people, all their exes live in Texas. George Strait quickly became a favorite of the ragamuffins and Mom.

p.s. This series will definitely be longer than 3 parts.