corina at 100

My grandma, Emeteria “Corina” Martinez, turned 100 on March 3, 2023. I spent every day I was too sick for school at the food of her bed, every weekend from Friday to Sunday at her dining room table, and every holiday running through the halls her railroad apartment.

My grandmother died on June 6, 2024 at 101 in her sleep, without illness and without pain. I was lucky enough to be by her side. She was 1 of 10, mother to 7, abuela to 17, bisabuela to 21. She built a village un café, one plate a food at a time. She was my favorite person, the one person I always want to make proud. I hope these photos do her justice.