Mateo, a lively 3-year-old with a mop of curly hair, bounded down the hallway, his tiny feet pattering against the wooden floor. The aroma of arepas wafted through the air, drawing him towards the kitchen where his mother was busy preparing breakfast. "Mami, are we going to Tío Gerardo's today?"

Maria, Mateo's mother, glanced down at her son with a smile. "Yes, mi amor, we're visiting New Jersey today," she replied, brushing a stray curl off his forehead. Mateo's face lit up with excitement as he dashed to his room to grab his favorite toy car, eager for the adventure ahead.

The family packed into their trusty old car, with Carlos, Mateo's father, at the wheel. The drive from Lancaster to New Jersey was a familiar one, but each journey felt like a new adventure to Mateo. With his eyes wide open, he watched the landscape change from sprawling farmlands to bustling cityscapes. "Look, Papi, a big truck!" he exclaimed, pointing eagerly out the window.

As they pulled into the driveway of Tío Gerardo's house, Mateo could barely contain his excitement. Gerardo, a jovial man with a booming laugh, was already waiting for them with open arms. "Mateo, mi sobrino! Welcome!" he greeted, lifting the boy high into the air. The yard was filled with the chatter of Mateo's cousins, all eager to play.

The afternoon was a blur of games and laughter, with Mateo leading his cousins in a race around the garden. The adults chatted and shared stories, the air filled with the scent of grilled meats and fresh salsa. Maria watched her son with a smile, knowing these visits were more than just a trip—they were a connection to family and culture.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the neighborhood, it was time to say goodbye. Mateo hugged Tío Gerardo tightly. "We'll see you next month, little explorer," Gerardo promised. On the drive back to Lancaster, Mateo yawned, eyes heavy with sleep, dreaming of the next adventure to New Jersey.