Carlota Astocondor Salazar Lopez
A beloved aunt whose joy, wisdom, and generous heart made every family moment more special.
Some people become part of our happiest memories without even realizing it. For me, one of those people is tia Carlota, known in our family with so much affection as tia Charlie or tia Charlotte.
Tia Carlota has always been one of the most loved and cherished aunts in our family. She has a joyful personality, a wonderful sense of humor, and a way of making people feel comfortable and welcomed. Whenever she was around, there was usually laughter, conversation, and something good to share.
One of the things I remember most about tia Carlota is how often she visited my grandmother, Mama Alcira. She would come by frequently, always bringing little things to share with everyone. She was never the type to arrive empty-handed. Whether it was food, a small gift, or simply her cheerful presence, she always brought something that made the moment feel warmer.
During family gatherings, birthdays, and Christmas celebrations, tia Carlota was always attentive. She helped set the table, helped in the kitchen, served others, and made sure everyone was taken care of. She had that natural ability to make family gatherings feel joyful and complete. She was not only present at those moments, she helped create them.
I also remember the many times she came to visit us in the United States. Those visits were always special. We cooked together, shared meals, and enjoyed the kind of family time that stays with you for years. The food she prepared was always delicious, and the memories around those meals remain some of the warmest ones I have of her.
Some of my most meaningful memories with tia Carlota happened late at night, when we would stay up talking for hours. We spoke about life, love, relationships, and the experiences that shape a person. She always had wise advice to share, and she spoke with the honesty and warmth of someone who had lived, learned, and understood much about the heart. Those conversations meant a lot to me, and I still remember them with deep appreciation.
When I lived in Lima, I also shared many beautiful moments with tia Carlota and my cousins. I remember going with my cousin Ernesto to places like Club Regatas, San Antonio, and La Cantuta. Those were simple but wonderful experiences, filled with family, laughter, and the joy of spending time together.
Another unforgettable memory was when tia Carlota came to visit with my cousin Ernesto and we went to Disney's Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach. We had an incredible time on the water slides and in the wave pool. It was one of those experiences that felt exciting and unforgettable, especially as a child. Even now, thinking about those days brings back many happy memories.
Today, tia Carlota lives in Galicia, Spain, near her children and grandchildren. She is happy there with her family, and although it has been some time since she last visited us in the United States, I hope that when we have the opportunity to return to Spain, we can visit her there, along with my cousins Ernesto and Milagros. It may take a little more planning since they are not in Barcelona, but it is a visit I truly hope we can make.
To me, tia Carlota represents joy, generosity, wisdom, and family closeness. She is the aunt who brought laughter to gatherings, helped in the kitchen, shared delicious meals, offered heartfelt conversations, and became part of so many happy memories throughout my life. I will always remember her with affection, gratitude, and love.