Creating these drinks is akin to crafting a family memory, step by step, each action infused with love and intention. Here’s how you can bring a taste of Mexico into your home:

1. Rinse the rice thoroughly, then combine it with 2 cups of water and the cinnamon stick in a large bowl. Let it soak for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
2. Once soaked, discard the cinnamon stick and blend the rice mixture until smooth. Strain through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher.
3. Add sugar, vanilla extract, and milk to the rice water. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
4. For the strawberry agua fresca, blend strawberries, lime juice, and 2 cups of cold water until smooth. Strain the mixture to remove seeds and pulp.
5. Sweeten the strawberry mixture with sugar to taste, and add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. Serve over ice for a refreshing treat.

Each step, while simple, is a dance of flavors coming together, much like the stories Mama Lu would weave as we cooked side by side.