Family

I remember riding on these bales of alfalfa for what felt like miles. In reality, it was probably just a couple of kilometers, but even now, years later, I can vividly recall the slow, comforting rumble as the bales were pulled along by a tractor. Dust kicked up around us as the summer heat radiated off the fields. I didn't realize at the time just how special those simple moments were.

In this picture are the three eldest male cousins from my father's side of the family—Tony, Juan, and Me —carefree and oblivious to what the future held. We laughed, joked, and fought, completely unaware of just how lucky we were. Lucky because we were born into a family that, over the coming decades, would continue to grow, adding new generations and creating deeper connections.

The expansion of our family wasn't just about numbers; it became our strength. Those years were filled with remarkable success, celebrations, weddings, births, graduations, and accomplishments that brought us endless pride. But alongside these bright moments came inevitable challenges—losses, setbacks, health scares, and moments that tested us deeply.

And it was precisely in those difficult times that the strength of our bond became most evident. When life became heavy and put incredible stress upon us, we leaned on each other. Cousins became siblings, aunts and uncles became parental figures, and grandparents' wisdom guided us even after they were gone. The family became our refuge, our support network, and our greatest source of resilience.

Looking back, I realize just how powerful those early moments on the alfalfa bales were. They weren't just childhood adventures; they were foundational memories. It's a reminder to cherish each small moment because, one day, they might just be the memories that sustain you through everything life brings.