Romney Roots

Last month my dearest Grandma Nellie Romney, who was 96 years old passed away. Because she had lived such a long and rich life, the family gathering for her funeral was not as much somber as it was a celebration of her life and legacy. I had the chance to go back to Colonia Juarez, Mexico with my dad and siblings for the occasion. It had been too long since I had been back in Mexico. I used to spend the better part of my childhood summers in a state of idyllic freedom as I roamed the country hillsides with all my cousins. Upon returning to this lovely place, I bragged to my sisters that often people talk about their younger years as being wonderful and carefree, but honestly, I think our family had a corner on the market of blissful summers. It was absolutely the best.

There were two things that make it so great. The location itself was truly spectacular. Rolling hills covered with a patchwork of orchards and ranches surrounded an old pioneer town. The family's estate provided plenty of room to play, swim, ride horses and quads all while enjoying expansive views of the countryside. The second thing that made it so wonderful were the people. Grandma and my aunts and uncles who lived in Mexico were the most hospitable of hosts. Upon our arrival all the family would come to welcome us with a "hamburger fry" in the yard. There was always an abundance of delicious home cooked food...those Romney's really know how to cook! The family was always so generous to share their homes, vehicles, pets and toys with anyone who came to visit. I always felt that everyone genuinely loved having us come invade their space for weeks on end. There was no shortage of cousins to play with because Grandma had 68 grandkids. We spent countless lazy days imagining what we would do to fill the hours with little parental supervision and limitless space to wander. No one on earth had it any better than we did.

Being back in Mexico reminded me of all this marvelousness. It felt so good be surrounded by such a warm extended family. It was great to reminisce about the good old days. It was nostalgic to see the beauty of our former stomping grounds. I loved it and I wanted to stay forever. We all talked of getting together again soon. Last weekend I returned to Mexico sooner than I had expected. My beloved Uncle Meredith passed away unexpectedly, only 35 days after the passing of his mother. Because he was a bit younger and still an active pillar of the community, this occasion was much sadder than my last visit. The Romney family gathered once again to support one another. We were lovingly surrounded by many other friends and loved ones who mourned as well. Meredith was truly a hero. He was described at his funeral as being both a rugged cowboy and a gentle shepherd. His brothers gave him a touching tribute that I will never forget. He will be dearly missed. Although this visit was more sobering, because of the love and comfort I felt while I was there, I was once again reminded that my greatest blessing and desire is to be a part of this family forever.