HOLY MARY OF THE PRICKLY PEAR(3)

Family events always involve the outdoors. "The last large, happy family event that we had was the baptism of our three grandchildren in the house's chapel," says Alfonso. All of Alfonso and Alicia's grown children plus their spouses attended, along with extended family and friends. After the sacrament, everyone headed outdoors to celebrate. "We added a large party tent by the lake for the reception," Alfonso explains.

"This hacienda has been in our family through the good times, but also through the bad times-such as during the Mexican and the "Cristera" revolutions," reflects Alfonso. During the Mexican Revolution, the family was forced to flee the hacienda to safety but returned once peace was restored. Thankfully, these days, good times prevail. "This is the reunion point for the family over holidays and vacations and for big events such as weddings," notes Alfonso. For his son Ignacio, the hacienda is the family's true home. "This is where our most vivid childhood memories were made," he says. "Now, a new generation is starting to make their own memories here."