Letter to the Editor – A rose garden memory from Pancha’s

Dear Editor,

Recently, I was admiring the new patio behind the new Pancha’s. I look forward to spending some time there during warm weather. 

I couldn’t help but think of the rose garden that once grew on that ground.  Bobby Solis tended it with a certain degree of tenderness and care to which he might not admit.

Early in May, 20-some years ago, a large group of family members had come to town to visit. 

Pancha’s was a required stop they always made in Yountville. So, we eagerly helped fill the place up and ordered a round or two. 

Everyone was enjoying the atmosphere and the beverages. When it was time to leave, my Aunt Ruth, the head of our family then and in her senior years, was nowhere to be seen.

Someone walked outside and discovered Bobby and my engaging aunt, who was herself a serious gardener, in the rose garden talking about roses, and who knows what else. They both seemed pleased with their conversation.

But it was time we were off to the next stop on our Saturday agenda.

On Sunday morning, which happened to be Mother’s Day, we were eating breakfast in the dining room when the doorbell rang. In walked Bobby with a bouquet of red roses, which he presented to a stunned Aunt Ruth.

That’s a Pancha’s memory like no other.

Sharon Stensaas
Yountville

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