Amid a very busy home and work life, Maria was married at the age of 23, to Victor Otazua.  Since her father had passed away 7 months earlier, the wedding was a very solemn occasion.  Her husband soon left to find work in America, and didn't return until the couple's first child was 4 years old.  Maria didn't work outside of the house, since Victor sent home money.  When he decided it was easier to have a good life in the US, Maria journeyed across the Atlantic to join her husband.

Maria worked as a cook at an Idaho sheep camp, and was beloved by all who knew her--and tasted her cuisine!  She taught her children Spanish and Basque, and insisted that the family attend mass regularly.  In her spare time, it isn't unusual for Maria to help immigrants with their official documents and other translation needs, and she also loves fundraising for Twin Falls Basque activities.  When she has the time, Maria keeps in touch with her family in Euskadi, and enjoys traveling to her homeland.