Carmen first heard the jota played and learned to dance it at a sheep herders' ball in Mountain Home.  She was 17.  The experience touched her, awakening an interest in other Basque cultural and social events.  When she moved to Boise shortly afterward, she took it upon herself to meet and socialize with other Basques.

Carmen's interest and involvement in the Boise Basque community has not waned over the years.  On the contrary, she enjoys traveling to other communities in Idaho and Nevada for Basque gatherings.