I will never forget how much my grandmother Wanda loved me and the acceptance she showed to me and to our whole family. She was bright and kind, but also humble. She was acutely aware of the mood of the room, and so good at making everyone feel welcome. She and my grandpa were a close knit team, and I rarely saw them apart.

Some of my most cherished memories of her will be times when we were able to vacation together in Nocona, Texas. My grandparents owned a small house there, and sometimes they’d take us grandkids. It was a magical time, filled with outdoors exploration. Wanda spent much of her time there making the most wonderful meals. Some nights we’d sit and talk with only the light of a kerosene lamp. It felt like going back in time. It was simpler, more connected with how things used to be. I really felt that connection to the past when I was there.

Wanda and my Grandpa Don, in their old age, enjoyed spending time with family or at the casino in Oklahoma. They also watched lots of sports. Mavericks, Cowboys, and Longhorns – I always knew I had a spot on the couch at their house when the games were on.

Wanda was a wonderful grandmother to me and I will truly miss her presence in my life.