My Aunt Jan bought me my first "real" ring, igniting my love of jewelry. She bought me my first double-scoop cone (probably not-so-good). She took me to my first huge garden center, showing me flowers I didn't know existed. She taught me about day lilies and stargazer lilies. We drew together and practiced calligraphy. We loved watching the bunnies and birds in the yard and fed anything that come onto the deck. She taught me about Frangelico, Amaretto, and all kinds of wines--we went together to my first wine festival. I can still hear her saying, "I'll throw ice in anyone's wine--I don't care who they are--if they can't hold it at the proper temperature!" She made a mean crab dip, oyster dressing, and darn near anything else she set her mind to. She loved all things pretty and peaceful. She loved the beach and landscapes of all kinds--she loved to travel and see the sights. She loved all types of music, and was willing to give a listen to the stuff I liked. She taught me about all kinds of artists--Degas, Van Gogh, Matisse, Monet, Renoir. She knew every one. She loved to read, and when she wasn't lost in a book, she crocheted and knitted beautiful blankets and sweaters. She loved the color peach, and calico prints with tiny flowers. She was a storyteller with a great memory. She taught me things about my grandparents and great-grandparents. She taught me about life, in the way great women always do. I'm sad for the places we didn't get to visit, the stories I didn't get to hear. I'll always remember her smile and her great laugh. She loved life, and I'll be forever sad she didn't get to enjoy more of it...but I'm thankful to have had her in my life.