Sandra Haney 

To me she is Aunt Sandy. I know she loved her family very much, and she loved her dogs as much as any human. She was incredibly accepting, and had a great sense of humor, even if it was at a joke you wouldn’t catch her telling.

One of the memories that stands out the most with me, is when she took me camping with her, my Uncle, and her three kids. I think I was around 9 years old.

It stands out because I remember the fear I got when I heard her shock saying “we don’t say the F word”.  I was terrified she thought I said that word, because I hadn’t. Then I realized she meant fart. I had said fart.

I shared this story with her as an adult, and she still did not want me using that word.

I loved her dearly.

When Alivia was younger we were up north at my Aunt Cindy & Uncle Joe’s cabin, and she was there and brought crafts for all of the kids. I really took that moment in, because I knew she was sick, and yet she still went through all of that effort for the kids.

She happily and patiently sat with Alivia while she made 3, not one… but 3 handmade sun visors.

One time she had to do something and asked me to hold her little dog because it had just had surgery, and wanted her “baby” to be held and comforted while she had to finish a task. I of course said yes, even though it was scorching hot and I was coated in fur and sweat when all was said and done. She saw my arms and even apologized.  I’d do it for her again because it made her so happy. It made me feel good to do a favor for a person who did so many for everyone around her.

I love this picture of her (she’s right next to me, with the glasses).

You wouldn’t know she wasn’t feeling good. I don’t think I ever knew when she wasn’t, that’s just how she was. She had battled melanoma for years at this point.

To me it shows what a beautiful, resilient soul she has, despite what she had been through. To still smile.

She was happy, and I was proud I made her laugh. I was always proud when I made her laugh.

I hope I’m still making her laugh.