I loved my cousin Lana, we were close as children and she was the best part of our annual trip to TX. It was hard riding in a car for 2 days, but at the end I got to see Lana and her family, so it was worth it. Mom and dad were always so close to Uncle Ed and Aunt Patsy, so it was natural, I guess, that we kids were close too. Lana was always so upbeat, always finding fun things to do. We often played Army, using sticks for guns or cowboys and injuns - using those same sticks. At one time, the family lived out on a farm, they had a number of sheep, including a mean ram. Uncle Ed said don't get near him! Well, Lana wanted to play in the field next to it, we thought the gate was shut. It wasn't! Lana heard him and yelled for us to "get up a tree". I was already in a tree, so just moved up. My sister was further away and smaller and couldn't get up the tree she was beside. Lana was the closest and she, without a moments' hesitation, jumped down, gave Brenda a boost, then got up the tree in time to avoid the ram who was running right at her. Her bravery and kindness were so in evidence and is something for which I have always loved her. I'm so glad we got to reconnect and see her last year.