My grandma Reynalda Almeida (1921-2000) has been a huge influence in my artwork. My greatest fortune in life has been being one of her 22 grandchildren. She lived in a little adobe casita near Canyon Road in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The heart of my Grandma's home beat in the kitchen. As we drove to her home down the little hill street of Camino Sin Nombre, my heart fluttered with anticipation. She always had a pot simmering on the stove and open arms ready for her family. The rich smell of red chile would permeate the house while my Grandma would push my small hands into a floury bowl of tortilla dough. My Grandma embodied everything I find beautiful about the Hispanic culture: generosity of spirit and home, love of family, and pride in who you are and where you came from. My paintings come from a heart full of memories and love for my Hispanic heritage.