While visiting, the family was able to meet up with a long-lost relative Joanna’s aunt.

The many years proved impossible to wade through.

The multi-hyphenate was raised in Wichita, Kansas, for 12 years before moving to Austin, Texas.

Joanna Gaines beams in a black dress

Even today, Joanna will cook those few precious recipes to remember her grandpa.

Joanna’s mother and father posing

Young Joanna posing with her mother