There are so many pictures that I either haven't scanned or are on my old hard drive that I haven't reclaimed yet that I would love to put on here: pictures of misty mornings at Kintla, family hikes near Squam, or smiling together on the rocky coast at sunset in Tofino. These moments when we knew life was good were often recorded. And those memorable family trips happened largely because you did the research, found beautiful places to explore, and set aside the time for us to go as a family. So much richness in our memories comes from your efforts and prioritizing family trips. Thank you!!
And there's all the moments that I remember that aren't recorded on film (despite mom's and my best efforts), like all those family work parties unloading wood in Pittsford or building the corral in Missoula, or late night conversations in the van as we drove through the night on another family road trip. Your best lectures were taught by doing--working together, figuring out how to do things yourself (fencing!), and intentional frugality when options like spending the night in a motel or just flying would have been so tempting but so pricey.
I continue to feel guided and inspired by the way that you choose intentionally how to spend your time on worthy projects (5 hours or more on Primary lessons--so amazing!!), or with those who need you, always wishing you had more time. Thank you for what you've taught me about striving for balance despite the many opposing pressures of life.
Here's a few little photos, none of which are high quality pictures, but they remind me of how much thought you put into our lives and what sort of pleasure or direction you could offer us, which is such an incredible gift to each of us blessed by your influence. These pictures all happen to be from visiting you guys this January, only because I hardly have any pics available to me right now!
Sharing your love of music even with the tinies.
Knowing of Aurora's discovery of and love of ballet, you recorded multiple versions of The Nutcracker and watched one all the way through with Aurora--a great highlight for her and a sweet way to support her interest so wholly.
I just love that you still have the same bike (is it 40 years old now?) and that you still ride regularly!
Always helping us get outside as a family and into beautiful places.
Happy Birthday Dad, you are an incredible gift to each of us, and a wise, broad-thinking, patient patriarch of our family. We love you!!
