March 17, 2016
In May of 2011 I began a blog “Walks With Dad” documenting the weekly walks I took with my father who was in the early stages of dementia. It is my father who introduced me to exploring nature both at a distance and close up. He always carried a small magnifying glass in his pocket so that he could see the veins in a leaf or the patterns on an insect. My father also introduced me to the joy of photography when I was about seven years old. My father is now in the later stages of dementia and can no longer depend on his legs to wander the woods and trails with me.
Winter-worn Posted signs along the road in Lebanon Township, New Jersey
My father also introduced me to long distance running. We ran together in the mornings before he went to work and I went to school. I continue to visit him on Thursdays, each visit a bit sadder than the previous. Last night, as I walked the four-mile loop from my back door, I thought of Dad and smiled. He is still joining me on my walks, in my heart and through my eyes. Thanks, Dad!
How wonderful. . . and how sad. My father taught me also about the beauties, mysteries and joys of nature. We had a small stream and woods at the bottom of our hill. Salamanders, DeKay snakes (sweet, charming, peaceful little things), and turtles would live in our aquarium for several days before being released again to their world. It was a special time, always, when we would look closely at the wonders at our feet with our father.
Your post today speaks to me — thanks!
Thanks for sharing your memories, Peggy. Such precious moments spent together, those moments that make us what we are today.