Hey bud!
You had a huge influence on me growing up. When I was a kid, I thought you were so cool. My love of music (all sorts: jazz, classical, rock, etc.) comes directly from seeing your passion for it, listening to your old albums and making tapes of your diverse collection. Because of you, I fell in love with Ithaca, learned how to drive a stick shift, developed an interest in photography (despite your “stick on a roof” collection) and even discovered some illegal substances, in a film container in your closet in Birmingham.
It’s amazing that as the years go by, we look and sound more and more alike. Even though we don’t get to spend enough time together, the time that we do get to share is precious time. Like taking Willy Wispe up and down the lake, motoring and sailing for hours.
We shared one of the scariest moments in my life: as we went out to secure the Mako on Cayuga Lake, a squall rolled in and hit us. You fell in the water between the boat and the dock. I will never forget the fear I saw in your eyes as you realized you and I were helpless to stop the boat from crushing you. Time froze that moment,and I am so thankful that you got out and made it to 60.
You’re looking good, man. Hopefully, I’ll look as good in 13 years.
Love,
Doug
Ginger