I suppose change is better than staying stagnant, right? You’d think. Things have changed since I was last here. I’ve been thinking about this page off and on, unsure how to jump back in, so, I guess this is how I’m jumping in. Just starting. No real plan on what to write other than thinking about what photo to include with this post.

My Dad passed away this past June and I’m still wrapping my head around that fact. Though I didn’t think of him as being sick the last 2 years that he was on dialysis, Mom and I are starting to realize how much change we have been going through with his kidney disease affecting not just his life, but all of us in the household.

One of the things that is hitting me in particular is how much he wasn’t like the Dad I remember growing up with. Like, I felt the slow change from him taking care of all our needs to us becoming the caregiver in almost all aspect of his life. It was subtle for Mom and I but I’m sure Dad did not like that we were the ones thinking of his needs and that came out in his jokes and stubborn refusal to go out as much or eat certain foods. He was asserting his lessening independence in the ways he could. I’m remembering again the Dad I adored before he got sick.

Well, this is quite heavy for “return” to blogging post. Especially since I haven’t told most folks about this. So, welcome, I guess?

I’ll be writing about all things nature + love + play and I suppose this one is a “love” focused one. Dad did plant the seeds for me in how I chose a profession that brings me close to nature. Also he was probably one of the most perpetually playful people I’ve ever met, so, thanks Dad (always!) for helping me check all the boxes.