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7.16.2009

Remembering...

We spent a full day exploring some of the "otherworldly" areas of Yellowstone. The thermal features including boiling mud pits, steaming hot springs, and geysers is fascinating. We also saw some of the wildlife that that this national park is famous for. (I'll catch back up on our full trip after we are home).

But for me the most spectacular part of today was taking a chunk of it to remember my dad. The Nez Perce Creek was where my grandpa taught my dad to fish back when he was a little boy. And it was where he caught his first fish. And so it was a favorite spot for him.

Today, five years after he left this earth, it seemed fitting to us to spend some time as a family on that creek. We waded, skipped rocks, took "a nice walk," and Ian thought ahead to bring me a journal to write Dad a letter. It was such a meaningful time for me. I shed some tears, but oh I remembered! Of course I had no idea exactly what part of the creek Dad fished on, but I felt that he would have liked the area I picked to stop and journal. In my mind I could hear him saying, "Look at THAT tree..."

Dad, I miss you more than I can express! I love you always!

8 comments:

Amy Woods said...

Oh my goodness! What an amazing thing for Ian to do!! I know you will remember that day always!!

Melissa said...

Kristi - what an amazing way to spend the day honoring your Dad. That picture Ian got of you writing by the tree is amazing. And what an amazing thing Ian did bringing your journal for you...what a guy! I don't think there are any easy days not thinking of your Dad - but I am sure he was smiling down on you all yesterday! Can't wait to see more of your trip! Love, Melissa

Amy Kelly said...

I am in tears! What a very special day. Enjoy the rest just as much!

Anonymous said...

dito.
Traci Lynne

Anonymous said...

How special. I actually thought of your dad yesterday and didn't even know it had been 5 years already. I was thinking about using some fresh ginger in cooking and remember the time Laurie and I came home with you and he cooked us that great meal. I have never felt so loved by people outside my family before that day. I know you miss your dad greatly, but I can picture his face now, smiling down on you and beaming with joy seeing his grandchildren. He would also find great comfort in knowing you had a wonderful husband like Ian to share these moments with....

Miss you,
Beth

Anonymous said...

Can't express my thoughts about how I feel, just know that I was thinking of you yesterday, Carolyn and I commented on the day and how it's been 5 years already. Have a wonderful trip and hope to see your pictures when you get back.

Love, Aunt Nancy

Nancy said...

Wow, how awesome that you were able to find such a special spot to spend with your thoughts about your dad.

Our Journey said...

Oh Kristi...this post makes my heart ache! How wonderful Ian thought of a way for you and your father to connect again in this very special spot. I have a very special spot similar to this that makes me think about my dad too, and it's sometimes a good way to just quietly remember.