Day 1866: Transitions

What a sad, difficult week.  On Tuesday, we found out that another of our former student leaders had lost her father to suicide.  It was such a tragic loss to a beautiful, loving family and the entire community.  Yesterday, in the eulogy, the victim's best friend spoke of demons that had seized control of his friend.  He told stories of happier times and chose to remember his friend in better times.  His children, wife, parents, friends were absolutely devastated.  I'm afraid they will be forever haunted by this terrible, violent death.

Last evening we went to a party for Julius, Steve's best friend, who retired as director of county emergency services yesterday.   He is an extraordinarily selfless and self-effacing man who has spent his entire life in service to others.  He always deflects complements and turns the praise toward his team.  An inspiration to everyone who knows him, he is enduring about a half dozen parties and ceremonies in his honor and that's really difficult for him.  So, it was a bittersweet night as we joked and told stories about our friend and said goodbye to the "boss."

Then, during the evening we found out that our friend who is suffering from cancer has had more bad news.  All in all, the week has made us both feel helpless and sad.  How can we help our friends face these painful challenges?

On the other hand, the book work is going well.  I insisted on another proof of the book since the cover images were distorted and the color inconsistent.  Now, I must wait a week for the new proofs.  I got lots of the small tasks done in preparation for the Tradition Fest on Saturday, designed the new business cards and secured a new email address.

The best part of the week was speaking with the eighth graders on Tuesday.  It's a small class, only about a hundred kids, but there was some enthusiasm and lots of questions.  The after school meeting will be on November 9, so we'll have a better sense of the level of interest that day.  I also finished the Quest promo video which I absolutely love.  It should make a strong impression on the kids and their parents.

Another surprising and exciting moment came when I got a message from a former backpacker who is now teaching in Colorado.  It seems she wants to start a backpacking club and she asked for advice!  Plus, next week we're meeting with an instructor from the Audubon Society who wants to create a backpacking program.  Great things are happening!

Thankfully, the week was gorgeous and we were able to hike in Arkwright and around the village.  The steelhead are still running, but the water level is so low they've had to stay in the deeper pools.  Steady rain today and during the upcoming week will permit them leap over the falls to reach further upstream.  Hiking is one of the best therapies.  The quiet soothes my soul and calms my racing mind.

Julius and Melodee at the retirement party

His honey do list.

All the past and present fire coordinators