My dad loved nature.  He had a deep appreciation for the subtle details while seeing the bigger picture. He always pointed out the subdued shades in sunsets, noted the fog resting peacefully amidst the tree tops on dewy mornings, and sought out new vista points and views.  Camera in hand to capture the moment, pen and paper in pocket to poetically pursue his thoughts, my dad was a slightly less refined and adventurous Thoreau (or so I glorify him to be).

During my young years I remember taking hikes into the nearby forests and nestling among ferns, gazing at trilliums, and hunting for salamanders under fallen Redwood logs.  Growing up, like most children, I lost interest and got annoyed every time he pulled over to gaze at the sunset or take us on another boring family drive into the country on Sunday afternoons when I'd rather be riding my bike or making mud pies with the neighborhood kids.  But now, that he's gone, I appreciate his love of nature. And this, even, an understatement of my feelings toward it all.

Lately, I've been doing a lot of trail hiking.  While being both beneficial to my physical and mental health, it brings me closer to earth.  I feel more grounded.  And, in a funny way, I feel closer to my dad.  And, lately, I've felt his spirit with me.  In the sunrises, the light filtering through the trees-he would have exclaimed over it.  The pussy-willows beginning to bloom and show first signs of spring-he would have poached a branch or two and put it in a vase in front of our big mirror in our dining room.  And the wild daffodils, shouting happiness with their perfect yellow hue-he used to leave bouquet upon bouquet for me and my sister to decorate our home.

Last week, I was on a hike at through the Arcata marsh.  The sun was warm and the wind was cool.  I felt my dad's spirit from the minute I set out on the trail.  The birds were dancing the most beautiful choreographed movements through the air over the pond and everyone stood in silence and awe.  My dad would have been one of the speculating fans, binoculars around his neck and camera in his hand.  I sat and let it all soak in.  The sun was glistening, sparkling like a million diamonds, over the bay.  Tears flooded my eyes as the warmth of his spirit flooded my soul. I have never felt more grounded to the earth yet so connected with the spirit world as I felt my dad next to me, appreciate nature and all its glory.