It’s a very special day—Rene’s birthday. The years have gone by much too quickly. She has been a gift at every age, but the time of her infancy holds some very special memories. I remember how she would wake up in her crib and be laughing and cooing. She never cried to be picked up. As a toddler she played by herself and always liked to be outdoors. At grandma’s house she was easily entertained painting china, picking flowers and, of course, playing with dolls. Our move to Alaska cemented her love of the outdoors. She and Adam played outside daily in the snow, regardless of the temperature. Often her “idiot mittens” were dangling from her sleeves and her hands were bare, her coat wide open. Now, with her daughters at those interesting ages, Rene’s gifts are coming to fruition. Her photographic talent is being recognized and she has a show of her photos at a Wedgewood café. Today we celebrate the person she is. She is on to a new year in her life. Happy birthday! Rene.

Rene and grils at Yellow Aster Butte