Personal Interests

My father taught me the virtues of fly fishing and the explained the stories of how mother earth came to be - he called it geology - I think of it as traditional tera-forming technology. I enjoy the solitude of the wilderness and its way of cleansing the soul and bringing focus to what is real and real important. Even my trail buddies (Maslow and Abby) appreciate the rewards and rejuvenating qualities of a good hike and vista. Such places are full of the Great Spirit's presence and a place to consider the meaning of all things.

But when I am alone in the half light of the canyon all existence seems to fade to a being with my soul, and memories. And the sounds of the Big Black Foot River, and a four count rhythm, and the hope that a fish will rise. Eventually, all things merge into one, and a river runs through it. ― Norman Maclean, A River Runs Through it

I learned to play guitar when I was 14. I learned to play the native american flute at 54. Making music connects me to deeper, more creative and spiritual thinking. Music creates space for new ideas and expressions not meant for words. Making music channels energy to areas of my brain that help me relax, expand my cognitive abilities, bring creativity to thinking, and amplify my ability to feel and grasp things more deeply.

My mother is an amazing artist. While I did not inherit her natural abilities, she instilled a deep appreciation of all forms of art in me and among countless middle-schoolers as a teacher of art. I am particularly intrigued with the pictographs and petroglyphs I encounter in the wilderness, and imagine the experiences that inspired these storytellers and their art. This ancient art is also an important portrayal of ancient wisdom and the sacredness of life, mother earth and the interdependence of all things.