We knew for quite some time that we wanted to DO something to honor Dave on the anniversary of his death. We knew that Dave would never want everyone sitting around feeling morose, but rather we should be enjoying a day in his memory. So, off we went for a day of rock climbing in Peter’s Kill.Uncle Bob and Aunt Jan planned all the climbs and provided all the expertise and equipment. For some of us it was the first time on the rocks. For others, it had been quite awhile since our last climb so Bob and Jan certainly had their work cut out for them. It was a great day; one where we truly felt Dave’s presence — especially when I placed one of his memorial cards into a crevice near the top of the rock face I was climbing. And, there was no doubt that he was with us during the laughter at each of our struggles and dumb mishaps. We all know that Dave loved laughing at the foibles of others, but didn’t hesitate to laugh even harder at himself.
After a strenuous, but rewarding, day of climbing, we scrambled up the rocks to “Dave’s place” — a place he had visited with Bob and Jan and a place where we had spread some of his ashes earlier this year. The day took on a more serious tone when we reached the top. This was the first time some of Dave’s friends and family had visited this special spot. We all became reflective as we thought our private thoughts of Dave. As we took pictures, it was amazing how the sun shone through the clouds like rays from heaven. The moment was really very meaningful to all of us! We placed a rose from Dave’s Grandma and hiked down the mountain.We finished the day with a barbecue at Pine Bush — the perfect ending to the day being that it was one of Dave’s favorite places and another place where his ashes rest. As the actual time of Dave’s death approached, Rob and I walked away from the group and looked into the starry sky. We both said a few words to Dave and as I cried for one son, I leaned on the other. We drove home knowing in our hearts that Dave approved of the way we spent this day. But we also knew that one year ago, the rest of this evening evolved into the saddest day of our lives!!
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