Dennis sticks to a specific daily routine which includes office work on the computer and paper cutting in the studio. He continues to teach himself the harmonica, "just for the pleasure of doing it" he told me.
Yesterday Dennis had 4 liters of liquids drained from his abdomen. The doctor reminded us that we are on borrowed time at this point, but Dennis continues on, just for the pleasure of doing it.
Dennis, Rebecca, and family,
ReplyDeleteOn this day I hope that your hearts are filled with perhaps the best present of all: the comfort and the warmth of the love that you share with each other.
Dennis, you give countless gifts to all of us and you don't even know it. You are a gentle-giant-of-a-talent in so many ways and that you change lives and put us on paths that lead to successes that we never knew were coming. Your amazing ability to question us and to push and pull our ways of seeing and thinking in new directions make us sharper, stronger. Your phrase: "What's your concept" and all the weight it carries with it is truly a gift that many of us open every day, and for me it has been over 23 years now.
Two weeks you graciously shared an afternoon with me as we discussed art, chocolates, family and life, all in the comfort of your home with the radiant sun streaming through the windows and the cozy heat filling the air from your incredibly toasty wood-burning fireplace. Enjoy that warmth again today Dennis with your wonderful family and please know that with all of our hearts and thoughts we are embracing you with a large blanket of love.
Merry Christmas,
Tom.
Merry Christmas from the Black Hills tribe. Wish I could hear some of your harmonica licks, Dennis. Better yet, play some changes behind them. Much love to you both and abiding affection as always. BF
ReplyDeleteDear Dennis and Family,
ReplyDeleteHarmonica lessons! You, indeed, are a man of many surprises. But then, setting the pace and turning convention on its end, or side, or whichever way looks and functions best has always been your style.
I'm confident you'll tackle the oboe before long.
All the best to you and yours this holiday season.
David Super and Family
Dennis,
ReplyDeleteI am sorry I missed you at the faculty meeting; Celia and I were playing hooky to get ahead on our grading :)
as a fellow midwesterner you've always given me the gift of your version of midwestern humor and your infinite wisdom.
Keep on keepin"
Anne Hand
Tom,
ReplyDeleteWow,what a generous entry. Again, I feel honored and pleased that the conversations we have had over the years (including the other day) have had a positive effect in your life.
Well, it sure was a pleasant surprise to see, placed on our doorstep, early in the morning, (very early) a bag of peppermint bark. Thanks for remembering that was one of my favorites, and thanks for making some into a gift. All quality stuff.
I hope you made a killing over the holidays.
And I hope the holidays were joyous for you and the family. Thanks again for everything of the past few weeks and best wishes for a healthy and prosperous new year.
Dennis
Bill,
ReplyDeleteSome of my best musical times ever have been jamming with you, whether it was guitar, bongo drums, or harp. I learned so much, mostly by osmosis, of course.
I hope you are healthy and well and looking forward to the new year. Happy anniversary coming up. Best wishes from us all.
Dennis