My Grandfather has always been a great sharer for me throughout my life. There is so much that I have to thank him for, and so much I admire about him. He has shared experiences with me that I will always remember, and have bettered my life. I hope some of these thoughts will make him smile, as they do when I think of them. When I was young, I used to visit Wyoming during the summer. At this time I was more accustomed to my room with a computer than the mid west, so I was about as unsure how much I'd enjoy these trips. Grandpa made every effort to take me on adventures I would never have done on my own. He showed me how to read streams, catch fish (although he always caught more than me), dig for fossils, and appreciate the outdoors. He'd share stories over our fresh catch of trout and smile over the jokes we'd trade at the table. I can see where my dad gets his charm and I loved these trips. It might have also been that we could have great firework shows, which again Grandpa made available (with a bucket of water on hand!). I could always tell how much he cares about me and wanted to share the world with me. My favorite story of my Grandfather is how he had read every book in the library at the University he attended. Although he never confirmed this, it did influence me to pick up books as a kid. And not just small novels my friends were reading, but delve into history, Shakespeare, and music. This infectious passion for knowledge has always helped me excel in school, and keep me on track. When I graduate Sacramento State University I will be thinking of both him and Grandma Bert whom made it so I can pursue my dreams as an educator in music. Thank you Grandpa for being the intelligent, caring person you are and for sharing these moments with me! Love, Your Grandson