March 1, 2005

Hi EJ, Kristine, Emily and Dane,

Your story hit close to home today and I wanted to share a perspective, from a little further along in the family life cycle, with you. My son Garrett and I paddled together from the time he was 8 years old. We started in rafts, moved to Thrillseeker IK's when he was 12, and finally matured into kayaks when he was 15.

Our shared interest in boating not only gave us what has turned out to be a lifelong interest in common, but the trips we took together while he was growing up allowed us to spend a great deal of time together helping us develop a bond that I treasure. I remember, in particular, a conversation with him one day on the way to the Trinity river about how much we each appreciated both how we enjoyed spending our time together while doing something we loved, and the father son relationship we shared.

Garrett is 25 now and we live 1200 miles apart, but we talk frequently, often about boating, and we prioritize paddling together every year, though he has to step down a couple of levels to accommodate me now. Even with the distance involved boating remains a common interest that further enriches our relationship.

My best to all of you,

Mike