Dear Griff

[BigV]

Hey man.

I have followed your words for years, and I have enjoyed and learned from what I read. The window into your life you've shared with me has let me learn about your family life and your work. I've especially loved learning about your dedication to your children, not just the ones that live in your house. I owe a great debt to the teachers of my kids, and I'd like to express my gratitude to you.

I love my kids, of course. When I send them off to school, I'm trusting you with what is most precious to me. Your care, your effort, your creativity, your courage, these are gifts to me and to my children. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for them. Thank you. I know you give these same gifts to lots of people; they're still special to me. Even from this great distance you're making *my* world better, and my kids' world better. You deserve a parade (and a vacation!).

You've shared your personal life with me too. I've loved learning about your kids growing up, their successes and their AFOGs (Another F*cking Opportunity for Growth). the fencing, the languages, the Prom, what a journey. You're a fencer too and that puts me in a pretty exclusive group, people with friends who know how to wield a sword. I'm in awe of your DIY houseBUILDING skills. And of course the goats enchant me.

You're doing great, you're making a successful life. You're making the world a better place. Selfish of me, I know, but I'm glad for it. Thanks Griff.