Reino + Max
January 25, 2018
This is my grandfather Reino and his dog, Max, ice skating on the lake where I grew up. My grandfather always had to be the first one out on the ice, testing its thickness, pushing its limits. He did this every winter, well into his eighties.
He was a gentle soul with the clearest blue eyes. He loved animals, especially dogs. He taught me how to sit quietly and observe the world around me. I never heard him raise his voice.
Reino passed away my junior year of college and every time I visit the lake, I think of him just like this – testing the waters, dog by his side and gently loving nature. I still miss him terribly but am thankful for finding little gems like this photograph to trigger so many colorful memories. 💙