For My Dad

It's the All Saints Day. Just lit a candle for my dear Dad who passed away 6 months ago.

Photo: Heli MG

His passing came the most unexpectedly. The Finns would say 'off he went in his boots' which means he lived full life until his days were at the end.

Dad was a carpenter in his profession. He was a real inventor who spent the dark winter evenings with his feet up and his 'thinking cap' on in his favorite couch in front of the fire, sketching. There was nothing he couldn't fix or alter and especially over the long bright summer days, after retiring from his day job, he recycled all old timber and metal he got in his hands by turning them into most amazing functional tools and machines for his own use. Not forgetting the beautiful wooden furniture he made for me

Photo: Heli MG

Photo: Heli MG

or that we designed and put together.

Photo: Heli MG

Photo: Heli MG

His genuine creative enthusiasm inspired many of the people around him. Dad also taught me to love and respect the forests and their animals already in my childhood, something that has inspired me in work and play.

Photo: Heli MG

The memories will never die. The marks of Dad's hands can be seen in so many places and things. The paths he made in the forests won't fade. 

Photo: Heli MG

And his wise words will always guide me.

Rest in peace Dad.