Family and friends,

Today would have been my dad's 85th birthday. A day that felt important not just to acknowledge but also celebrate. And lately, as this anniversary approached, it also felt important to start recording more details of his life from those who knew him. And know me.

Above is one of my favorite photos of us (Central Park, 1972). Below is a space I've created to collect some memories. If you have a story or a photo, I'd love for you to add your own. Everything you post will be visible on this page. This idea felt meaningful and a little fun, to (in time) see the different relationships Paul had—and to share some memories of his life, together. I've already added a fav of mine: me, Dad... with two friends.

One day, I hope to put together a book of these moments. Including some from here, most especially for my younger cousins. So they can get to know him the way some of us did — just minus the pranks. But don't worry, I'll make sure those continue.

To my friends who never met Paul, I hope you get an even better sense of him from what is shared here. Sometimes I think about what he would have been like at this age. As he grew older. And experienced more life. Getting to know me and the path I've walked. Who I've met. Who I've loved. And getting to know those important to me. He had beautiful friends too. And would have been so happy you’re in my life. Lucky genes.

He would have been so happy seeing how his siblings’ lives unfolded—the love that entered their lives. The ‘little ones’ he knew, now ‘big ones’ with little ones of their own... He would have been so happy being a great uncle. He would most certainly have been a co-conspirator of mischief. And he would have been so grateful to my mom for all she carried.

To everyone, thank you for helping celebrate and remember his life today. Forty-four years in this world was far too short, but I'm grateful for the years he and I had, and for the ones I've had with you all. Life has been a blessing.

Hugs from SF.
Chris