Singing together somewhere in time
Tom & Gwen
Tom Hunter
For information about Tom Hunter, his ideas, and his music, visit www.tomhunter.com.
Tom Hunter left all of us a legacy of celebration, music, compassion and giving to our communities. Throughout his lifetime, Tom worked with people of all ages and backgrounds to teach new ways of learning and living. We all are committed to "keeping it going" by remembering his smile and his music and his voice.
There was a tremendous outpouring of support for the Hunters during this transition, and the family is deeply grateful.
Tom Hunter left all of us a legacy of celebration, music, compassion and giving to our communities. Throughout his lifetime, Tom worked with people of all ages and backgrounds to teach new ways of learning and living. We all are committed to "keeping it going" by remembering his smile and his music and his voice.
There was a tremendous outpouring of support for the Hunters during this transition, and the family is deeply grateful.
TOM'S HEALTH
Tom Hunter was diagnosed on May 20, 2008 with Creutzfeldt-Jacob Disease and died on June 20, 2008.
On September 2, 2008, a letter from the National Prion Disease Pathology Research Center confirmed that Tom had what's called 'sporadic CJD' (sCJD). His was an extremely rare type of sCJD that one in 4.5 million people are diagnosed with annually. We're very grateful that he did not have the inherited form, but it's critically important that a cure for all forms of CJD (caused by scrapy proteins in the brain which can take up to 40 years to manifest and kill their victims) are found. All forms of CJD are fatal.
The most accurate and up-to-date site for learning about CJD and supporting efforts to find a cure is http://www.cjdfoundation.org/ .
On September 2, 2008, a letter from the National Prion Disease Pathology Research Center confirmed that Tom had what's called 'sporadic CJD' (sCJD). His was an extremely rare type of sCJD that one in 4.5 million people are diagnosed with annually. We're very grateful that he did not have the inherited form, but it's critically important that a cure for all forms of CJD (caused by scrapy proteins in the brain which can take up to 40 years to manifest and kill their victims) are found. All forms of CJD are fatal.
The most accurate and up-to-date site for learning about CJD and supporting efforts to find a cure is http://www.cjdfoundation.org/ .
Tom and Gwen
2007
Tom and Aeden
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May 8,2008
Tom and Irene
May 24th, 2008
To live on this earth
you must be able
to do three things:
To love what is mortal;
To hold it
against your bones knowing
your own life depends on it;
And when the time comes to let it go,
to let it go.
mary oliver
DONATIONS
Please help provide financial support by sending whatever you can. We are hoping for lots of $25. hugs- or whatever works for you - to help the Hunters with medical and transition expenses. They also want to protect the wetlands, forest and farm* that have seen so much of their love over the years and to help keep Tom's work alive in the world. (*Contributions given specifically for the mortgage have been moved with overwhelming gratitude to the new Tom Hunter Memorial Account described above.) If you wish to make a donation please make checks payable to Tom Hunter Family Donation (or to Tom Hunter Memorial Account) and mail to:
Whatcom Educational Credit Union
PO Box 9750
Bellingham, WA 98227
If you'd prefer to donate safely and securely using your credit/debit card, use this button:
Whatcom Educational Credit Union
PO Box 9750
Bellingham, WA 98227
If you'd prefer to donate safely and securely using your credit/debit card, use this button:
Now the focus narrows to just the steps ahead. You have a chorus of knowing, loving voices all over this planet to sing you home.
flip
flip
PHOTOS - NOW ON A NEW PAGE
Many of the photos from this page and also new ones have been moved to their own page and can be viewed by clicking on the link below. If you have photos to share please send them to us at tomhunterblog@gmail.com Thanks.
Pictures of Tom, Family and Friends
Singing with friends
Salem Oregon 1990
Laughing at a story
June 7th from Marie
"All the flowers of all the tomorrows are in the seeds of today" Indian Proverb
with love from Gege Manolis
with love from Gege Manolis
Tom and Irene
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June 2008
COMMENTS and HOW TO HELP
To leave a comment for Tom and his family please scroll to the bottom of this page, and then come back up to today's date on the left side. Click on "comments" and leave your message in the box on the right side of the comments page. Your comment will not show up immediately as all comments go through the postmaster. They will be posted as soon as possible. If your comment is not posted within 24 hours please contact the postmaster at tomhunterblog@gmail.com
There are many ways to help. Please click on www.tomhuntersupport.blogspot.com under Music, Meals, Flowers, Yard Work, Farm Work below or look for the How to Help section opposite the daily comments on the right side of the blog towards the bottom.
There are many ways to help. Please click on www.tomhuntersupport.blogspot.com under Music, Meals, Flowers, Yard Work, Farm Work below or look for the How to Help section opposite the daily comments on the right side of the blog towards the bottom.
Music, meals, flowers, yard work & farm work
The Hunter Family
Jeanne Herrick has put many photos from the blog into a beautiful slide show. Click below to watch
Words from Tom's Dad
May 26
Somebody noticed what you did today
Somebody noticed little things along the way
How you watched how you listened to what children do and say;
Somebody noticed what you've done alway
'Tis grace has brought us safe thus far,
And grace will lead us home.
May 29
And the Angels took care of him.
May 31st
The Lord bless and keep you. The Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you. The Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you, your family, the city of Bellingham, and the world, peace-- both now and forevermore. Amen
Somebody noticed what you did today
Somebody noticed little things along the way
How you watched how you listened to what children do and say;
Somebody noticed what you've done alway
'Tis grace has brought us safe thus far,
And grace will lead us home.
May 29
And the Angels took care of him.
May 31st
The Lord bless and keep you. The Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you. The Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you, your family, the city of Bellingham, and the world, peace-- both now and forevermore. Amen
Tom with the love quilt
From First Congregational Church of Bellingham
Aeden, Tom & Willard Hunter
Three Generations
Tom and Cindy
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Prayer rocks from Lummi Island
"Sometimes healing is more than getting better. Sometimes it's love revealed....." - Tom Hunter
Aeden and Tom, April '08
May 20, 2008
Here I sit, feeling my feet on the floor
An image of grounding you’ve used lots before
Trying to make sense of this surreal, difficult time
While loving where I came from with infinite pride
It’s been amazing how many lines from your songs
Have been lights in the darkness when it all feels wrong
Have comforted, questioned, been profound and fun
Your capacity for humanity is second to none
This world is a better place because of who you are
And that’s known widely – near and far
In music, education, and matters of the heart
You’ve bettered lives right from the start
I’m so proud of you, of where I’ve come from
You’re a huge part of me and have taught me a ton
About being human, love, laughter, and tears
And how to keep going despite life’s fears
Please don’t worry about the rest of us
We’ll take care of each other and will always feel your touch
Your laughter, music, compassion, and voice
Will always be with us in the midst of life’s noise
So here I sit, feeling my feet on the floor
With love and gratitude deep down in my core
I’m so grateful for the time we have had
You’ll always be my mentor, my best friend, my dad.
-Aeden
Irene and Tom last summer
The very best dad in the world
i’ve always loved your laugh lines,
the way you smile ear to ear
and you always have this easy way
of crushing any fears.
we’ve shared so much so far in life
and i’m so proud and glad
that i can say with confidence
i have the very best dad.
from raspberries to hasty moves
and the cutting edge again?!
to times when you have comforted me
over troubles with my friends.
you know how to relieve the weird feelings
when things don’t feel quite right
you let me put them in your hands
and throw them into the night.
we’ve shared trees against the sky
and books, poems, songs and walks
you taught me respect by looking again
and i’ve always loved our talks.
from dream stories to lake padden eagles
and coloring outside the lines
i can say with ease and confidence
you have the most lovely mind.
i remember all those wakeful nights
and running down the hall
you and mom sang lullabies
and sound asleep i’d fall.
i’m your goofball now—
i’ll always be whether we’re near or far
i’ll hold you close in who i am
no matter where we are.
i know it’s getting harder
to take in this fantastic world
just know i love you—i always will—
as daddy’s little girl.
Irene
May 22, 2008 After baptizing little Maddie
Exchanging blessings
To My Old Brown Earth by Pete Seeger
To my old brown Earth
And to my old blue sky
I'll now give these last few molecules of I
And you who sing
And you who stand near by
I do charge you not to cry
Guard well our human chain
Watch well you keep it strong
As long as sun will shine
And this our home
Keep pure and sweet and green
For now I'm yours
And you are also mine
with thanks to Cori Dusmann
May 22, 2008 At the Shepherd's
"I want my music to be grounded in the realities of what kids and teachers know. I want it to 'ring true; as it helps people laugh, cry, remember, celebrate, and learn."
— Tom Hunter
Tom in his backyard Labor Day 03
"I've been visiting schools to sing songs for almost 30 years. I've been in a lot of classrooms, presented a lot of workshops, talked with a lot of teachers, and sat on a lot of floors with kids. If I bring reminders of what's important in education, they come from finding those moments when the heart shows up, moments that peek around the corner and need to be invited farther into the room so we can see them. Such moments might seem ordinary but they are way too important to be captured in test scores. They fill teachers (and sometimes children) to overflowing."
Quoted from Tom's introduction to his book of essays : "Visits to the Heart of Education: Remembering What's Important" (available from Song Growing Company - see link below)
Quoted from Tom's introduction to his book of essays : "Visits to the Heart of Education: Remembering What's Important" (available from Song Growing Company - see link below)
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"But what if we can't get there?
What if it's too far?
What if we can't find our way from right here where we are?
What if it doesn't matter
that we can't find our star?
What if God comes anyway
right here where we are?"
-Tom Hunter
What if it's too far?
What if we can't find our way from right here where we are?
What if it doesn't matter
that we can't find our star?
What if God comes anyway
right here where we are?"
-Tom Hunter
Northwest Teachers Camp
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from Cori Dusmann
Photos
If you have photos of Tom that we can use on the blog, please email them to us at tomhunterblog@gmail.com
Today, like every other day, we wake up empty
and frightened. Don't open the door to the study
and begin reading. Take down a musical instrument.
Let the beauty we love be what we do.
There are hundreds of ways to kneel and kiss the ground.
Rumi, the Sufi Poet
and frightened. Don't open the door to the study
and begin reading. Take down a musical instrument.
Let the beauty we love be what we do.
There are hundreds of ways to kneel and kiss the ground.
Rumi, the Sufi Poet
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28 comments:
Dear Tom. I hope you are resting and feeling peaceful. I love you, I love you, and I am so grateful to you for helping to teach me and raise me, as you did with many church kids. I give you deep thanks. You and Gwen, Aeden, and Irene are in my thoughts and prayers. Much love, Ellen
Tom,
You were the "opening act" at my first Whatcom Coalition for Healthy Communities board meeting. It was the day after 9/11. On a day when everyone in the country felt somewhat adrift you brought humor, hope and a sense of belonging to that room full of stunned people.
I am grateful for encountering you that day and for the honor and pleasure of serving on the Foundation board with you. You will forever be part of a legacy to this community through your thoughtful personal acts as well as your role in establishing an organization that embodies your spirit: building community one meaningful act at a time.
I am hopeful and confident that this heartbreaking event is making way for more indescribable, inspirational, incandescent Tom Hunter moments between you, your family and friends.
With warm regards and much admiration,
Mauri
May 21, 2008 1:30 PM
Susan said...
Tom,
When I joined the Whatcom Community Foundation, you made it comfortable with your booming laugh and sense of humor, your homemade bread, your passion for this community's people, and your thoughtful gestures. Through some challenging times, your voice was respectful, reasoned yet focused very much on the hard work ahead and how to get there.
We shared talks over coffee about our families and adapting, even thriving, on some of the difficulties life throws our way. You never know when someone is desperate to catch the life ring you have tossed; thank you for that toss.
Maybe one of my favorite memories is when we went to Steve's home on Lake Samish and played a song each of us had chosen that in some way reflected our thoughts about the Foundation and its future. How appropriate that music was, and how meaningful it made that summer afternoon. (I still don't know what Enlightenment means!)
I have too many dear friends and family who have moved on from this world. I am sure to my very soul that we will be meeting again. Know that you have so many people who are praying for you and your family and know, too, that your time spent on this earth has been meaningful and mattered to many of us.
God's blessings to you,
Sue C.
May 21, 2008 3:01 PM
Tom,
I remember attending a workshop with you many years ago where we all wrote a song together. It was fun and powerful at the same time. How music is so uplifting and fills my heart. Blessings to you and you family.
Kelly
May 21, 2008 3:51 PM
Anonymous said...
Hey Tom!
Yesterday my 3-6 grade singing group was rehearsing for a performance that was happening in a few hours. The Nipomo Song was first on the songlist and a boy named Matthew was reading his introduction. It mentions how the song was written and, since you've been on my mind so much, I decided to tell the group that you were ill. First they audibly gasped and then someone asked if we could dedicate the song for you. I said, "of course!" and so last night at the performance the last thing Matthew said was, "and tonight we dedicate this song to Tom."
May 21, 2008 5:33 PM
Anonymous said...
Our dearest Tom,
My heart aches at such news that you are not well..I was a fortunate person to be a staff at a center where you were invited to be our guest for a staff development. My prayers go out to you and your family. Please know that you have made a tremendous impact on so many people in this field and beyond. THANK YOU for sharing your passion and your gift with everyone you came in contact with...
May 21, 2008 6:04 PM
Anonymous said...
Ah,Tom ~ I hope that you can feel all of the love and warm thoughts that are coming your way from so many...so many of us that you have nurtured and inspired for so long...mushy, yes, but then we need mush in our lives! you are in our prayers~ Kathy SCAEYC
May 21, 2008 8:26 PM
Anonymous said...
ah, Tom ~ hoping that you feel all of the love and warm thoughts coming to you and your family from so very many of us...so many of us that you have inspired and nurtured for so long...mushy, yes, but we need mush in our lives! you are in our prayers...
Kathy SCAEYC
May 21, 2008 8:29 PM
Melissa Enter said...
13 years ago I lost a baby due to a miscarriage at four months gestation. It was a very dark time in my life but my greatest source of comfort was your song "Rock Me To Sleep" I played it for hours on end, giving up the need to be strong through it all and letting others carry me. I don't know how I would have made it through that time period without your song and your voice carrying me. All these years latter, I still need it for comfort some days. May you feel the love of others surrounding you and the arms of others rocking you at this difficult period in your life as your music and words have held and rocked so many of us. God bless.
May 22, 2008 7:31 AM
Anonymous said...
Tom,
Over the years I've attended sessions you did with Bev & with Margie & Deb at NAEYC conferences. November, in Chicago, your songs combined with their words caused me to sit there with tears running down my face wishing all early childhood people everywhere could catch the passion. Thankyou for your many contributions to making the world a better place for children.
Cheri, TN
May 22, 2008 8:41 AM
ahavens said...
It was fifteen years ago that I was blessed with your presence and songs. I was a teacher in a therapeutic childcare program and didn't know how much I needed to hear your song "Rock me to Sleep" I often play your music and remember your stories, they continue to fill up my sails and remind me of what is truly important in life. Over the years we have reconnected and your stories, songs and laughter have made me a better Mom and teacher. Thank you for sharing your love and passion, I would not be who I am today without you. May the memories hold you and your family close and please know how much you are loved in this world.
Peace to you and your family,
Amber Havens
May 22, 2008 9:38 AM
Patricia Nixon said...
A favorite memory comes to mind. I had the good fortune to attend one of the first Northwest Teacher's Conferences with Tom, Richard and Bev. Relatively new to the field and full of insecurities, I remember listening to Tom speak about children in a way I had never heard before. He spoke of joy and wonder, vitality and the richness of life. I began to see my role as a teacher differently. It was not about paperwork and assessments and keeping clothes clean and noses wiped. It was so much more.
Later that day, we were around the campfire and people were invited to come forward and share a favorite song or story. I had never been much of a volunteer for such events, but I felt inspired by Tom's words and energy so I went up and sang a song I learned as a child in summer camp. The group was trying to mimic my hand gestures and I took great delight in watching everyone join in.
The next day a friend shared a comment Tom made to her as I was singing. He said, "Now that's vitality!"
To this day, I carry with me the importance of showing the children the beauty and truth and joy in the world and every child with whom I have worked has been better served for it. I have also learned to believe it myself. For this, I will always carry Tom with me. Thank you, Tom, for making the world a more wonderous place.
May 22, 2008 10:17 AM
Anonymous said...
I am a teacher at Everson Elemtary where I was introduced to your music while you visited our classrooms and shared not only your songs but amazing stories. It has been several years but I still remember how touched I was by the song you wrote in appreciation of teachers. I believe it was called "Someone noticed what you did today" I still have the copy of the lyrics you gave all of us. The simple lyrics in your songs for children make them easy to remember and sing. I sing "My hat it has three corners" and "Stop the train" to my 3 month old and his face lights up with excitement. Your music is an amazing gift. Thank you for sharing it.
~ Katie Sterk
May 22, 2008 11:53 AM
Anne Broussard said...
Tom, I just can't put into words how much you have meant to me; how much you have blessed my life with your wisdom and words and music. In particular, I remember how I first invited you to come to the end of my workshop on co-dependent Directors and you came in and completely took it over--it added so much! And I remember leaving your workshop at another NAEYC conference and a woman came up to you and told you that you had saved her life! She had been in a mental institution and she sang Rock Me to Sleep over and over and over and she got through it because of you! Well, I agree. You've saved my life, too. You have enriched my soul beyond that which I could have imagined and you will always be with me. Have courage (I also remember that it was you who taught me the meaning of the word). You are surrounded by LOVE and JOY. Via con Dios. all of my love forever, anne broussard
May 22, 2008 2:55 PM
Anonymous said...
Tom, I cannot begin to express what you mean to me. You have given me such strength and hope and love and courage (and yes, you're the one who taught me the meaning of the word).
You'll always be with me....anne broussard
May 22, 2008 3:29 PM
Anonymous said...
Tom, I will never forget the first time I met you at the University Village Child Care Center in Los Angeles. You inspired me beyond belief!!! I will never forget the times we talked at conferences and times you spent at UV with the children. You are one of the people that inspired me to remain in the field of early childhood education.
Love,
Gerardo
May 22, 2008 3:32 PM
Cathy said...
Dear Tom,
Thank you for the incredible music, stories, and meaning that you have given to children and adults alike. The babies at the UCLA Infant Development Program grew up on your songs and they will continue to bring them joy and comfort for years to come.
"Rock Me to Sleep" is one of the greatest gifts our field has ever received. It lifted me up when I thought about giving up.
My thoughts are with you, Gwen, Irene, and Aeden. We will miss you deeply but we will never forget you.
Cathy Tsao
May 23, 2008 8:39 AM
Jana said...
Tom,
I was in day care with your daughter, and some of my first memories of loving music were coming to parties at your house and listening to all the grown-ups sing and play. I felt so safe and happy as I listened, and a love of music grew inside of me. I have been singing ever since, and I majored in music in college; I even ended up meeting and falling in love with a man named Tom Music, who is now my wonderful husband. Thank you for your songs and everything that came from them. I still wonder where socks go in the dryer, and some day I'll be singing your songs to my children, so they can wonder too.
Sincerely, Jana Music (you knew me as Jana Marlow)
May 23, 2008 8:44 AM
Anonymous said...
I will sing your songs forever,
with my lips and with my heart!
You have brought joy to my life
Joy to the children in my class and joy to more than I can count
You are an inspiration
You are a hero
You Are so much worth celebrating as a human being
Thank you for all!
God Bless You and Your Family;
Love and Blessings
MARY ANN EVANGO
May 23, 2008 10:28 AM
Tom,
I don't know if you remember but you were a keynote "speaker/singer" at Child Care Resources Luncheon a few years ago. I want you to know that people still talk about that Luncheon as one of our best and it clear that it is because of your wonderful songs and energy. I am so sorry to hear about your illness and want you to know that we are thinking of you at Child Care Resources.
Nina Auerbach, CEO
May 21, 2008 2:18 PM
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Anonymous gege manollis said...
dearest Tom,
I just finished speaking with Andrew Bos and found out about your illness and my heart was deeply saddened. I spent three days last summer at the Good Stuff For Kids conference in Roseville.
There was so much richness in those three days. But I must tell you that the time I looked forward to the most was the morning and evening singing together, voices joining together, hearts joining together, filling me with the joy that music brings and changes us so deeply. Thank you for sharing your deepest love for children, the earth and for all life...your smile, your songs and your presence during those three magical days will remain in my heart always and I will share that magic with all that I meet...especially the children.
With love and deep admiration,
Gege Manolis, Step One School, Berkeley, California.
May 21, 2008 4:56 PM
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Anonymous Stan DeWitt said...
Tom,
I just found out about your illness, and I am moved in many ways. I'm thankful for you and all you have meant to so many people, including me - and that will never stop. Your gift of song and teaching is eternal. I debated opening this with a funny quip or retort, an effort to make you smile. (If you want to hear the funny quips, let me know - I can find 'em pretty easily. Maybe I'll send you a quip a day.) But for now, I'll just say my heart is with you and your family and I will keep you all in my prayers.
Warmly, fondly, with deep love and admiration, Stan DeWitt
May 21, 2008 6:48 PM
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Anonymous Veronica Schwalbach said...
I always enjoyed it, Tom, when you came into the kitchen to compliment the food at the Good Stuff conferences in Johnson Hall in Roseville these many years. Sharing info about berries and Washington weather was another part of the conversation ritual. Stuck in my memory forever will be the "Bells are Ringing" song you always lead before dinner. And, of course, the three cheers for the chef introduction on the last night will be inside my head always. Thanks for the wonderful memories, Tom! Those brief exchanges every August and November are a very significant part of who I am.
Best,
Veronica Schwalbach
Veronica Schwalbach
May 21, 2008 8:29 PM
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Anonymous janet jensen said...
Tom,
There have been so many "laughing tears of joy" because you are part of my life. My prayers are with you now up on your beautiful farm on the hill. I know that you and Gwen and Aeden and Irene are all God's favorite child. I can't make sense of what is happening now and I can't begin to pretend that all my tears are joyful but at the core of all the feelings I am grateful. Grateful for all the blessings I have received from knowing you and singing with you and creating with you. Thank you. Love, Janet
May 21, 2008 9:49 PM
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Blogger Joan Roley said...
Dear Tom and family, As I write this I can picture your sparkling eyes and an expression that is just ready to break out in a big smile or maybe a song. We all wonder if our lives will have any real impact. But you have created a legacy of song, love, and understanding that will continue for generations. Our church has been fortunate to share you for so many years and just when we have you pretty much to ourselves we hear this awful news. It may be fitting that someone as rare as you should contract a rare disease but it doesn't make it any easier to understand God's plan. You have my prayers and blessings.
May 21, 2008 10:01 PM
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Anonymous cathy arnold said...
Tom,
What a blessing you are!!
You have been such an inspiration in my life, and in Jenna's life too!! We don't always take the time to let someone know how important they are to the fabric of our lives, so I feel fortunate to be able to tell you just how special you are!!!
We love you, Tom, and we'd like to say thank you for sharing so much of yourself with us. Your music, your presence, your spirituality, your joy, your wisdom. You are an angel among us; probably the one wearing clown boots!
You've shown us how to live life to its fullest, and your songs will live in our hearts forever.
You are all in our prayers daily. Much love to you, and Gwen, and Aeden and Irene.
Keep singing and hugging, and smelling the roses!!
Love,
Cathy and Jenna
May 23, 2008 9:48 AM
Delete
Tom,
I remember attending a workshop with you many years ago where we all wrote a song together. It was fun and powerful at the same time. How music is so uplifting and fills my heart. Blessings to you and you family.
Kelly
May 21, 2008 3:51 PM
Delete
Anonymous Anonymous said...
Hey Tom!
Yesterday my 3-6 grade singing group was rehearsing for a performance that was happening in a few hours. The Nipomo Song was first on the songlist and a boy named Matthew was reading his introduction. It mentions how the song was written and, since you've been on my mind so much, I decided to tell the group that you were ill. First they audibly gasped and then someone asked if we could dedicate the song for you. I said, "of course!" and so last night at the performance the last thing Matthew said was, "and tonight we dedicate this song to Tom."
May 21, 2008 5:33 PM
Delete
Anonymous Anonymous said...
Our dearest Tom,
My heart aches at such news that you are not well..I was a fortunate person to be a staff at a center where you were invited to be our guest for a staff development. My prayers go out to you and your family. Please know that you have made a tremendous impact on so many people in this field and beyond. THANK YOU for sharing your passion and your gift with everyone you came in contact with...
May 21, 2008 6:04 PM
Delete
Anonymous Anonymous said...
Ah,Tom ~ I hope that you can feel all of the love and warm thoughts that are coming your way from so many...so many of us that you have nurtured and inspired for so long...mushy, yes, but then we need mush in our lives! you are in our prayers~ Kathy SCAEYC
May 21, 2008 8:26 PM
Delete
Anonymous Anonymous said...
ah, Tom ~ hoping that you feel all of the love and warm thoughts coming to you and your family from so very many of us...so many of us that you have inspired and nurtured for so long...mushy, yes, but we need mush in our lives! you are in our prayers...
Kathy SCAEYC
May 21, 2008 8:29 PM
Delete
Anonymous Melissa Enter said...
13 years ago I lost a baby due to a miscarriage at four months gestation. It was a very dark time in my life but my greatest source of comfort was your song "Rock Me To Sleep" I played it for hours on end, giving up the need to be strong through it all and letting others carry me. I don't know how I would have made it through that time period without your song and your voice carrying me. All these years latter, I still need it for comfort some days. May you feel the love of others surrounding you and the arms of others rocking you at this difficult period in your life as your music and words have held and rocked so many of us. God bless.
May 22, 2008 7:31 AM
Delete
Anonymous Anonymous said...
Tom,
Over the years I've attended sessions you did with Bev & with Margie & Deb at NAEYC conferences. November, in Chicago, your songs combined with their words caused me to sit there with tears running down my face wishing all early childhood people everywhere could catch the passion. Thankyou for your many contributions to making the world a better place for children.
Cheri, TN
May 22, 2008 8:41 AM
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Blogger ahavens said...
It was fifteen years ago that I was blessed with your presence and songs. I was a teacher in a therapeutic childcare program and didn't know how much I needed to hear your song "Rock me to Sleep" I often play your music and remember your stories, they continue to fill up my sails and remind me of what is truly important in life. Over the years we have reconnected and your stories, songs and laughter have made me a better Mom and teacher. Thank you for sharing your love and passion, I would not be who I am today without you. May the memories hold you and your family close and please know how much you are loved in this world.
Peace to you and your family,
Amber Havens
May 22, 2008 9:38 AM
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Anonymous Patricia Nixon said...
A favorite memory comes to mind. I had the good fortune to attend one of the first Northwest Teacher's Conferences with Tom, Richard and Bev. Relatively new to the field and full of insecurities, I remember listening to Tom speak about children in a way I had never heard before. He spoke of joy and wonder, vitality and the richness of life. I began to see my role as a teacher differently. It was not about paperwork and assessments and keeping clothes clean and noses wiped. It was so much more.
Later that day, we were around the campfire and people were invited to come forward and share a favorite song or story. I had never been much of a volunteer for such events, but I felt inspired by Tom's words and energy so I went up and sang a song I learned as a child in summer camp. The group was trying to mimic my hand gestures and I took great delight in watching everyone join in.
The next day a friend shared a comment Tom made to her as I was singing. He said, "Now that's vitality!"
To this day, I carry with me the importance of showing the children the beauty and truth and joy in the world and every child with whom I have worked has been better served for it. I have also learned to believe it myself. For this, I will always carry Tom with me. Thank you, Tom, for making the world a more wonderous place.
May 22, 2008 10:17 AM
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Anonymous Anonymous said...
I am a teacher at Everson Elemtary where I was introduced to your music while you visited our classrooms and shared not only your songs but amazing stories. It has been several years but I still remember how touched I was by the song you wrote in appreciation of teachers. I believe it was called "Someone noticed what you did today" I still have the copy of the lyrics you gave all of us. The simple lyrics in your songs for children make them easy to remember and sing. I sing "My hat it has three corners" and "Stop the train" to my 3 month old and his face lights up with excitement. Your music is an amazing gift. Thank you for sharing it.
~ Katie Sterk
May 22, 2008 11:53 AM
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Blogger Anne Broussard said...
Tom, I just can't put into words how much you have meant to me; how much you have blessed my life with your wisdom and words and music. In particular, I remember how I first invited you to come to the end of my workshop on co-dependent Directors and you came in and completely took it over--it added so much! And I remember leaving your workshop at another NAEYC conference and a woman came up to you and told you that you had saved her life! She had been in a mental institution and she sang Rock Me to Sleep over and over and over and she got through it because of you! Well, I agree. You've saved my life, too. You have enriched my soul beyond that which I could have imagined and you will always be with me. Have courage (I also remember that it was you who taught me the meaning of the word). You are surrounded by LOVE and JOY. Via con Dios. all of my love forever, anne broussard
May 22, 2008 2:55 PM
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Anonymous Anonymous said...
Tom, I cannot begin to express what you mean to me. You have given me such strength and hope and love and courage (and yes, you're the one who taught me the meaning of the word).
You'll always be with me....anne broussard
May 22, 2008 3:29 PM
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Anonymous Anonymous said...
Tom, I will never forget the first time I met you at the University Village Child Care Center in Los Angeles. You inspired me beyond belief!!! I will never forget the times we talked at conferences and times you spent at UV with the children. You are one of the people that inspired me to remain in the field of early childhood education.
Love,
Gerardo
May 22, 2008 3:32 PM
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Blogger Cathy said...
Dear Tom,
Thank you for the incredible music, stories, and meaning that you have given to children and adults alike. The babies at the UCLA Infant Development Program grew up on your songs and they will continue to bring them joy and comfort for years to come.
"Rock Me to Sleep" is one of the greatest gifts our field has ever received. It lifted me up when I thought about giving up.
My thoughts are with you, Gwen, Irene, and Aeden. We will miss you deeply but we will never forget you.
Cathy Tsao
May 23, 2008 8:39 AM
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Blogger Jana said...
Tom,
I was in day care with your daughter, and some of my first memories of loving music were coming to parties at your house and listening to all the grown-ups sing and play. I felt so safe and happy as I listened, and a love of music grew inside of me. I have been singing ever since, and I majored in music in college; I even ended up meeting and falling in love with a man named Tom Music, who is now my wonderful husband. Thank you for your songs and everything that came from them. I still wonder where socks go in the dryer, and some day I'll be singing your songs to my children, so they can wonder too.
Sincerely, Jana Music (you knew me as Jana Marlow)
May 23, 2008 8:44 AM
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Anonymous Anonymous said...
I will sing your songs forever,
with my lips and with my heart!
You have brought joy to my life
Joy to the children in my class and joy to more than I can count
You are an inspiration
You are a hero
You Are so much worth celebrating as a human being
Thank you for all!
God Bless You and Your Family;
Love and Blessings
MARY ANN EVANGO
May 23, 2008 10:28 AM
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Dear Tom and Family:
On August 26, 2006 you were a big part of the happiest day of my life. You married my husband, Vincent and me at our property near Glacier. I just reflected on that beautiful day as I looked through our wedding pictures to find a picture of you at our ceremony.
What a beautiful day and want a beautiful ceremony. The ceremony that you performed for us touched many of the people that were in attendance that day. Many of our friends commented on how your words resonated with them.
I know that you have touched so many people in this community and I had to write and let you know again, just how much having you perform our ceremony meant to both Vincent and I.
You will be in our prayers and in our hearts, forever.
Donna and Vincent Janigo
Dear Dear Tom,
Thanks so much for all your support and encouragement through BOTH the fun times AND the hard times!
We remember the time you were here for a parent, teacher, children sing-along.The event was rained out but we went to dinner and talked for hours about the importance of building relationships and the inevitable set backs. Build it up and knock down and build it up again is not just a children's book---there's a message in there for all of us. We cherish your strength of spirit and always, your laugh. Your music and song helped us to build relationships between families, teachers, and children here at the Children's Center at Caltech. Our community has benefited more than can ever be measured from your gifts. We are sending our e-hugs, love and prayers.
Your friends,
Susan Wood
Char Roe
AND EVERYONE HERE AT THE CHILDREN'S CENTER AT CALTECH
Steve said...
Hi Tom,
Just wanted to let you know that I am thinking of you and keeping you in my prayers. There are so many thoughts and memories of times with you racing through my head. I remember when I first met you at a Good Stuff Conference...and it proved to be a big turning point for me in understanding what children needed and how we needed to pay attention and "hang around". It was also a personal turning point as we shared stories about the difficulties we had growing up and that gave me comfort and strength. At the last Good Stuff Conference we shared another moment as the words you shared about your own struggles as a child, brought me to tears. You came over, with a hand on my shoulder and said, "Let the memories wrap their arms around you" and again, you brought me comfort and strength. You have helped me become a better father and I will always be grateful for stories you shared, the lessons you taught, the comfort you provided, the memories we established and the songs you continue to sing. I don't know if I ever told you this but there are two songs I learned from you that I use almost every day in my meditation (Take a Breath and Oh How Lovely). They remind me of the feeling I have when we spend time together giving me strenth and comfort. You taught me that it's ok to cry, that the eyes are the "window to the soul" and the tears are what make the window clean...I'm guessing there are a lot of clean windows out there right now. Tom...you hold a special place in my heart!
Sending lots of love,
Steve Antonelli
May 22, 2008 8:48 PM
Marilyn Statucki:
David and I just heard today about your illness and wanted to write you right away to tell you that you are in our hearts and thoughts. Our thoughts have immediately gone to our every-other year get-togethers with you staying in our home. Your humor; love of life; generosity of spirit; your careful attention and wry appreciation of what is happing in the now...we've loved you so through all these years. As an aside, just last month, our daughter Cara, who as you know now lives in San Francsico, found an old turntable and had me send her all your old records! She struggles with her own major health issues and she said that listening to you lifted her spirits on the bad-pain filled days. You've touched so many lives. Love, Marilyn
Tom,
I just want to let you know what an inspiration you are to me. I love you, and will always remember the Joy Jesters, with you helping to lead us, and spending many days with you during my childhood, learning and growing. Thank you so much for all you've done for me and all of the other children, whose lives you have touched.
Love,
Danielle Goforth
Dear Hunters -
As Jerry fights the good fight with the morning glory outside, I thought you'd like to know that, after reorganizing the garden a bit, hundreds of Victor Street raspberries have been adopted and now thrive in gardens throughout the Columbia neighborhood. Of course we still have dozens of bushes, but the wealth has been spread out.
Much like the wealth you have spread throughout your life, Tom.
We met at a crossroads in all our lives, exactly 7 years ago, as we shook hands, told stories, laughed and cried over the new chapter about to unfold. We were the lucky ones, the ones who got to move into walls that had been infused with so much love and music and laughter over the years. We still feel it every day and your whole family is in our hearts today and always.
Thank you for the gifts each one of you has left -- occasionally we find a pretty bead in the garden that must have been Irene's or a shiny rock from some collection of Aedan's - but more often than that, we find bursts of life where we least expect it. An early morning view from the kitchen window; the sound of Jerry strumming the guitar outside by the firepit; the girls' laughter as they play two-square outside in the street; and we know that this is just a continuation of life at 2524.
What you began on this earth can never be undone - you have affected more lives than any of us will ever know. We send love and prayers to all of you.
Love, The McGarity's
Dear Tom,
You were one of our son's first loves in music (he's now almost 9), and when he found out he could hear you in person, he thought it was the most amazing thing. So we attended many of your concerts on the library lawn and elsewhere, and loved them. Now he leans more to world music, Talking Heads, The Senate, etc., and I always wondered if he would still be listening to you ... if I hadn't played the songs so much for my own benefit, because I liked them too! Thank you for your many contributions to our lives, the Bellingham community, and the world of music.
Blessings,
Tim Baker
Hi Tom and Beloved Family,
Well, I just wrote a message and lost it somehow. If it made it, disregard the attempt at a second. I will do my best to retell my stories. My name is Kimberly Scott and I teach at Kendall Elementary with two teacher campers and lovers of Tom Hunter, Juli Evangelista and Ann Marie Henterly. Myself and my 4 year old daughter, are huge fans as well. Tom came to my house about a year and half to sing with Juli and Ann Marie and any teachers that needed a lift. It was a Friday night and Tom made it. It just so happened that it was my husbands birthday and we sang happy birthday to him. It was such a treat. Montanna could not believe that Tom came to sing happy birthday just for her dad. Ha Ha.
Here is another one, Juli and I were celebrating the completion of our National Board portfolios getting mailed off. We were dancing and singing our hearts out. We then were sharing stories of famous musicians that we had seen in personal-sort had the chance to meet; Rod Stewart, Dave Matthews, Stevie Nicks. Montanna was singing and dancing with us. She piped in and said, "And I had Tom Hunter at my very own House!!!"
Juli and I were in tears, it was so cute.
My first year teaching, Tom came to our schooll and did a workshop. I was so impressed with him and his music. It truly changed me. That Christmas I was at the Rhoder Home for a craft show. there was wine and good food. It was a lovely time. As I was leaving, I spotted Tom Hunter in front of me. I said to my husband, "That is Tom Hunter!!" Tom turned around and smiled. I told him about being at Kendall. I asked if I could get his autograph. He said sure. I ripped a deposit slip from my checkbook. He signed --KEEP SINGING--TOM HUNTER. I am happy to say I am still singing and I still have that autograph in my wallet. God Bless your family. My family, students, and I will cherish and sing your songs forever. Thank you.
Peace--Kimberly Scott
Hi Tom, I'm feeling the need to send more energy and love your way.....take one day at a time and never forget how much you are loved!!! Peace be with you all
Love, Anne DeMar
Roseville Community School
Dear Tom,
I just had the joy of seeing Aeden this afternoon and want to thank you for the gift that is your son. I was reminded of recording our "inexorable" version of the Huron carol (one of our best efforts, I think!) down in that studio in Seattle. It was so much fun to watch Aeden keep us both in time and on track. You are being loved this afternoon. I'm playing our music in my office with the doors closed. Merry Christmas.
Dear Tom,
Andrew just called me to tell me your news. I have known you since I was 22 (I am turning 47 on Monday), and think of you as a good friend and mentor. Your music, smile and loving heart has inspired me to be the best teacher I can be and gives me the strength to foster the love of music and learning in all the children I work with. Thank you Tom...you are loved, respected and admired. My prayers are with you and your family...God Bless you ALL.
Love and Hugs,
Pam Rossetter
Eugene, OR
Oh, dear. Flip, I am so sorry to hear this terrible news -- and appreciate your having sent it. Here at Beth Israel, we will include Tom on our Mishebeirach list and will hold him in our thoughts and prayers as we offer prayers for healing at each worship service.
Take good care,
Cindy
Dear Tom,
You and your family are in my heart and prayers. Everytime we met I felt connected. It is your gift to make each of us feel so unique and precious. You are such a gift to my life. Your wit, laugh, song, deep caring and wondrous ways of seeing this hurting, amazing and fragile world have sustained me and so many. with love, Lynn
Dear Friends,
My thoughts go back to Irene's piano lessons many years ago...to a bright girl accompanied by Mom or Dad. Your family touched me with your great love for one another and your integrity, warmth, humor, and respect for individuals.
I also have a memory of singing the old hymn "How can I keep from singing?" for our friend Cathy Hayward with Tom strumming the guitar. I learned it that day and still love it.
You are all in my prayers and I know God has you under his feathers in a safe place.
Much Love, Judy
Tom,
My love goes out to you and your family during this profound transition. You, Bev and Michael have spent decades inspiring so many about living life with joy and wonder as well as approaching loss and death with dignity, peace and also a sense of joy and wonder. I hope that you find comfort now as your words, music, laughter and listening have brought comfort to so many others. As for myself, you have touched my life deeply and I am better for having known so gentle and passionate a soul. I hope that when my day comes, I can look back on my life and know that my time here, as you must surely know that your time here, has been well-spent. We will celebrate your life for the rest of ours.
With great love and deep respect,
Richard Cohen
Dear Tom,
There are these amazing circles we call life and friends and love that overlap and intersect and just keep on going. My mom called me this morning with the new - she keeps in close touch with your parents and they are dear friends. Then Jody forwarded me a message from Robin who received it from someone else. So the circles go on. In early April, Stacy, Jody and I had a reunioin with Bill and Ann Eichhorn to celebrate our 30th anniversary of our ordination. Hadn't seen each other in 27 years. Circles overlap, intersect, reconnect. Please know that you are in so many cirlces, circles that will go on forever. You and Gwen and your family are in my prayers and you certainly are in the wide arms of love that embraces this universe. Sending much love -
Loey
Tom, your life is worthy of song and we are all fortunate to know you so that we may sing The Song of Tom. Save a spot for me, Timarie from Roseville
Dear Tom,
It is time for us to rock you to sleep. We'll make a Tom Hammock of love and appreciation for who you are and what you have done for us as individuals and for this community.
Much love to you, Gwen, Irene and Aeden, Mary P-K
I was blessed to experience being a part of your family for a time in my first years of college while Aeden and I were in relationship. What I remember most about that time is the feeling of inclusiveness, being held and cared for and welcomed as part of the family. Tom, I remember laughing until my sides ached, and your curiosity about my life, your caring about my everyday challenges and choices that seemed so insurmountable. I remember having a friend to tell me everything was going to be ok.
I remember singing in the choir on Christmas Eve. How the music lifted me up, and how I felt a part of something so much larger than myself, and how that feeling left me inspired for months with tunes of love and hope carrying me through my days.
As much as your music touched me, Tom, what I remember the most is your way of being in the world. I remember your gift of bringing people together, your ultimate and unconditional acceptance of peoples’ humanity; their imperfections, their pain, their dreams. I remember your passion for listening and learning and leading people to do the same. You, among so many of us who try each day to live what we believe, you showed us how to love each other. That is what I remember the most.
I am taking a leap of faith at the end of the month. After being away for four years building my Equine Guided Counseling practice, I’m moving my practice back to Bellingham to reunite with the community I have missed so much. You have been a model for me about being in community, something that both inspires and frightens me. And, your example has been a lighthouse for me in the times when I forget how to lead with integrity, when I forget that my life experience and my wisdom is healing for those I serve. You remind me to laugh, and take things a little less seriously, and to look for angels everywhere.
Love to you, Gwen, Aeden, and Irene. I hold you all in my heart.
Ginger
“The most visible creators I know of are those artisits whose medium is life itself. The ones who express the unexpressible - without brush, hammer, clay or guitar. They neither paint nor sculpt - their medium is being. Whatever their presence touches has increased life. They see & don't have to draw. They are the artists of being alive...” J. Stone
Hi Tom,
You know what? I don't think we've had more than one conversation about curriculum.
I remember when you came to join and address our Serendipity staff training day. It was a mixture of folks who we're expecting some kind of "curriculum workshop" and some that didn't know what to expect. To this day, it remains the most well regarded training day we've ever had. People told me they felt so good for the rest of the day and night, and that they thought about things that they hadn't thought about in years. They talked about that spark that made them want to teach. They talked about what changes they wanted or needed to make to their lives.
They said they didn't learn a lick of curriculum, but they also said they learned much more. And when someone told me she learned how to say "hello" to herself again I walked away thinking how awesome is that? Another said she felt completely inspired.
And I noticed each of them started singing with their kids.
Some kind of curriculum.
You're an inspiration Tom.
We love you,
Jennifer Little and Mike Salas
Dear Tom,
I see you in my mind's eye, sitting in your yard (on Memorial Day and/or Labor Day), leaning back in your chair and singing one (or many!) wonderful songs. Your songs and your voice are my frequent companions. I can hear your voice now:
"There was music in my mother's house,
There was music all around,
There was music in my mother's house,
And my heart still feels full with the sound"
...in many homes and hearts, and everywhere and everyone you have touched.
Love,
- Zite
Dear Tom,I will always remember the day you sang a song to my answereing machine. It made me laugh and filled me up.You have always been there to fill my bucket with your wisdom and music. I cherish those memories. Having you in my life has been just priceless!! Love, Amy Baugh
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