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.
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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
Clarification -- How to Comment
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If you have questions about the blog or if this does not work for you -- send your message to the postmaster at: tomhunterblog@gmail.com and it will be posted for you.
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Sunday, June 1, 2008
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54 comments:
Dear Tom,
How does one express appreciation for the good you have brought to the lives of so many of us? Just knowing you is a gift too great to share adequately. At times like this I find too few words to express the love and appreciation I have for you. I am certain I join a great number of people who's lives you have influenced for the better. Perhaps the best I can do at this time is to simply say, "Thanks, Tom, for demonstrating, through example, the best of unconditional love."
Love Harold.
Hi Tom and Gwen,
It's late and I cannot sleep. You two are on my mind constantly. I feel so helpless and restless, a feeling that I don't do well :)
I keep thinking of my grandma. When she knew things weren't going so well for any of us, her solution was to bake, cook and bake some more. One time when I was going to drive home from her home in Reno (an 18 hour drive) she prepared for two people: 12 sandwiches, 2 salads, two kinds of pickles, a cheese platter, some jello thing with marshmallows & nuts and finally cookies...4 kinds of them. She knew how to soothe herself and get rid of the sadness of our leaving.
I wish I could bake, and have some relief and feel a bit useful...want some chocolate?
I'll enlist Jerrys help. When we go to the Husky games to watch Jacob play his Oatmeal Chocolate Chip cookies are the first to disappear at the pre-game tailgate party.
Blessings to you and all who are surrounding you in love,
Sharon Allen
Hello all you Hunters:
Tom, thank you for the poem when nothing else spoke. Now here's one from Rilke for all of you.
I love the dark hours of my being
in which my senses drop into the deep.
I have found in them, as in old letters,
my private life, that is already lived through,
and become wide and powerful now, like legends
Then I know that there is room in me
for a second huge and timeless life.
Love,
Marlene
Dear Tom,
It seems as though I am at a point in my time on this Earth where life, instead of giving me wonderful gifts all the time, is starting to take some things away...and I'm not happy about it, not one bit.
I do know that every time I've seen you has been one of laughter, fellowship and friendship...at church listening to your sermons or songs and afterwards talking about tennis, at the Sevice in the Park, the Christmas Eve Celebrations or bumping into you in a terminal at SeaTac while we were going different directions across the country.
I'll covet and cherish those moments forever.
BTW...while on one of my 70 mile training rides last week, this song popped into my head...
(to "Mrs. Robinson")
"and here's to you, Hunters' Tom and Gwen, Jesus loves you more than you will know. Woah, woah, woah.
What's that you say, Hunters' Tom and Gwen? Heaven holds a place for those who pray. Hey, hey, hey."
Silly, I know, but very true.
Peace and Love to you and your family.
Jerry Horner
Dear Tom and Family,
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Lord, bless our bother Tom and his lovely family with Your presence and peace. Please be with them each day in a very close, personal, and comforting way.
Tom, I promise to sing with my children, and future grandchildren and with my school children --- to pass on the joy and comfort we have in music that you have so freely share with so many.
Love in Christ,
Deb Smith
Chandler AZ
Tom,
You have definately left your mark for all of us. Your music has been an inspiration for me as a first grade teacher and now as an administrator. I am proud to say we are still singing "I've Been Waiting for You" each and every moring at our school to start the day. Even though I only attended 2 camps in the summer months I feel like I've known you all my life. Your a special person Tom..... you have done sooooo many good things for everyone. Thank you for inspiring me to teach through music.
Erick Baer - (Edwardsville Gang)
Principal: Alhambra Primary
Dear Tom and Family -
I don't want to say I am so saddened because for someone who brought so much joy to the world that doesn't seem right...but I want you to know how you touched my life. I am a career switcher into the world of early education - out of the corporate world of marketing. At my first WAEYC conference I sat at your session, next to my mom (she is a lifelong preschool teacher/director). I can't tell you how inspired your session made us. Most importantly because you let us all sing. So often teachers are spoken to, told how to do it, written to but they aren't allowed to do it (and let's admit most preschool teachers are the biggest kids around :) ....I sang in that session with a happy heart and you inspired that. And now my kids are welcomed into the room with your tunes. And we recently had a pirate party with our families that was themed around the Big Ship Sailing! Thank you for being such an advocate and strong - yet welcoming - voice for the joy of music, inclusiveness and the freedom of childhood. Your music will forever play in my classroom (and my car, and my house, and my heart.). All the best, Becky Allardice, Seattle
Tom and his family,
I attended the Roseville workshop once in which you were such an important part of. You are a person that I admired for so many reasons.
I do not have many words to express my gratitude and good wishes for you and your family but I bet you have several great songs for it!
One song I can think of would be,"Love is something once you give it away, You will end up having MORE!"
Feel the love and I hope your family does also.
Warm Regards,Lisa Ham
Tom Hunter came to my school (Silver Beach Elementary in Bellingham, WA) when I was 5 and again when I was 7. I remember being completely mesmerized by "Inch by Inch" and especially by a song that went "When I first came to this land, I was not a wealthy man. So I bought myself a horse, I did what I could." I have sung those songs for almost thirty years as I have gone through my own journey as a songwriter, a music and drama teacher, a writer, and now a misplaced kid from the PNW in NYC writing musicals.
Tom Hunter is one of my strongest templates for how to reach people through music. I still remember him sitting on our big stage, framed by the decorations for the first graders play, singing his heart out with the wonderful folk songs that I loved. It was the first time I'd heard all the songs my grandmother sang to me up on a stage, making them "famous" in my mind.
I sang those same songs with my students (in Mexico and sometimes in Spanish!) and use American Folk to inform my storytelling in theater.
Thank you, Tom, for being such a positive influence in my life and for giving me a model for how to do it right. It's touched thousands of kids... including me.
Hannah Kohl, 32
New York City
Dear Tom,
Your songs were the soundtrack of my sons' babyhoods, and I still prepare for Christmas with "When the Silent Night Starts to Sing." Thank you, thank you, thank you.
My congregation at Salem United Methodist Church in Brookeville, Maryland is praying for you and your family.
Love,
Janet Craswell (Keith and Eulalah Craswell's daughter)
MaryAnn Kohl said...
My heart is breaking. Like frozen ice tossed on the ground, splintering and shattered, spreading in all directions as it breaks.
I can help with anything regarding Tom's book publishing or getting that in shape, whatever you need in that area.
MaryAnn Kohl
Tom's local publisher friend, www.brightring.cmo
Tom Hunter, what can I say?
I love you brother. When I think of you, gentleness, love, kindness and warmth and sweet sweet music is all there is. You have always been so encouraging of me and my music. Thank you so much for all you have done. You are well loved.
Peace
Chad
"Sometimes healing is more than getting better. Sometimes it's love revealed....." - Tom Hunter
Can't deny that I want the physical healing, too. But there is love revealed here for Tom and for us. You are right, Tom. "It will never stop." Thank you for those comforting words. Sending you love from Erin and me today.
Hi Tom-
Jackie Brown has had trouble getting onto this blog for some reason. She asked me to let you know that during the recent Ski to Sea race she dedicated her run to you. She said it was a new experience to run so far while crying nonstop! and that it was also a lovely and deeply moving experience to be thinking so clearly of you while in the midst of such beauty.
She sends her love and warm thanks for your time with her and her first grade class.
lots of love,
Karee.
Tom and Gwen and family,
There is a card coming, but we just found out about this blogspot. Jim and I have been in touch. You have certainly been in our thoughts and hearts. There are so many memories of times at Union, conferences which I organized where you served as the "minstrel," the wonderful songs you did around disability issues which I promoted far and near, and so much more. I remember talking about your house and land, when you were at our new (old) place and ended up helping me weed. That's recent, then I go to early morning breakfasts for the four of us at Union Theological, and the span of the years in between. And your songs just keep going through my head, especially, in these days, "Rock Me to Sleep" and "It's Awesome to Be Surrounded". It has been such a huge gift to have you as friend.
Love,
Bill Gaventa
Tom,Gwen,Aeden and Irene,
I just found out about your situation a couple of days ago and was so shocked and wanted to let you all know how much Tom has meant to me over the years. I will never forget how much fun I had when he was pastor at the Lummi Island Congregational Church and when he came out to the Beach School to sing to us. I felt so blessed that he performed our wedding ceremony in 2005. Almost everyday my kids and I dance to your Still Growing CD. you have taught so many so much and I thank you for that and your voice will always make me smile. Your photos on the wbsite are beautiful.
Dear Tom, Gwen, Aeden, and Irene,
I think of all of you at this time of blessing and pain. The pictures are so beautiful. Tom, your face has become more handsome over the years with those wonderful laugh lines and the kindness that just shows through. NWTC was the most fun I ever had as an adult. Funny that Erick Baer should mention "We've Been Waiting for You". That's the first song I thought of, too. THE FAVORITE song at my playgroup for birth-three year olds, however, is The Train Song. We bounce all the way through it. When I think of you it will always be music and kindness. Still a Tom Hunter groupie,
Mary Anne Posnanski
Edwardsville
Dear Tom,
I hope you are able to hear this, for it comes from an old friend who has held you in “high esteem” for many years, dating back to your effective service to the people who worshipped in the little white church on Lummi Island. I was the “visiting minister,” Rob Calhoun, whose father, Carl, had also served the Lummi church prior to your coming and the Bellingham church, where I grew up. I often ferried back and forth to Lummi Island from the time I was a boy.
As you know, I spent many summers on Lummi Island while serving our UCC church in Manhattan Beach, California, where I still am 37 years later.
Our cherished acquaintance and friendship began over lunch at Jackie Gaines’ dining room table on Lummi Island and blossomed over many years in numerous venues and occasions. Our many conversations about life and the ministry, as recently as this April, will remain a part of me in the nicest of ways.
Tom, you are a “true” minister in every way, including this final chapter of your life. Your willingness to just accept the senior ministership of the Bellingham church will serve as a great source of inspiration and keep together and galvanize this congregation for years to come! You will be remembered with great affection and appreciation by all those whose path you crossed over a long span of years at “Cornwall and D Streets,” along with all the other ministers who have served the Bellingham church with distinction. Tom, you have been the “best” in every realm of your life and I hope you will take a tremendous measure of satisfaction in your great ministry to all.
You and I will talk again, my friend, and recount those grand and leisurely days on Lummi Island and the memorable encounters that followed through the years.
“Peace at the Last”
Love, Rob
My love to you Gwen, Aeden and Irene and please know you are in my thoughts and prayers in these days, and please know, if I could ever be of help to any of you, I would be honored.
Rob Calhoun
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Strength to you and your family- you have filled our lives with songs of kindness and joy. Always know that you have touched many hearts- I remember Tom Hunter concerts as a child, now I am a teacher myself, and sharing songs with my students.
God bless
Tom, Gwen, Aiden, and Irene,
Please know that you are in my every thought and prayer these days. Tom, as I pack my buildings at the end of another school year you are ever present. At every turn I've found photos of your first visit in Edwardsville, flyers sharing your visit at Eden church, family nights, Fine Arts Day memos,your music and much more.
When I first shared with Barb Kinsella the sad news, through our tears we talked about what a chorus of angels must be singing, "We've Been Waiting For You". And that you will be waiting for us. Tom, you have made an incredible difference in this world in oh so many ways. In life's worst storm, you are sharing, loving, and teaching us so much through this endearing blog. We love you and your music and precious words will live on in our hearts. It's my prayer that you will sense all the love from our Edwardsville group. With much love, Linda Plant
hello. i stopped and smelled the roses today.
love to you all.
rachel
dear tom,gwen,aeden,irene
i hold your family close every day
in thought and prayer.
i feel i have been blessed by knowing one of you over time, to first hand see the love that your family has given to eachother and to the community.
i am strengthened and enlarged by the depth of soulfulness i see here.
blessings on you all.
i send my love into the bushel as well!
cynthis stentz
Dear Tom and family,
You will likely not recognize my name, but I have known yours my whole life. Tom was my youth pastor at Ladera Community Church in the 70's. Back then I was a kid with a guitar looking desperately for someone to show me how to make the the magic called song writing.
Tom Hunter was that guy for me. He never gave me a lesson and I never asked for one. I just watched and listened and somehow something of his wisdom and grace must have lodged in me.
Thirty years later, I am the Sr. Pastor of Bostwick Lake Congregational UCC in Rockford, MI. I write blessings and hymns and play my guitar at church most Sundays, with children and adults who are still children at heart. I thank Tom Hunter every time I see a child (of any age) find the Spirit moving in the music I make.
This weekend, Ladera Community Church held its 43rd annual retreat at SkyLake Yosemite Camp in Bass Lake California. This was my 38th year (missed only once). At our evening campfire we remembered Tom and all his beloved. As a tribute to Tom's gift to us all, I sang for the 150 gathered there my favorite Tom Hunter Song, "The Shirt Song". This song seems to so perfectly to incarnate the child within us all.
Thank you Tom Hunter and all who have loved you. You have lived the life to which my teacher Jesus of Nazareth calls us. Indeed, you have shown us all in your living that "there is no greater gift, than to set forth one's life for one's friends." - John 15:13
Godspeed to you all...
Pastor Jason Hubbard
jhubbard64@sbcglobal.net
Dear Tom,
THANK YOU FOR BEING YOU! May your soul smile on us forever.
I never realized what a treat I was in for when I took Mary Davidson place at Teachers Camp. I helped compose a song about shoes. Now when I see a shoe along side the road, left in the sand, hanging from a line, or a whole tree of shoes (on the way to Malhuer Refuge) I smile and think of the wonderful time I had at camp.
THANK YOU AGAIN for sharing your love for music and children.
With Love Lorna Greenwood.
and i just wish for one hug! have to leave it up to the imagination now.
rachel
Hi Tom, Irene, Aeden, and Gwen,
You are all on Jennifer's and my mind constantly. For my part, I can't walk into my school without all of you flashing through my head. It makes being with my kids all the more important.
The other day I was reading to them Miss Tizzy and I couldn't get through the end without tears. And knowing that kids say what's on their mind, I was expecting something. When someone asked if I was sad I told them all I was. Sad because my friend, who's like Miss Tizzy was very sick. Then one kid that doesn't say much at our together time asked what's their name? I said his name is Tom, and that when Tom and all our friends got together we would sometimes play like the kids in Miss Tizzy and that we would feel like the kids in the book felt when they were with Miss Tizzy, very happy.
Then I thought and said, "You all know who this guy is" and went to fetch a tape. I put it in, pressed play and "I remember when you couldn't do that..." came on and the same kid said, "Let's do the pirate song." I grabbed my guitar and we did it. And it felt really good.
It makes us feel good that your days are filled with waves of music and love. We're sure there are high tides and low tides, as well as stillness and quiet.
Thank you all for sharing your thoughts and moments with us. We love you all.
Love,
Jennifer and Mike
lukijDear Tom, Gwen, Aeden & Irene,
Tom and Gwen have been so much of what makes our area a special place. You are in our thoughts and prayers. We hope that you find comfort in knowing that your many friends are here caaring and thinking about you. We would like to return a small part of the comfort and warmth that you have brought to us now and in the future.
Love and peace,
Dan & Debbie Raas
Dearest Tom and Family,
On my journey as a teacher, I've at times found myself lost and alone, uncertain of how to proceed or get back to the heart of my work-- I first met Tom in a sea of unknown faces at a bev bos seminar in DC at NAEYC. Therafter while teaching in tokyo or travelling to confrence halls in Chicago, Atlanta, DC, New York City and most recently as a transplant in Portland Oregon, I would look for Tom's seminars or workshops , and find myself standing or sitting in a room surrounded by hundreds of teachers, connected in song, spirit, and conviction through music and Tom's stories and laughter, ours and his... and I am then reminded "We are, not alone..." (remember singing with Margie Carter at Naeyc after 911, we sang this with tears streaming down our faces)
I sing "we are one voice" and "waiting for you," and "Somos el Barco" and so many many more of your songs and I am brought back every time to the wisdom and warmth in the way you have touched others and consequently me, through your sharing of the stories. I cannot express what a beacon of light you have been for me, I know, since meeting you and hearing you speak and sing, that if I do anything in my classroom, It MUST be REAL, and it must be SUNG, children's voices must be heart, and we must strive for understanding, and building connections.
At our last meeting in Portland, I gave and recieved a big bear hug from you Tom, I was scribbling on napkins, I was so inspired. I shared with you my interest in exploring the relationship between music and building community--among many many ideas. You said to keep in touch. I took for granted that you'd always be there and In my heart I know Tom, you will always be here for me--I was waiting for you..and you are here, you will remain in my heart and in all that i do in my early childhood classrooms for the rest of my life. Your stories have always reached out into the crouwd and touched me in those cavernous filled halls for the very reason that you share stories that are at the heart of what we are all longing for--connection "A connection, says Miles, 7 yr old Opal student, feels like a space between 2 people that has just been filled." Till we meet again, such big big love and appreciation thank youthank youThank you! So glad you are!
Kimie Fukuda
Opal School, Portland Oregon
Dear Tom,
What I’ve always loved about you is your ability to reduce everything to its
lowest common denominator. You are a master of the simple truth. Every year
I looked forward to December, waiting to hear that year’s new song, and you
wrote a perfect song every year, each with a new slant, boiled down to gem
quality. At rehearsal, you’d lead Folk Choir on a magical romp through all
the parts and pieces of the Christmas Eve program. You’d fill in the places
between the songs with, “And then the Joy Jesters will..., “ or, “And then I
thought the kids and I would do this......thing...” We would smile and nod,
knowing that you had a vision and we were along for the ride. You would grin
your signature grin, and laugh your unforgettable laugh. We knew it would
come together like clockwork. It always did. As much fun as the process was,
that was not the best part for me.
The best part for me was the prayer. Just before curtain time, when about
1200 people filled the Mt. Baker Theater, anxiously waiting for the program
to start, we would gather in the little room in back for a moment of prayer.
Your words would focus and distill our thoughts and our efforts down to the
very essence of that Holy night. You would thank God for music, and for
song. Then you would ask that our songs, here, tonight, add meaning to the
Christmas story for all those people out there who had come searching for a
way to make the Christ child present and palpable in their lives. It was a
melding of the lowest common denominator, passion and highest purpose. That
prayer carried me out onto the stage and lasted through the whole year, and
it will be with me always.
Through my tears I rejoice with deepest gratitude. I thank God for you, and
I thank you, Tom, for enriching my life in countless, marvelous and wondrous
ways. I love you and will miss you always, especially at Christmas. Your
songs will carry me through the rest of my days.
In my head, over and over, I keep hearing your voice singing, “A miracle
with a heartbeat, when all is said and done.” Blessings and peace on your
journey.
Love,
Nancy Kennell
Dearest Tom and Family,
On my journey as a teacher, I've at times found myself lost and alone, uncertain of how to proceed or get back to the heart of my work-- I first met Tom in a sea of unknown faces at a bev bos seminar in DC at NAEYC. Therafter while teaching in tokyo or travelling to confrence halls in Chicago, Atlanta, DC, New York City and most recently as a transplant in Portland Oregon, I would look for Tom's seminars or workshops , and find myself standing or sitting in a room surrounded by hundreds of teachers, connected in song, spirit, and conviction through music and Tom's stories and laughter, ours and his... and I am then reminded "We are, not alone..." (remember singing with Margie Carter at Naeyc after 911, we sang this with tears streaming down our faces)
I sing "we are one voice" and "waiting for you," and "Somos el Barco" and so many many more of your songs and I am brought back every time to the wisdom and warmth in the way you have touched others and consequently me, through your sharing of the stories. I cannot express what a beacon of light you have been for me, I know, since meeting you and hearing you speak and sing, that if I do anything in my classroom, It MUST be REAL, and it must be SUNG, children's voices must be heart, and we must strive for understanding, and building connections.
At our last meeting in Portland, I gave and recieved a big bear hug from you Tom, I was scribbling on napkins, I was so inspired. I shared with you my interest in exploring the relationship between music and building community--among many many ideas. You said to keep in touch. I took for granted that you'd always be there and In my heart I know Tom, you will always be here for me--I was waiting for you..and you are here, you will remain in my heart and in all that i do in my early childhood classrooms for the rest of my life. Your stories have always reached out into the crouwd and touched me in those cavernous filled halls for the very reason that you share stories that are at the heart of what we are all longing for--connection "A connection, says Miles, 7 yr old Opal student, feels like a space between 2 people that has just been filled." Till we meet again, such big big love and appreciation thank youthank youThank you! So glad you are!
Kimie Fukuda
Opal School, Portland Oregon
The place to improve the world is first in one's own heart and head and hands.
- Robert M. Pirsig
"Be the Change" the theme of tonight's Baccalaureate for BHS...I wanted you to be the one to give the blessing to this class, for my child....But in reality, you have been a blessing to all of us since we met 15 years ago.
Thank you Tom, for showing me what "being" looks like.
Love,
Marla B.
sweet tom and family...i wanted to share some words i have had up in my kindergarten classroom for over twenty years. the words are for whoever wishes to read them or have them read to them, which the children often ask me to do. they are there for all of us and in all of us....
If there is radiance in the soul
it will abound in the family.
If there is radiance in the family
it will be abundant in the community
If there is radiance in the community
it will grow in the nation
If there is radiance in the nation
the universe will flourish.
Lao Tsu
and now I truly understand the meaning of radiance, thank you so...
all of us at Step One School in Berkeley send you
radiant love....Gege Manolis
Dear Tom,
You and your family have been in my thoughts and deep within my heart ever since I heard the news of your illness.
I first met you years ago in Roseville during a magical 3-day visit to Bev's school. Your music, your spirit, your boundless enthusiasm for life, and your encouragemnt to push the boundaries inspired me and brought me to tears as we all sang, I am "tired of being strong," You brought me strength to let go of my grief and always my disappointment in not being able to sing...a belief from childhood. I said to myself, "I don't know if I can learn to sing, but I am going to try."
I returned to Portland, found a voice teacher, found an amazing chorus of 130 women singing in harmony for peace. I sang with that choir for 10 glorious years.
I'm still not much of a singer, but I do love to sing and I love music. I am so grateful that I was able to tell my story and express my gratitude in a public forum, at NWTC last summer. Of course I sing with my students all the time.
I am so grateful that I had the magical camp experience with you and your glorious entourage. I am grateful that I heard you sing and speak at many conferences over the years, and finally that you gave an unexpected and delightful concert at my school this past year. The quiet dinner with you and my teaching partner Sandy is a treasured memory for both of us.
The world is a better place for your being in it. It is better for us all, even for those who have never heard you spread your joy with your music.
One of my first thoughts after hearing the news of your illness was of one of my favorite poems.
I would like to share the poem with you and your family Tom and with all who are sharing in the intimacy of this blog and the spirit it embodies.
THE SUMMER DAY
by
Mary Oliver
Who made the world?
Who made the swan, and the black bear?
Who made the grasshopper, I mean---
the one who has flung herself out of the grass,
the one who is eating sugar out of my hand,
who is moving her jaws back and forth instead of up and down--
who is gazing around with her enormous and complicated eyes.
Now she lifts her pale forearms and thoroughly washes her face.
Now she snaps her wings open, and floats away.
I don't know exactly what a prayer is.
I do know how to pay attention, how to fall down into the grass,
how to be idle and blessed, how to stroll through the fields,
which is what I have been doing all day.
Tell me, what else should I have done?
Doesn't everything die at last, and too soon?
Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?
Tom, you have done so much with your wild and precious life. Those who have come into that life will always be blessed. Thank you for showing us the way, a way to pay attention.
Love and blessings,
Carol Hazzard
Tom,
When you reside in heaven please stop by and visit me in my dreams. I'll be waitng for you.
Penny
Tom,
I think of you and your family every day.
As I listened to the music on our CD player at preschool the last days of school and heard your voice ring out with Bev and Michaels, I took many moments to feel your presence.
I took time to enjoy and appreciate the work that we do with children and parents. I looked over at the old wooden box that you sat on so many times during Good Stuff and remembered you sitting there, watching, musing, pondering about what goes on there, with your plastic fork in your pocket for the next meal.
I went home each day and thanked God for my family and your influence on my parenting as I chatted with my husband about our grown kids. My daughter Suzy feels so much compassion for you and your family, as we all do.
I will always remember you joking with my son Robert at Good Stuff about how us Mom's need to just "butt out" :) when I tried to have you check up on him when he moved to Vancouver. He still appreciates your candor. He's doing fine without me.....You were right....
Your words will always ring true in my heart.
Gwen, Aeden and Irene, I know we don't know each other that well, but my memories of our encounters are fond. Close enough to make my heart break for you. I remember the times chatting at the booths during NAEYC and CAEYC and I will cherish the times we sat in the hotel rooms those nights and sang, ate and talked story together. I know words can't express what you are going through so I won't try. Know that my family is thinking of you and hoping you stay surrounded by good friends and family.
Love,
Kelly Anderson
RCP
Dear Tom and family,
It is with great sadness and awe that I post my feelings along with all of the others. In reading Tom's blog I am amazed by the wonderful life that so many of you are sharing together. Although I feel like a relative "newbie" in the ever-widening circle of care being sent out to a truly unique and special person. My experiences with Tom's music for children include many deeply meaningful times of collaboration and song in my classrooms. Two favorites used over and over again have been "We've Been Waiting For You" and "I have a Box". "I Have a Box" became a wonderful group time and then home-to-school project. I was fortunate to share the documentation for this with Tom when he visited Orfalea Family Children's Center at UC Santa Barbara. The young toddlers in our class bounced and danced while Tom played his guitar and sang. It was a very enriching experience. I (along with some of my co-workers) implemented a variety of activities related to "We've Been Waiting For You". The one I treasure the most is when I changed the words to reflect a group experience on the last days of school before the children moved on to kindergarten and my co-teacher and I moved on in different directions too. As we passed each members shoe-box (inspired and extended from our "I Have a Box" activities!)filled with memories of our time together, we sang a leaving verse, inserting the name of each member of our classroom community, while the children spontaneously threw their arms over one another's shoulders, we joined together and sang... "...We want you to know, wherever you go, we're so glad you came, came to this place" I think that says it all Tom...we're so glad you came to this place! It has been an honor to have an opportunity to embrace the magic you've created through your music. Thank you.
Nancy A. Erisman
Orfalea Family Children's Center
Santa Barbara, California
Dear Tom,
One moment of you stands out among the thousands that come to mind: Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, whispered by the entire Mount Baker Theatre, led by your spontaneous but eternally confident hand. You always knew how to do that: keep everyone thinking, laughing, singing together, everyone's attention focused to the everyday miracles at hand.
The comments here mention song after song that touched people, that stuck with them throughout their lives, that inspired them to reach out to others through song and story. I am one of those people; captivated by the songs (I remember the shirt song in particular) when I was little, then later captivated by the ease with which you connected with people through the songs. I was impressed: you even got self-conscious fifth graders to sing in public singalongs, a difficult task for just about anyone but yourself.
I wish I were in Bellingham right now to see you and tell you my thoughts and memories and songs in person, but this will have to do. Even though you can't hear me, I'll be singing. I send the biggest love I can to you and your family from across the world, and hope that you can feel it.
Love,
Devan
Dear Tom and Family,
I have had the extremely pleasure of getting to know Tom when he has visited Dent school in Escalon, Ca. My collegues and I are what we like to call ourselves "Tom Hunter groupies." For the last several years we have been able to share Tom's music with our Kindergarten students throughout the school year and then end each year with a Tom Hunter visit. The students have been touched by hearing Tom sing the songs they know and love. However, the differences you have made with us teachers shows your true gift, Tom. You understand the plight of the teacher and consistantly filled us with hope and renewal.
Two years ago, Tom and I had a conversation about his children and it was wonderful hearing how close he was with his adult kids. During this conversataion Tom noticed I had a book called "Brave Irene" and asked if he could read it because his daughter's name was Irene and he felt she was brave, as well. He liked it so much that I told him to take it and share it with Irene, after politely arguing back and forth, he finally relented and said "thanks." Later that day he told me that no matter how old his children were he still thought about them all day long.
Last year during Tom's visit we had an evening adult sing-a-long where the teachers brought their husbands....and some wine to Marianne Conrad's home. Tom and my husband Dan started discussing songs by Jackson Browne and Tom mentioned how much he liked Jackson's songwriting abilities. With that in mind, I have chosen this quote from Jackson Browne's song "For a Dancer" to describe how I feel about Tom and his influence on people:
Somewhere between the time you arrive and the time you go lies the reason you were alive, but you may never know.
Tom, you may never know how many people you have influenced but you have changed us all. Your songs will be sung for years and you will continue to fill children and adults with your message of hope, love and the importance of being a kid. You are an amazing person and the teachers and students at Dent Elementary LOVE you!!
Dear Tom and Family,
I had the joy of spending several good stuff conferences with Tom. Tom’s words ring true in my everyday existence, I hear him, reading Thomas Lynch, reciting poems, always the loudest booming voice when we sang in rounds, lighting up the room, breathing together… On one occasion we were in a session on dealing with hard times. It was then when Tom opened my heart by sharing personal grief that he experienced, letting us all know that we were in this together. We cried together—all of us—and we all grew from those brief honest words he shared, that little piece of himself, letting us know that we are all in this together. Thanks Tom! Thank you for sharing yourself with us, thank you for being who you uniquely are, for letting us be who we are, and for inspiring us to be just that. How many lives you have and will continue to touch.
With hugs, songs and tears,
Stacey David
Sherwood Community Preschool
Commerce twp, MI
Tom and family, Alison and I are sending our positive thoughts to you at this time. Music has been the primary connection between our families and we hope that together we'll reminisce and share music in days to come.
Love Julian.
Dear Tom--
It's been almost 25 years since you first came and played at the Los Altos Preschool in Long Beach! Since then, I've moved around a bit, but always took your songs with me and have shared them widely -- what at great gift you have been!
I recall with vast appreciation the summer music week you led at PSR in 1989 -- a life changing experience for me. The next year you visited Long Beach again and invited us to Naramata. We went, and what a marvelous week that was.
By 1996 I had moved to Tucson, and again you came a did a concert, and apparently spread a lot of fairy dust, as a lot of good things happened within days -- a new banjo came into my life, as well as some bright new interns at the church, and the best choir director ever! Would that we had some fairy dust to spread over you right now, but I suspect you have something better!
Thanks for sharing your music, your love, your faith and your self!
"With laughin' tears of joy..."
Rich Smith
(now at Westmoreland UCC, Bethesda, MD)
richsmith@ecunet.org
Dearest Tom and Gwen,
Please know that I continue to pray frequently each day and am with you in spirit. It brings me comfort to see the love and caring that everyone is giving to you. I add my love from a distance and am sorry I can not be with you in person. Know that I love you so much and feel so blessed to be your friend. Thank you for all you have given and continue to give to nurture my soul.
Much love, Calene
Tom, Just returned from our PP Holy Land Pilgrimage yesterday morning, Sat 5/31, 1:30 a.m. Despite my weakness due to cancer and chemotherapy l managed to participate in most of the activities in Palestine. Right away snagged a copy of the PP Wed announcements and read, with sorrow, the article re: your neuro disease.
What a tragedy!!! You have brought such joy, laughter, inspiration to so many people - all ages. I am so happy that we have the videos of your presentation for a local elementary school, and programs in Decker Hall. Such a delight!
Not much we can do for you, except to tell you that we love you and sure appreciate your ministry of music and stories. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. We surround you all with our concern and love. l know how it can help, as l've felt so supported by the love and prayers from so many people. It's a blessing. Aloha, Richard Harris, Pilgrim Place, Claremont, CA
"They marveled at the beauty of the voyage that took them to the end of their life."
Found in a cemetary in France
Dearest Hunter Family...I can hardly find the words to express my gratitude for the gifts that you have given to me, my students and my children over the years, not to mention the gift of song to our community. I have just been a face in the audience many times over the years, and have shared Tom's music in my home, in my K and 1st grade classrooms at Nooksack, and of course ridin' in the car!
Thank you dear man, for the blessing of your voice and your heart. I am thinking of all of you...and don't forget Tom, "Angels might be anywhere at all..."
May God keep all of you in His care. Blessings, Trish Hart
Dearest Gwen,
Thank you so much for posting comments that give comfort to those of us who are grieving alone. Your comments bring such comfort and allow us to share in the sacred moments with Tom. Your messages allow us to hold his hand in our heart and share in the love that is surrounding him. I love you both so much. A few days ago a friend was trying to give me comfort about Tom and said to me "He is needed elsewhere" What joy I felt thinking of Tom with his guitar leading all the angels in song. He continues to be such an amazing person and will continue to bring everyone such comfort from heaven. I am saying prayers for all your family many times during day and evening.
Much love, Calene
I just learned today, Tom, of what is happening to you. I was speaking with Peter Shober in his office. As I walked home, all I could picture was you, singing with my preschool class so many years ago, you, doing the 'Shirt Song' at a family concert at the church, you, teaching the crowd how to clap to the Pumpkin Song in Bozeman. (That Pumpkin Song, by the way, is forever a favorite of children I teach.) Then there is you, helping to lead us in worship in the Missoula church sanctuary. But perhaps my most cherished memory is that of hearing you sing and speak at the NAEYC conference this past November. I didn't know you were going to be there, and what a treasure to hear you again. The world, and all of humanity is a better place because you dared to write and sing and share. We will keep it going. Love, gratitude, prayers and hugs,
Jean Woessner
(Missoula, MT)
Tom, I am a believer in “stopping to smell the flowers,” “living life to its fullest,” and “appreciating the small things,” but all too often I don’t practice what I preach. I often find myself just DOING...doing housework, doing laundry, doing meals, doing the bills...It is a shame that all this DOING sometimes gets in the way of the important things, like taking the time to tell someone who has crossed my path, how much I appreciated their time, and how that person has touched me.
I have attended Bev’s workshops, thoroughly enjoyed every minute, and have always left feeling a sense of WOW...renewal, love and acceptance. So much of that is because of your influence and the gift you have of sharing your down-to-earth spirit. I have had the privilege of listening to your stories, watching you sing, and singing along to all your moving from-the-heart songs.
I want to say now what I should have said years ago. Thank you. Thank you for sharing your wonderful gift of music, thank you for your kindness and gentleness, thank you for being the type of person the world needs more of, and thank you for YOU. I will continue to treasure your voice as it resonates for always in my day care classroom through your CD’s.
Thank you God, for creating such a magnificent human being, and thank you, Tom’s parents, for doing such a wonderful job nurturing his talents and kind-hearted being.
Thank you, Tom Hunter.
With appreciation,
Jan Dugan
Dear Gwen:
I am seconding Calene's thanks to you for helping us all be connected. Your eloquent journal on the blog, and Irene, your clear,beautifully-written email have made me feel that in a way I am there. Past the curve in the Earth I'm paying attention and walking beside you.
Love, Marlene
Dear Tom & Gwen ~
Our hearts are grieving for you, Andy especially. He so wanted to play music with you again, my friend. We will be in Bellingham in August and hope that we will be able to see you once more. You have been such a tremendous inspiration to Andy as well as so many others.
Hang in there during this tough time....we will see you again.
Love, Sue Peterson Blyth
Dear Tom,
Your songs and stories have inspired and shaped me over the years as a teacher of young children and now as a mother of my own young children. My family greatly enjoys your music. At my first summer conference about ten years ago (at the Roseville Community Preschool) I was so encouraged and moved listening to your stories and songs. Tonight my 4 year old son summed it up when listening to your music, he said, "I like his words."
Thank you, Tom, for sharing your words in your stories and songs. You have touched our lives in ways that we will carry with us always.
Peace and love to you and your family.
Gayle Job
Oakton, VA
Hello,
Tom, I think that for every one person who is posting these beautiful comments to you, there are a thousand other flames flickering for you from others who are reading but not posting. I was one of those people. As soon as I heard the news about you on the Reggio listserv, I immediately clicked onto your blog site. I had "things" I "should" be doing instead of reading every single comment on the site, but I felt so drawn in by the love being sent through this powerful site. I thought, "I'm nobody", how could I possibly post a message on this site? Then I thought about how I met you in the first place and I know that even though you probably doesn't remember me specifically, youwould never treat me like a nobody. I met you at one of Bev's "Goodstuff" conferences in the summer many years ago. I remember saying that I wished I knew how to sing in harmony because it sounded so so nice when Bev and you and Michael did that. You sat down with me, someone youhad never met, and a few others during a break, and taught us how to harmonize. It was nothing big, nothing so important in the scheme of life, but something that taught me a whole bunch about the person that you are, Tom. And I guess, it's all those moments between "nobodys" that make up a life, huh? Keep it going.....
Dear Tom and Gwen,
I send my love to you both. What incredible people you are- just look at how many people's lives you have touched...
Tom, I want you to know that you are the only person who has ever made me (a committed atheist) want to go to church. When you were here on Lummi Island, I loved going to our little white church to hear you sing, share jokes and teach us all a thing or two about life. That was a special time.
And I want to thank you for the loving energy you put into the Community Foundation. Bellingham is sure lucky.
Thank you Tom for touching my life..
Nancy Burnett
Dear Tom and Family,
At Wee Wisdom Preschool in Beaverton, Oregon we start every year's orientation with Tom's singing "What do you remember from the time you were a child..." and show 62 slides of children being children for the 2 minutes and + seconds...
For those few moments he embraces all 81 families and sets the tone for our school, our year, our program. We have done this year after year with smiles and tissues.
It is with smiles, gratitude and appreciation for Tom coming into our lives with song and stories and leaving us better people for it! We thank you and embrace you back. Peace be with you Tom.
Barbara Boyd
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