@dognamedstella: If you’re wondering why we haven’t been posting much lately… we lost my dad, “Papa”, to metastatic melanoma that had spread to his brain. The cancer was ruthless and incurable, and this past month+ has been spent by his side where he often insisted I “edit videos” instead of care for him. Papa lived for nature and teaching others about everything the natural world has to offer. He was the first person to study manatees, and had them put on the endangered species list in 1972 after extensive work in Crystal River, Florida. A 1969 edition of National Geographic details his endeavors (I’ll post on stories). He traveled the world, leading nature tours through countless countries, and eventually settled down (sort of) between Maine and Vermont with my mom, Nan Hauser. Life led them in different directions but they remained close friends. 42 years after meeting back in 1980, my mom brought him into her house to take care of him as the cancer moved at a devastating pace. Papa died peacefully with me, Sidney (his amazing partner of 9 years) and my mom holding him. Words can’t express how thankful we are for Hospice and their incredible team of nurses, counselors, etc. - they are some of the most selfless and beautiful people we’ve ever met. Thank you for everything, Papa ♥️ Daniel Stanwood “Woodie” Hartman 10/21/41 - 11/18/2022