Small hold. Thinking about my godfather Leonard, it would be his 71st birthday today. Leonard passed away a little over two months ago due to Covid-19. He was an exceedingly generous man whose life’s purpose seemed quietly grounded in family, patronage in art and in medicine. All the while hard pressed to recognize any direct praise, to a comical degree. His actions were frequently the glue that helped set our larger family unit downtown, and that of many many others. At the beginning of May, that weekend of the eerie spring snow, my brother Nick and I were on an errand parking Leonard’s car for safekeeping upstate. We happened upon a planter box that when uncovered revealed a full bounty of the season’s first salads, Leonard was a committed and active gardener. Turns out he had planted a hold before the heavy days and all the while through high Covid, they had continued to grow untended. The daffodil bulbs flourished among other flowers my god sister Aska had given him, which had survived the frost too. So we harvested, washed and (safely) distributed Leonard’s small magic around the friends and family. Flowers were for Motoe, beloved godmother. That was his way, gentle man. I love you Leonard, I am grateful to still be learning from you everyday. Today’s birthday is also shared with his grandson Leo, 1 year old. Happy birthday, little seedling. ❤️🌱 Now more than ever, we must cultivate our garden... Thinking now about the so so many august tomatoes all shapes and sizes he’d pour into your bucket. The ones at the bottom would squish under their own weight, forcing your hand to a quick tomato sauce to share with friends over dinner that same warm summer night...