Russell loved his kids tremendously. He couldn’t fathom how he got to be the dad to these perfect little humans, almost like he didn’t believe he deserved to have such perfection in his life. He looked at them with such wonder and always wanted to make life as exciting and adventure-filled for them as he could. It was important to him to teach them from an early age how to treat others with respect and protect those that are less fortunate than ourselves or in need of standing up for. He was a kid at heart, always having the hugest smile on his face doing the most childish activities... slip n slides, impromptu dance parties, boogie boarding, making sand tunnels. Kids always felt special and important around him, just like adults did. I loved this man tremendously and fiercely. His love language was taking care of me and us, acts of service that I couldn’t even always recognize because he did them so effortlessly. There was something about him where I just always felt safe... on a tandem surfboard pregnant in Waikiki. With him, I felt safe in the alleys of a Sao Paulo favela. With him, I felt safe driving on the narrow steep cliffs of the Amalfi coast with our newborn baby. He loved taking care of people. Russell remembered tiny things that I had mentioned, and would then buy them for my next birthday or take me on a surprise trip or activity I had barely mentioned. He was intentional and spontaneous, and life was always filled with adventure with him. We would also butt heads sometimes and definitely had a difficult last year. But God’s love always transcended the pain. And I know that Russell is enveloped in God’s love now, in all of the grace and mercy and goodness of his heavenly home. I truly believe that God weeps with us that this beautiful soul has left earth way too early in such a tragic accident. But I hold onto my faith that he is at peace next to his maker and is now watching and protecting us all from above. Please give hugs and calls to the people in your life. So many of us don’t even realize how much love we have around us every single day and how much difference we can make in helping others feel valued, just like Russell did. Love you all.