From Pat

The fall plant last year was pretty miserable. Tons of rain everyday, very steep and green blocks. I still remember on the 2nd day of the contract I had this gnarly downhill piece that was about a 200 tree run to the back. I was having a tough morning planting it until Justin came in around lunch time to help me finish it. He instantly made me feel amazing! We partner planted the rest of the day and crushed that piece! As soon as he hopped in there with me he was chatting, making me feel comfortable and making me smile and laugh. After the first bag up together I felt like I had known him forever, even though we had only met the day before. He would help me bag out and we would dead walk back up the piece together. I learned so much from Justin that day. That no matter how miserable and horrible of a day you were having, a good attitude, a smile and good conversation could always make it better! After that day it became a bit of a running joke that if you threw me and Justin into a steep horrible piece we would get it done! I feel very lucky to have had the privilege to plant with such an incredible planter and person. Even though I didn’t have the opportunity to know Justin for very long he made such a profound impact on my life. He changed the way I approached planting and definitely made me a better person. He taught me a smile and niceness is always warranted and can make anyone’s day better. He was the nicest guy I’ve known. I’ll miss him.