Mom & Dad

I couldn’t bring a new blog into the world without crediting the people who brought me into the world — my Mom and Dad. W. James Stevenson and Mary Jo (Moran) Stevenson. Both Mom and Dad were full of life and good humor and love — and I experienced both in abundance.

To my Dad, I credit my wit and way with words. He was the master of profound understatement. He had a razor sharp wit and was a great admirer of the satire of Jonathan Swift and a fan of many a wry or clever comedian. And Dad had a philosophical bent and a very generous heart. He was a dreamer and inspired me to think big, to aspire grandly, and encouraged me when I was down. He knew that the path less traveled could be daunting.

To my Mom — She was a bit of a creative wizard. Although she toiled for most of her years as a homemaker, she spent quality time with us kids, making up songs, playing goofy games and April fooling, … that is, when she wasn’t kicking our butts with the firm hand of a tireless taskmaster. She was my creative muse. She recognized my creative talents early and was a bit of a stage mom, literally propelling me onto center stage through my art and other adventurous antics. “You can do that Douglas”, she would often say, as she urged me on.

They both gave generously of their time and energy through the Catholic church, community and social organizations. They were also good to their dear friends — and had many of them. They were abundantly generous with their hearts and resources — although at times they were limited. But it never stopped them from giving.

Creativity is a generous thing — and they taught me to dive into the world with all  the spirit I’ve got and with all of my talents, my innate curiosity and passion propelling me. I thank them with all my heart and as I travel this journey of exploration and investigation, they will be with me in mind and spirit. I can’t wait to see what I will find — and I hope you will enjoy it too! I can guarantee it will be a path with heart.