We all have people we meet, that leave us with an impression..a feeling, usually of warmth and kindness. Mr. David Huyard is one of those people to me. He is kind to everyone and has this light about him, that so few do. Little did I know, he had so much more to him than met the eye. He leads a full life of love, faith, family and travel. I was fortunate enough to meet Mr. Huyard years ago, and I am so grateful he allowed me to meet with him and take the following images. Meeting Mr. Huyard and spending time with him brought to life the idea I had for this project that I started in May of 2015. This is a day in the life of a retiree.
Mr. Huyard was gracious enough to allow me some of his time after work one day. When I arrived, he mentioned for me to come to the studio, located next to the main house. As I entered the walkway, I noticed a garden with a pergola and many plants that were dead for the season. It was February and the sun was fading over the mountains.I noticed as I walked to the end of the pathway, just before I got to the studio door, there was a statue with a sign, it read: "Loving memory garden, in honor of Anna Mary Huyard".
I met Mr. Huyard at the door and he greeted me warmly. As I entered the studio, Mr. Huyard began to show me around. There are two rooms to this cottage, so it was a brief tour. :) Mr. Huyard pointed out wall hangings, art and the history of the building. I walked along as he chatted and took it all in. We can learn so much from just listening.
I met Mr. Huyard at the door and he greeted me warmly. As I entered the studio, Mr. Huyard began to show me around. There are two rooms to this cottage, so it was a brief tour. :) Mr. Huyard pointed out wall hangings, art and the history of the building. I walked along as he chatted and took it all in. We can learn so much from just listening.
Mr. Huyard is a Godly man, a man of deep Christian faith and I admire him for it. He's used his life to honor and bring light to God in all he has acomplished. Mr. Huyard is a former pastor, an artist, a train enthusiast, a violin maker, a published writer and a very successful Christian-Missionary radio personality. It is evident Mr. Huyard has led a blessed life, however, it has not been without trials. Mr. Huyard lost his wife several years ago and, in her absence he has remained dedicated to her and their story. Mr. Huyard has painted his late wife, Anna, countless times. He has written a book about her and their marriage. He has photographs all over the studio of her. She is ever present. Clearly, it was true love. Mr. Huyard went on to chat with me about his travels as a missionary with his wife and children, all over the world. Mr. Huyard gave his life for others, that is evident. He is a humble man, who has worked hard and misses his wife dearly. I have no doubt they will see each other one day. I will not ever forget the imapct Mr. Huyard left with me. His stories, his kindness, his generosity, his selflessness and his love for his wife and God. Surely, we all deserve a love like that.
Surely, Mr. Huyard is with his family on this Easter Sunday and I pray he is happy and well. I also send the same to you reading and our families. I hope you enjoy the following images, thank you for reading. -Danielle
Surely, Mr. Huyard is with his family on this Easter Sunday and I pray he is happy and well. I also send the same to you reading and our families. I hope you enjoy the following images, thank you for reading. -Danielle