Two days ago Steve and I sat on the porch, me with a glass of wine and he with a mango cocktail sans alcohol. I have written a lot about Steve over the years even before I knew what he meant to me. What do I write now that I haven’t written before? We sat on the porch that day because he had remarked that he hadn’t been out there in awhile. We sat with me prattling on and then I realized he hadn’t applied sunblock and I needed to get him back inside.
I have been regaling people today about how Steve pursued me even though I didn’t know I was being pursued. Or how he wrapped his long arms around anyone, and I mean anyone, that he thought he could help with no strings attached. He was brilliant and curious and loved to learn even when the various illnesses and chronic pain stripped away some of that motivation and curiosity. Some of what I miss most that was stripped away was his smile and then his voice. His intellect was slowed but not diminished. His love for those close, and those far, never diminished.
I will figure out what more to write in the future, and I hope it will be meaningful. Today I write that this morning Stephen Frederick Horne passed away peacefully in his home with family by his side.
Words + Images 
Cynthia,
What a beautiful note and so like you Cynthia. Our deepest sympathies for your loss. You will both be in our prayers.
Peter & Lynn Smiledge
Thank you!
Oh Cynthia-I heard the news from Don S this am. So so sorry to hear it. I am continually touched by your beautiful and poetic posts of daily life on the porch and your appreciation of the beauty around you that some might think is ordinary. Steve was always present in the background of your posts both when you mentioned him and when you did not. I know he saw the beauty that you did as well and took joy in the small things…the basil plants and food prep. The yummy salads that you whipped up! etc. Your life has been busy this last years and an adjustment is ahead. I feel for you, but I can’t truly understand what you are feeling. It sounds like it was a peaceful experience for you all. Matt & I are both thinking about you…Heidi
Sigh, I am so very sorry to hear this… 😦 I am glad you have been there for each other and you were with him as he passed peacefully into the next life. Sending lots of love and prayers your way. If I can do anything…(what a gorgeous and eloquent tribute you wrote)
I am so sorry for your loss. I am glad you were with him to the end. Take care.
Thanks, Sarah!
I’ve never met you or Stephen – came across your blog a few years ago by chance, and have been appreciating it all along. Your verbal and visual accounts have allowed me to consider you friends. I am grateful to have known Stephen in this way, and wish you peace and strength in the days ahead
Thank you so much!
Dear Cynthia,
I am so sorry for your loss. Your love for each other was clear in your words and images. He was a special man, and you had a special relationship.
It’s been a while since we’ve seen each other, but I think of you often. Please know you have a Vermont place to retreat to if desired. I don’t get to Boston as much as I used to, but I’d love to connect sometime when I do.
Sending you much love during this difficult time,
Nancy
Thank you!
I
Beautiful writing about an incredible person. I am so deeply sorry for your loss, and wish you good grieving and peace in its time. Remembering fondly the three of us going to see your art. Sending a hug.
His memory will be a Blessing. Always.
Hi, Cynthia. I am so sorry for your loss. From your words, I know that Steve was a truly lovely human, and clearly very smart for pursuing you. Holding you in my heart. —Steph
My Scottish dad would skways sing “Roamin in the Gloamin”. So very sorry for your loss
I am so very sorry to read this, dearest Cynthia. My love and sympathy to you.
Thanks, Jen.
I am so sorry for your loss. Thank you for always sharing your pure human self. ❤️
Dear Cynthia, this is sad news indeed and my heart goes out to you. Thank you for sharing at such a tender time. I feel like on the soul level he exited in stages as a kindness to you, and that this is a love story that has no ending. Rest, cry, breathe, and know your brunch bunch are all thinking of you with lots of love. ~ Laura Negrotti
Dear Cynthia,
Although we never had the opportunity to meet, I wanted to offer my heartfelt condolences. I met Steve when I was a young man, and he quickly became a friend and mentor. I will always cherish our conversations about physics, philosophy, religion, and life, and will remember him as a kind, thoughtful, and wise man who left a lasting impression on me. Your beautiful tribute captured the Steve I was fortunate to know. My thoughts and prayers are with you. May he rest in peace.
Believe it or not, he did tell me about you. I recognize your name. Thank you for your note. It means a lot.
Really a beautiful passage you have written here.. You are in my heart and thoughts and hope to see more of your thoughts as they are quite moving. love, brad
Thanks, Brad. 🙂
Cynthia,
After all these years, I’ve enjoyed keeping up with your blog and I’m so, so sorry to hear of Steve’s passing (despite being grateful that your blog made me aware).
I wish you much love and comfort as you honor his memory.
-Reid
I’m so sorry Cynthia. Your love story has come through so many posts. Take care.
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and Prayers are with You. May He rest in peace. Love, nia
Thank you, Nia.