From Natalie McIntosh

Ok, I've crossed the wake...

I think I got it!!!
Whoaaa!!!
Augghhh!

And then there was tequila and Advil.

Anyone who played with Rico understood how quickly he'd pick up the next new toy. I had the pleasure so many years ago of coaching him on Big Emma as he wrestled the early season snow on his first attempt with a snowboard. Anyone reading this knows that he had no patience with not being the master of his game, whatever the game. The turns came together for him in no time, and quickly he was leading the charge across the Cirque Traverse or through Rat's Nest, and he'd patiently wait for me.

Ricardo was a devoted friend and managed to find a way to weave Minnesota into his crazy travel schedule to visit us after we moved here from Utah. The photos above are from 2008 when he came to visit for a few days. We rode bikes and went wake boarding (hence the need for Advil and other medication). He and I are about the same height and same shoe size, meaning there was always a good set of gear for him to use. I seriously think my bike went faster after Rico visited.

See the look of determination on his face? It's inspiring. Always has been. Always will be. My heart aches, and he will always be my brother.