SierraMel - One Year Gone

“I thought I'd take a moment to offer an acknowledement commemorating Mel's death, one year ago today. I got an email from Solitary Hiker, remindiung me that he'd remembered this day, and would drink a toast to her as a gesture of thanks, fond memories, and like Mel, with a love of the Sierra.

There were some Mel rubbed the wrong way, others with whom she became the closest of friends, and the rest, somewhere in between. Whatever your disposition, Please take a quiet moment to reflect in her memory, and send a few comforting thoughts to John, whom I'm certain misses her far more than those who read this post.

The reunion last July was a great time to visit with, and meet, some of those who knew her, hiked with her on one of the many Llama-Rama's, and came away with a deeper love of the mountains, and of respect for Mel in her commitment to spending so much time in the backcountry. I, for one, had a great time, though of course, missed Mel's physical presence, while enjoying to the fullest the spirit with which she could so effectively instill within me.

I'll never be able to walk those mountains again, without thinking of how deeply her life there touched my own, and inspired that sense in so many others.

She's been sorely missed, and ever shall remain so...

Michael (Obiwan Canoli)”

“I lift a coffee cup in her honor. Will be hikin today with her in my thoughts. yo bear!
Hey OBI!”

“a toast to Mel”

“Aye! Never met her. Thanks for being a good friend in saluting her.
Duane”

“Mel was a one-of-a kind gal. Lovable, funny, smart and maddening at the same time. She sure brought life to TT. I hope to get back out to her backyard in the next year or so. Love that place so much. Hope to see some old friends too.
last edited: 10/26/11 10:42:34 AM”

“Remembering years of trips and 2 very long hikes titled "Hunt for the Golden Trout" 1 & 2. Thanks Obiwan and Solitary - words well spoken....
George Kelly”

“Never met her - enjoyed her so much in the on line world. Thanks obi and sol and Mel.”

“I had the opportunity to chat with John last night for a while, and conveyed the posts here to him, with hope he might choose to post a message.

I avoided calling im until a few days (after the 25th) had passed, and asked how things were going. He's doing fine, said he just got back from SoCal, where he was visiting Mel's Mom, and as we spoke, he was enjoying the beautiful weather by sitting outside by the campfire with a few friends.

John is doing OK. He seemed to be taking things in stride, and was pleased when he learned of this thread. I hope he chooses to leave his mark here, too...

I once more expressed the thanks of those who participated in the "Reunion", aka Memorial, this past July, and as is typical of their joint generosity, John extended an open invitation to any and all who might need a place to camp out in the Eastern Sierra, even if it's just to stop by to say hello.

He said he's been gathering plenty of wood for the coming Winter months - it's warmer than usual for this time of year - and that keeps the house plenty warm. Even at his elevation, though, he'd prefer the snow stays on the mountains!

Life goes on. People get back to their routines. And occasionally, as we sit and ponder in those all-too-frequent quiet moments, memories sometimes occupy our thoughts to the exclusion of all else.

Remember.

OwC (Michael)”

“Well said, Michael. Mel was one of a kind. I wish the best for John.”

“Has anyone had the opportunity to stop by John's place to say hello? His and Mel's anniversary was about a week ago...”

“Obi - Long time no see! I have not as I have been unseuccessful in any attempt thus far to get over the pass.”

“Sandyann, it has been a while, eh? haven't heard a thing from anyone, despite my extreme popularity on this forum, but what the hell... it was worth the post, and hope to hear from others who'd joined us...”

“Hope you are doing well anyway and getting out there. Do you ever get over on this side anymore and do any hiking? My dogs loved the treats by the way? What you are popular here...hehehehe...sounds like me!”

“I'm headed that way in a couple weeks. Think I should stop by with a 6-pack and say hi?”

“I believe a 6-pack is always welcome anywhere.”

“I'm certain John would enjoy the visit - and the refreshment!”