Monika Johnson missing near alpental....

Unfortunately, I had only shared one small moment with Monika on the ridge that divides Silver and Crystal lakes basins. If memory serves me there was a group including Lowell, Cookiemonster, Joe? and about 3 others. I don't know if they were together or not.
I was struck by the diversity of the group.
I try to make of point of looking the person I'm meeting in the eyes. The eyes tell the soul of a person without framing their countenance. After introducing myself to Monika I was struck by the depth of her eyes. She made me work for it since she has a squint. With white cap and beads of sweat pearling off her brow, she greeted me with her patented smile. She appeared eager to keep moving as others rested.
I don't have many regrets in life, but now that I read that she was a great hugger my selfish regret is I did not get one of those awesome hugs!
A good reminder to always appreciate those who share like minded interests.

Much sympathy to Erik and your family and the ones closest to her. And positive thoughts go to the rescue crew for their safe return home.

Monika’s plight has triggered yet another epiphany for me.
As I recall, this community has come together due to similar tragedies a time or two in the past.
But I don’t ever recall the phenomenon that I’m seeing now as I scroll through the posts with continual eye leakage; there’s some sort of synergism going on here. The outpouring of compassion seems to be triggering great things in the community and its individuals.
A beautiful poem comes out of nowhere from a person that hasn’t written in years; people like John Morrow and Joe (just two of many) who never even met her or just had a brief encounter with her, are inspired to write deep, inspiring, caring and loving words and passages honoring her contributions; Silas is creatively inspired to dig out all her past posts and share the ones he finds most inspiring. Each and every post exudes love, caring and compassion.
My logical side says that’s just the way people are; they pull together in times of hardship.
But my feeling side says it’s more… this is a beautiful community of warm, caring and compassionate people. And Monika is a part of us and one of the major reasons we are what we are.
This is one of the fundamental reasons I find it an honor and a privilege to be associated with the folks that make up this community.
Charles did a great job setting up the foundation. Marcus is working harder than he ever intended or expected, to maintain the course despite massive growth and change.
I will do all I can to help preserve this very special part of TAY. Thank you all for being you.

I also have never met Monika, but all I can tell you is I think of her when I go to bed at night and when I wake up in the morning. I can't explain it, it's just there. She has touched so many lives whether she was in contact with them or not. I have followed her adventures for years on this site, and truly admired her strength, endurance, and passion for the mountains. My heart goes out to all who knew her and loved her so much.

Eileen

You all have said it all. I'll miss her but her spirit lives. Pics from our first trip together. As I recall, Kitty went into the pack (Monika's rare signal for fear) for the hairball section of the descent in background, then came out again later.

UPDATE: 2pm, Feb 5:

We just heard over the phone in the Alpental ski patrol room that a search team from Alpental patrol, assisted by some of her friends, has found Monika early this afternoon.

A recovery operation is now underway and is expected to last through the evening past midnight. King County Sheriff has an incident commander on scene. We spoke with him briefly, and he has initiated a callout to several search and rescue teams to assist in the recovery.

Thanks to everyone involved, and to everyone else offering support during this difficult time.

Radka and I both met Monika last year in Crevasse Rescue. Then we saw her TR from Mt St Helens soon after.

We're both saddened by this news and our deepest sympathies go out to all.