Monika Johnson missing near alpental....

Wow. I'm so sorry to learn of this. I've been out of town for the past 2 weeks and just read through the threads. Monika was an impressive, humble and wonderful woman. I'm just so sorry to hear that she has passed. I spent time with her on a few occasions and she truly was a warm person. It's clear that Monika gave so much to the people around her and her passing will leave a huge hole in many of our lives. My warmest condolences go out to her family and close friends.

I lost my closest skiing and climbing partner last year and now learning about Monika is really tough. My friend's passing has forced me to reflect on how we spend our time in life, who we spend it with and what we hope folks will say about us when we are gone.

I'm helping with Vertfest and will see what can be done to recognize Monika's spirit and memory.

Murray

Amazing effort David, Oyvind, Ryan and all of the others in the group that located her, including the Alpental Bark folks.  I'm so sorry you had to be there for it, but she's out now.

THANK-YOU, Gentlemen, for finding Monika!  None of us wanted her to be by herself.  She was NEVER and will NEVER be alone!  She is in my heart and many others'.

Written by Mary Frye, 1932

Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there, I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glint on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.

When you wake in the morning hush,
I am the swift, uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circling flight.
I am the soft starlight at night.

Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there, I do not sleep.
Do not stand at my grave and cry.
I am not there, I did not die!

Unsuspecting Mortal

Fortunately for some,
And for more than most
Pain is an emotion,
An ebb and flow
Bathing in time
At its leisure

For some of us
Unsuspecting mortals,
Pain carves initials
In our soul

Non- relenting
Turmoil battles inside
As if I have forgotten-
The echoes of memories ring
On the lowest of occasions

Ever still the anger
As it is
With every year
That death arrives
To take someone
Again-

Goodbye Monika  :'(

Lisa Marie Garcia 2001

I am a thousand winds that blow.

I was out and about in my lot today and I noticed the rustling of the trees and plants in way that I never had before. Beautiful poem.

Such an awesome outpouring of love at a sad time.

Peace,