Meet Chris and Chris, both blessed with deep-roots in Sandpoint.
One Chris has moved back to Sandpoint after retiring as a psychology professor at Pacific Lutheran University. That would be Chris, the driver.
Her passenger Chris lives on Bainbridge Island as a retiree from a career as a lawyer.
Both Chrises graduated from Sandpoint High in 1967. They have been best friends forever. Chris, the driver, learned significant skills behind the wheel during summers in the early 1970s when we both worked for the U.S. Forest Service engineers.
On could say that our friendship over the past 40-plus years has been based on a lot of driving. Instead of the usual Forest Service rigs, Chris Moon had the opportunity to try her hand at the wheel of our UTV aka side by side.
The purpose: to drive Chris of Bainbridge Island to the site where our magnificent Lodgepole once stood where she would be inducted into the Lodgepole Society. I must say, as the back seat rider, Chris' maiden run with the 4-wheeler was quite smooth and safe.
BTW: I haven't seen Chris Wyatt very often over the years, but that doesn't really matter. Her warmth, her dynamic personality and her zest for life have always been contagious and appreciated during those few visits.
Since we moved here, the tree no longer stands. It crashed to the ground early last year. Still, the thoughts inspired by the double-trunked, unique lodgepole stand strong: friendship, a unique kind of faith, love of nature, appreciation for the earth around us and all all its creatures.
That tree may be lying on its sides, but, based on the few minutes Chris, Chris and I spent there yesterday, its meaningful spirit remains alive and well.
Trees served as a symbol many times in our visit yesterday, which also included a lunch gabfest at Pack River General Store and a trip to the glorious aspen grove, which I featured on yesterday's post.
A slight weather change with wind and clouds somewhat diminished the brilliant beauty of the grove, which my sisters and I had enjoyed the day before, but it was obvious that both of my Chris friends were awestruck with the scene as they walked down a pathway, quietly admiring the picturesque display rising from the hillsides.
Our visit to the grove marked the only time during the afternoon when the gabfest ceased and the wonderment and admiration of nature took over.
Then, as we drove back down the mountain, conversation continued, ending for the three of us only when the two Chrises climbed in their car and drove away.
I will always cherish the memories of this very special afternoon spent with two remarkable ladies and friends. Thanks, Chris and Chris.
Happy Saturday to all.
No comments:
Post a Comment