Hiking to the snow at Baker Lake

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> I remember this hike, up above Baker Lake. We happened upon snow, and Lev loved scampering on the rocks, off the trail, never caring to arrive at the destination.
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photo of Jaal and Lev snowshoeing at ages 4 and 7

visiting the snow when we lived in Costa Rica

we came back to visit once in the winter while we lived in Costa Rica. The kids loved seeing snow. We borrowed coats from a friend of my mom's. In this photo Lev is wearing mismatched gloves and a girls coat.

siblings in the snow, always a good time

Lev loved the snow, like most kids

Lev's memorial site in Monteverde

In late December, we went up to the CEC and visited Lev's memorial in Monteverde, Costa Rica. Thanks to the many friends and relatives who donated to

the plant a tree program and to the Cloud Forest School memorial; it was a spot that Lev would have appreciated. He was very proud of the trees that he planted near the forest, and loved hiking the trails.

We gathered at the colegio, looked at some photos and talked about Lev's time in Monteverde. Then we walked a muddy 15 minutes up to the Lev's memorial spot with friends, with a small poisonous viper in the trail on our way up. The spot is near the Palacio de los Monos, and has a special fruiting tree planted near the sign. After sharing thoughts, Tony, Jaal and I stayed and had a moment, wishing Lev were really there with us, and spread some of his ashes around the tree. It does feel like a special place, but it definitely makes Lev's being gone more real.

Some part of me was really hoping Lev himself would be here, although I know very well he wouldn't. I just had to come, and go to the school, see his memorial, and connect with friends here who knew and appreciated Lev.

But, it has been hard to see friends for the first time since Lev died. Tears shed, or tears held back, but difficult for sure.

We are reminded of what a great time he had here. He so loved the forest, playing with sticks, climbing trees, chopping things, and walking outside in the dark. He loved bananas, fried plantains, going to the dairy for ice cream, gallo pinto (without much onion), and batidos with milk and fruit. Ages 6-10 just seemed a great time to be here. The world was open to him, he was free to explore and be himself. He was silly and crazy and creative and it worked for him here.

Below are some more pictures from Lev's memorial spot, and a tree that was planted whose fruits will attract monkeys.

Sedro-Woolley High School Lip Dub 2010

I don't really know why, but I was thinking about the Lip Dub freshman year. I kept thinking about Lev insisting upon hiding during his part of the video. I thought you might find it funny.
Look for Lev at 2:22