In August 2002 Stephen and I hiked across the Sierras to the top of Mt Whitney and back, 130 miles in 10 days. This was his first backpacking trip and my second one (in 35 years).The hike was a unique time together. The first five days were brutal. We staggered under the heavy backpacks. We endured aches and pain. Stephen tolerated my nearly constant picture-taking.
By the sixth day, however, we were acclimated to the altitude and the rigor. On that day, we left our backpacks behind and made the final ascent. We felt so light and strong we almost flew to the top.
It was a perfect day on top of Mt Whitney, warm, sunny, with a slight breeze. We had a great time together. For one moment, Stephen’s fingertip was the highest point in the lower 48 states. (He had to stand on the highest spot). Aaaaah!
The next day we shouldered our backpacks and retraced our route. This time we did in four days what took us five days before. The last day we hiked in four hours the same distance that took us 10 hours, 9 days earlier. We were strong! Two guys who knew nothing about backpacking did it!
In Stephen’s own words, 'It was incredible!' He became quite the outdoorsman, ultimately leading kids on wilderness trips in Wisconsin (seen in other pictures). I am glad I was able to give him that love-of-the-outdoors.
2 comments:
I love this picture of the two of you -- what a special father/son memory and story.
Hi Susan and Leon,
It has been some time now since we all gathered to celebrate Stephens life at his memorial. There have not been many days pass without thinking of Stephen, the delicacy of his face as a child, the soulfulness of his spirit as a young man. I have reached for the telephone several times to call and say hello but something prevents me from doing so. I guess not to invade your privacy would sum it up.
I wonder how Susan and Leon are managing and like so many Im sure, I wonder if I went to their home to just say hi if it would be acceptable or if its still too early to want to be bothered with others. I have no idea how you both are managing with the days and nights after something so devistating happens to rock your world. I feel like I want to help but I am not sure how. I want you both to know there are plenty of us out here who feel for you each and every day. If we could help do something say something make something to where it would remind you of the love your son shared with us over the years we would do it in a heartbeat. You are both great people and are very rare parents in that through your children one could see both parents strengths and gifts, a model for some of us and we are eternally greatful. Please know that we are here, beside you as the days turn into nights and days into weeks, feeling for you and hoping and praying with all our hearts that you both are managing as best as you can... if you needed anything at all, we would be there in a flash, night or day, dont hesitate to let us know.
We love you Susan and Leon!
Margaret and Dan Ney
805 527 1443
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