Marlene's Final Post

How do I begin? Five months ago I wouldn't have been able to tell you anything about the Laurel Fork, but now I consider it a big part of my life. I not only met four amazing people, I worked in an amazingly beautiful section of Highland County. I knew in the beginning, when I first met my crew, that I was in for a wonderful summmer. I am honored to have worked with four incredibly hard-working people, and the credit goes to them. Our starting goal was 23 miles, and we ended the season with 17 miles of completed trail. The appreciation that the crew has shown for the work we have completed makes me a very proud crew leader. Every smile and handshake received from hikers in the backcountry prove that we were at the right place at the right time.

I'll always remember Todd's wonderful laugh that echoed through the canyons and his dedication to Laurel Fork.

I'll always think of Ben as our human grip hoist, with an amazing strength that contradicted his sweet, shy smile.

David's wit and sense of humor took the pain away from each day's work. I will miss how easily he made me laugh out loud.

A great many thanks to Justin for his music, his knowledge and his deep appreciation for his work.

I really believe our lives have all changed for the better. We've become as close as family, and we owe a great deal of gratitude to the people of Highland County for welcoming us in, for feeding us and for sincerely caring. I'm going to really miss this place.