While Lizzy lived in the Pacific Northwest, I got to know her well on my visits here every summer growing up. She was witty, fierce and fearless, tactful and blunt, adventurous and elegant. She drew people like a magnet and, as I've found out this week, made everyone feel like a favorite. Utterly wise, Lizzy knew how to whiten any sock, grow any plant, float any river and dissipate any worries. She taught me how to swim, how to make an ocean buoy into a tree swing, how to pan for gold and how to make fresh blackberry cobbler from scratch. Lizzy knew what to say in every instance, and how to keep everyone in the loop; I'll strive to tell a story like she did.
There are so many good things to say about Lizzy. I have heard so many just recently. And I'd like to repeat some of the ones I love: Lizzy was a fighter. She knew how to have fun. She kept people in line. Lizzy was honest, real and always herself. She wanted us to be our best selves. Lizzy wouldn't let you get away with nonsense. She could always get you with a smile. She had a mischievous side. Lizzy knew how to give a good wink, and she winked a lot.
My mom mentioned a phrase once that I think applies well to Lizzy: 'beauty in motion.' Lizzy was always on the move, always on her way to some adventure–and she tried to get all of us to go with her. We're so lucky for that! And now, Lizzy, I think we'd all to well to carry your spirit with us.
Lizzy, we love you so much, and we will always feel grateful to have known you.
-- post by Leah
