It is so hard for me to express in words how much I love, respect and appreciate her.
From a distance some people saw Lara as a super hero. What I appreciated about her was that she was larger than life yet so human at the same time. She balanced these dichotomies with grace, power and beauty. Lara was brilliant, gifted and complex.
She had a brilliant mind. She excelled in the math and sciences which led her to a successful career as a Research Scientist. I had the priviledge of attending her Master's thesis defense. I watched with wonderment as she elloquently explained her research. She was an information wizard, a resource queen. If I had a question or needed to learn how to do something, Lara always had a researched and well informed answer.
She had a soft and feminine side to her. She loved animals. When we went for walks, she would talk to all passing dogs. She had these Martha Stewart tendencies which came out in her gardening and house. I loved that she could be so tough yet so feminine at the same time. We would read fashion magazines and pick out our favorite outfits while on climbing and skiing trips. Yes, she even read Oprah magazine!
Lara was a mountain woman, always at ease and happy in the mountains. She moved across, rock, snow and ice with natural grace. I remember climbing El Dorado in a day with Lara, Chad and Roger. I was so ready to turn around from frustration as my crampons were skidding across the icy slabs. Lara cheered me to the summit with instruction and encouragement. Lara was one of the most natural athlete’s I have ever met. She excelled at everything she tried: mountain bike racing, snow boarding, telemark skiing, and all forms of climbing.
Lara always made you feel she was on your side. I could trust her with my most intimate thoughts. I never felt judged. She accepted all aspects of your humanity including the darkest. She accepted me unconditionally.
Lara always gave to others before she gave to herself. She would cheer, encourage and support you. She was more comfortable promoting others then recognizing her own greatness.
Lara- I love you and miss you so much. You made my life a better place to be!
I am forever your fan,
Merridy Rennick
