SADNESS

Sadly, our friend Mel died this weekend. When we heard the news yesterday, we began scrambling for a way out of Northern Wisconsin and to Texas for his services this weekend---we began heading south and plan to make it to Rhinelander today to pick up a rental car and drive that into Chicago with our gear. My brother, Jeff, is in Chicago working on museum projects, and he'll assist us in airport transportation, safeguarding our bikes and gear, and getting us back on route next Sunday.

Mel was my best friend in law school---a fine man with the characteristics I admire most: a fierce intellect, a keen sense of humor and a kind and loving heart and spirit. Our friendship sustained me. The world is not as bright for me without him in it. He leaves behind a tremendous amount of love and light---in his grieving family, his beautiful friends and the love of his life, his 12 year old son Clay. Wherever Mel has gone, he joins good company, and I hope they save a spot for me.