Chris was a remarkable life force. She brought energy and spirit to those around her, her family and friends, her passions, her endeavors, and generally her surroundings, it was palpable. Even as I write this memorial and my eyes well with tears, I find myself smiling in her spirit.
In 2006, the Almond Board of California sent a delegation of representatives to China for a competitive threat assessment given their intent to plant 100,000 hectares of almonds over the next five years. Chris and I were part of that delegation and traveled all-across China, at times very remote rural areas over rough roads in mini vans and long distances. Many days were quite challenging. At the end of one particularly long and trying day, we found ourselves finally at our hotel with a round of cold beers. Chris, with her broad infectious smile, raised her glass and said, “This will make it better!”
Chris loved hiking and the Sierra Nevada. She had an annual hike with a group of girl friends over the stretch of the Pacific Crest Trail beginning in Soda Springs and ending in Squaw Valley. I remember skiing with Chris and Tara at Squaw Valley one winter and Chris struggling for a compliment to bestow upon her host and eventually sharing that I sure do ski fast😊.
Chris made innumerable contributions in her roles at the Almond Board and as Executive Director of Project Apis m. She made an impact both professionally and personally everywhere she went. Chris was an inspiration and example for the best within us all. We are blessed for her time with us.
Dan, Thank you and Richard Waycott, Julie Adams, Dr Gabrielle Ludwig, Bob Curtis, Dr Karen Lapsley, Matt Billings and Rodger Wasson for your kind words about my sister. We are very proud of Christi's accomplishments as a research scientist during her short life.
Thank you for the memories @Dan Cummings . It's a difficult season right now, but the shared stories and memories are teaching us new ways to love and appreciate Chris on the daily.