In honor of Celia

Everyone loved Celia Escamilla. She had the most beautiful smile and infectious laugh. No one had more enthusiasm for and love of all things wild and nature-related. I first met Celia when she and I were in the 2012 training class with the Highland Lakes chapter of the Texas Master Naturalists. For six years, we roomed together at annual state conferences. Besides serving as a Master Naturalist, Celia also volunteered at the Inks Dam National Fish Hatchery and was president of the Friends of Inks Dam National Fish Hatchery. Last October, we lost our precious, fearless Celia to cancer. This past Saturday, April 9, the Master Naturalists and the Friends together hosted a dedication at the hatchery of a new butterfly bench that honors Celia's memory and work. It is located in the pollinator garden that she helped to plan and plant. I hope sometime you can visit the hatchery, which is also an amazing nature preserve. When you do, please take a seat within the wings of the butterfly bench and remember our beloved Celia, who's safe within the arms of her Jesus.... 

Celia's family also attended Saturday's dedication: Front row, sister Elodia Escamilla, son Eddie Martinez and father Jorge Escamilla; back row, sister Selina Escamilla, son Arlie Brewer, brother Johnny Escamilla, uncle Rick Fierro, and son Tony Brewer.

I love you, Celia, and miss you with all my heart.....