By Terra Avilla
You know what I need everyday, but especially recently? Hugs. The good kind, where the person does that last little extra squeeze and you can tell that they genuinely care about you. Every time I see Mary Ellen “Ellie” Brown those are the exact type of embraces I can always expect. Ellie’s hugs are just as warm as her personality and her smile.
Ellie currently works at the Lassen County District Attorney’s office, which is the capacity in which I first met her. I don’t remember the exact moment, or day I met her, she just entered my life like a warm light and has been lighting it up ever since.
When I was pregnant with my first daughter, I was tasked with dropping off paperwork to her office, which at that time was on the second story of the old courthouse and at the base of what appeared to be a never-ending staircase for my pregnant body to maneuver.
However, I knew at the top of the staircase, I was going to be met by my Ellie.
Ellie always had to very crucial things to make me happy – a smile and a snacks. Lots of snacks.
Over the years, my friendship with Ellie grew and I got to know her as a person. Besides being a snack and hug dispensary Ellie is just as beautiful on the inside as she is on the outside. Ellie is smart and hardworking and loyal. I have never heard Ellie speak negatively about anyone.
Two years ago, Ellie donated her time to dance for Dancing for a Brand New Me., a fundraiser for Lassen Family Services. I had the privilege of being a judge and was blown away that someone so sweet could be so fiery and contain all of that zest in such a petite body.
Ellie wowed the crowd and anyone who watched her fell in love with her, just like anyone who works with her or has the chance to speak with her- just instantly loves her.
Ellie is a doting wife and a very proud momma. She continually gives her back to our community whenever called upon. I don’t know how Ellie manages to always be so composed yet somehow simultaneously nourishes that fiery spirit, that attracts all of those around her.
Every time I see Ellie, I cannot help but tell her how wonderful she is, and she always is so humbled and laughs and says, “Anything else?,” as she looks embarrassed. Well Ms. Ellie – you are so special to me and to everyone who has ever met you. So yes. There is something else. You are one of the very best reasons I love the place we live.
