SNOQUALMIE PASS & BADGER MOUNTAIN:
As the sun dipped low in the sky, I found myself standing at the trailhead, filled with anticipation for a new adventure. My journey started with the calming stream of water leading me to Franklin Falls, a trail where nature revealed its secrets through the early-evening light breaking through the trees. In a peaceful moment, perched on a weathered log near the falls, I embraced the beauty around me while welcoming thoughts of the simple joys of life. Yet, the adventure was far from over. Bookended by two unique hikes this weekend, I took a delightful break for wine tasting in Red Mountain AVA in southeast Washington, where the warmth of connection with friends reminded me how deeply our experiences with nature and community are intertwined. With each winery, I felt a wave of gratitude filling my heart, crafting beautiful memories that melded effortlessly with the trails I traversed.
The next morning, I woke before dawn to begin my trek up Badger Mountain, the crisp air giving oxygen to a deep sense of anticipation. As I climbed toward the horizon, I felt that this ascent mirrored the patience life often demands. Each step drew me closer to the sun’s first light. When the sunrise arrived, the mountain was cast with golden rays lighting the path, reflecting my own journey of self-discovery, and reminding me that we all face our own struggles. With every breath, I savored lessons from this experience—the importance of being present and how our challenges can lead to profound insights. As daylight broke over the sky, the beauty of the Tri-Cities revealed itself below, gently reminding me that even in darkness, perseverance can lead to breathtaking views.
In the enchantment of these hikes, I discovered a connection between my thoughts on the trails and reflections inspired by a recent movie that deeply moved me. A poignant moment between the characters reminded me of my own sacred experiences with Kelly—moments of vulnerability and intimacy that blossomed during the toughest of times. It served as a testament to the bonds we forge, even in the face of adversity. As I made my way along the trails, I reflected on the delicate balance of being an “orchid” in a world of “dandelions,” learning to celebrate my unique strengths while cherishing the rich tapestry of connections around me. With each step, I was reminded that life’s beauty lies in the contrasts we encounter and the reflections we embrace along the journey.
The Journey…
This weekend took me on two remarkably different trails, each offering a unique experience. My journey began with a late-afternoon hike at Franklin Falls, near Snoqualmie Pass, where the lush landscape welcomed me with clear paths hugging the rocky river’s edge. This quick two-mile trek led to the stunning falls, where I took a moment to rest on a weathered log, savoring a snack and soaking in the surroundings. The soothing sounds of cascading water provided the perfect backdrop for my thoughts as I reflected on the beauty of nature around me. Even as the hike concluded in darkness, it felt enlightening, revealing the simple joys of being present in nature that I hold dear.
On the day in-between these two hikes, I indulged in a delightful wine tasting tour in Red Mountain AVA, with friends. The warm hospitality of my hosts lifted my spirits, creating a welcoming atmosphere where I could unwind and enjoy the rich flavors of this beautiful region while forming new connections. The area brought back memories of my last visit here with Kelly, and I felt her presence in every moment. I couldn’t help but think about how much joy her company would have brought to everyone. Each sip and every interaction reminded me of the importance of connection—both with nature and the friends I shared these moments with. It was truly refreshing to step away from the city, and the trails, to embrace the stunning land nurtured by this community. The next morning, the adventure continued with an early rise for a trek up Badger Mountain.
Up at 4 a.m., I set out early to reach the summit before dawn, with the chill in the air serving as a gentle reminder of the effort needed to witness such beauty. As I climbed in the darkness, anticipation built within me, leading me to reflect on how life often requires a bit of patience. When I finally reached the top, the brisk wind greeted me, and I found myself waiting, shivering, but excited for the day to break. As the sun began to rise, first painting the sky in various shades of blue, followed by shades of orange and pink, a sense of peace washed over me, and my shivers transformed into a warm embrace. The darkness that had surrounded me slowly lifted, revealing the expansive landscape of the Tri-Cities below—a sprawling view that felt like a reward for my early morning efforts. As I descended, I revisited the intricate details of the trails I had traversed in the dark, each step reminding me of these experiences that shape me. The ride home gave me plenty of time to reflect on my trail notes, reminding me that life’s beauty often lies in the contrasts we embrace along the way.
Gratitude…
This past week, as I settled in to watch a Hallmark movie—yes, it’s a guilty pleasure—I was drawn into a touching moment between Lacey Chabert and her character’s husband, who was being taken care of in his final days at home. In a tender exchange, he expressed his gratitude for her care, and she replied with a heartfelt, “thank you for letting me take care of you.” If I had seen this scene a years ago, it might have felt like just another storyline, but now it resonated deeply within me. It brought back the sacred moments I shared with Kelly during her illness, experiences that enriched our bond in ways I never imagined. As I drove over Snoqualmie Pass, the quiet space in my car mirrored the introspective nature of my thoughts, highlighting the gratitude I hold in my heart.
Reflecting on our years together, I pondered the special connection Kelly and I shared; I always believed our bond was as deep as two souls could be. However, it was through life-ending illness that I discovered a different kind of intimacy—one that transcended the physical and occupied the fragile space of vulnerability and love. It was a unique bond, a sacred trust that beautifully transformed our relationship. I remember the quiet evenings spent side by side, the simple act of bringing her a meal, or holding her hand as we sat together. Each of those moments with less spoken but understood thoughts and feelings—a promise that I would always be there for her. In those tender exchanges, I uncovered a depth of love that was humbling, reminding me of the vital importance of being present for one another. Looking back, I can’t help but wonder how our journey might have unfolded if pride had ever created a barrier between us.
What if Kelly had resisted my care or built emotional barriers? Those obstacles would have created distance during a time when closeness was essential. Yet, she bravely opened her heart and embraced vulnerability, allowing us to navigate her illness and care in those final months, weeks, and days together. In her unwavering trust, I found a sense of purpose and strength—an opportunity to support her in the most intimate way possible. I am grateful for Kelly’s courage and the intimacy we forged amid hardship. It serves as a reminder that love blossoms not only in moments of joy but also in the toughest of struggles. I carry this gratitude with me—an enduring reminder of her strength, and that she was the one who truly gave when it mattered most, inspiring me every day to cherish the richness of our shared journey.
Reflections…
As I laced up my hiking boots for the second time this weekend, I couldn’t help but reflect on these two very different trails. The crisp morning air filled my lungs as I stepped onto the dark path of Badger Mountain, my heart still warmed by the memory of Franklin Falls from a couple days prior. That first hike, though just a quick 2-mile trek, led me to the magnificent falls, where the sound of rushing water danced beautifully in what felt like an amphitheater build just for these falls, inviting me to pause and truly soak in the moment. The day ended in darkness, the sun gracefully slipping away just as I returned to the trailhead, leaving me with a sense of wonder and trail notes filled with thoughts to unpack later in these musings.
Standing at the trailhead for Badger Mountain an hour and a half before sunrise, I was greeted by a darkness much deeper than what I usually encounter on the other side of the Cascades, my legs eager to tackle one more trail this weekend. This trail, relatively free from trees, promised expansive views. Each step felt purposeful and intentional as I moved deeper into the darkness, today’s steady companion. Yet, this hike is not just about chasing sunlight; it symbolizes a continuation of my personal journey—a journey into my innermost thoughts, kindled by the reflections that began a couple of days ago at Franklin Falls. Each hike offered me a unique perspective, a fresh lens through which to explore both the world around me and the complexities within myself.
As I climbed toward the sunrise, I couldn’t help but feel that these trails are more than just paths through nature; they’re a journey into my thoughts, this weekend inspired by the orchid hypothesis. I’ve walked many paths in recent months, but this one felt special, like discovering a hidden stream I had previously overlooked. Lately, social anxiety has quietly crept into my mind, planting seeds of doubt that twist like roots beneath my feet. In search of refuge, I picked up Susan Cain’s Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, finding comfort in its reassuring message—a gentle reminder that there is a place for those of us who thrive in the serene corners of life, rather than in the bustling heart of the forest.
One particular excerpt lingers in my mind: “Some people are more certain of everything than I am about anything.” – Robert Rubin. As I continued, I came across the orchid hypothesis, referenced in an article by David Dobbs in The Atlantic. This concept vividly illustrates how highly sensitive individuals, are like orchids—and can either thrive or wither depending on their environments. As I navigated the trail, this metaphor resonated deeply, reminding me of the delicate balance “orchids” must maintain in a world filled with “dandelions.” With each step, I reflected on my blended traits. I lean toward the orchid side of the spectrum—sensitive to criticism, deeply creative, and consistently empathetic—much like a delicate flower that needs just the right conditions to bloom. In contrast, I see the dandelions around me: bold and resilient, thriving even in the harshest conditions. They flourish with confidence, sharing their achievements like seeds blown by the wind. This makes me wonder: how can I honor my orchid nature in a meadow full of wildflowers? After all, I know it’s possible; “Wildflowers,” the song by Tom Petty, is on Kelly’s playlist, and fittingly so.
As I traversed the winding trail, I reflected on my role as a parent, stepping into Kelly’s shoes when needed, channeling my inner dandelion to support our children. But to clarify, Kelly was actually a tulip, symbolizing cheerfulness, warmth, and her straightforward nature. However, tulips weren’t mentioned in Dobbs’ article—she would definitely have something to say about that! Today, though, my focus was on nurturing my introversion without feeling overshadowed by the extroverted energy all around me. Just as I can adjusted my pace for the terrain I face, I recognized that this is a journey of self-acceptance, a delicate dance between embracing my strengths and navigating my challenges with social interaction. Pausing to take in the spectacular sunrise, I realized that to thrive as an orchid, I must celebrate those unique strengths. Deep thinking and reflection leads to innovative ideas, much like sunlight nourishes growth. Empathy allows me to forge genuine connections, building relationships that matter, while creativity serves as a valuable asset—a way to express my thoughts and showcase talents without shouting for attention.
But this journey was about more than just embracing who I am. I considered how I need to develop my interaction skills, preparing for social situations like training to hike technical terrain. By filling my toolbelt with conversation topics and thoughtful questions, I can prepare to navigate those moments with greater ease, transforming anxiety into meaningful connections. As the sun crested the horizon, illuminating my way back, I reflected on humility—a virtue I truly cherish. It’s a delicate balance, much like navigating a narrow ledge. Too much humility can lead to self-deprecation, while too little might come off as boasting. I strive to find that sweet spot—acknowledging strengths while celebrating the successes of others. This balance between excess and deficiency, often referred to as “the golden mean” by philosophers, can feel like organized chaos, where the simplicity demands a complex inner dialogue—similar to a calm duck gliding smoothly across the water while paddling frantically beneath the surface.
Ultimately, I need to remind myself that introversion and sensitivity are not weaknesses but strengths. Many people have walked this path before me, quietly making their mark without the need for fanfare—I think of someone like Bill Gates, who seems to be doing just fine. As I jotted down these thoughts in my trail journal, I realized that advocating for myself and sharing my ideas with confidence is just as important as listening to others along the way. With each step back to the trailhead, I carried these reflections. Life can be a beautiful mess, filled with contradictions and complexities, yet it invites joy and enlightenment at every turn. As long as I stay true to myself, honoring my needs as an orchid, while embracing the resilience of the dandelion, I can navigate this world with a humble confidence. So, as I accept my place among the quiet ones, the sensitive souls, and the introverts who find strength in stillness, I consider how we can all find our niche in this noisy world, thriving like orchids in a meadow of dandelions, each contributing in our own unique way. The path continues.
-Ken
OCT 3: Franklin Falls
- Snoqualmie Pass, WA
- 47° 24′ 47.2734″ -121° 26′ 51.27936″
- 2.54 miles | 465 ft elevation gain | ~1.5 hours
- Sunset: 6:36p.m. 56-62 degrees and mostly clear
OCT 5: Badger Mountain
- Badger Mountain Centennial Preserve, Richland, WA
- 46° 14′ 8.1708″ -119° 19′ 41.27412″
- 4.3 miles | 763 ft elevation gain | ~2 hours + 1.5 sunrise
- Sunrise: 7:02a.m. 42-53 degrees and clear
Musings 