Category: GRATITUDE

MOUNT RAINIER NATIONAL FOREST, WA: Reaching the Crystal Lakes Trailhead, still enveloped in darkness, I felt a mix of excitement and nerves about the adventure that awaited me. The crisp winter air filled my lungs, serving as a reminder that this journey would be a physical challenge, but also provide a space for me to…

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…

SUNRISE, MT RAINIER NATIONAL PARK: As the sun began its ascent, gently painting the sky with warm autumn hues, my journey unfolded—a blend of nature’s beauty, gratitude, and reflections about the rituals and traditions that tell our story. As I navigated the Burroughs Mountains, each step drew me closer to the majestic sights of Mount…

MOUNT RAINIER NATIONAL PARK, WA: The early morning air was crisp as I drove toward the eastern side of Mount Rainier, anticipation flowing within me like the river that would accompany me on my hike. With each bend in the road, I reflected on the gratitude I felt for the love and lessons learned from…

MOUNT BAKER-SNOQUALMIE NATIONAL FOREST, NACHES, WA: As the sun began to rise over the horizon, casting a rich blend of deep red, burnt orange, and a golden hue on the familiar terrain, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of renewal. My drive to the Sheep Lake Trailhead had been marked by unexpected detours, including…

MOUNT BAKER-SNOQUALMIE NATIONAL FOREST, WA: As dawn was about to break, I laced up my hiking boots, the early morning chill was perfect for the steady ascent. With the world still in slumber, I set off toward Annette Lake, a journey steeped in both challenge and beauty. The soft glow of my headlamp cut through…

BLANCHARD STATE FOREST, CHUCKANUT DRIVE, BOW, WA: As I approached the trailhead off Chuckanut Drive, the morning was still wrapped in a soft, overcast blanket—a familiar calm before my ascent. Breathing in the cool morning air, my heart swelled with gratitude for the day ahead. Each step felt like more than just a physical challenge;…

NACHES PEAK LOOP, PACIFIC CREST TRAIL, WA: Feelin’ a Big Chill, an angelic choir echoed in my mind this Sunday morning, “I saw her today at the reception; A glass of wine in her hand…” A poignant reminder that things in life won’t always turn out the way you want, but if you’re looking for…