It is never my intent to alienate my readers by choosing sides in the political struggles and polarization that are happening today. There is enough of that going around. But individuals on both sides of the chasm that separates us agree that these are dangerous times, and our very survival as a species may byContinue reading “Because It Is Beautiful”
Tag Archives: camping
Why Solitude?
I am too alone in the world, and not alone enough to make every minute holy. Rilke I well remember the first night I spent alone in the woods. It was not a backpacking trip. Instead I had driven my little Fiat into the eastern foothills of the Olympics, following old logging roads and lookingContinue reading “Why Solitude?”
Nothing but Mountains
Readers who have been with me for awhile will know that I grew up in Tacoma, Washington not far from Mt. Rainier National Park. It was certainly not the close up view you see above, but it was pretty wonderful looking out my bedroom window in the morning and seeing that magnificent volcanic peak, especiallyContinue reading “Nothing but Mountains”
A Life Told in Miles
At important transitions in my life I find myself reflecting on the journey that has led to this place and time. As always, everything relates to the trail, the long treks with my backpack, the quiet moments in camp with a cup of tea and a good book, and the places where those journeys haveContinue reading “A Life Told in Miles”
A Long Winter’s Nap
How many times can summer turn to fall in one life? Charles Wright “It feels like fall.” That is what passes for small talk this time of year when commenting on the cooler temperatures, shorter days, or the brilliant reds and golds that mark the season. I mark this time of year with a varietyContinue reading “A Long Winter’s Nap”
Holding the Sun
In the photo above I am smiling because the sun was shining. It lasted for about fifteen minutes, and for the rest of that four day trip it rained most of the time. My husband and I were hiking in the Olympic Rain Forest, so the weather was not totally unexpected, but it nevertheless wasContinue reading “Holding the Sun”
Hiking the Duck
In old age I shall walk quietly the beautiful trail. Navajo Prayer Last week I completed my first backpacking trip of the year. Ordinarily such an event would be no big deal. Until a few years ago I typically would do an early trip in the spring, several short ones during the summer months, andContinue reading “Hiking the Duck”
With Love from Red Reef Rock
Dream or nightmare we have to live our experience as it is and we have to live it awake. Jacob Bronowski When I was about five years old my family camped at Staircase Campground in Olympic National Park, as we did for many years. It was one of our favorite campgrounds, and I always lovedContinue reading “With Love from Red Reef Rock”
Shall We Gather at the River?
Soon we’ll reach the silver river, Soon our pilgrimage will cease; Soon our happy hearts will quiver With the melody of peace. American Gospel I first heard this old hymn at my grandmother’s funeral many years ago as a young child. I remember holding the tattered gray hymnal as we sang, and I envisioned aContinue reading “Shall We Gather at the River?”
Living on the Edges
Backpacking is the art of knowing what not to take. Sheridan Anders The first time I carried my cell phone with me on a backpacking trip was completely unplanned. This trip took place many years ago, before the days of smart phones, and I had my flip phone with me in my truck as IContinue reading “Living on the Edges”
The Solitude Trail 