I’ve always felt most like myself outdoors.
I come alive in beautiful, quiet outdoor spaces. Especially the ones you have to work to reach. Whether I’m on a bike, hiking a trail, or climbing a rock face, something magical happens. The birds sing. I feel small in this incredible environment. Everything falls into perspective.
This isn’t just a hobby. It’s why I work so hard professionally. I want the freedom to experience more of it.
Table of Contents
Photos
Here are some photos of me doing what I love most.
Childhood Treasures
My outdoor love started early. My family camped constantly when I was a kid.
One of my earliest memories happened on a hiking trail in Northern New Mexico. I found my very first wild strawberry. These berries are tiny—no bigger than your pinky nail. Finding one felt like discovering treasure.
They hide under leaves. They taste incredible. You can’t believe something so delicious comes from such a tiny plant. Those moments shaped my childhood. Watching hummingbirds. Playing in streams. Pure happiness.
Facing Challenges
Adventure brings challenges. I learned this on the Monarch Crest Trail in Colorado.
I was mountain biking when I hit a new river crossing. Just a single log cut in half. I got nervous and tried to stop. Bad idea. I fell three feet off the log bridge into the stream below.
I threw my arm out to avoid a big rock. My elbow got deeply bruised. I couldn’t squeeze my bike brakes anymore. We had to figure out how to get down with just one brake. Then navigate to the nearest Forest Service road.
Lucky for us, a local with a truck helped out. The experience taught me two things. Always be prepared. You can handle the unexpected.
Physical Fuel
My outdoor passion drives my fitness commitment. I want to do these activities for life. That means staying strong.
I lift weights two to three times a week. I focus on progressive overload and full-body movements. Deadlifts and squats are my favorites. This strength and cardio work isn’t just about health. It’s about keeping my body ready for the next adventure.
Conclusion
The outdoors taught me valuable lessons. Embrace challenges. Find joy in simple things. Appreciate the world around you.
Nature gives me both peace and excitement. I love sharing that with others. Taking friends mountain biking. Inviting them to rock climbing.
My advice for outdoor newcomers? Start small. Don’t compare your journey to anyone else’s. Remember to have fun.
Your goal is simple. Celebrate that your body is healthy and can move. Find what’s fun for you. Then get out there.