On Unexpected Down Days

As luck would have it I find myself struggling with a relapse of bronchitis one week after deciding to start an outdoor blog. This unfortunately means that I am on the couch instead of outdoors where I belong. So, what to do on days like these?

1) Reassure yourself that this is temporary. Remind yourself that you will be back up and going before you know it. The extra rest days don't mean that all of your hard work, strong quads, and conditioning are going to evaporate overnight. It's going to be okay - rest days are fine. 

2) Research your next adventure! I have been spending time tonight on my favorite outdoor websites below. There is nothing like spending your downtime finding the next great experience. 

http://www.wta.org/

http://www.outsideonline.com/

http://www.hikingwithmybrother.com/

3) Sort your gear. Unexpected down days are a great time to find those maps, wash and re-waterproof 
those jackets, and try to find those gaiters you lost months ago. (where did those go?!)

I hope to be back in the saddle and on the bike again tomorrow. In the meantime, while frustrating,
this is a good opportunity to reflect and dream on the adventures to come. Just as soon as I stop
coughing again.

On Starting an Outdoor Blog

This blog is dedicated to every outdoor adventurer, whether you are just getting started or already have summits under your belt, and the courage it takes it get out there.

I started my outdoor adventure journey many years ago in the great Pacific Northwest. From the first steps in hiking boots, first adventures as a beginning cyclist, and first swing of the ice axe I knew that the outdoors brought me deep joy. There is liberation in being outside, away from distractions, and completely present in the moment. This joy is compounded by the knowledge that you can rise to any physical challenge you set for yourself. The journey may be long, and the learning process may be slow, but the destination is there waiting for you.

The blog is dedicated to everyone thinking about those first steps, those big adventures, and the courage to get out there. I
am hopeful that this blog will become a source of inspiration, education, and, someday, a community for others like us. I would have been grateful years ago for another voice to confirm that I could do it, should do it, and would be great at it.

I hope to encourage others through sharing of learnings, breakthroughs, the occasional setbacks, gear advice, and other notes from the outdoors. Together we will become the climbers, hikers, backpackers, cyclists, and outdoor adventures we know we were meant to be. We need each other to nurture the greatness and tenacity in us all.

I will do my best to hold up my end of the bargain and share the view from this 5'2" corner of the outdoor world. I am out there almost every weekend with a pack on my back, boots or skis on my feet, or a cycle on the road. I commit to sharing these adventures as I go and would love to hear about yours.

Get out there. Buy that ice axe. Find that backpack. Plan that weeklong backpacking adventure.  There is a wide and amazing world out there waiting for us to explore and experience.

See you on the trail.