Somehow, even though I've been hiking since I was 9, I have never been for more than a short walk in the woods on my own. Certainly nothing I'd consider a solo hike. Working as an artist, I frequently find myself not working during the summer. When I'm working and things are particularly stressful, I dream of the next time I'll be between contracts, free to hike whenever I want, but when the time comes, I'm full of reasons not to go. I once even made it as far as my car with a fully loaded pack and trail picked out, only to come up with some excuse and retreat to the comfort of my living room. I no longer remember where I planned to go, or how I talked myself out of it, but I frequently think back on that moment with disappointment. 

When I started this blog, part of my motivation was the inspiration of the words and images of other bloggers. So when Alpine Lily invited me to join her and a group of other hiking bloggers for a hike, I jumped at the opportunity. Eventually, we narrowed it down to an early morning trip to Snow Lake. I was beyond excited about the chance to meet some of these inspiring ladies in person and the day absolutely exceeded my expectations.