I feel more comfortable and alive clinging to a ledge on a summit ridge than anywhere else. The mountain goat is my spirit animal with absolute certainty.  I see and follow their paths like I was part of the group, embolden as if I had their DNA running through my veins.  I have, unfortunately, rolled my ankle enough times, though, to realize that I am just a visitor in their world.  I have great love for the desert and the ocean, but the mountains stole my heart long ago.  The mountains have given me so much and yet never knew I was there.  It is, and always will be, my humble aspiration to share what I have seen and experienced the only way I know how.  I try to capture the scenes that make my heart jump, the ones that cause pulsing waves of serenity, wonderment, and awe.

     For a very long time, I have found great joy in showing people my images as well as describing in as vivid detail the purity and beauty of the natural world. My vision for this site is to try to share some of the incredible things i have seen on my adventures and hopefully inspire others to get out into nature and find their own adventures.  A general side effect is usually a greater and deeper relationship with oneself, companions, and an appreciation of this majestic planet we all are so very lucky to share.

     My hope is that the more people who can develop and uncover their God given connection to our world, the better chance there is that it may be saved from being spoiled and tarnished beyond recourse.  I know their is “debate” about these statements but the concern is real and the possible outcomes are catastrophic and devastating.  The Planet Earth is a wonderful gift and should be cherished.

     For those people who are avid hikers the myriad reasons to strap on a pair of boots, throw on a pack and grab a map are well known.  My goal with this blog is to re-inspire those who may have forgotten or can’t find the time, those who want to find a new passion, or those who I might be able to give a new idea for a place to explore.

     One thing that I wanted to have on this blog is an emotions/feelings and experiences word list that I would continue to add to.  I came up with this idea at about mile 18 of 30 of the longest dayhike I have yet undertaken. My moment of zen occurred just as I decended below treeline trying to escape a violent Wind River Range summer thunderstorm, that I had watched brew all morning from the Lizard Head Plateau.  It always amazes me how such a nice pretty morning can morph into such sheer impending doom so quickly on the Divide.  On this day, having the first drops of rain, followed by hail and ear shattering thunderclaps ringing off the granite cliffs produced a state of being which felt like it encompassed the whole spectrum;

Thankful, Exhausted, Satisfied, Sleep- deprived, Sore, Joyful, Centered, Grounded, Peaceful, Delirious, Strong, Determined, Inspired, Faithful, Primal, Hopeful, Hungry, Exhilarated, Awestruck, Mindful, Dreamy, Depleted, Charged, Home, Connected, Invigorated, Alive, Vibrant, Clear, Focused, Humble, Insignificant, Introspective, Contemplative, Content, Worked, Lucky, Appreciative, Grateful, Challenged, Unique, Alert, Happy, Blessed, Reflective

I think that considering the circumstances I will always leave that list, which was a note on my iPhone, as the start of my list, in its original order and as its own entity.

Most importantly,

1. Never underestimate the vast discrepancy between going for a hike and going to the gym with regard to your soul.  If you feel like you need to, “work on your intangibles”, “sort some things out in your head”, “be challenged”, or “find perspective” then find a trail to hike, you won’t be sorry.

2. Never underestimate the weather, the terrain, potential animal encounters or the conditions…… live to hike another day.

3. Never overestimate what you are capable of.  Stretching limits and pushing yourself is one thing, getting yourself in a tight spot is another.

4. Have fun, be safe. Breathe in that fresh air. Feel the rocks, dirt, sand, snow, and ice beneath your feet and be glad.  Always wonder what might be around that next bend or over that next ridge, it will keep you young.

5. Bring a camera and learn how to use it, it will help you remember your adventures always.