COM·MU·NI·TY

COM·MU·NI·TY

She's my ride or die chick.  (Photo by Cliff Birdsall)

The year is coming to an end. It is kind of crazy, the first of January will mark a full year since I decided to take control of my life, and boy what a difference a year makes.The evolution of who I have become over the last year was quite the journey. It has been a year full of laughter, tears, pain, and finding new passions.  Along the way, I have had the pleasure of connecting and re-connecting with some pretty incredible people. Without these people in my life, I would be nothing. 

The support of my community (friends and family) has been pivotal. This year, I had to get over the heartbreak of losing something I thought I loved, my father's battle with cancer, losing a furry companion, and the journey of finding myself. I have been #blessed with how loving and excepting my community has been to me. The people that share the passion of the outdoors have been some of the most selfless people I have ever met. I heard once, that a mountain friend is a forever friend. As silly as it sounds, it is totally true. People for all walks of life can just be themselves in the mountains. It does not matter how much money you make, where you are from, because everyone just accepts you. There is a mutual respect for those who share the stoke.

High Fives All Around at Mount Baker Ski Area (Photo Credit: Mitch Pitman)

To some people, the mountains may just be an escape. But it is the very thing that gives us our life, fuels our fire. Sadly, as  the risk get higher, members of the community are lost. Perhaps, that is why we love each other so much, the thing that makes our bond so close. Life is too short, and we are all fully aware. Every moment spent with each other is something that should be savored. The memories that I have made this year could last a lifetime.

When I started hiking, I did not really think that I was capable of much else. Although, I had big mountain dreams. To be honest, without my community, I would have never pursued my dreams. Thanks especially to Katherine, for seeing my badassery even when I couldn't see it. I am not going to lie, you have to weed through the bullshit of the fake people in life. 

No one should ever let anyone dull their sparkle. Although, the process of finding out who is really a member of your community and who is not can be a painful one. You have to be selfish with who you surround your self with. I would do anything for my friends and people close to me.

I guess, the motto of 2015, that I want to continue through 2016 would be, surround yourself with those who love you and push you to be better. Life is meant to be lived and spent with those you love. Not everyone will like you, but oh well, there loss. But the people who really love you, will be there for you through your successes and your failures. Always remember your self worth. The journey is the best part of life, not the destination (cliche, but so true). 

Trust your gut, follow your heart, and all the rest will make sense.

Until the next adventure. 

Skyline Ridge with Erin Cunningham and Katherine Scheulen.