Howdy!
I am a devoted wife and the mother of two awesome young men. I grew up in Maine and became an outdoor enthusiast extraordinaire. My background is in physical education, health and nutrition, with a love for coaching. I gave up all that for the best profession in the world – motherhood. One can never retire from being a parent, but there does come a time when you are not needed quite as much.
After raising our boys, I set out on an adventure that wasn’t even my idea. My friend Sharon proposed we hike the Appalachian Trail after our kids graduated high school. A few months before it was time to leave, Sharon was unable to go. I went anyway. On March 9, 2015, I stepped foot on the Appalachian Trail with hopes of completing all 2,189.2 miles. The trail provided for me in ways I could have never imagined were possible. I thought I was perfect in all areas of life, but it wasn’t long while living on the trail until I learned just how broken I was.
Six months later to the day, I completed my journey with the mantra, One and Done! I had no desire to long-distance hike again. But less than a month later, I was begging to get back on the trail. I struggled immensely. So a year later, it was an easy, “Yes!” when Sharon asked if I wanted to hike the Appalachian Trail again. She was now ready, and I couldn’t wait to go again.
With two thru-hikes under my boots, unresolved issues brought to light, and other life-dramas, I suffered from post-trail depression after completing my second hike. It took me a long time to realize that’s what it was. You see, I was one of those people who didn’t believe in depression. I thought it was a made-up illness for weak people. With the love and support of family and friends, my faith, and the desire to be well, I have made it through that dark time. I am also grateful for having gone through depression, because now I feel I am more compassionate.
In my books and presentations, I share my struggles in life and how the trail helped to heal me. Since my first steps on the Appalachian Trail, the A.T. has become part of my DNA. When I am not busy with life’s humdrum duties, you may find me giving back, writing, creating, spending time with family, or hiking wherever the crowds are sparse and the path is less traveled.
My Mission
Ever since I was young, I have made it a point to smile at whomever I meet or pass by. As an adult, I attended a business seminar where the question was asked, “What is your life mission?” I had never thought about that. While everyone else was replying with business savvy, thought-provoking, bottom-line answers, I stepped out of the box and boldly proclaimed my mission.
To improve the lives of everyone I come in contact with.
Looking back, I realized my innocent habit of spreading joy with a smile was fulfilling my life’s mission. And that is still my mission today. Hopefully, with more than just a smile, by sharing my stories and my creativity.
Social media how-tos keep insisting I narrow my niche so I do not confuse you about what I do. But that’s just not me. I cannot be defined by just one or even two elements. So, while my mission will always be to improve the lives of everyone I meet, my content has expanded to more than just my pearly whites.
I have managed to narrow my subjects to six content areas – which is fitting, since six is my favorite number, one less than perfect. Six was also my preferred jersey number while playing sports. Reducing my scope further would be too confining for me. As you come to know me, you will learn I don’t like to be restricted. While I have a broad content agenda, I am confident you will find it entertaining, joyful, and resourceful. After all, variety is the spice of life.
What are those subjects?
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Art
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Faith
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Food
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Health & Wellness
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Hiking
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Writing
My goal is to post daily to my social media accounts, but my schedule does often change, depending on what adventure I might be on. I will always do my best, though, to deliver engaging, informative, and thoughtful content to enlighten your day.
Disclaimer
I tend to use sarcasm, wit, and humor for your enjoyment and to keep things spicy and relaxed. I am not a professional in any field. My suggestions, tips, tricks, and advice are what have worked for me. And just like all advice – what works for one person may not work for another person. Before you try anything I have suggested, please do your own further research, and if it regards your health, check with a professional first.
