Lou

    Lou completed her first marathon here in Portland in just about 3 hours. That race was definitely her game. About 2 months earlier she backpacked with Tonya and I (Karin) up into the Enchantments in Washington. Which was followed by a mini Tri and after the marathon here this October (which was on the 1st) she is doing a 5k and then the Harrison District 1/2 marathon. She is like the energizer bunny, she keeps going ... and going ... and going...

"You asked me to write a few paragraphs on how our trip affected my life. And I can just say that I am ready to go again. I learned so much, and I cherished each moment that I had. I think one of the biggest things that I took away from the backpacking trip was that I had to submit. I live in a world where I am constantly washing my hands, sterilizing my food, and making sure that I keep germs at bay. When you experience something like this, it really takes you out of your comfort zone, and either you submit or you go nuts. I am glad to say, I submitted to the best of my ability, and the reward was freedom. It is very liberating to be able to drink water out of a lake, not have to wash your hands on a constant basis, and to know that the extra pine needles in your tea won't kill you. So, in the simplest of terms, I became at one with my surroundings. I felt very connected to the earth."

"When it came to the actual hike, I found out what I am made of. I wasn't sure starting out that I would be able to pack such a heavy backpack even for a block, let alone 11 miles like we did. I really enjoyed the process of seeing what my body could do and how quickly it could adapt to all that I was putting it through. Pretty amazing. And knowing that we were little more than an hour away from the city, wow, such beauty and vastness, all there ready for us to take in. The ability to pack everything you need to survive right on your back, and to know how accessible it is. It gave me a even deeper appreciation for where we live. And now I am more than ready to see what else is out there. I really did love my experience. I enjoyed all the women that went, who showed such a willing spirit to tackle what ever came our way. I learned to simplify, I learned what's necessary and what's not."

"Thank you so much for all that you did, you really made me feel confident in your leadership, and you ability to help us greenhorns get the most and best out of our trip. I am also glad we were tent buddies. It was nice getting to know you a little better, and I am looking forward to seeing you on the next backpacking trip. And hopefully sooner!"

~ Lou