The Ultimate Backpacker

I met the ultimate backpacker last Saturday morning on the trail. As we crossed paths, we took note of each other.  I think he was a little intimidated by me in with my high priced backpacking gear.  Yet, with all that I have invested in my gear, I was not nearly as well equipped for life in the outdoors as was this guy. I choose to backpack, usually on weekends, for fun.  This guy lives the backpacking life 365 days a year.  Sure, I can cover more mileage per day, but he is better prepared for whatever the trail brings his way than I will ever be. 

Natural Bridge

It's amazing how the outdoors can serve as a natural bridge between generations.

 With all the drama that can exist in the relationship between parent and child, I am blessed that my daughter and I both enjoy experiencing the outdoors.  She will hike with me.  She will camp, though we still have to figure out exactly what is the right gear for her.  She loves photography. These shared interests provide a framework through which we relate  While I am blessed that she is "low drama" by comparison to many, or at least that is my perception, I appreciate that we have these shared interests. They act as a natural bridge that allow us to enjoy our time together.