Inspiration

I know I am technically writing this on the 24th of November, but keep in mind that it is 12:14 in the morning. This means that it still feels like the same day. It still feels as though it is Monday. And for many, that is true. The next day doesn't occur until they awaken in the morning. So this is my post for Monday. That noted, I wanted to take a moment and go the the beginnings of my life and share my first experiences with adventure.

I've always loved to climb and am told that I once threw a tantrum when, upon arriving home from shopping, I realized that my parents were not going to get me the ladder that I was asking for. I have no recollection of this, but for those in support of nature over nurture, I guess this can be taken as some evidence. I do, however, remember my first exposure to backpacking and mountaineering. In 1996, the adventure film "Alaska" was released. The movie chronicles a brother and sister in their teens (probably pretty close to the age I am now) as they search for their missing father, all the while battling poachers and growing into strong individuals. I've had a passion for Alaska and everything wilderness ever since. I guess those childhood dreams don't fade easily, because that movie has more or less defined my life.

A few years later I was in 3rd grade and beginning to read bigger, more grown up books. My elementary school annually held a book fair in which students could purchase age appropriate books. This is when I bought my first survival book. I was so excited. I couldn't wait to read it. I tore open the pages and began reading before I even walked out the door. (This seemed to annoy my older brother who was 2 grades above me and had to walk home with me and ensure I made it safely.) This was the first "chapter" book I ever read in it's entirety. Though I can no longer remember the title, I remember fondly reading about how to escape from a sinking car and how to build a proper fire. I even kept a first aid kit in my bedroom.

More recently, the film "Into the Wild" was released, which tells the incredible story if Chris McCandless. I had never seen my dreams so vividly personified. I instantly identified with Chris and my dreams that had been always there, but quieted, exploded to the world. Much to the worry of my parents, and the cause of their current fears. One similarity between Chris and I still interests me, most likely because it is so recent a part of my life, is that Chris was Captain on his cross country team in high school and this year, I served as captain on my cross country team. I first found this similarity when reading Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer, though I wasn't captain last year, I had earned Most Outstanding Runner. I do realize that that sounds like a cocky ego stroke, but I add it to better illustrate my life.

I still dream of Alaska (and watch the movie of the same title often). I know I will one day spend time there and will see the Northern Lights in my life.

I'm currently working on a photo journal and that should be ready to share soon. Other upcoming topics, future trips and goals.