As long as I can recall, I’ve had the desire to explore. Specifically, I’ve always had a calling towards the outdoors. The peace of nature is the perfect place I’ve found to be alone in my thoughts and distract myself from the bustle of modern life. Any hobby you can think of related to the outdoors, I’ve probably done it at some point or the other (fishing, hiking, skiing, camping, mountain biking, canoeing, kayaking, I could go on for ages).

I was fortunate enough to grow up in New Hampshire, being a short drive from mountains, lakes, beaches, and almost all the nature my heart could desire. I have great pride for the beauty of my home state and this cover photo is taken from northern NH, but I still have the urge to see what the rest of the world has to offer. By far my favorite way to do so is fully unplugging in nature for multiple days.

I’ve had the opportunity to backpack up the Rockies of Colorado, canoe for 80 miles in Minnesota, and go sailing across the Florida Keys. While all were incredibly difficult in the moment, I’ve found that no matter how miserable you might feel during that hike up a mountain, the view at the end almost always makes it worth it.

Moving into a more busy schedule in college and adjusting to the climate difference in Athens has made enjoying the outdoors a new challenge. In January, I’m accustomed to multiple feet of snow and skiing every weekend, which Georgia is not exactly known for. Although, I’m finding ways to appreciate the natural beauty Georgia has to offer, and living in a new place has given me the opportunity to find new ways to enjoy the great outdoors.