Rails to Trails ride, Guest River Gorge, VA

Jodi and I headed from Johnson City to Coeburn, VA one Sunday morning to spin for a few on a new trail, new for us that is. I had heard of it and read very little about it online. It did not disappoint.

It took a bit while to find the trailhead as it is out in the boonies of Coeburn. Oh wait, Coeburn IS the boonies. But worth the ride because we both enjoy bridges, tunnels, etc.

Jodi and me whale-watching

Approximately 30 - 35 miles off the coast of Maine. We saw 3 different species of whales. The boat ride back was wild and crazy when the storms blew in but the old saying "That which doesn't kill you makes you stronger!"

Kayaking Banks Lake on a very icy day

Needless to say I had to go out by myself this day. There were many large chunks of ice on the lake and with the wind blowing it didn't take long for my vest and everything else to freeze solid. I know I'm weird but I loved it!!

Hiking in Columbia Nat'l Wildlife Refuge, WA

I LOVE this place. Best 5 months of my life was working here in 2004 as a Biological Sciences Aid. I would have stayed forever but it was only a term position. I covered so many miles of this place.

Hiking in Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area

Near Leavenworth, WA this is without a tough the toughest day hike I have ever done. Over 20 miles and over 12,500' elevation change. What a phenomenal place though.

Hiking Grove of the Patriarchs

Mt. Rainier Nat'l Park. This was my first trip to Mt. Rainier. My cousin Janet came to visit us when we lived in Coulee City so she and I took off to hike and camp here. You can't tell it in this photo because for Rainier this trail is at low elevation. But when we got to the park we found most roads and all except this trail and one more closed due to over 20' of snow. YES FEET!! And it was June 12 and 13 when we were there.

Stephen rappelling in Salt Peter Cave

This was before moving to WA even! Several of us made this trip. Love being underground!