100 Hikes in 2014
I truly love the outdoors. As a kid, I would bike, raft, camp and swim outside frequently on warm, summer days and preferred it to being indoors.
I'm not really sure what happened, maybe it was my schedule or allergies or paranoia (West Nile anyone?) or a perceived lack of options, but I began enjoying the elements less and less. To make matters worse, between Hamburger Helper and immense school and work stress, I had packed on 50ish pounds during my college career. It felt odd to be insanely proud of completing my undergrad studies and working full-time while simultaneously avoiding mirrors and buying baggy clothing.
A Goal Was Born
I attempted to lose weight several times. I tried running, joining a gym, YouTube videos, and silly fads like the Jumping Jack Challenge (that was a fun one to explain to my doctor). Nothing stuck.
Then I got engaged...to be married...in front of 150 people...in a white dress...
Since eloping wasn't an option, it was time to get moving. I decided a good way to get some additional exercise in was to hike with my cousin, he frequently went up a popular Eugene hill called Spencer Butte.
After a few hikes to the peak of Spencer, I was in love. The hike is short but rough for us out-of-shapers, it provides beautiful views of the South Willamette Valley including the Three Sisters up to Mt. Hood. At some point I decided to attempt the hike 100 times in 2014. That equals out to about two hikes per week and that was doable, right?
Well...it's June 1, and I'm at number 28. I'm hoping summer will be a good opportunity to catch up but I've also officially changed the goal to 100 Hikes in 2014 so I can attempt other beautiful trails around the Pacific Northwest. The good news is, I'm down 17 pounds, my dog is getting lots of exercise, and I get more time with the people around me (my fiance and cousin are frequent guest hikers). Each hike is represented by a photo and comment on Instagram but the first 25 are in a collage below. I have some super exciting hikes planned and I can't wait to share the photos!
If you have hike recommendations, equipment suggestions, or words of encouragement, please leave me a comment!
Instagram: @KylieMariePhotography
Twitter: @KylieKeppler
#100Hikesin2014
