Life is a series of moments strung together into minutes, hours, days, and years. My singular fear is that I will rush through the moments and wake up decades later having missed the one chance I have at this one life.

And so, I waded into my own discomfort and found exhilarating freedom traveling solo across western North America. My old VW van became my home. Hiking and backpacking amidst the awe-inspiring beauty filled my days. With every step, around every bend, I was greeted with wonder and perspective that literally stopped me in my tracks. I lived each moment, fully present, consciously pausing to breathe in each precious experience. Ultimately, I allowed the overwhelming beauty of these moments to fill my soul . . . so I stand here today overflowing.

My wish is to share that overflow with you, one moment at a time, in the pages of this book . . . to share an appreciation for the fragile earth we inhabit and to offer you a window into the beauty that is our world and my passion.