Blog world is a funny place and I forget that sometimes. I forget that there are thousands of people reading this site and I–quite literally– know nothing about you. It’s trippy when you think about it, but I kinda love the anonymity.
How often do you read a blog and comment? If you’re me, there are dozens that you read and never comment! Maybe you’re in a hurry, maybe you’re too busy, or maybe commenting just isn’t your thing. Or maybe, you just stumbled on this site and feel weird commenting. Regardless, I’m asking YOU to come out of the woodwork!
And no, not for a giveaway. I always have hundreds more readers when I’m giving something away! Although, there IS one coming next week…
Who Are My Readers?!
Who are my readers? Where do you live? What do you do for fun? Do you have any outdoor activities that you can’t live without? {I can sympathize!} If you don’t typically comment on my site, I would love to hear from you, just this once! And if you normally comment? Please, drop me a line anyway and tell me a bit about you!
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Thanks to Amanda from Run To The Finish for this idea!
144 Comments
Hey! Its Michelle, we got to meet once at the omnigames. I am a reader 🙂 Love your blog and your photos! A little bit about me? Canadian (Ontario), love kayaking, just became a mom and I use to work in Kindergarten before mat leave. I like this idea. I would love to know who reads my blog. I always get a kick out of seeing how someone came across me by searching something random. Have a good day! Xo
Hey lady! How’s mama-hood treating you? Congrats again!
Love this post! Also, I always love your photography. I live in southern Indiana – perfect rolling hills for training! I’m a runner and, well, I can’t live without running, though I also enjoy leisurely hikes around our local parks and trails. I love the water too. I’m an East Coast transplant to the Midwest, and grew up with a lot of time on bays and beaches. It’s a little weird for me to not be close to a large body of water right now, but I’m surviving 🙂
Hi Sarah! I have a good friend that lives in Indianapolis– he loves it there 🙂 Thanks for reading!
Hullo! This is such a good idea. I’ve been reading your blog for years, but rarely comment (because laziness). I’m from Norway but live in WA with my husband and my daughter (who was born last year). Hiking is my big passion, and I’m so happy I get to introduce my daughter to the outdoors.
How did you end up making the voyage from Norway to Washington?!
My husband got a job offer from Microsoft that he just couldn’t turn down. 🙂
That’ll do it!
I almost never comment, but always read and follow the blog. Keep up the good work- yes- I like to sit in the shadows and rarely come out into the light- mainly because I’m focused on running my own business/passion/blog. I absolutely could not live without fly fishing or my sporting dogs. My Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Blaze loves when I read your blogs as I tend to get his butt outside for a lot of hikes/camping trips. Actually- last years vacation/hike on the Appalachian Trail with my dog was partly inspired by your blog and TurboPUP bars!
Wish you the best
Daniel Podobed
I just checked out your site– love it! And glad you liked the TurboPup bars. Tals digs the bacon flavor 🙂
Hi I’m Sara and I live in Sweden. I spend my time running (and skiing) the mountains in the north and enjoying the sea on the westcoast down south. I love trail running and every day is a new trail. I also love road biking. Actually, I love everything outdoors! I don’t care about speed and stuff, all I care about is loving what I do. I have ran a few ultra marathons because of the fun of it.
Sweden?! So cool! I feel the same about trail running– I just like to explore and go far, but I’m SO SLOW!
ah, who cares about speed? a mile is still a mile and so is ten or twenty or no matter how many! 🙂
I’m just another Colorado gal who found your blog through the Whole Foods-sponsored posts. I keep coming back for the beautiful photography and inspiration to live an active life! Thanks for putting yourself out there.
Ha, I never would’ve guessed people found me through those posts but I guess it makes sense! Thanks for reading– I appreciate it!
We just got through calling ever single person who has ever bought from us on Garage Grown Gear (to help us get clarity on next steps for the store and mag). Like you said, it was a bit of a wake up moment, to realize that all those people were living, breathing, lovely human beings … and not just stats in Google Analytics. Go figure.
Wow. How long did that take?!
Hey! My name is Whitney and I am from Greensburg Kansas. I am a runner, so I definitely cannot live without beautiful morning and evening runs in the country with our outrageous sunsets and skylines. My parents also have a cabin in the mountains in Colorado and we take kids to camp there for two weeks a year, so I spend as much time there as I can. For fun I enjoy sports, hanging out with my husband and friends, and singing. I enjoy seeing your adventures all over the globe!
Hi Whitney! I think you emailed me back when you first began your blog?? Where is your CO cabin at?
I’m Sean, I’ve bugged you on Twitter about when are you going to longboard? I live in Denver, combat vet, IT Guy, motorcyclist, runner, hiker, new puppy owner.
Haha I remember you! Yeah…ummmm…longboarding….still need to try that! If I break my face, I’m coming for you!
Marisa here – another Colorado resident reading and getting inspired by your adventures! I love hiking and running outdoors in our beautiful city parks in Denver, going to the farmers’ market, and creating healthy recipes for my blog. I always read but rarely comment – I love your content and photography!
Hey Marisa! I need to take a cue from you on the farmers’ markets– I rarely go but always mean to!
Hey there! My name is Amy and I have commented on your blog once or twice. Mostly because I need to tell you how I love your photos. As a professional photographer myself. I love the mountains, and I am in Iowa…so we have none!
I am also a mother, blogger, runner and wife. I am a book worm, and love to watch movies. This is a great idea for a blog topic…I may have to steal it…as long as it’s ok with you of course!
Hey Amy! As much as I wish I could take credit for the photos, they’re all Will….unless you see a finger on the lens. Then you know they’re mine 😉
Hi I’m Lynn! I comment semi-regularly, and this is definitely one of my favorite blogs. I live in the Tahoe California area (just moved to Truckee!), and I mountain bike, hike, climb and snowboard, among other things. I work in the environmental field, working with AmeriCorps members who do watershed restoration and environmental education, and I love my job!
I love when bloggers do posts like this – I always find new blogs to follow!
Glad to make your favorite list! 🙂 I’ve seen your name for a couple years I think!
Hi I’m Emily!
I never comment but I love to follow your adventures and see Will’s pictures. I’m a dog lover, sometimes runner, reader and knitter always looking to be healthier and spend more time outside.
Hey Emily, thanks for reading! I keep meaning to learn to knit one day but as of yet, it hasn’t happened. My grandma taught me to crochet when I was a kid but I’ve heard they’re entirely different!
This is such a fun post. HI! I am Mattie. I have been born and raised in New England. I love to work out and be active in the outdoors. I was a competitive ski racer my whole life and have a crazy competitive family. I write a blog about my life and work full time. Sometimes I struggle balancing it all!
Hey Mattie! Where in New England? And how cool is the ski racing! I would be terrified! I love to ski but going super fast reminds me of how breakable I am 🙂
Fun idea! I comment occasionally here, but in general in my blog reading I rarely comment. Let’s see…I live in Albuquerque, which I love, and for fun I read (novels), run, hike, kayak, and camp. I have special love for the mountains, National Parks, and international travel.
That’s how I am too– I don’t comment a bunch anymore but I may start after this post! Any recs on books? I’m always looking for a new one to read!
Ha, you might not want to get me started on book recs – I could jabber on for a while! But here’s a few I’ve loved lately:
If you like contemplative reflections on the beauty of life and the world, with a slow undercurrent of emotional drama (and don’t mind reflections on the religious life), the best book I’ve read in a while is Marilynne Robinson’s Gilead. It’s the first part of a trilogy, the last book of which just was published this year, so I read finally Gilead and now I’m pushing it into everyone’s hands.
If you like scientific sci-fi and problem solving, try Andy Weir, The Martian. It’s a quick fun read about an astronaut who gets stranded on Mars and has to find a way home.
If you like kind of creepy paranormal stuff, I loved Neil Gaiman, The Ocean at the End of the Lane.
And if you like immigrants in America stories, I loved Dinaw Mengestu, The Beautiful Things that Heaven Bears (or anything by him).
Let me know if you try and like any of these!!
I’ve commented a few times but not often (usually to win a vivo fit from you.. Ha! Still on my wrist to this day though!!). I am your neighbor from Lakewood and I am a runner, triathlete for a little bit, and I have recently starting loving hiking and trail running more than before. Other than that, I love to read, watch movies, play with my 9 year old border collie (who thinks he’s 2) and most recently, take ballet and hip hop classes again because what else do you do at 32… That’s normal, right? 🙂
Yay, glad you like it! I still wear my vivofit daily too– it’s helpful when I’ve been stuck at a computer for too long. And nice work on the dancing! I occasionally think of taking classes again, just because I used to love it so much, but then I remember how absolutely unflexible I am these days 🙂 Although I did make Will watch the final dance scene from Step Up 2 with me last night!
Hi there! I currently live in my hometown of Charleston, SC. After living most of my life in the south, save college and grad school in the mid-Atlantic, I am moving to New Mexico next month. I actually drive out to Colorado every year, but this will be a big change…an adventure! I am a runner, casual cyclist, sometimes dancer, yogini, bookworm, and mama to a six-year-old boy. I am very happy about the move, but man…gonna miss the beach for sure! That’s me in a nutshell. Thanks for sharing and for asking about your readers 🙂
I do wish we had a beach….within two states 🙂 That’s my favorite part about visiting Will’s family!
Hello! 🙂 I’m Jessica and I’ve been a reader for awhile now, but never comment…sorry! I do vote for anything you ask us to vote for! I finally moved from California this past year to this lovely state of Colorado (which I’ve wanted to do for awhile) and have completely fallen in love with it! I haven’t even had a true chance to get out there and explore, so I constantly look to your adventures as inspiration. Thank you for that! I hope to be as adventurous as you are! Thank you for sharing and I’ll keep reading! 🙂
Haha no worries! I read plenty of blogs without commenting– that’s why this is fun!
Hi, I’m Danika and I have no idea how I found you on Instagram, but my feed enjoys epic adventure pictures. I love backpacking and trail running although my body wasn’t engineered to be particularly good at either. I’m currently in Flagstaff, AZ by way of Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, but next month, we’re trading our Grand Canyon adventures for some 14-ers and moving to Colorado! Fun fact, my husband and I met in New Mexico while working as backpacking guides (Rangers) at Philmont Scout Ranch, one of three national high adventure bases for the Boy Scouts of America.
Hey Danika! I think you just commented on my IG photos last night, right? And I’m with you on the trail running thing– I’m not built to be a runner, I just like it anyway 🙂
Hello! I don’t think I’ve ever commented here, but I started following because I find your blog encourages me to get out more 🙂 I love hiking and being outdoors, but haven’t gotten serious about it. My camera is always part of my hiking/exploring ensemble. I’m a pharmacy technician right outside of Fort Worth, Texas with reptilian pets and a movie obsession 🙂 This is such a fun idea!
Agh! I just saw your website name too– you’re big into the reptiles, huh? I’m ashamed to admit they’re not my favorite, although I can *handle* anything other than snakes. I will literally lose it if I touch one….it’s like a freaking phobia. So embarrassing 🙂
Hi I’m Muriel!
I read your blog frequently and I comment – well, next to never… I’m a Swiss trailrunner, windsurfer and hiker. Currently me and my partner are travelling around the world in our van, in search for beautiful trails and great windsurfing spots. This was the reason I stumbled upon your blog – we’re planning to spend a few weeks in Colorado in September. But I’ll definitely keep reading your blog after that, you’re doing a great job!
Aloha from Maui 🙂
Hey Muriel, thanks for reading! Sounds like quite the adventure! My sis lives in Oahu and I love visiting her whenever I get the chance…although I’d rather do it your way 🙂 Did you ship your van to Hawaii?
Hi Heather, I always love to read your Hawaii blogs! Maui is just amazing, windsurfer’s dream! 🙂
We’re currently shipping our van (named “Welly”) from New Zealand to L.A., this takes 6 weeks and allows us to visit Fiji and Maui in the meantime. No too bad, but I’m looking very much forward to getting our van (currently the only home we have 🙂 ) back soon!
I rarely comment on blogs, but this is too fun!
I’m a Peace Corps Volunteer in Macedonia. Before joining the PC, my husband worked for a university outdoor program in Texas, and we were always out doing something – hiking, climbing, camping, kayaking, cycling. Outdoor recreation is a bit behind in Macedonia. People aren’t as keen on camping here. It has taken a while, but we’re slowly figuring out how to join our active lifestyle with our life here. We joined a local hiking club, and the people have been so helpful in getting us out to explore the beautiful mountains, lakes, rivers, and villages of Macedonia.
Andreya
Andreya, I just checked out your site– so cool! I love reading the stories about the other volunteers. I spent some time with a friend who was volunteering in Paraguay, and it’s always been on my list to one day join the Peace Corps with Will. Maybe after we retire? Based on your site, sounds like it’s a wonderful experience!
hi heather. i’ve commented once – on the post you wrote about those women ass-smacking each other on paddle boards – mtn babes? i’m a 30-yr-old almost-not-anymore doctoral student from austin. spent some time in latin america, met a swiss boy, married him, and have now lived in st. gallen, switzerland for over 4 years. was always a runner, but since moving to the land of mountains spend almost every free second rock climbing, trail running and mountaineering in the summer. i read your blog in the morning over breakfast. i’m a fan because you do the stuff i do, but in different places and with better pictures. thanks for redirecting the internet’s attention from mtn babes to women doing awesome stuff in nature, in at least one small corner. and thanks for not blogging pictures and descriptions of everything you eat.
Gah, the MtnBabes video. ARGH. I still get riled when I think about that ridiculous excuse for a video! And never fear– the day you see photos from everything I eat is the same day this site shuts down. Besides, I eat too much– that post would be WAY too long 😉
I’m a more recent reader since I decided to add some outdoor blogs to my list of blogs that I read a few months.. I live in the Salt Lake City area of Utah but I travel all over the state for fun hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. I couldn’t live without fun hiking so I’m glad to live in a state with plenty of mountains, arches, and other points of interest to hike to!
Sometimes I even get further away to places like Colorado, although I always wish I had more time and money for larger trips. Eventually I might try to get into more extreme mountaineering but for now I’m happy hiking the easier peaks I can do without any special gear besides some good shoes.
I love Utah! I’m thankful it’s so close (Moab is only 5 hours) because I love visiting the southern canyons. The colors there are amazing!
Cool idea! I’m Malin from Sweden, and found your blog just recently through Sara from Sweden above! I live close to the forest and love trail running. Adore the mountains and go there as often as I can. Am a winter person who really loves cross country skiing but when I get a chance I also like sea kayaking. Have a little daughter and live together with my boyfriend.
I love that I have so many readers from Sweden! I’m dying to visit there one day– all of the Nordic countries really. Any recs on the best things to see/do in your neck of the woods?
I do actually comment sometimes. You inspire me a lot! 🙂 I’m a 25 year old girl from northern Sweden and I have read your blog for 6 month, I think. I’m a mountain leader and I work as a guide in the Swedish mountains and forests. I love everything about the outdoor-lifestyle. I do hike and ski a lot. But I like to challenge my self in other sports, as well, like climbing or rafting. One of my biggest dreams is to travel to Colorado and maybe do the Colorado Trail. Or just attempt some of the fourteeners. So that’s why I really enjoy to read your blog, you do inspire me and make me want to go to Colorado even more. And the videos you’re making atm is so good! It makes me happy 🙂 Have a nice day and keep up the good work!
Glad you enjoy the videos, Penelope! That’s fantastic that you’re a guide. I was just saying above that I really want to visit Sweden one day, so now I know who to look up! 😉
Hi! I am Jessica, and I live in Baltimore! I love running, hiking, anything outdoors or with water, going to farmers markets, attempting my own vegetable garden, and playing with my 1 year old Australian Shepherd pup. I just completed my first ultra (50k) in March, so I loved being able to follow along with your ultra training at the same time! I absolutely love watching all of your outdoor adventures from blogland!
Congrats on the 50k! How did it go for you? Which did you run?
The HAT Run! Its in Susquehanna State Park, so you get awesome views of the river throughout the run. It definitely made me fall in love with trail running, and I will probably run it again next year! Antelope Canyon 50k is now on my bucket list after seeing your pictures!
That looks beautiful! And yes, I highly rec Antelope Canyon. I”ll definitely be doing another race by that company next year. Their locations are amazing!
Hi Heather! I am a long time reader and even more of a infrequent commenter. I live in Massachusetts with my husband, almost 2 year old daughter and our crazy German Shorthaired Pointer. Running in my passion but I love also taking Barre, Tabata, yoga, etc. I love the idea of Crossfit and think I would be obsessed with it but being a full time working mom, I have very little time. I also would love to get more involved with trail running but in my neck of the woods, the trails are minimal. I love your pictures and reading about your adventures. I also do like hearing the updates on your upcoming wedding!! Congratulations!
Ha, I’ll try to get at least one more wedding post in before the big day 😉 I never think to write about that topic! If you ever give CrossFit a try, I’d love to hear what you think!
Usual reader, sometime commenter. 🙂 This is a fun post, I might have to steal it for myself…
Have at it!
I’m Leah and have commented a few times before. I also live in the Denver-metro area and am always looking for fun outdoor things to do. You inspired me to sign up for my first 50k this fall- super excited! I’m trying out whitewater kayaking this summer after I took a class last year. Have you ever been into water sports? Thanks for all the inspiration!
Hey Leah! Nice work on the 50k! Which race is it? As for water sports– I do like them, but I don’t really have the access 🙂 I love SCUBA though and I have my Open Water and Advanced diving certificates. I haven’t been in almost 8 years though so I suspect I’d need a refresher course. I also love packrafting!
You know me, I comment frequently 🙂 I think you need to make the journey north and come run with me on the ranch. Tals would love running with Cola.
Tals would have a ball up there! So much open space to just run around like a maniac!
It’s the Bear Chase Race in Lakewood!
I’ve been reading for a few months now. I’m a late-twenties gal living in a MD suburb outside of DC with my boyfriend, two cats and two guinea pigs.I’m a small business owner by day (dog walking company), professional actor by night 🙂 I’m outside walking around all day for work, and am trying to start filling my weekends with more outdoor adventures as well!
Out of curiosity, have you ever tracked your steps during the day with dog walking? I bet your step count is off the charts!
I haven’t, but I’ve been curious! I think I’m usually walking about 10-12 miles each day, but I’d love to find out the exact numbers.
Holy hell, that is so many miles!
I love your blog! I like to read at work during lunch so I have a bunch I scroll through every day. Your adventures are super fun and I enjoy your writing style. and cute dogs pics obvi. I live in PA on a medium lake and can’t live without my paddleboard. i’m not terribly ambitious with it, but I love just tooling around the lake. 🙂
Tals says thanks for the compliment 😉
Hi! I’m a frequent/regular reader but I rarely comment. I live in Estes Park with my husband and our golden retriever, Molly! Love to hike, backpack, camp, run, snowshoe, ski, etc etc and enjoy reading your gear reviews and recaps of backpacking/camping trips. Also can’t wait to see pictures of your wedding! We got married in September too 🙂 Actually the weekend of the floods in 2013!
Oh man! Was it planned as an indoor wedding? That is my one fear- some rogue storm will come through during our wedding day! We have a tent and whatnot but it sure wouldn’t be what I planned 🙂 Thanks for reading!
Hi, I’m Chris, a/k/a the Last Adventurer. You know me because you were on a Podcast that I hosted. I read your blog because I like your content and the photos. I don’t comment much, but that’s mainly because I’m busy doing like fifty different things. 🙂
I do know you! And I believe you’re probably doing like 100 different things, busy guy 🙂
I sporadically comment. I’m Lauren in Baltimore, MD! I’m a road runner but your outdoor adventures and trail running inspires me to add some of that into the mix in my life!
Definitely try trails! I daresay you won’t ever go back to road 😉
Hey there Heather!
Long time Canadian, long time blog reader. Up in BC, hiking, paddling, cycling, whatever it takes to get outdoors and have fun with the wife and kids.
Always enjoy the reads and the photos.
Have a good one!
I know you! 🙂
Hey! I read your blog once and a while, and never comment due to straight up laziness. I started following you on Twitter and link to your blog that way, love the topics, keep it up 🙂
I’m a mom to a 1 year old and live in beautiful British Columbia, Canada. My husband and are still trying to figure out how to keep our outdoor lifestyle with our new addition! We love to hike and ski (backcountry). Thanks for the push to connect!
Hey Angela! I admire parents that figure out the outdoors-with-children concept. Thanks for commenting!
Hi, it’s Cameron from arizonahikersguide.com
I have been reading your blog for about 6 months. I found out about it through USA Today’s top blogs and your writing style and content really captured my attention. Also, we have communicated through email a few times for which you gave me some great advice about my own site.
A little about me;
I was born and raised in Arizona and have lived here my whole life (with a 4 year stint in northern Idaho). I am a freshman algebra one teacher at a good sized high school in eastern Arizona and teach alongside my wife who also is a math teacher. I am an assistant varsity football coach as well as an assistant baseball coach. Although my fall time gets eaten up by football I still manage to get out into the desert and forest as much as I can.
I started keeping a log of pictures and descriptions of my hiking in Arizona and was asked frequently where to go and what to see. I began arizonahikersguide.com 6 months ago and am still compiling the lists of hikes and photos I have taken throughout the years.
Thanks for the tips you have shared with me and I look forward to reading up on your new adventures!
Cameron
Hey Cameron! Yup, I remember emailing you 😉 Looks like your site is working out very well!
Hello there! I am also a Colorado gal, chillin and living an outdoorsy life. I can’t remember how I came upon your blog, but I’ve been reading it faithfully for the past few months. I love to run, and I love hearing about your backpacking and trail running trips. They make me want to go too! Thanks so much for so many good reads 🙂
Hey Amanda! Glad you enjoy it. Let me know if you find any trails that I MUST hike!
I never comment but I really enjoy reading your blog and dreaming of adventures! I can’t remember how I stumbled across your blog but I’ve been a regular reader for a while now. I’m from the South of Germany and a grad student working on my Ph.D. in law – at least when I’m not outside rowing, running, hiking or skiing. I love spending time outside and enjoy basically every form of physical activity. As I grew up near the Alps I’ve started hiking early and never stopped! Most of my travel involves hiking and exploring, I’m very excited to go to Ecuador this summer, climbing Kilimanjaro three years ago was an experience of a lifetime and I already had the chance to enjoy quite some of the amazing national parks in the US as well :-).
I am dying to climb Kili! Definitely on the bucket list. And yay for Ecuador! I visited about 10 years ago and it is seriously one cool country– it has everything from jungle to beach to high peaks. Have a fantastic trip!
I’m not a “come out of the woodwork” kind of commenter since I’ve pop up in here from time to time but this is so fun! I love reading through all these comments. I’m Erin from Saskatchewan, Canada so I’m 100% jealous of all of your mountain pics 🙁 Basically I love reading your blog for all your awesome content (especially all the women power posts you’ve been writing lately!). Plus, Will’s pictures are to DIE for. In terms of outdoor adventures….they’re hard to come by year round here in Sask. We have some adventure spots but they’re not as easily accessible as Colorado’s. I do love hiking and do a lot of it when I travel (BC & Cali have been my fave). I’m actually planning on doing some local exploring this summer! We have some trails here in Sask that I’ve been wanting to check out for a while and summer is the only time I could go and do it (I’m not one to hike in our super cold winters haha)! We’re pretty flat so it won’t be too challenging but it will be nice to explore the province I live in for once.
Ok, this is probably a ridiculously uneducated question but– is Saskatchewan mainly plains in terms of the landscape?
Hi! I comment only occasionally but I read every one of your posts and find them so inspiring 🙂 I moved to Boulder from NYC about a year ago, and when I moved here had thought I would NEVER become a hiker/nature girl… but partially inspired by your posts, I’ve started really enjoying both. I love how fearless you are and all the awesome adventures you do, and your stories make me feel like if you can do all THAT I can at least go on little day hikes around town 🙂
Thanks Laura, your comment made me smile 🙂 I’m glad to hear you’re getting out there! Did you ever brave the road to Grays last year with your Jeep? I remember you commenting about that!
Sandra from a tiny town in NH. I love your blog its one of the first I discovered. I love your adventures and your photography. Such a cool blog!
Thanks Sandra!
Hello! I am Elizabeth and I am another Colorado blogger! I comment occasionally but not all the time 🙂 I am a huge fan of hiking and adventuring – I would have a really hard time moving away from walking distance adventures!
Oh man, me too. I try not to take our accessible trails for granted!
hi! i’ve been reading your blog for a long time, but don’t think it’ve ever commented?! so, thanks for this post;-)
i’m orginially from germany, studied in the us (sacramento, ca) and have now lived in switzlerland for a little more than 5 years. i love to snowboard and mountain bike, and wakeboard and hike, so i’m in the perfect spot! oh, and i couldn’t live without riding my horse… but have been riding ever since i was a toddler, so that for me doesn’t feel like something special, it’s part of my live like eating and drinking… but i get absolutely miserable when it’s not happening.
i love your blog and the pics!
That is so cool! I’ve been on a horse a handful of times but it’s definitely something I wish I had more experience with. I love the idea of taking your horse out for a day of riding!
Hello! I am Christy and I live in Columbus, Ohio and I Love to ski (thanks to my hubby). I am still learning, I’d say I am somewhere between beginner and Intermediate (mostly due to the fear in my head, and starting in my mid 30’s). Of course Ohio is not the place to be for skiing, but what we have is decent. My true love however is Crested Butte. I also love to hike, bike and this summer I plan to do some kayaking and SUPing for the first time ever. You have definitely inspired me to get back to the adventurous spirit I had in my youth, Thank You for that!!
Hey Christy! My parents both grew up in Bowling green, Ohio so we regularly visit; in fact, my parents bought my grandma’s house after she passed. Ohio brings back so many memories of childhood visits to Grandma’s house! 🙂 Good luck with your SUP adventures this year!
Hey girl! You know I’ve been a long time reader/follower/dare-I-say-it, friend! I love poking by your blog for life updates, photo-loving (Will’s got mad skillz. PS. I’m really curious, what type of gear does he use to protect his gear when he’s out there?), Tally-loving, and general nostalgia for Colorado adventuring. Sorry I never comment. I suck 😛 Hey – let’s try to connect when you hit up Portland next month?? Would I be able to join any wicked adventures?
Ummmmmm. Will’s camera gear is a mystery to me. All I know is that more constantly shows up at the door and I just quit asking the prices 😉 I know he told me that the camera in general has waterproof capabilities and he carries it in a front backpack on his chest while hiking…but that’s all I’ve got. I’ll ask for you and let you know!
And I will keep you posted on Portland! It looks like the trip will be in October and they will have an itinerary planned for us, but I don’t see why we can’t catch up a bit!
Hey there, I’m Darby. I’m originally from Colorado (Evergreen!), but I live in Baltimore now. I’ll be a college freshman in the fall! I’ve been reading your blog for a while now, but haven’t commented yet (whoops). I’ve rock climbed for years, but am just starting to move into outdoor climbing. (Can’t wait to start learning trad!) Besides that, I love to mountain bike, sail, and hike with my Lab/Border-Collie mutt Telltail. I’m so envious of all your CO adventures — I’d love to come back some day!
I’ve always thought trad climbing was so cool! For a brief time, I considered learning how to trad climb but then I remembered that climbing wasn’t my sport 🙂 Also, love the name of your pup!
Hey there, this is a great idea! Well, I read your blog every week, and comment sometimes. I think I found you on IG. I work as a vehicle test driver in California, but my childhood was spent in Mexico. I love biking, hiking, climbing, and pretty much anything that involves outdoor activities. I hope to visit Colorado one day. By the way, great video of you and your dog!
Vehicle test driver?!! What does that entail??
I’ve been reading your blog pretty regularly for about a year now. Something about the idea of wandering through the mountains had always appealed to me but I never really had a chance to do much until after college. I spent a year doing research in Kyrgyzstan before I started grad school and fell completely in love with hiking while there. Luckily the PhD program I started was in California, so I got to spend the next six years exploring the Sierra Nevada and also returning regularly to Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan for research trips. I’ve never skied, snow-shoed, or done much winter mountaineering, but your blog is definitely giving me ideas… 🙂
PS – If you’re looking for some off-the-beaten-track international adventures, I highly recommend Central Asia, especially Kyrgyzstan. It’s a bit of a pain in the ass to get there, but it’s an outdoor lover’s paradise once you arrive.
You know, that’s funny! A group of us has been eyeballing the Pamir Highway through Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan! We had been in talks about doing some mountaineering/trekking/fat biking in that area but our wedding went and messed it all up 😉 I suspect it will happen in the near future though, so I may be looking to you for advice!
That would be a fantastic trip!!! I’d be very happy to help (even with little things like food recommendations in Osh), feel free to email me with questions!
Hey! New reader / first-time commenter here 🙂 I’m a Swede living in Switzerland. I love being in the mountains, so this is pretty much an awesome place to be — between skiing, road biking, hiking, and trail running, it’s always the right season for something! Came across your blog when Sara @ traningsgladje.se (who I see commented above!) listed your blog as a favorite foreign one!
I love how I seem to have some followers over there– they all must have come from Sara! 🙂 Switzerland sounds like a beautiful place- I’d love to visit one day!
Hi! I am a newish reader and sometimes commenter; I found your blog via the Outdoors best-of list last summer after my husband and I visited CO, decided we want to move there someday, and immediately began Googling everything about “live in Colorado”. I also follow/stalk/chat on FB and Twitter 🙂 I live in Michigan and am primarily a runner but and going down the crazy hole into triathlons. I have a giant watch and a wetsuit, so I think I am pretty far gone, lol.
Haha I was the opposite– I started with triathlons, hated swimming, and ended up running 🙂 Good luck this season!
Hi, Sara! I’m a college student from Virginia, and I love vicariously living the Colorado life through your blog! Running, hiking, biking and kayaking are a few of my outdoor favorites, and I’m planning to get into rock climbing and triathlon soon!
Thanks for reading Mariah!
Hi Heather,
What a fun idea. I might have commented before. I honestly don’t remember. About me: I love to run, climb, hike, camp, bike, play in the park with my nephew…and just be outside even if I am not doing any of these activities. I grew up in Loveland, though I haven’t lived there for nearly half my life (!). I spent a lot of time hiking in RMNP as a teenager. I love looking at the CO scenery you post! I have lived in western WA for the past 12 years, since my early 20s, but still think of CO as where I’m from. There is this one stretch of highway 97 in the middle of WA that reminds me so much of CO that every time we drive through I comment on it (and this is often in the warmer months) and every time my fiance says “I know!” It is a running joke between us. When I’m busy with work and need an outdoor fix mid-week (or on Monday morning in this case, even though I just spent the weekend outside), I remember your blog and indulge! I also learn super useful tips, such as re-hydrating with coconut water on a trail run. (Thanks for that!)
Keep it up.
-Julie
My blog as a mid-week fix just made me smile SO hard!
Hi! I’m Mary. I’m from New Jersey and live about 15-20 minutes from the beach. Pretty much the complete opposite of the idiots on MTV’s Jersey Shore. I don’t remember how I stumbled upon your blog but it’s one of my favorites. Mainly because you’re a great writer and your adventures are so different than mine that I really enjoy reading about it. My husband and I are big beach bums and we’re working on instilling the love of the ocean in our 11 month old as well. We love to paddle board and my husband loves to surf. We enjoy snowboarding but the mountains closest too us aren’t much to write home about. Love taking out kiddo out in the BOB stroller and exploring parks and trails nearby. Love following you here and on Instagram (I’m mary7500 on IG)!
Haha I’ve never actually seen the tv show! I do wish we lived closer to an ocean– would be nice for a change of pace.
I found your blog from 14er research online! I used to comment more but then my browser started giving me trouble with commenting, no idea why. I read regularly and love the ideas I’ve gotten here for places I want to camp and hike. I also relate to your devotion to your furry partner 🙂 You’re a great writer!
Thanks Kate! And sorry to hear about the browser– that’s annoying. Sadly, I’m miserable with technology and can’t offer any help 🙂
Thank you for the invitation! I just realized how probably rude it is, but I read so many blogs and never comment. Which isn’t good karma because I really want to start a blog soon and would be pretty bummed to never have comments.
I am a nurse from Arkansas who is actually on the road as I speak to Denver! To live! I’m so excited to adventure around out here for I am all about the outdoors.
your blog is going to come in very handy!
Oh wow! Enjoy your move and settling into your new home!
Hi, I’m Kelly. I found your blog recently, but can’t recall how. I’m from a small town north of Dayton, Ohio. I love to read, hike our many local parks with my dog, travel, compete in pickleball tournaments and Crossfit. I love everything outdoors and wish I had more time for other activities. I’m 53, so retirement isn’t too far away and I plan to add more activities then! I’m going to Park City, Utah at the end of this month if anyone has any suggestions for hiking, etc.
I love Park City! I’ve only been in the winter so I’m not much help on trails unfortunately. Have you noticed that CrossFit helps all those other activities?
Hey, I’m Rob. Rarely comment on any blog, to be honest, but enjoy the adventure and personality of this one. I spent a lot of time in the woods while in the military and have only started to do so as a civilian (read: voluntarily) in the last few years or so. I’m a regular day hiker and occasional biker, kayaker and backpacker. I lost my hiking buddy (a yellow lab named Cayman) a little over 2 years ago and my hikes haven’t been the same since.
Unfortunately, any decent backpacking excursion around here is 3-4 hours away, so reading this is primarily a way to live vicariously.
I bet you have some amazing wilderness stories from your time in the military! And I’m sorry to hear about your pup– they truly are members of the family. Every time I think about Tals getting older, I almost get teary!
you know me! work is crazy and doesn’t leave much time for blogging/reading/social media but i still pop over every so often to see what’s up in A Colorado Gal’s world…and soon will have to live vicariously through your mountain adventures!
Hey there! Jenn here – from the high desert of so. Oregon. I’m a wife and mama and entrepreneur and spend way too many hours in front of a computer. Love the outdoors and being active – not a runner or skier or hiker really…. I guess in my busy life I like to pop onto your blog and others where people are fitting nature into a busy schedule to: 1.) Get a dose of “oh yeah – there is life outside this computer” and 2.) Find some motivation to fit more outside time into my busy schedule – there are sure great examples of people with busy lives who are still spending a good portion of time outdoors! Because really, it’s about priorities… and if I let it, work would (and has previously) take over way too much of my life.
I’m Katie and I live on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, about 30 minutes from the Chesapeake Bay. I’ve followed your blog for a few years but have never commented. Before my twins were born last July, I was always looking for something to do outdoors- hiking, kayaking, gardening… I’m hoping to get back into it this summer! I love reading about your outdoor adventures and I really want to visit Colorado after seeing all of your beautiful pictures. I look forward to reading all of your posts so please keep ’em coming!
Hi Heather,
I’ve chatted to you a couple of times. Been reading your blog about three years, love the outdoor stuff, It always inspires me. I also love the tales of Colorado. I have family out there (my dad is currently in Grand Junction visiting my grandma) and it helps me remember the places I love out there.
I’m into some slow running, slow road biking, wussy mountain biking, crap climbing and am currently backpacking across Scotland. My feet may fall off. Seriously.
Hey! I’m Analise, from a suburb outside of Detroit in Michigan, currently a high school senior! I typically check your blog during school, dreaming about the mountains 🙂 I’m into skiing and backpacking, thanks to my family in Bozeman, Montana and always looking for the next adventure. This summer’s adventure is a 5 day backpacking trip along Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Anyways, love your blog and you’ve made me want to go yurt skiing!
Heather –
Love your blog. Been following it for almost a year, since I’ve become a Colorado resident. I love it here, and your site inspires me to try new adventures. Can’t wait to get out there. See you on the trails!
Your blog is so inspirational and the photos are absolutely beautiful! I live in North Idaho near the Montana border and love hiking in the nearby Cabinet and Bitterroot Mountains. I hiked to Trapper Peak in the Bitterroots this past weekend (10,157 ft) trying to get my climbing legs ready for my first 14er in Colorado this summer. We’re thinking Mt. Elbert of course since it’s the highest and maybe Quandary Peak. Can’t wait to explore Colorado!
Hey there! I googled “Hiking Blogs” and yours popped up on a top ten list. I just moved to Colorado from Michigan where there are tons of lakes, but no mountains, so I wanted some tips on hiking, etc. here! I just hiked my first 14-er the other day with my husband (you can check it out here The Climb ) and now all I want to do is climb some more mountains. If you have beginner 14-er suggestions, I’ll take em’! Love your blog & photography!
I live in Michigan and dream of living in Colorado! Can I ask what led you to make the move? Husband is continuously plotting ways to get to CO and I would love to be out of MI someday.
Hey! My husband and I are big outdoors people and we are in love with mountains! We put our house up for sale, sold it, my husband got a job in Denver and we just did it! We packed a small uhaul and didn’t look back. It was one of the best decisions we’ve ever made! On our days off we go hiking. Let me know if you have more questions, I’m happy to help!
Thanks! That sounds awesome 🙂 I never thought of Colorado as a long term option till we visited last summer, my husband was off the plane for about five minutes before he said “so how long until we can move here?” We recently bought a house here in the Mitten but would be ok moving in 4 ish years… I’m in a grad program right now so once I get through that with some work experience we will likely look at moving. I hope I will have the courage to just up and go someday.
Hi Heather:
I LOVE your blog. I came across it looking for hikes and camping with dogs. I’m also in my 30’s, live in Denver, have dogs, and am newly married. I never truly realized how much I loved the outdoors and adventures it brings until I moved to Colorado and met my husband. I grew up in Washington state and my parents always planned family vacations around camping and national parks. I definitely did not appreciate all those trips until now. I love getting ideas from your blog and your overall adventurous spirit and love for life. Anyway, just wanted to say hello!
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