I'd always had an interest of pushing my limits and was intrigued by endurance.

A lot of people talk about the trail healing them, but I feel like, the first time, it humbled me, which I probably needed. It was a completely new way to experience the world and my body.

I was surrounded by life and beauty. My soul was content, and my life felt full.

One thing I think I've always felt about being in nature is that it's a very natural taste.

I know that I was hiking at a very young age because I remember being convinced that it was the trees that were talking.

Going into the woods, you can go as fast or as slow as you want. It's restorative. Even when I was young, the wilderness offered not only adventure but also therapy and peace: a place to be alone with your thoughts.

Writing is one of the main ways that I process the experience.