My name is Tara. I'm a yoga teacher, MindBody practitioner, spinning instructor, hiker/backpacker, education junkie, tree hugger, meditator, foodie, health nut, tomboy. I'm passionate about our relationship to the natural world and find pleasure in living a minimalist lifestyle. I thrive on adventure and have insatiable curiosity.I’m hiking to have myself a little “Alice in Wonderland” adventure by jumping into the rabbit hole. I have very few expectations and I am doing my best to let the hike unfold naturally as it happens. I do hope to meet interesting people to hear their stories, and also embrace the opportunity to immerse myself in the thru-hiking culture. Although I am sure I will get to know myself a little better, I am not attempting to “discover myself” on trail. I do aim to inspire others by persevering through the many challenges I will overcome. As a widow and single mom, it’s imperative that I be a role model for my two young adult children as they look to me for guidance. I want to show them how to connect with nature and immerse oneself in a journey with strong intentions and a big dose of self-acceptance and love. And finally, as a long time student and teacher of yoga, I want to share my passion and knowledge to others on trail. Perhaps the wisdom of the tradition can help “lighten their load” a bit or at the very least free up some tight muscles and relieve some tension.I want to share my story. I don’t know what that story will be, but I do know that it’s through our stories that we evolve and grow as a community. It’s exciting to think I could inspire and entertain people I will never have the opportunity to meet. And maybe I’ll be of service in ways that would be impossible otherwise.
Posts
Wandering in the Wonder
I hope I can allow this adventure to infect me … yes, infect me - with community, simplicity, and awe.
The Things We Carry
So why am I adding things now - at the last minute? I’ve been given gifts to carry.
Dial In Your Nutrition- Thru Hike Strategy
Nutrition is important to me. If it’s important to you too, you may find my experiences useful.
2024 AT Thru-Hike Gear List
I remember asking my brother, a fellow thru-hiker, what gear to buy. His advice was “you have to experiment for yourself”. That was NOT the answer I wanted to hear.
Visions of Mountain Views Danced in My Head
Only VISION allows us to transform dreams of greatness into the reality of achievement through human action. has no boundaries and knows no limits. Our VISION is what we become in life. ~ Tony Dungy
What Sets Me Apart From Other Hikers Attempting a Thru-Hike?
Perhaps, the only really thing I have going for me is the ability to “embrace the suck” knowing that on the other side of the suck is the delight and awe that I’m seeking.
DIY: Windscreen for MSR Pocket Rocket and Toaks Cookpot
After a backpacking trip, I found myself in possession of a few thick, aluminum sheets, and figured, why not?
Foot Care for Hikers On and Off Trail
I know some hikers say your foot grows on trail but I’ve hiked over 4K miles these last three years … I sure hope my foot is done growing!
Just Look for the Helpers
“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” ~Mr. Rogers
Is It My Turn Yet? Strategies for Waiting
I’m Ready. I’m SO READY. I don’t think I could possibly be ready-er, readier, more ready.Actually, that’s only half true.And ...Since my personality houses a big dose of spontaneity and very little patience - well…