A Surprising Bucket List Item I Had No Idea About

I was raised fairly conservatively.

I suppose that’s the reason I can count on one hand how many times I’ve actually been skinny dipping

Ironically, all 4 times have been in different states. New Mexico (#sorrynotsorry Philmont), California – in the Northernmost glacier lake of the Sierras on the Pacific Crest Trail, and yes, there was still ice floating in it. Montana, with a dear friend and soul sister who off handedly mentioned it in passing as we drove by a lake; 4 minutes later we were in it sans clothing. And I can now proudly add another: Oregon. In Lower Rosary Lake (my Mother, all her friends, and probably the Pope would be TERRIBLY scandalized), off the Pacific Crest Trail just north of Shelter Cove Resort.

It literally called to me as I walked past

I took a spiffy photograph of the sun on it’s daily descent while it provided a background for said lake, with a web made by a rather talented spider. I’m talking this arachnid got top marks in design class. Solid A++. As I noticed how clear the water was, and snapped another, I suddenly found myself unclipping my pack, sitting on a rock, unlacing my shoes, and taking everything off before I really knew what was happening.

And I don’t regret it in the slightest

The water was literally the perfect temperature – miraculous considering how cold the trail had been. And though I was right on the trail, I blessedly had it all to myself. Well, there was a mother duck, three ducklings, some fish, water bugs, and the Spider whom I decided was named Sam. And it was perfection. I hadn’t had such a clarifying moment with nature on that hike to date.

It only took 1,914 miles but by gosh, mission accomplished, and accomplished well. I felt reborn, and ready to tackle the last 735ish miles, and I hope with every fiber of my being that at some point you, dear reader will also have this moment with nature. I wish I could put into words what it feels like, but all I can think of is: you are the only human on the planet, in a natural safe Haven, marinating in a moment of harmony and your own heartbeat.

Also, question, do you have a bucket list item you didn’t even realize?

Apparently I have to skinny dip in every state. I better get on that. Lots of places I still need to grace with the presence of my birthday suit. Sorry Mom – don’t worry, I’m certain Jesus still loves me.

Never stop exploring. Embrace the suck. I. Believe. In. YOU. kk ily <3