Annual Girls Only Backpacking Trip

Oh how much do I cherish this trip?  So much!!!!  This is my 3rd year attending this trip, and each year it gets easier.  The packing list is already done, my packing skills are better, and I usually have a fun new trinket to add to make things easier or lighter.  One of the perks this year was a mattress that worked the whole time!! I've never gone on this trip and had that happen.  Let me tell you-that makes a huge difference when you sleep in the backcountry. 

This trip is so precious for me.  It involves ladies that are so understanding, great listeners, love to adventure, positive, and so so lovely.  We talk about severely intimate things, with no judgment. in the most beautiful scenery possible.  We explore feelings on topics that are dear to us.  We share successes and goals, and struggles and how we are doing with it all.  We support our need for companionship, as well as time for quiet. 

This year the trip happened to land on my MIL's birthday.  This brought up so many feelings.  So loved when I did this trip.  It made her so happy that I was going away with my girlfriends and exploring nature.  She gladly watched the kids, and awaited my stories and pictures.  It's been a hard summer.  I think that is why I continue to stay busy.  When I'm at home with the kids, it's easy to miss her presence terribly.  I felt very grateful to be in the mountains on her birthday.  During some meditation time I felt my grief for her.  I thought about so many lovely memories I had for her.  We all even let out a yell to the mountains.  That was a magical moment for me in handling all my feelings. 

I feel very lucky to have bonded with these ladies, and been allowed into this amazing group.  This is a trip that I will await for each year!!

-Megan