Thoughts & Things
In today’s modern society, humans are often over-stimulated by constant communication or over-saturated by technology. Even the word solitude, for many, carries a negative connotation, a weightiness associated with loneliness. I learned long ago that sweet moments of solitude are the necessary reset my mind and body needs
Education
New site is up and running! Check out theparkpilgrim.com (47parks.com still works).
What makes a natural space a place? What is it about these outdoor locations that grow, move, and change depending on the rise and fall of meaning that we, as humans, assign to them? What makes a local environment feel like home?… Read more
Thoughts & Things
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is with great pleasure that I announce the soon-to-be, greatly-anticipated, brand-spanking-new website for 47parks. My journey to every national park in the country was finished in June of 2017, yet the adventure continues. I am officially rebranding as The Park Pilgrim, and I look forward to chronicling my explorations locally, nationally, … Read more
47 Parks
Move, Coast, Repeat (Great Sand Dunes)
She grips the cube of wax in hand, wielded like a sword
Plopping down on the sand, she quickly flips the board
Then like a desert artist, she draws a spiraling curl
Quite certain of the purpose – intent to give a whirl
She carefully removes her boots and … Read more
Regional Parks
February is the month of introspection and restlessness. Typically winter lolls about like a tantrumming toddler, beating its fists and creating headaches all around.
This year feels different. Perhaps it’s the mild weather (78° anyone???), or maybe it’s due to the plethora of random activities in which I’ve been dabbling.* In any case, I’ve been … Read more
47 Parks
The 47parks 2018 calendar is here! (Well, technically it’s online for you to order). Lulu assures me that it’ll arrive by Christmas if purchased by the 12th of December.
A sneak peak:
Lots of blue in this one, folks – sky, lakes, oceans, etc.
47 Parks
Just Drive (Shenandoah)
A serene road
Up, down, and slightly around
Epic sunsets
And sunrises that make you think beyond
Overlooks that communicate
A different message each part of the day
Pull-offs that push your imagination
Sights that stimulate your eyes
Then back in the car
Steer through a place of wonder
Content to be … Read more
Thoughts & Things
I gathered the paper work and removed the key from my ring. I knew this day would come, and was prepared both logistically and emotionally. A mere week after posting Clarence’s adorable picture on Craigslist, I had found a buyer.
A little over a year ago, I purchased this teardrop trailer (affectionately named Clarence) in … Read more
47 Parks
Every park that I’ve been to is special in it’s own way. The diversity found within the natural areas of our country is truly astounding.
That being said, some parks piqued my interest a little more than others.
Introducing my favorites…
(1) Best Hiking: Redwood Forest
(2) Best Desert Park: Joshua Tree
(3) Best Lil’ … Read more
47 Parks
If you recall, I almost hit a bear in North Cascades.
In Wisconsin, I wasn’t as lucky with my wildlife avoidance.
There I was, cruising down the highway, looking forward to crawling into my camper for a good night’s sleep. According to my GPS, I was 5 minutes from my stopping point. I was alert, … Read more
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