This is my friend @katieboue. She is one of the most tireless advocates for our outdoor spaces that I know. It was her birthday this week, and all she wants is for people to pledge to #VoteTheOutdoors. @outdoorindustry has developed a Voter’s Guide to help you pick the best politicians to protect public lands – accessed via the link in my profile. I pledge to vote the outdoors, do you? Let’s make Katie’s birthday wishes come true.
As I was preparing for Cho Oyu, I was filled with inspiration when I heard the news that Hanifa Yousoufi became the first female Afghan climber to summit Mount Noshaq, Afghanistan’s tallest peak (7500m/24,580’). The story became even more personal when I found out my friend, mountain guide @emiliedrinkwater, helped support Hanifa in reaching her goal.From Emilie: “It takes determination and strength of character to rise above war, oppression, and Taliban influence to turn yourself into a climber and become the first Afghan woman to reach the summit of the country’s highest peak, Mt Noshaq. Our small, multi-national team was there to support Hanifa Yousoufi during this historic climb, and while this was one of the harder more dangerous things I’ve ever done, I’d trade it for nothing. I left Kabul amid rocket attacks and increasing instability. I’m lucky that I can leave (despite a love and fascination with this country) but for Hanifa and all my Afghan friends, know that I’m thinking of you and hoping for great security (and more climbing!) in your future.” ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀When I talked to Emilie about why Hanifa wanted to climb the highest peak, she said it was because that’s where she felt most free. It’s something that every outdoors person can relate to. That is why I feel so strongly that we need to make the outdoors more inclusive so everyone has the opportunity to feel that sense of freedom. #MountainsAreForEveryone Happy belated #DayOfTheGirlPhotos by Emilie Drinkwater and Vibs Sefland.
Democracy requires showing up. Here’s a little reminder from @patagonia founder, Yvon Chouinard. #MidtermsMatter Is everyone planning to vote? If not, how come? Visit the link in my profile or below for more info:https://www.patagonia.com/midterm-elections-2018.html
First day of Utah skiing (day 3 for me)! Surprisingly good coverage. Stoked to be on skis!Photo: @katefbowman
The truth is, I miss being on Cho Oyu, on my first Himalayan expedition, terribly. The first week of being home has been a challenge. When I’m climbing and skiing a big mountain, I love the focus and clarity I have. At home, I get easily overwhelmed and feel pulled in a million directions. It’s easy to talk about the highs, the proposal, the engagement, the summit! But it isn’t easy to talk about the lows, the big stack of medical bills to pay, the IRS deadline coming up, the slideshow prep, the big feeling of emptiness, of questioning, of rest and recovery. Post expedition/vacation depression is real. So today, for #worldmentalhealthday, let’s continue to break the stigma of talking about mental health. I think a lot of us in the outdoor community struggle with these issues a lot more than we let on, and by coming together and sharing openly and honestly, we can normalize these feelings and create a more resilient and happy community going forward. Sending love to all of you.