“We live in a world that values us for how fast we go, for how much we accomplish, for how much life we can pack into one day. But I’m coming to believe it’s the in-between spaces that our lives change, and that the real beauty lies there.”
Shauna Niequist
Those in-between spaces is what I am craving more of. I look forward to the rare moments of reprieve where I can quiet my mind and move away from the constant concern I’m running out of time to accomplish it all. It’s as though time and I are in a competition. The more I speed up to achieve productivity, the faster time moves, always two strides ahead of me, laughing as if to say “you’ll never catch up!” It a challenging season in my life to find the balance between activity and idleness.
On 4th of July weekend, I took a much needed time out. Jared and I backpacked into the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest , up to Robin Lakes in search of rejuvenation and connection with nature and each other. While the swirling activity of daily life (work, wedding planning, nurturing relationships, finding a new place to live, etc) can inevitably make existence seem stressed and chaotic, in the mountains each step up brings clarity and serenity. The farther we hiked, the more distance I felt from obligations and to do lists and the closer I felt to Jared and my spirit. At 8 miles and 6,300 ft, we pitched our tent and settled in for a weekend of simplicity.
Stopping to rest, take in the views and look for a spot to set up camp! We were in the market for prime waterfront real estate. 
I miss waking up to this scene every morning. We were surrounded by cute mountain goat families all weekend!
We took a gorgeous day hike up to Granite Mountain.With no real trail to follow, we scrambled up and over rocks. 
Already questioning which mountain we should hike next. We have a long list to choose from! 
Hiking out but not quite ready to leave. Already prepared for our next backpacking venture…. If you have any suggestions for trips please comment and share!
For more travel and inspiration check out my instagram and pintrest.
