We saw three other couples on the break. One was definitely having a tense moment. Hiking with your partner can be hard at times. Being alone with someone else for 24 hours a day is not something most people are used to. I've been surprised by how often we hike together and don't talk at all. That's actually more common than having a conversation while walking.

We found a great campsite by a little creek for the night. We were talking about trail names and Snowshoe said I should be something fun like "Sunshine" or "BeBop." He suggested Sunshine because He said I "brighten everything up." I told him that I really do go by "Stacy Raye of Sunshine" in real life. He was amazed at the coincidence , it was very nice.

“I think perfectionism is based on the obsessive belief that if you run carefully enough, hitting each stepping-stone just right, you won't have to die. The truth is that you will die anyway and that a lot of people who aren't even looking at their feet are going to do a whole lot better than you, and have a lot more fun while they're doing it.”

- Anne Lamott, Bird by Bird

Inclusivity is important to me in spaces both on and off the trail. My privilege as a white woman means that I don't have to consider my race and how it may play into my safety in small town along the trail.

I am deeply humbled and honored that you have chosen to support me on this journey. There are so many causes, organizations, communities, families and individuals that need our help right now. The help that you are giving to others right now is making a huge difference. Thanks for shining some of your light on me and on other survivors of sexual violence!

After my dinner that night with Meredith, everything shifted for me. I could see clearly that the hike could not only give me the opportunity to raise funds for a cause I care deeply about but it could also help me honor and strengthen my relationship with my LOVE! What an incredible combination. I just couldn’t miss it.