In 2012 I thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail from South to North. I finished in October, and it has proven to be one of the most meaningful things I have done in years.

The evolution of knowledge is great- but being able to apply it to life is what requires a sense of humor.. and art. I don't have much to teach, except a profound respect for what I do not know :-). Learn: if you have joy in learning, that you are set. Somethings have to be simply endured.. for all the others the successful application of childlike fascination seems to work better. Just learn how to hide it :-)... Share: I was doing a Spring snow climb on North Maroon Peak (outside Aspen, Colorado). After a long and exposed snow climb my partner and I had trouble descending. The kind of descent that leaves gear behind and running out of time.. I became "concerned". While giving too much vent to that concern my partner grabbed the front of my jacket, and said: "If I get stuck on a ledge tonight, I'm getting stuck there with an optimist!". I Never forgot that.

A good sense of direction (if you like to get lost). A practiced sense of compassion. Love of history, science, physics, and art. Allot of Chuck Norris jokes. Concrete skills: carpentry (rough), emergency medicine, backcountry travel, trad climbing, canyoneering, long distance backpacking, brewing, rafting, and the ability to cook. If someone teaches me.. Oh yeah: and a love of good beer.

I like being outside. My passions are learning, climbing, hiking, bicycle touring, and having a well earned beer.