I've never been much of an outdoorsy person. My family went camping once or twice growing up, but much preferred vacationing to Disneyland if possible. This past summer though I got my first couple experiences with day hiking, and even a short backpacking trip with an amazing group of women. Since then I've made it a point to try to get out more often, to explore and observe, and to quiet my heart and mind in these lovely, natural worlds of greenery and water, rocks and trails...

Yesterday I drove out to Yankee Jim's Bridge just past Auburn, California. I went alone, and experienced a great amount of fear and self-doubt starting with the 5 mile windy, unpaved road that lead to the actual bridge. The road was incredibly narrow; I didn't even know what I would do had car come up to me in the other direction. There were potholes and dips, uneven terrain and curves galore. I doubted myself in thinking I couldn't handle the road. I had images in my mind of my car getting stuck in a pothole and having to walk to get help and then getting abducted or murdered (I know, dramatic isn't it). But I kept pushing on. I kept letting go of those doubts, and when I got to the bridge, I felt such a sense of pride. I walked along a couple trails, also feeling fear and doubt and anxiety about being alone out there. But every once in a while another hiker would walk by, all very friendly and safe, and I started to settle more.

I am so happy with the pictures I captured. But I'm even more thankful for the courage and bravery I proved to myself.

xxo