Hello everyone!
I am SO excited to launch my first blog post! This blog has been in the making for many months and as a strong woman who loves adventuring outside, I found that there was not a lot of information out there geared towards maintaining our beauty and femininity in the outdoors. Yes, I am talking about sweat proof makeup, how to prevent chaffing (yes I just said that), the best skincare products, essential oils, dry shampoos (for those multi-day backpacking trips), my favorite caffeinated “pick me ups”, and of course, how to keep our feet blister free so we don't frighten the manicurists at the nail salon. (You all know exactly what I am talking about! It is always embarrassing to explain to your nail lady why you do NOT want those calluses removed or why your toenails are half black/half falling off!).
Seeking outer beauty in the wild is just one half of our vision.
This blog will also focus on empowering women to find confidence on the trails by seeking inner beauty. Whether you are battling depression, overcoming a past or recent trauma or are still trying to find your path, nature has been shown to heal past and present wounds and I am here to share my personal journeys with you. I hope we can bring you light, laughter, inspiration and knowledge to any outdoor adventure you are seeking.
Meet Kristen
Snow hiking to Cucamonga peak
I was born and raised in Orange County, California but spent 10 years away from home after graduating high school. I have lived in Santa Barbara, the Dutch Caribbean, Kansas City, Chicago, Connecticut, Baltimore, Louisiana, Tennessee, Tanzania, Italy and India. I have settled back in Orange County, Ca. although my heart will always remain in Tanzania.
I LOVE burritos. Everyone that knows me is very aware I can eat a one-pound chicken burrito (no cheese) in under 10 minutes. In fact, I have no desire to eat chicken, except in a burrito (and sometimes a taco). After every hike, you can guarantee I am searching for places to get a burrito.
I had a llama named Sierra Nevada while growing up. I have been spit on more times than I can count.
My uncle taught my brother and I how to fly fish when we were children. As an adult, I do not enjoy any type of fishing. (I hate it when the fish are wiggling around with the hook stuck in their mouth…gross).
I started hiking, camping, and backpacking at a very young age and I am convinced I acquired the “adventure gene” from my dear uncle John, whom I adore.
When I was in second grade, I was stuck in the largest hurricane to ever hit Hawaii. My family and I were stuck in a shelter with no electricity or running water for five days. My mom got in a physical altercation in the food line because the woman in front of her tried to steal our food. (Go mom).
I am OBSESSED with sparkling water. The best on the market is Perrier grapefruit.
I have my advanced open water PADI scuba certification and I try to go on one big dive trip a year. I will be diving in Peru in April.
I am an amazing cook (no humility here) and will spend hours in the kitchen for anyone who wants to eat.
I am deathly allergic to all dairy since birth. (Almond, cashew, soy, date and coconut milk, YES please)
Thanks for reading and see you on the trails,
Kristen
#goldenstateofminds
