Photos

Go ahead...soak in the cuteness!

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If I wasn’t there myself, I wouldn’t think this place was real. I still have so much to share from this trip and I was almost going to apologize for the overload of pics to come. But then I stopped myself. Sure, social media is a highlight reel and not every day is filled with cool trips and crazy adventures. But I’m excited and proud of what I’ve been able to do and see and I hope it inspires others to get outside and explore. So I’m going to share away... 🤘

This day on the Wonderland Trail was rainy, freezing, and included a 2800-foot climb to a lake I couldn’t even see. As miserable as it sounds, it was one of my favorite days on the trail. The jagged cliffs looked mysterious in the fog, the reds, yellows and blues of the wildflowers jumped out in the blanket of gray, and Mowich Lake had an eerie calm to it despite the draw from the day-hikers that simply jumped out of their cars for a quick stroll. Eventually, as a sat down to make a warm bowl of oatmeal under the porch at the Ranger Station, the clouds lifted and I was able to watch the lake appear right before my eyes. And after, while I enjoyed the relief of the downhill portion of my day, the sun poked through and I could shed some soggy layers. This was life on the trail and even though it’s a struggle, I’m trying so dang hard to stay in that mentality in “real life”. There are still good parts in crappy days and, eventually, the fog does lift.

“Not all girls are made of sugar and spice and everything nice. Some girls are made of adventure, fine beer, brains, and no fear.” – Anonymous

Last night I was having the discussion with someone about what makes us each happy. All I needed to do is reflect on my travels over the past few weeks to sum it up...being outside, taking tons of pictures, exploring new places, hiking, music, spending time in my van, accomplishing something independently, being spontaneous, and hanging out with friends and family. I try my hardest to center my life around those things because, in the end, it’s what really matters and we aren’t guaranteed to be here until old age. So keep your priorities in check and create the life that works for YOU.

Sometimes I feel like I’m never home. But damn if these desert sunsets don’t draw me back every time. 😍

After taking a day out of the park, I’m pretty sure this was my favorite section of the Wonderland Trail. Right behind me was powerful Tahoma Glacier (it’s brown with sediment), a huge waterfall decorated the landscape, and Emerald Ridge opened up to incredible 360 degree views. Words just can’t even explain. We are so damn small. 💚🏔💙

I did it!!! I may have shed a couple tears when I walked off the Wonderland Trail this morning. I can’t believe I completed 100 miles of solo backpacking without a hitch - not even a blister. Now to digest it all, get caught up on regular life stuff, and make the trek back to the desert. Can’t wait to share more...

Everywhere I turn, there is an empty beach just waiting to be explored. Challenge accepted...

Sarah McGraw is a professional traveling pet photographer specializing in natural, candid-style dog, cat, and pet portraits taken on-location for commercial clients and small businesses.

©2019 McGraw Photography, LLC

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