I began learning to climb (& guide) at the relatively advanced age of 23. I remember every phase of the steep learning curve that was my path (climbing Rainier for the 1st time in 2000, getting hired as a Rainier guide the next year and summiting my first 8,000m peak that fall, then launching into AMGA course work in 2003 and achieving IFMGA status in 2007). I remember learning all of the critical skills, along with the stress of not knowing them, and I believe this helps me to share that knowledge in a compassionate way with newer guides. I have also run a small, independent guide service, along with my husband, for 25+ years. This has given me a deep understanding of the benefits and challenges of a guiding lifestyle.

Sharing what I know while also learning from other instructors/students and continuing to refine my own skill set.

I love any physical activity in wild places. I am also recently coming to appreciate slow time - I have been learning to draw which forces one to take time and really see the world around them.