Posted by Mikaela Cowles Judd

We weren't an "outdoorsy family." My mom, always said, “Camping is one bathroom and slow room service."

So while I grew up hunting with my dad and building forts in the backyard, my childhood was spent with easy access to a shower and a soft bed.

But the older I've grown, the more I've learned to love the outdoors. The more I relish nature. It's a passion I can't wait to share with this little girl and continue to foster in myself.

A huge shoutout to Rachel Zupke for letting a novice hiker tag along and for introducing me to the amazing Brenda Ulinski — who graciously captured the pictures in this piece. You two fill my heart with joy. I can't wait to hit the trail with you again, perhaps with a little friend!