I'm a retired teacher, lifelong trail lover, and writer (novelist and essayist). Born in Seattle, WA, I've lived in Western Washington my entire life, except for four years when I was teaching overseas. I love this region's islands, rain forests, mountains, rivers, and ocean beaches. I also love its creative, active, environmentally conscious, forward-thinking, eccentric, and down-to-earth people. LNT is my byword and wish for all of us who enjoy the outdoors. Hike on!