The Mountaineers
Each week we bring you a personal story from one of our members. For our member profile this week we talked to..
Name Reine Abubakar (she/her)
Hometown Manila, Philippines
Member Since 2022
Occupation User Experience Designer
Favorite Activities Scrambling, hiking, tidepooling, birding
10 Essential Questions
What first brought you to The Mountaineers?
After living in Seattle for a decade, I decided it was finally time to pick up a hobby that I could do in the winter. My mom saw information about the Basic Snowshoeing course on Facebook, and we both ended up taking it in 2022. Having grown up somewhere tropical, I never imagined enjoying the snow as much as I do now, and I have The Mountaineers to thank for that!
Why do you like getting outside with us?
The Mountaineers has helped me build my confidence in the outdoors tremendously, especially as someone who didn't grow up "outdoorsy." Mountaineers courses are thorough, and it's amazing to have the opportunity to learn from such a large community. You meet so many people from different backgrounds and experience levels. Every time I go on a trip, I learn something new, whether it's about the outdoors or not!
What's your favorite Mountaineers memory?
On my first attempt to snowshoe up Panorama Point in Mount Rainier National Park, there were 35+ mph winds at the top of the first big slope near the summit. We all agreed to forget about the rest of the trail and make our way back down. In the safety of relatively flat ground and the expanse of pillowy snow, there was something comical about how we'd silently walk forward and then quickly face our backs to the wind every time a strong gust came along. It was like a child's game... racing to get as far as you can before you had to 'freeze'.
I grinned from ear to ear; I was just happy to be outside. Making eye contact with the trip leader, he yelled, "A smile! At least one of us is still having fun!" We all laughed. We were all having fun. Having only gone on simple hikes before, I had never not reached the summit. Still, I felt so much joy to be surrounded by other people who were just happy to skip around in the snow. As cliche as it was, I finally understood that it was more about the journey than the destination.
Who/What inspires you?
My parents have always set an example of pursuing your interests. They told me that everything is learn-able, and as long as I put enough time and effort towards something, I can succeed. Throughout my life, I've always admired their curiosity about the world and their abilities to try new things unflinchingly.
What does adventure mean to you?
Adventure is an exciting, open-ended journey that may have an end goal in mind. In an adventure, there are risks physically, mentally, or emotionally as you step out of what you are used to.
Lightning round
Sunrise or sunset? Sunset
Smile or game face? Smile
What's your 11th Essential? One time I brought a full bottle of ketchup to the summit of Mt. St. Helens, so I joke that's my 11th Essential
Post-adventure meal of choice? Hotpot
If you could be a rockstar at any outdoor activity overnight, what would it be? Anything in the water - I can't swim!
NOMINATE YOURSELF FOR MOUNTAINEER OF THE WEEK
Mountaineers come in all shapes and sizes, varying widely in age, outdoor experience, and length of time involved in The Mountaineers. Part of what makes our community so unique is the broad diversity of our membership, and we hope these weekly features highlight who we are and why our community plays an important part in feeling belonging in the outdoors. We are always seeking self-nominations for our Mountaineer of the Week, and we invite you to share your story. Trust us, we want to hear from you!
Want to nominate a friend? Email Bayley Stejer to make a recommendation.
