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: Anna Constance
Hometown: Minneapolis, MN
Member Since: August 2016 (was also a member in 2011)
Occupation: Naturalist
Favorite Activities: My favorite outdoor activities are walking, hiking, backpacking, biking, kayaking, and identifying different elements of the natural world. I just love being outside!
10 Essentials: Questions
How did you get involved with The Mountaineers?
In college I went backpacking a few times and since then I have seen myself as someone who goes hiking and backpacking; however, in 2011 I came to the realization that even though I wanted to get outside on adventures, I was not good at doing it on my own. I joined The Mountaineers to meet people and to assure that I get out there because signing up for a trip holds me accountable. I was pretty active for the first few months after I joined in 2011, but then I got distracted with life for 5 years. I just rejoined The Mountaineers in August 2016. I am really excited to be back!
What motivates you to get outside with us?
I am really inspired by so many aspects of this organization-the founding and the legacy, the emphasis on conservation and stewardship, and the really generous, passionate, kind, and fun members that I meet. It is amazing to me that The Mountaineers is largely run by volunteers. Because the organization is composed of such dedicated and passionate members, I am inspired to look at the ways I can give back to the organization and the world. Eventually, I would like to be a hike, backpack, and Naturalist trip leader as well as a youth programs volunteer; however, right now it is really nice having someone else plan a trip and I just have to show up!
What's your favorite Mountaineers memory?
My favorite Mountaineers trips have been with the Naturalist Committee. I love spending time outside with people who enjoy getting to know the natural world around them. In 2011, I participated in the Intro to the Natural World course. One of the trips we took was to the Teanaway. I spent the weekend camping and hiking in this remarkable place. Esmeralda basin, with its wildflower meadows, was especially memorable.
Who/What inspires you?
Nature and children inspire me. Nature is magnificent in its beauty, power, diversity, and ability to heal. Children are great because they are really real. They will tell you how it is-what they think and what they feel. I also appreciate their curiosity and inquisitiveness.
What does adventure mean to you?
I think life is an adventure. Anything can be seen as an adventure. In fact I am the most delighted when I make the everyday, ordinary events an adventure and stop to marvel in the moment.
Lightning Round
Sunrise or sunset? Sunrise.
Smile or game face? Smile.
What's your happy place? At a lake surrounded by trees.
What's your post-adventure meal of choice? Tacos.
If you could be a rock star at any outdoor activity overnight, what would it be? Rock climbing.
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