Each week we bring you a personal story from one of our members. For our member profile this week we talked to ....
Hometown: Åtvidaberg, Sweden
Favorite Activities: I like all things outdoors, but if I have to pick top 3 it would be Mountaineering, Scuba Diving, and Skiing.
10 Essentials: Questions
How did you get involved with The Mountaineers?
I had recently moved to Seattle from Australia when I joined The Mountaineers. I was excited to be back in the mountains and snow (I grew up in Sweden) after 11 years in the tropics. While I grew up skiing and already did a fair amount of hiking and scrambling, I wanted the skills to get to more remote places with less people and stunning views.
What motivates you to get outside with us?
The Mountaineers have always been a very welcoming organisation, allowing me to grow and learn new skills while having fun. As a climb leader and SIG instructor I get the immense joy of teaching others and I get to experience the excitement and sense of achievement when a student summits their first peak, there really is nothing better.
What's your favorite Mountaineers memory?
Wow. That is a tough question. So many good memories. But one that really stands out was my very first Glacier Climb with The Mountaineers. We were climbing Mt. Baker and, at 2am as I crawled out of my tent for our Alpine start, I was greeted by Northern Lights dancing across the star studded sky. That has got to be the prettiest summit push ever.
Who/What inspires you?
I am inspired by so many people, I think everyone has something unique to bring to the table and I am constantly learning new things. Being a science geek I am also incredibly inspired by nature and wildlife, and the people who work hard to protect this planet.
What does adventure mean to you?
For me adventure is when things don't go according to plan, when you are forced to improvise, problem solve, and be fluid.
Editor's note: Ida is also a published author! She just self-published a murder -mystery book ripe with intrigue and adventure in the mountains. Check it out.
Lightning Round
Sunrise or sunset? Sunrise.
Smile or game face? Smile.
What's your happy place? Submerged in the ocean or watching sunrise from a mountain top.
Post-adventure meal of choice? Chicken fried rice and a beer at Mondo in Marblemount.
If you could be a rock star at any outdoor activity overnight, what would it be? Backcountry skiing.
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