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 Kimberly Hardman (she/her)
Member Since June 2023
Hometown Seattle, WA
Occupation Educator
Favorite Activities Running, mountaineering, hiking, climbing, cycling, rowing, skiing, and pretty much anything outside!
10 ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS:
WHAT FIRST BROUGHT YOU TO THE MOUNTAINEERS?
I came seeking to relearn, learn, and find and build community. My family were Mountaineers members starting back in the 80s, and I have fond memories going on outings with others who share a love of nature and the outdoors. As I approach my 50th year of life, I am desiring more of what I enjoyed in my 20s before I started my family and The Mountaineers is where I find it.
WHY DO YOU LIKE GETTING OUTSIDE WITH US?
I love the idea and opportunity to go outside with like-minded people who are educated, care about nature, and love good times! I think we all bring something unique to every experience and create a space that fills my heart, body, and soul!
WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE MOUNTAINEERS MEMORY?
I loved staying at the lodges in the winter when I was young. We would go inner tubing at night and have bonfires. I met the best people on those trips to the mountains and remember feeling so much joy!
WHO/WHAT INSPIRES YOU?
People who choose to be strong despite their limitations. Working with children who haven't built a wall of limits. People who are quietly seeking and striving to make the world a better place for everyone. Inclusive, positive caregivers; joy-filled lovers of nature, seekers of adventure, encouragers, and loving people.
WHAT DOES ADVENTURE MEAN TO YOU?
Adventure is a space and time filled with fun and joy, a challenging opportunity to be fully present, alone or shared with friends and strangers, outside, in new places and old, without limits.
LIGHTNING ROUND
Sunrise or sunset? Both
What's your 11th Essential? A positive attitude
What's your happy place? Anywhere in neature! Nature is neat!
Post-adventure meal of choice? I always love coffee and a blueberry, banana, spinach smoothie
If you could be a rockstar at any outdoor activity overnight, what would it be? Dancing queen
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.
