The trip that started the blog. Once upon a time, after every trip, I’d head straight to Facebook and start crafting my post—photos, highlights, reflections. Lately though, I’ve noticed that after a trip, I keep putting it off… until eventually it feels too late to post at all. And honestly, I’m barely even opening Facebook these days.
But for the past 15 years, Facebook has been my go-to travel journal—a timeline of memories, milestones, and adventures. So I knew I needed a new home for all of that. And that brings us here: this blog. A fresh start, and a place where my stories can live a little longer.
This particular trip had been on my list for a long time. I’ve wanted to visit the Wallowas—often called the “Alps of Oregon”—for years. And finally, I got the chance (though definitely not my last), with my trusted adventure buddy, Melissa, by my side.
Rather than get up at some ungodly hour to tackle the six-hour drive from Portland, we opted to camp near our trailhead the night before. I recently converted my car with a sleeping platform setup, and I have to say, it made for a surprisingly cozy night’s sleep—at least for me! I’m already looking forward to more car camping weekends this summer.
The next morning, Lily, Melissa, and I hit the trail. This was Lily’s first major backpacking trip. For a rescue pup from Mexico, she’s not exactly a fan of direct sunlight! But she did great overall, with just a few extra shady breaks along the way. It felt amazing to be back on a trail like this again—surrounded by big views, fresh air, and that unbeatable sense of adventure that only a good backpacking trip can bring.
When we arrived at the lake, we were greeted by relentless mosquitoes that didn’t seem to care one bit about our bug spray. But even they couldn’t ruin the peaceful evening we spent relaxing by the water. I even braved a quick dip in the lake! Heck, I’ve done the polar plunge in Antarctica—I can handle a little snowmelt.
My only regret of the trip? Only spending one night at the lake. I wish I had planned for one more day so we could have summited the Matterhorn (yes, that’s the real name!). But I guess that just gives me a reason to come back.