The Secret To Getting (The MR340) Started

The Mackeen Family vs The MR340

The thought for Day One of the MR340: “The secret to getting ahead is getting started.” – Mark Twain

Last night we considered parking our RV at a nearby WalMart, but opted instead for the parking area by Kaw Point, a stopping point for Lewis and Clark, and for the MR340. Right by train tracks, and heard the loud whooshing and rattling of trains on the track all night. Despite that, most of us slept pretty well.

Ground crew up at 5:20am to make blueberry pancakes for breakfast. Coffee, pancakes, oranges, and we all piled out to get teams and kayaks to the river. A DJ playing upbeat music, Lewis and Clark reenactors walking around in costume, and even a flying GoPro whizzing over the river made for an animated early morning scene. As the 8am start neared, the DJ shouted over the loudspeaker to “Get your boat in the water!” About 250 boats of various sizes and colors filled the river, the Kansas City skyline in the background.

The mayor spoke, and several in 1800’s costume shot off guns to start the paddlers. With the crowd yelling and gun smoke filling the air, the paddlers were off! I managed to get some pictures of both teams, RED-E Oar Knot and RED-E Set Go before they followed the pack down the river.

Jarod and Kaity have been making awesome food, and were a great help to the teams, getting them down to the starting point on time. I had heard from Rich via cell phone, and Nikki and Chris via the Safety Boat Crew (not to worry, no problems, just no phone!) that both were due at the first checkpoint in Lexington, MO around 3:30pm. We arrived safely there at 2:00pm, after a few errands. Sandi and I took turns driving the RV. I did pretty well, if I do say so myself!

As we began day two of the race the thought of the day was “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times…” Charles Dickens, A Tale of Two Cities. Heather said, “This has been the worst day of my life! But it was fun!” The first day is the toughest day. It’s the longest, at 105 miles. Even if you don’t finish the entire race, even one day is an accomplishment. And at the end of it, there are blisters, sunburn, sore muscles, exhaustion…you get the picture.

RED-E Set Go (Rich and Heather, had it reversed yesterday!), and RED-E Oar Knot (Nikki and Chris) made it to the third checkpoint at about 1:30am! So, technically the second day. You can keep up with their progress on www.raceowl.com. Currently, RED-E Oar Knot (Nikki, Chris) are 176 out of 283 teams and RED-E Set Row(Rich, Heather) are 179!

Kayakers have to make it to a checkpoint by a certain time. The “Grim Reaper” Safety Boat (how’s that for ironic?) gets to each checkpoint by the deadline. If you end up behind the Grim Reaper, you are out of the race! The deadline for the third checkpoint, Miami, MO, was 11am today. So they were safe! And worn out.

As Jarod and Kaity, our youngest children and ground crew, waited at the boat dock with me. Jarod helped a safety crew member carry his kayak to a large grassy area. Those who were staying the night there kept their boats in this place. Safety crew have been so amazing and helpful, working round the clock.

Our son Josh who lives in Colorado is lending his support by racing with the USAFA Cycling Team while we race on the Missouri River.

We may be tired and sore but we are still in the race! We’ll update you on Day three as soon as possible!

Mary Mackeen

August 12, 2014

Red-E Oar Not, Here We Come

The Mackeen Family Versus The MR340

Here we go! The MacKeen Teams are ready for the MR340. We had our kayaks on a trailer behind our RV, and were on our way to the starting point in Kansas City, KS last night. After we had a safety briefing in Kansas City at 7pm and a good night’s sleep, we have an 8am start for all racers. There are currently around 250 boats racing in the MR-340. If the race had taken place last month as originally planned, there would have been closer to 400 boats (we lost some, as not everyone could get the time off).

We are nervous and excited, and looking forward to the bonding time we will have as a family. Rich is anxious to hear the peaceful sounds of the river as he paddles with his daughter Heather. Siblings Chris and Nikki are packed, ready to go, and relishing the thought of passing father and sister!

Drivers Sandi and Mary have studied the map and are ready to meet the teams and supply them. Jarod and Kaity, well, they’re just looking forward to a little R & R with no home chores! But they know there will be many short crazy times of hard work, followed by long stretches of waiting (they’re already planning bike rides, and kicking a ball or throwing a Frisbee around). Josh is waiting patiently in Colorado Springs to hear news, as he cycles and goes to classes.

Here’s a question: How many times do you think the MacKeen Teams will get hit by flying carps?

Stay tuned as we update you daily on our adventures on the Missouri River, and we’ll let you know how many carp we catch! Tom and Huck didn’t have nuttin’ on us!

-Mary Mackeen

July 16, 2014

A Family Affair-The Mackeen Team

“We are the MacKeen family, and we are definitely Getting Outside Ourselves!”

“About six weeks ago, my husband Rich came home and announced that we were signed up for the MR340. For those of you who don’t know, this is an 88 hour, 340 mile kayak race across the entire state of Missouri. We will be using two Current Designs Double Vision tandem kayaks, bought at the Alpine Shop.

Now, add to this-we have not done anything like this before. Many people think we are crazy, and they’re probably right. But, we like adventure.

We were both saddened and slightly relieved to find out the MR340 had been postponed until August 12, due to dangerously high waters and potential flooding. The good news…we still plan on racing and we have a little more time to do so! So we will keep you posted on all of our training.

While we were first considering ourselves The MacKeen Team’s 1 & 2; we have come up with proper names! Took a family vote around the breakfast table and decided the names should have something with “red” in them, as our uniforms and kayaks are both red! We came up with Red – E or Not and Red – E Set Go.”

As a family, we run a small hobby farm, and a home-based, internet business (www.randrwoodcrafts.com), so we are used to working hard. However, we have heard that even tough Marines and football players haven’t been able to finish this race, as it is a totally different type of work.

We wanted to find a sport that the whole family could enjoy. Now, we could have started slowly by taking short day trips here and there (and that is what we recommend), but that is not our style! We have jumped in with both feet! And many kudos to the Alpine Shop for all of their help, advice, and encouragement.”- Mary Mackeen, mom, media manager, and all-around “whip cracker”

Meet Team “Red-E or Not”

Rich MacKeen- Father, airline pilot, retired Air Force pilot

Heather MacKeen- Daughter, 16 years old, Cadet Airman First Class (Civil Air Patrol)

Meet Team “Red-E Set Go”

Nikki MacKeen- Daughter, 19 years old Cadet Second Lieutenant ( Civil Air Patrol), two time participant of Johnson Flight Academy, where she accumulated 19 hours flying time in a Cessna 152

Chris MacKeen- Son, 18 years old, Eagle Scout, 2 time participant of Northern Tier, Boundary Waters canoeing trip with the Boy Scouts

The Support Team

Sandi Riemann- Sister-in-law and aunt, “Bus” (RV) Driver Extraordinaire

Kaity- Daughter, 14 years old, chief cook and gofer

Jarod- Son, 13 years old, chief paddle washer and gofer

Josh MacKeen- Son, 21 years old, U.S. Air Force Academy cadet (Class of 2017) and on the USAFA Cycling team, he is supporting us emotionally from Colorado!

Mary will be keeping us posted on any further training and race updates! We are proud to see families, such as the Mackeens, getting outside and transforming generations. The Mr-340 is no cake walk and will take great diligence and hard work, but we have profound positivity for the Mackeens! The Alpine Shop is rooting for you, all the way!

June 20, 2014

Alpine Camp Dad: Father’s Day Photo Sweepstakes

Dad- The ultimate outsdoorsman: paddling, camping, hiking and barbecuing! Over the past 17 days or so we had asked our followers to share their favorite photo of their father being the Alpiner that he is, new and old! We had also mentioned that dog dads count! One last kicker- if the contestant shares their entry via Facebook or other social channels, each comment their friends make on such photograph would result in a re-entry into the drawing! Increasing the chances of winning exponentially. Well, we are glad to say some of you took full advantage of this fine detail. With seven shares, twenty-two comments and over two hundred page views Ryan Davies has been drawn as the Alpine Camp Dad Grand Prize Winner!

The Grand Prize Winner: Ryan Davies

We are thrilled to offer Ryan a $150 Alpine Shop Gift Card, a Mountain Hardwear Hueco 20L Pack, a limited edition 40th Anniversary Tee-Shirt and a Logo Pint Glass!

Thank you, Ryan Davies for transforming generations by discovery outdoors and by being a super cool daddy-o!

We Had Some Mighty Fine Runner-Ups

Who have each won a $15 Alpine Shop Gift Card!

Tom Holdmeier kayaking at The Castor River, Fredericktown, MO

Pierre Politte at Cayonlands National Park, UT. Back country camping with family, Boys 8 & 10.

Paul on the Ozark Trail

Steve, three generations in North Carolina.

Check out all of our awesome entries posted in our Facebook album!

May 19, 2014

Car Campers Rejoice, Ticla Has Arrived

Start the camping season out right with this brand new line

“Car Camping, Reinvented” and “Camp Better” are their slogans and they’re doing just that!

We welcome you with open hands; your awesome products included.

Ticla (Pronounced Tee-Cluh)

“Ticla is a camping philosophy, brand and product line focused on helping people enjoy the outdoors.

Our mission is to create more happy campers by offering aesthetically-pleasing,

well made products that blend seamlessly into the outdoors lifestyle.”

Bold. Fun. Fresh Prints

Besito Sleeping bag — Besito Sleeping Bag $100

GOOD Kit — Your G.O.O.D. Kit includes: sleeping bag w/stuff sack, Tsubo w/stuff sack and repair kit, and the G.O.O.D. System tote bag $ 180 ———> “If it were any easier, it would be called a hotel”

Eye Catching Shelter: Wind, Rain, And Sun

“We Celebrate experience over equipment.

Our belief is that camping is the gateway to to other activities

and that gear should be high quality, dependable and uncomplicated

…setup in a snap to create a functional and elegant campsite.”

TICLA_Sako Shahinian_10 — Refugio Shelter $150

So, Are We Going Camping This Weekend?

You can find Ticla, currently, at the Kirkwood Alpine Shop in the Camping Department and online at www.alpineshop.com. All products can be transferred free of cost to any of our four stores, please call for any inquires!

May 16, 2014

The Exams Are Out, Summer’s In

‘Get Outside Promotion’

Join us May 16th through May 26th for some sizzling summer sales!

Relax, kick back and Get Outside with some of our very favorite essentials!

Morning Run, The All Weather Dress Has You Covered




Future is looking bright for recent Grads! All sunglasses, including Maui Jims, Oakley and Smith (All Styles) 20% Off!: 5/16/14-5/26/14 (Also Pictured: Patagonia All Weather Dress, available in stores only)

Tanks, Skirts, Sunglasses: Check

PATASKIRT2 — So many fun colors and prints! Sure to find a favorite for any student! All Patagonia is 20% Off: 5/16/14-5/18/14 ONLY! Available Online, Lithia Skirt & Keyhole Spright Tank

Trail Ready

ellipseaero2 — Salomon Women’s Ellipse Aero $69.96! (org. $100)

eskapeaero — Salomon Eskape Aero $69.96! (org. $100)

Capture Everything With The Go Pro Hero+

HeroPlus — Perfect for capturing any Summer adventure! Sign up for our Consumer Clinic taught by our Go Pro representative Jason Erfling June 17th, learn how you can get the most out of your purchase!

Your New Favorite Tee

Patagoniasummeressential — Patagonia p-6 Logo Tee: All Patagonia 20% off 5/16/14-5/18/14

Get Out On The Water

Try Out A New Activity, Yoga + Water

lotusSUP — Pau Hana Lotus Stand Up Paddle Board (SUP) $1,149 All SUP Boards 15% Off during promotion, get the best boards at an awesome price!

May 14, 2014

Where Did Your Alpine Passion Take You?

The results are in! We loved hearing from all of our adventurous customers and the amazing places they “Get Outside Themselves.”

The Grand Prize Winner!

The Winner is Ally Bonnot!! This was taken at Keystone Lodge in Dillon, CO this February 19th, 2014

We Had Some Awesome Runner-Ups!

Ben Mouser and Tony Pavlantos' first drop into Utah's legendary Mt Superior 3000ft tall backcountry run, with out bindings! Thanks to Grassroots Powsurf boards, handmade binding less snowboards. — Ben Mouser and Tony Pavlantos’ first drop into Utah’s legendary Mt Superior 3000ft tall backcountry run, with out bindings! Thanks to Grassroots Powsurf boards, handmade binding less snowboards.

Loren Mueller in Breckenridge, CO March 20, 2014

Molly Boland's torn MCL had finally healed in February 2014. This picture was taken just before tackling the back side of Copper Mountain for the first time! — Molly Boland’s torn medial collateral ligament had finally healed in February 2014. This picture was taken just before tackling the back side of Copper Mountain for the first time!

Josh Piant, his friends Britt and Marc ready to go down Clayton Peak at Brighton Resort, Utah in March!

Thank You To All Of Our Participants!

The Gamble Family "Our alpine adventure took us to the mountains of New Hampshire the second week of March 2014. We were lucky enough to experience an 18 inch snowfall in 24 hours on a ski trip. Our stay at this rustic cabin in Jackson, New Hampshire was perfect for an authentic New England experience. My camera was able to pick up the nice sized flakes at night. They aren't called the White Mountains of New Hampshire for nothing! " — The Gamble Family
“Our alpine adventure took us to the mountains of New Hampshire the second week of March 2014. We were lucky enough to experience an 18 inch snowfall in 24 hours on a ski trip. Our stay at this rustic cabin in Jackson, New Hampshire was perfect for an authentic New England experience. My camera was able to pick up the nice sized flakes at night. They aren’t called the White Mountains of New Hampshire for nothing! “

Marlana McDowell & Chase Jamieson "Our journey to Crested Butte, Colorado is certainly one my boyfriend and I will never forget! We flew to Colorado on some free plane tickets from family and stayed with my aunt for a couple of days in Denver. She then let us borrow her 12 year old Rav4 and drive the treacherous-mountain-pass filled route to Crested Butte, CO. When we got there, we found a great last minute deal and stayed with a generous couple on "The Mountain." We think back often at how lucky we were each step of the way to our final destination. Without friends and family we never would have had the time of our lives skiing in Crested Butte--America's #1 Ski Town!! " — Marlana McDowell & Chase Jamieson
“Our journey to Crested Butte, Colorado is certainly one my boyfriend and I will never forget! We flew to Colorado on some free plane tickets from family and stayed with my aunt for a couple of days in Denver. She then let us borrow her 12 year old Rav4 and drive the treacherous-mountain-pass filled route to Crested Butte, CO. When we got there, we found a great last minute deal and stayed with a generous couple on “The Mountain.” We think back often at how lucky we were each step of the way to our final destination. Without friends and family we never would have had the time of our lives skiing in Crested Butte–America’s #1 Ski Town!! “

Casey Bierman "On the backside of Key Stone Mountain after finishing up the most bodacious run on Cat Dancer with my boarding bros." — Casey Bierman
“On the backside of Key Stone Mountain after finishing up the most bodacious run on Cat Dancer with my boarding bros.”

Abby and Steve Jones "First run of the day under the Matterhorn in Zermatt, Switzerland... A picture perfect day in April for my husband and I to tackle skiing in the Alps. " — Abby and Steve Jones
“First run of the day under the Matterhorn in Zermatt, Switzerland… A picture perfect day in April for my husband and I to tackle skiing in the Alps. “

October 29, 2013

Preparing for Mt. Rainier: The Ultimate “Suffer-Fest”

The majestic beauty of Mt. Rainier, located southeast of Seattle, Washington.

Article written by: Will Nagengast

Edited by: Chloe Tennant

“If we can make it work, I am so down for a suffer-fest!”

That’s the sentiment my good friend Robbie expressed when I talked to him last. We were talking about a tentative schedule for climbing Mt. Rainier in Washington. Robbie lives in Olympia, Washington, which is about an hour away from Seattle and Rainier. When he’s not at school in Olympia, he’s been working as a climbing ranger on Rainier. It’s a job he loves enough to volunteer for. When he does get paid, it is just a nice bonus.

Robbie is the one who introduced me to climbing during my sophomore year of college, near Wichita, Kansas. It immediately felt right, and I’ve been rock climbing religiously for the past five or so years. Rob, however, wasn’t content to just stay on the rock. He loves snow, mountains, ice and cold. This led him to move to Washington. I’ve never really gotten to experience the mountaineering side of the vertical world, and I’ve always been curious. I recently decided that there’s never been a better time to start than now!

With that in mind, Rob and I began tossing around ideas about me flying out to Seattle, gearing up, and bagging Rainier. It’s a mountain that sees approximately 5,000 summits every year. Most of these occur during the summer months, however, when the weather is more predictable. During the rest of the year, Rainier’s weather typically consists of either snow, or lots of snow. The average snowfall for Rainier is 635 inches, or over 53 feet, per year. This is what Robbie was talking about when he mentioned a suffer-fest. Sure, we could try for the top in the summer. But it’d be so much more impressive, difficult, and straining to do it in the winter! To be quite honest, a suffer-fest seems like it’s exactly what I need.

The activity of Mountaineering can be as grueling as it is rewarding! Cold and wet conditions coins the term "suffer-fest" — The activity of Mountaineering and Alpine Climbing can be as grueling as it is rewarding! Cold and wet conditions coins the term “suffer-fest”

Single pitch sport climbing in the South is SO easy. There are incredibly difficult routes, yes, and I am frequently giving 100% of what I have at that moment that I’m on the wall, but in the end the car is 15 minutes away. I’ll have brats over the fire in the evening, maybe sip a warm beer, and get a nice shower in a couple of days when I’m home again. That wouldn’t be the case with a winter ascent of Rainier. We’d be hiking uphill for miles, for several days, with heavy packs, in potentially sub-zero weather, with LOTS of snow. It would be exhausting, draining, probably one of the harder things I’ve done in my life so far. And that sounds great to me right now. I think I need to push my comfort zone, in a way I haven’t done before.

Rob and I are still trying to figure out when might work for both of us to meet up for Rainier. We’ll probably need a week or longer, so that he can give me some tutoring on glacier and snow travel, avalanche conditions, the technical aspects of executing a multi-day ascent of a big mountain, and of course, maybe a week to do the actual climb. Rob’s schedule is always subject to change. He might be in Panama, or somewhere in South America, or in school. But if we can swing it, we’ll try and meet up, perhaps in February, and give it a shot. Hopefully the weather cooperates and allows us on the mountain, but if not, there are plenty of other things to climb in that corner of the world.

While planning ahead, I started picking up pieces of gear that I’ll need on Rainier. My first piece was the Arc’teryx Beta LT; it’s a nice, lightweight but durable, hardshell. It has pockets that are accessible even with a climbing harness on, which lends to its utility in the mountains. It’s a Gore-Tex Pro shell, so I’m not worried about getting wet or wind-blown. Last but not least, it looks pretty awesome too.

My next target is the Black Diamond CoEfficient Hoody. It’s a lightweight fleece that has a great hood meant to fit under a helmet. I’d use this as a layering piece, with some much heavier insulating pieces, on Rainier, but I think it’ll really shine on multi-pitch alpine climbing, where the intense cold isn’t quite as much of an issue, and when I’ll really want to be wearing a helmet. The hood is the best I’ve ever seen as far as fitting snugly underneath a climbing helmet.

I’ve got many more things to look for as well. Pants are an under-appreciated part of the whole “keeping warm” system. Everyone has tons of jackets, but how many pairs of cold weather pants do you have? Poor pants just got the short stick for not being as sexy as a new, awesome jacket. One pair of pants that is on my radar is the Arc’teryx Stingray Pant; Recco Reflector, Gore-Tex hardshell pant can do it all. The waterproof and breathable fabric will help keep you warm, dry, and comfortable. The Recco Reflector is an awesome spec that is important while in the mountains. In the event of an avalanche the Recco Reflector within the garment becomes visible to the Recco Detector (which are used by resorts and rescue teams) making it one of the best safety features aboard a trip of this nature. Underneath the Stingray Pants I’ll layer starting with a 260 weight Icebreaker Baselayer Legging and a pair of Patagonia Piton Pants. Both will be highly useful in staying super warm and comfortable!

I’ll also end up borrowing and renting some of the more specialized equipment, to save on some money. Eventually though, if I discover I like mountaineering and alpine climbing, I’ll save up and get everything I need in a piecemeal fashion. I really hope that Rob and I are able to work out a time to meet up and do something awesome. Nothing makes for better stories than the times that you were the most miserable. A suffer-fest is just what I need, and I have zero doubt that the experience of pushing my limits in that manner will be something I’ll be able to reminisce fondly of for many years to come.

September 5, 2013

Waterproof, Clean, Explore with Nikwax

The picture includes the Down Duo Pack, TX. Direct Wash- In, and the Nubuck & Suede Proof products by Nikwax. All available In-store and online! www.alpineshop.com

Ever suffer from water stains, leaky tents, or dirty coats? Sounds familiar to me as well! There is an easy solution to all of those problems, it’s been hiding right under your nose, it’s called Nikwax. Nikwax is a line of products that range from cleaning, waterproofing, conditioning, and UV protection without the harsh side effects that traditional cleaning detergents can have on gear. The brand has come out with a vast array of products that target a specific function that can be added to technical materials. We want our outdoor clothing to go through it all: rain, snow, wind, and dirt. Nikwax is a valuable product that lets us improve and re-vamp our favorite outdoor wardrobe while getting down with all the elements. Here are a few of our favorite Nikwax products!

Down Wash is a product used on down filled items such as sleeping bags, jackets, and even bedding. You simply add the soap based biodegradable cleaner into the wash cycle and viola! Your gear will come out clean, without clumping together like it can when cleaned traditionally (throwing a couple of tennis balls in the dryer adds loft back into the down as well!). This gentle formula will protect the down and the technical material as well as keeping the water-resistance intact. This product comes in an optional bundle pack with the Down Proof which adds a wash-in layer of water-repellent as well as breathability.
Wetter weather conditions are just around the corner and it will soon be time to break out the Gore-Tex. While the Gore-Tex products are high quality, it never hurts to amp up your waterproofed garment. T.X. Direct can be used in two ways, either added to the wash for waterproof/breathable fabrics or sprayed on for gear with wicking/absorbent liners. Both methods are quick and easy, while causing no damage to your gear.

Let us not forget the winter boots, especially suede! When fabrics such as these get wet, water spots can leave stains on the fabric. You can save yourself from those unsightly spots while adding a quick layer of waterproofing with Nikwax Nubuck & Suede Proof. It is the best accessory when buying a new pair of suede boots or shoes. This product sprays on easily, keeping your boots looking great and your feet dry all winter.
All of these Nikwax products among others can be found at the Alpine Shop and online www.alpineshop.com.

When you want to extend the life and look of your favorite gear, choose Nikwax!

August 27, 2013

10 Questions with Kate Strube

Kate and her father in Grand Teton National Park

Kate has built a top-notch resume on how to prepare for a lengthy hike by clocking in hundreds of miles on several trails scattered throughout Southeast Missouri, and as far as Grand Teton National Park. An eye for detail, Kate is your go-to girl whenever you need advice on women’s apparel, hiking tips, and hiking gear! As our newly appointed Marketing intern, stay tuned for her publications on RootsRated.com. There you can find reviews on her favorite local areas, where she does what she enjoys most, hiking and backpacking! She has worked for the company over a year (anniversary was in July) and has quickly grown into one of our best. Here’s a quick way for you to learn a little more about our avid hiker and awesome outfitter, Kate Strube.

(1) Describe what you do at Alpine Shop and when you first started. (Or at least what you like to tell the people you meet at cocktail parties.)

I’m an Outfitter for the Kirkwood store since July 2012! I also took on the role of Area Coordinator for the Women’s, Children’s and Accessories section. I help people find what they need, lend an opinion or two, and keep the product looking pretty!

(2) Identify where you are from. Provide some background on a favorite thing to do or a place to visit in your hometown.

I’m from St. Louis….Glendale to be exact. Don’t blink when driving through Glendale, you’ll probably miss it. However, we do have awesome ice cream socials and jazz festivals. My favorite thing to do in St. Louis is find interesting, local places, preferably those that serve coffee or food. If you haven’t tried Boogaloo’s in Maplewood (delicious Cajun food) or Coffee Cartel in the Central West End, you should, they’re awesome local eateries/hang out places.

(3) What are some of the current outdoor sports/activities you enjoy? What got you started (or how did you get started) doing outdoor activities?

Hiking! I’m addicted to the trails. I’ve always loved being outside, but this past year I began exploring Missouri, searching for longer and longer hikes outside the St. Louis area. This summer, I hiked about 140 miles of various trails in Missouri, mostly in the South-Eastern section of the state. Missouri may not have impressive mountain ranges, but we have absolutely stunning varieties of remote forest and lots of wildlife! I also kayak, and I recently tried my hand at climbing for the first time!

I got started with outdoor activities at a young age. My parents encouraged me to be outside as much as possible, and most of our family vacations involved outdoor activities like white-water rafting or trips to the mountains. My grandpa lived in Arizona for most of my childhood, and I know that visiting him every year is the reason why I love the mountains so much today.

(4) Where is your favorite place to “Get Outside Yourself?” Describe why.

In Missouri? Rockwood Reservation. Peaceful and beautiful. (Try the Lime Kiln Trail for a quick morning hike, there’s a neat cave spring at the end of the trail) and Hawn State Park in St. Genevieve, MO–stunning pine forest! Most recently I traveled to The Grand Tetons which has quickly become my favorite place to “Get Outside” myself.

(5) What is an outdoor adventure you want to go on some day? Describe why.

I would love, love, love to be able to hike a substantial section of Pacific Crest Trail! The PCT runs from near the border of the United States and Mexico all the way up to British Columbia, Canada, through the Sierra Nevada and Cascade Mountain ranges. I’ve never been to the Northwestern part of the U.S, and I think this would be the best way to visit! Plus, I might actually find Bigfoot.

(6) Name and describe your favorite outdoor gear, product or brand. (If possible, provide link to said products on Alpine Shop’s website.)

Hmm-mm…..tough. Probably Arc’teryx, because they pay incredible attention to detail (seams on the INSIDE of the clothing, rather than the outside (to extend the life of the product; protect from wear and tear on seams), waterproof zippers, hybrid jackets: composed of two types of Gor-tex (lighter fabric on the body for easier compression/packability AND heavier, performance weight Gor-tex on areas of high abrasion like the shoulders). When I first looked at Arc’teryx products, I was really intimidated by the price-point, but I’ve since learned why they cost more: smarter design. Because I work in the Women’s section of the store, I mostly pay attention to the Arc’teryx clothing, but I’ve checked out their packs as well, which are also top of the line. My favorite Arc’teryx product is the Atom LT Hoody. This jacket is super lightweight and compressible. It’s insulated with Coreloft in the body, arms, and hood, and has athletic Power Stretch panels along the side for increased range of motion and breathability. It doesn’t hurt that it comes in awesome colors 🙂
ALSO: check out the video on Arc’teryx’s website called “How to Compress an Arc’teryx Atom Jacket”…basically, you can get the entire jacket into it’s own sleeve, and then “snap” it out and impress all your friends with how nifty and compressible your jacket is!

(7) What’s your favorite thing about Alpine Shop? (The people you work with. The customers. Being around cool stuff. Seeing the latest gear. A certain department. Other. You tell us.)

Oh goodness, I love pretty much everything about being at Alpine Shop, but probably the people I work with make it the best. I have fun at work and I learn something new every single day I’m there from the awesome people I get to be around.

(8) Describe why outdoor activity is so important to you.

Mental clarity. Being outside is the best remedy for stress. I always feel happier when I’m outside–and as my Dad always says, “the woods take your troubles away.” Like most people, I have a tendency to get caught up in all the craziness of life and become really stressed out. When I get the chance to be outside all day on a hike, I feel calmer and more clear-headed. And, I love that every time I get outside, I’m surprised and rewarded by something interesting!

(9) What’s one activity that you enjoy that has nothing to do with the outdoors?

Drawing! Sketching, colored pencil, and painting are my favorite mediums.

(10) Provide any personal family information you wish to share. (Kids, married, professional hot dog eating champion, more. Note, this is optional.)

Well….I come from a family of four: mom, dad, sister and me! My sis and I are 13 months apart in age. My dad is a professor of psychology, and my mom is an English teacher and a jewelry designer. I have an awesome family, I love them dearly.