Wherever We Land

Let’s be real—I’m not an authority on a lot of things. I’ve never hiked Mount Everest, I can’t start a fire by rubbing two sticks together (unless you count clapping them really fast and giving up), and I definitely don’t know the names of every tree we pass by on a trail. I mean, I still get poison ivy confused with “just some nice leaves.”

But here’s the thing—I am on a journey to become an authority on outdoor adventures and camping. That means every bug bite, every burnt marshmallow, and every wrong turn that was supposed to be a shortcut is getting me one step closer to knowing what I’m doing out there.

I Didn’t Grow Up with a Compass in My Hand

Some folks were born with a tent in their backyard and a fishing pole in their diaper bag. Not me. I used to think “glamping” was just a typo. I’ve made every mistake in the book: pitched a tent on a slope, forgot the bug spray (don’t recommend that one), and once brought an inflatable mattress but it deflated and we literally slept on the ground that night. I couldn’t use the patches and we headed to Walmart the next day to buy a new mattress. That night was… humbling.

But I’m Learning—One S’more at a Time

I study YouTube videos like I’m preparing for an outdoor final exam. I read articles, watch documentaries, and practice setting up our gear in the backyard like it’s Survivor training camp. I’m learning to respect the land, cook over a fire without burning dinner (or eyebrows), and leave no trace behind—except a few hilarious memories.

I ask questions. I try new things. I fail forward. And thankfully, I’ve got Snatcher by my side to help me lift the heavy stuff, laugh when I get frustrated, and remind me that yes, the cooler does go in the car before we drive off.

So, No—I’m Not an Authority (Yet)

But I’m getting there. I’m building confidence, collecting stories, and embracing the glorious mess that is outdoor life. And the best part? I get to bring you along with me—whether it’s through our YouTube channel “Wherever We Land” or these little blog confessions where I admit that yes, I did once think “tent stakes” were optional.

So if you’re out there thinking, “I could never do that,” just know—I once thought that too. And now look at me: proudly pretending to be a camping pro while Googling “how to keep raccoons out of your snacks” at 2 a.m.

Let’s keep learning together. Because while I may not be an authority yet, I’m camping like I plan to be.

P.S. If you’ve ever messed up something simple on a camping trip—like forgetting the matches or bringing three left hiking boots—drop it in the comments. I need to know I’m not alone out here in the wilderness of learning. 🏕️