This episode was absolutely selfish. I've been in a really funky space lately. I'm not depressed, but I'm not exactly happy. I'm meh. I feel like I'm in this weird in-between. It doesn't feel like the height of Covid, but it still feels lousy. I'm vaccinated, but my 9-year-old isn't. We're wearing masks again. I worry about the kids having to quarantine or getting Covid. Damn you, Delta (and whatever else is coming!). I was looking forward to a fall and winter of unfettered indoor dining, the movies, museums. I didn't want to worry if I'd get Covid and pass it on to my kids or vulnerable friends or anyone else. I didn't want to worry school could go remote again. I didn't want to worry about traveling to see my mom at Christmas. But I do. Hitting my 50s, Covid, losing my job–has helped me narrow my focus in so many ways. I want a job I love. I want friends I can depend on, who build me up, not tear me down. I want time with my husband and family and I want to spend more time outside. I've always known nature was a healer for me. Some of my best and most peaceful memories are hikes with my mom in the White Mountains or our trip to Alaska or an ill-advised/prepared "trek" on part of the Appalachian Trail. That meal of Wheat Thins and summer sausage, cross-legged on a crest was one of the best I've eaten. So this episode celebrates people who have focused their lives to be outdoors and explores the spots they reccommend to unplug, walk, climb, breathe and be. www.thehinghamcast.com