December 1, 2019

https://fundraise.nationalparks.org/fundraiser/2501799 On January 1st, 2019, I set out for a year-long adventure across America. My goal was to visit all 418 units of the National Park System, before the end of the year. The journey was personal for me, but also public; as I shared my experiences, my photos and stories through social media and on the 418 Parks website.

“Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant.”  -Robert Louis Stevenson

Here I am.  The last month.  It is hardly believable to me that I am so near the end.  There are only 14 parks left to visit on this incredible journey, and I am excited to see them all.  I am excited to be so near completing my goal; but even more so, satisfied with where I have been, what I have done, the people I have met along the way, and the inspiration others have taken from my journey.  The rewards are greater than I could ever have imagined. A few days off the road, resting at home and celebrating Thanksgiving with family, has afforded me some time to reflect on all I have experienced this year.  Each time I reflect back, I am filled with emotion. My memories are filled with feelings. Although I am physically exhausted, I am energized by the discoveries of the year, the knowledge I have learned, and the journey back to myself.  

When I began this journey, I wanted to share the experience as best I could with anyone who was interested.  Over the year, thousands of followers across social media and on the 418 Parks website have become my fellow travel companions.  So many friendly messages and words of encouragement filled my inbox. My greatest pride of this journey is knowing that I have, in some way, inspired others to learn about and explore our National Park system – to understand the irreplaceable value of the parks, and to better understand the American story.  This is why I am hoping that you will join me in giving back to the National Parks, which have given so much to me this year – and hopefully to you as well. I have launched a fundraising campaign to raise money for the National Park Foundation. This organization works with the National Park System to help preserve our national treasures.  Their work is incredibly important to the health of our parks. Most park visitors are beneficiaries of work that the National Park Foundation has accomplished – whether they are aware of it or not. I certainly have been.  

Please watch this short video message I have prepared and follow the link to help me support the National Park Foundation.  And be sure to continue following along for the remaining 14 parks – still much more to explore!