Climb every mountain

Happy almost summer!! A few days ago I went on my first hike of the summer. For those of us who live in the northeast, we know what everyday rain and thunderstorms for the past two weeks feels like. It feels gloomy and wet. Sunday was a decent weather day, and I have been experiencing the trail-itch for months now, so it was time for a hike. After packing my usual PB & J, plenty of water and a camera off my sister and I went.

Ever since I was little my family has been hiking, camping, kayaking and exploring the great outdoors. I am fortunate to live in the Adirondacks, where the hiking is virtually endless. The Adirondacks do not form a connected range like the Rockies, instead there are over one hundred summits scattered in one region. With less than an hour's drive I am able to climb the area's 46 peaks (they are over 4,000 ft in elevation). They take upwards of six hours to complete, but they are well worth the effort.

My sister, Lauren, and I hiked Ampersand Mountain, which is not a high peak, but is a decent hike. It is 3352 ft in elevation and about a five and half mile hike. Sunday was a foggy day, but the view from the top was beautiful.








Here we are at the top:



I am so happy that I FINALLY was able to go hiking, and it was great to spend time with my sister. I don't think there is a better feeling than sitting at the summit and enjoying the views. It is just the best. Now I must finish packing to go live in Burlington for a few weeks and then after that is Ecuador!! Here's to hoping that everyone's summer is filled with outdoor adventures!

Buffalo Chicken Wrap in Alliot!!

I think we all know that no dining hall can compete with food from the comforts of our own homes. At school the food is mass produced, you eat with at least 200 other students, and more often than not the meal is rushed. However, there are some dining hall favorites that can make even the weariest student forget that mom didn't make their meal.

1. The infamous BUFFALO CHICKEN WRAP- Just this morning close friend and fellow blogger, Michaela, texted me to say that we absolutely must go to lunch to enjoy this classic. It's delicious, trust me.

2. Banana Bread- Even as a banana bread connoisseur I find the Alliot version delectable. Especially with chocolate chips. You have to get it while its hot, because in 20 minutes it may be gone.

3. Scrambled with (cheese)- Some mornings I wake up with an awful craving for scrambled eggs. I wake up, stumble over to Alliot and walk up to the egg counter and the day is instantly better. I promise.

4. Vegan Mac and Cheese/Vegan Chili- My friend Ari thinks that these options are the cat's meow. Every night for dinner there are special options for all of the vegans amongst us. The falafels are good too.

5. Granola- Alliot makes their own granola, which I find impressive. I'm not sure what exactly they put in this magical cereal treat, but whatever it is, it sure does taste good.

This post has made me hungry! I sincerely hope that everyone enjoys their meals today, it really does improve your outlook on life.