To live a fulfilled life, we need our passions
Whether it is breathing in the crisp, fresh air and beautiful mountain views while hiking, cozying up with a book on the couch, or taking a walk with my partner, Molly, I am content.
Hiking
Solo or with others, hiking is a wonderful way to think or deepen conversations with others.
These are a few of my favorite hikes:
- Heather-Maple Pass Loop – My favorite hike during summer or early fall. Every step has a view.
- Mailbox Peak – Perfect hike in the winter when it is less crowded. Easy to get to from Seattle. If you are looking for an extra challenge, you can try the old trail.
- Meander Meadow – Dishpan Gap – Cady Ridge Loop – Gorgeous backpacking trip with a lake, meadow, and fresh berries.
- Hurricane Ridge – Difficult to go wrong with any of the trails.
Books
My mom was worried when I was a kid because I hated reading. It turned out she needed to put a finance book in my hands! I read mostly non-fiction. If you have fiction recommendations, I welcome them.
These are a few of my favorite books:
- Being Mortal by Atul Gawande – Aging. Death. Finally, a book explores what aging looks like in our society and why medicine in the current form is not always the solution.
- The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel – An approachable book about money and people’s behavior. It is an easy read and full of great stories.
- Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts – I rarely enjoy fiction, but I fell in love with this book. I felt I was experiencing an adventure as I read it.
Helpful Products or Tips
When I find a product, service, or other tips that make life easier, I feel the need to share.
- Pitt Mitt – These are perfect for the oven. No more awkward oven gloves.
- Password Manager – No more struggling with passwords.
- Freezing caramelized onions and roasted garlic – Now you have added flavor when you need it without the 30-45 minute wait.
- Dropbox – Organize and back up your files automatically.
- Mint – Track your spending, net worth, and financial goals.
Favorite Recipes
Although I do not cook as often as I used to, I enjoyed creating a meal in the kitchen. Don’t ask me to bake; I do my best with “a little of this and a little of that.” In pre-COVID times, my friends and I hosted themed dinners.
- Shakshuka – I love this dish because it has a hearty flavor and you can get creative with adding or subtracting ingredients as your heart desires.
- Arroz Con Pollo – A flavorful and easy one-dish recipe.
- Rosemary Focaccia Bread – Eat it plain, as a side, or dipped with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Coconut Macaroons – Easy dessert. Perfect for sharing.
- Grilled Cheese – I do not have a recipe for you, but the trick is to add caramelized onions. Lots of caramelized onions.
- Kettle Corn – Perfect for movie nights!
Random Things I’d Like to Do
I keep a list of places I’d like to travel to and things I’d like to experience. Below are a few: