My name is Stump. I'm a third generation desert rat who later evolved into a mycorrhizal gnome, and finally into a stump. I like the water, trees and stars, along with most things in-between. I have a passion for photography and natural ecosystems, mathematics and chaos. I approach my hobbies with a quantitatively meticulous mindset & backpacking is no exception to this. I move against the grain, with the flow, and down the trail. When I die, you can bury me with my walking stick in my right hand, and my paddle in my left
I'm Mandalynn! As I grew up in Michigan, surrounded by nature's beauty, it shaped who I am today. I love to set tough physical goals for myself, and that's how I fell in love with hiking. As hiking turned into backpacking, I quickly realized that my allergies made buying food difficult. I can't have wheat or dairy, and I don't eat meat, which really limits my options. So I began to create my own meals, and what a process its been! I enjoy carrying a tune and extra items, sometimes art supplies and an instrument. I also love to pack a lot of socks. What seems most meaningful, and sticks with me about each new journey are the amazing people and connections along the way. Backpacking is my passion; I am thankful for every night I am lucky enough to spend out under the stars.
