A Typical Day For Moms Attending REI Outessa Summit
This is happening. I’m so stoked I get to volunteer and thrust myself into the world of outdoor exploration and adventure that is REI Outessa Summit. For 3 days I will be helping out at this amazing women-only retreat. It’s not my first time without my bunch, but it will be the first time spending time alone and in the company of some of the most talented women leaders in the outdoor industry without so much as a whisper of, “mom” in the wind.
I looked at the sample schedule for the first day and here is the version according to what I read:
8:00am Enjoy good coffee uninterrupted and outside
8:30am Get blood pumping early during 6 mile hike to beautiful Emigrant Lake.
9:00-10:00am Pampering session for your feet that may prevent you from moving to next activity
9:00-10:30am Ride a. freaking. EliptiGO that your kids will be so jealous of
9:00-12:00pm Intermediate rock climbing with Heidi Wirtz (Petzl) because you’ve surpassed a 5.8 on the scale of motherhood
9:30-1:00pm Walk on water, learn to SUP with Jodelle Fitzwater (BIC Sport) and no, not “standard upright position” of a car seat
10:00-11:30am Campfire cooking–taste tests mandatory
11:00-12:00pm Leave no trace and how to “go” in the woods in peace (trail legs aka, birthing legs required)
1:00-3:00pm The dirty details of backcountry skills that have NOTHING to do with dirty diapers
2:00-3:00pm Build your own snack bar with PROBAR and be ready to enjoy it by yourself
3:00-5:00pm Wilderness survival for moms who’ve endured it all
4:00-5:00pm Pampering session for your feet that may prevent you from moving to the next day
6:00pm A delicious and hearty dinner with friends
8:00pm Sit by a fire while you chat with renowned photographer Chris Burkard. (Wait, what now?!)
I know this is right before back to school, but I’m a big advocate for getting some mom-time in so I am the best I can be for my 4 awesome kids. Whether you are an experienced athlete or you just want to learn a new skill, there’s something for everyone. Just keep thinking of the breathtaking views, heart-pounding challenges and the amazing food, beer and wine. Plus, you get to customize your own schedule–something as a mom I am not privy to as I function according to my kids’ routines on the daily.
For the complete, sample offering of over 240 activities to choose from and to register for REI Outessa Summit, visit their website. Let me know if you will be there and be sure to say hi. I’ll be the one getting my healthy dose of sweaty, dirty, and happy.
