Waypoint Narrative #3

Waypoint Narratives: Five questions, one objective - share stories of people who have experienced the impact of the outdoors.

Our third Waypoint Narrative guest is my fiery hand-standing, trail-bounding-bud, Stacey! Stacey is one of the most bubbly and energetic yet 110% genuine people I know. She is a loving momma, wife, friend, entrepreneur, and pilates/yoga/gyrotonics instructor (and more, I’m sure I’m missing some of her many accomplishments and accolades but she is ALSO super humble). We actually met at a local group trail run and I remember admiring Stacey’s bravery as she warmly introduced herself to all the group members and without anything with her, hit the new-to-her trail with strangers. Here is Stacey’s response:

Do you have a trail name, and how did you acquire it?

Yes, my trail name is new and was given to me by my friend Jen H after my first 50k.
It’s Dory. Proud to say “as in Dory from Finding Nemo”. I can start a conversation and change subjects often but then follow up with the original conversation. Lol.

What is the most prominent thing the trail/the outdoors has taught you about yourself?

Being outdoors has given me the opportunity to learn who I am. Just me, Arlo the Aussiedoodle , and the trails. I will stop just to hear the nothingness. Just Listen to the wind, and the birds. It’s quiet time for me to focus on what’s important to me. It has also been a way for me to talk through things that may be weighing heavy on my heart. 

What are the key waypoints of your life that ultimately lead you to the trail in the first place?

I love the solitude of being on a trail! Challenging my body and mind to different terrain; water, rocks, roots. I appreciate the focus needed to stay on my feet!

Share about one of the most memorable problem-solving moments you’ve had on the trail.

Getting lost and figuring out how to find my way back to the start when an 8 mile trail run became 16 miles. 

Who and/or what inspires you to keep moving forward? 

My children inspire me to stay heathy and happy so that I can be the best role model and Mamma for them!