When Familiar Routes Become Foreign
I’ve always loved going for walks. My habit of taking my dogs for walks almost every day has stuck with me since I was a child. Walking is an escape,…
A Day in South Dakota
What comes to mind when you think of South Dakota? For me, it was endless farmland, Mount Rushmore, and the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Really, that’s all I thought South Dakota…
Advocating for Accessibility: Potawatomi Tower’s Unresolved Future
Like most, public speaking makes me nervous. I’ve surely improved since my high school days of speeding through speeches, still shaking after returning to my desk. Now, I can speak…
5 Weeks in Europe With a Guide Dog: The Power of Four Paws
Guide dogs do more than give people with vision loss independence. They give us company, routine, and unconditional love. No matter where we are in the world. They allow us…
5 Weeks in Europe with a Guide Dog: Finding Purpose in Poland
Europe. Full of culture, history, delicious food, and beautiful landscapes. I always dreamed of going to Europe. I envisioned floating through Venice on a gondola, indulging in fine French cuisine…
Staying Active in Winter with Vision Loss: 5 Winter Recreation Activities
Oh, winter. The season of short days, cold temperatures, and slick conditions. Though winter may be dreary, it’s also enchanting. Winter offers unique outdoor recreation opportunities that allow you to…
Backpacking Blind on Isle Royale – Part 2: Rose, Thorn, Bud
What is your rose, something good, from today? How about your thorn, a low point, from today? A bud, something you’re looking forward to? This reflection exercise was a staple…
Backpacking Blind on Isle Royale – Part 1: The Blisters
My first time backpacking was transformative experience. With any endeavor, there are struggles that emerge. Our first day on the island was no exception, but made me change my way of thinking about my vision, trusting others, and my white cane.
My Four Pawed Trail Guide
From paved trails to off trail, my guide dog Frasier has given me so much independence. He’s guided me through forest brush and up mountains in our 7 years together. With every adventure, our bond grows stronger.