Five Days Forever

 Today was our last full day in Maine, and I woke up feeling rather melancholy. The weather was perfect today, as if it was Maine's farewell gift to us. It was so sunny and beautiful, it's a welcome escape from the blazing Texas heat. I decided that I would not mind living here. Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor are very special to me, and have captivated my heart. I fell in love with the sights, the sounds, the ambience and the energy. I'm unsure how such a short span of time can have such a lasting impact on a person, but it has left it's Birkenstock-clad footprint on me.

Our last sunset 

Today I spent lots of time in Bar Harbor, strolling into shops aimlessly, looking out on the shore while thinking of The Woman Who Watches, and lallygagging in Village Green. I spent lots of time surrounded by others day, and I am eternally grateful for the time spent with these incredible new people. My favorite part of the day was when we drove back into camp from dinner, and noticed that it was the perfect time to watch the sunset. Jessica stopped the van and Edith, Candice and I hopped out and ran for the rocks to watch the sunset, just as we did the first day. We sat together and watched it dip below the horizon, and I know we all felt it--love for each other and this grand state. 

This trip has taught me that I am an over-packer, I run cold, I could never truly be an influencer, and reminded me to go with the flow. I must return to attempting to cram all my belongings in my suitcase, and I had the most magical time with the most magnificent people. This has easily been one of the best trips I have ever been on, and the East Coast 

One Last Climb

I woke up feeling prepared and energized to conquer our final day in Maine. Our 9 a.m. hike up Mount Desert was intense—this was no warm-up walk. I carried 20 pounds of soil to the summit with nothing but a Pop-Tart in my stomach. Thankfully, I knew my Slim Jim would come in clutch during our first break. It gave me just enough fuel to power through the rest of the climb. 

The hike was no joke, but it was worth it. When I turned around to catch my first glimpse of the view, I was completely taken away. It was incredible—nothing beats that “top of the world” feeling. On the way down, I watched every step like my life depended on it. After wrapping up Save Our Summits, I grabbed some much-needed rest and changed for our last night out in Bar Harbor. First stop ice cream. After some shopping, it hit me—the hunger was back, and stronger than ever. I stopped for a kale Caesar salad with shrimp and devoured it like I hadn’t eaten in days. Honestly? Deserved. 

Recharged, I met up with the group at Village Green. Kate asked me to be in a few shots for her video project. It was creative, and I was into it. After the mini session, Kira gave me a piggyback ride. We ran, we tripped, and we hit the ground. Hard. But we couldn’t stop laughing—it was one of the highlights of my day. 

We eventually made it to the pizza place, where I was finally reunited with Diet Coke. Pure bliss. After dinner, we jumped out of the van and chased the sunset like we were in a coming-of-age movie. Perched on a rock, Kira, Candice and I split a blueberry cheese Danish and laughed until we collapsed again. This was the “It’s the simple things in life” moment. Just laughter, good company, and a sweet treat.  

I’ve made the best of friends on this trip. I couldn’t have asked for a better set of roommates or a more inspiring group of girls. I’m leaving Maine full of gratitude—and pictures—and completely in awe of the people I got to share this experience with.  

Farewell, Maine. I’ll miss your cool weather and scenic views... but not those freezing cold nights.