Backpacking
I first got into backpacking during my freshman year of high school, and it has been one of my favorite ways to spend time outdoors ever since. I have had the chance to hike in incredible places, including the Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop in Colorado and the mountains of Utah. These trips have given me a sense of accomplishment and the opportunity to experience some of the most beautiful landscapes I have ever seen.
Backpacking is not just about walking long distances. It is about being fully present in nature, figuring out how to carry what you need, and working through challenges like steep climbs or unpredictable weather. Each trip has tested my ability to plan ahead, adjust to unexpected situations, and keep moving forward.
Spending time in the wilderness has helped me appreciate the world around me in a new way. It has been a chance to step away from the rush of daily life, enjoy the calm of the outdoors, and focus on the journey rather than the destination. Backpacking is something I plan to continue for years to come.
Piano
Piano has been one of the most rewarding and challenging activities I have ever taken on. It is not just about learning how to play. It is about understanding music and finding a way to express emotions through sound. The first time I sat at a piano, I was fascinated by the idea that pressing a few keys in the right way could create something so powerful and moving.
What I love most about piano is the variety it offers. One day, I might be working through a classical piece that demands precision and patience. Another day, I could be improvising something entirely my own, letting the notes take shape as I play. It has taught me not just discipline but also creativity and flexibility.
For me, playing piano is not just a skill or a pastime. It is a way to take a step back from everything else and focus on something meaningful. The piano has been a constant in my life, and every piece I learn adds to the story I am trying to tell through music.