Since posting the story of my first backpacking attempt, I received such an unexpected outpouring of feedback, wisdom, and encouragement from the various backpacking, camping, and hiking communities I’ve found since becoming interested. I went from feeling sorry for myself and wondering if I’m not cut out for this lifestyle to feeling like I can, and should, try again soon!
I have a number of hobbies but I do love when they come with wonderful supportive people who are into the same thing. I’m feeling really grateful.
So I want to begin capturing some of what I’m learning, but also to share some of these sources of inspiration, knowledge, and support with others. I’ll keep a running list here of groups I’m enjoying:
Women’s Backpacking Beginners & Mentors (Facebook group) – this judgement free group is full of inspirational stories from women backpackers and is very active. Leading up to my trip, I asked a lot of basic questions and got really insightful answers that weren’t just things I could easily find on YouTube and Reddit.
Durston Gear Heads (Facebook group) – I joined this group because I bought a Durston tent and always see funny comments from the “not a cult” fans of this family-owned brand. The group is indeed funny and self aware, and though a lot of the group is about Durston gear there’s also a steady stream of inspirational photos of Durston tents pitched in awesome places and people swapping advice and support. I already enjoyed the group but when I posted my story in it, some of the members really went out of their way and invested time in giving me constricted advice and so much encouragement to keep at it.
Gemini Chaos 
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