Since moving to Alaska I have developed terrible anxiety to the point that I very often couldn’t leave my house. I’ve been working on improving this anxiety for years, and this year something changed in me and I decided it was time to call anxiety’s bluff. When I was presented with the opportunity to go to Katmai National Park on a 3-night bear camping trip, I knew I couldn’t let fear be the only reason I didn’t go. Bears are a huge fear of mine, but as a photographer Katmai has been on my dream list since I learned about it. I was scared. I’m scared of traveling alone. I’m scared of flying. I’m scared of small planes even more and have avoided them since I’ve moved here. I’m scared of remote places, I’m scared of camping and I’m terrified of bears. I decided fear wasn’t enough to hold me back, and I had an incredible guide, Scott Stone, that answered all my questions and was so communicative, detailed-oriented and knowledgeable that I knew if I was ever going to go, this was the time to do it. The anxiety leading up to the camping trip was the worst part. Once it was time for me to go I found the excitement outweighing the anxiety. The flight was beautiful and as we started to land we could see maybe 20-30 bears spread out like a checkerboard over the area. As we landed I wondered if I would be terrified of the bears. However, at no time did I even feel a little uncomfortable. It turned out to be one of the most peaceful experiences of my life, and built my confidence up so much. I got to meet some of the most incredible people. I have such an overwhelming sense of accomplishment and I hope this inspires someone who also deals with anxiety.

This mama grizzly and her two cubs appeared out if the thick fog to go fishing. 🤯

4th of July Car Launch in Glacier View Alaska No, there is no one in the cars. This is all sone on private property and tens of thousands of people attend. The cars are donated by businesses and communities.

Replying to @catzblade short girls will get it

Another alaskan neighbor visited today