Before you think I’ve fallen off the blogosphere it’s time
for a quick update. Tomorrow I’ll
be starting a new chapter of my Armenian adventure. Three of my friends and I are heading off for three weeks of
hiking in Artsakh (see last post to learn more about Artsakh). About 8 years ago a Birthright alum
developed a trail system which stretches from the north to south of the
region. Over our three weeks we’ll
be hiking the extent of the trail, marking sections of it with paint, taking
photos and extensive notes. When
we get back, we’ll be updating internet resources so as to make it easier for
others to find information about the trail and plan their own trip. AND our work will count for our
volunteer work for the next three weeks! Score! The other great thing about the trail is that every day’s
hike starts and ends in a village.
That means we can walk all day, enjoy the hospitality of a local family,
eat a great meal, sleep in a bed, and do it all over again the next day. No need to carry a tent, sleeping bag, stove,
or any of those other heavy things required for sleeping under the stars.
I’ll be traveling with three other friends, two
Birthrighters and one alum.
There’s Roffi, Eagle Scout and encyclopedia of Armenian plants. We’ve got Liz, Wilderness First
Responder and expert tree planter.
And there’s Lexee, rock climber extraordinaire and resident
goofball. And myself.
I’ll attempt to update once en route when we’ll have
internet access. And when I’m back
in Yerevan be ready for some photos! Until then here’s a shot from a recent
Birthright excursion at a glacial lake on Mt. Aragats, Armenia’s highest
peak. I was glad I had my Girl
Scout hat on that morning and thought to bring my winter coat with me on a warm
June day!
