Meeting Yourself Where You're At: Lindsey Ingram

Lindsey Ingram has long-haul COVID, which means she is constantly renegotiating what's possible for herself in the outdoors. But just like she's not just a mom, or a hiker, or a gardener -- the uncertainty of her chronic illness doesn't define her.  She simply has to meet herself where she's at.

Over the past year Lindsey has been redefining her relationship with the outdoors, her body, and how she invites others into the outdoors with her.  In certain ways, our conversation is an opportunity for her to contemplate how she's moving forward as she navigates long-haul COVID. It’s also an opportunity for us to better understand one person’s experience living with a chronic illness.

About Lindsey: Based in the Midwest, Lindsey spends her free time outdoors in whatever capacity is available, lately walking, wildlife watching, and gardening. She explores the outdoors creatively though writing, drawing, painting, and photography. She travels solo, with her kids, or with her friends.

Featured in this episode: Lindsey Ingram

Hosted & Produced by Gale Straub

Editing & production support by Julie Hotz

A production of Ravel Media

Sponsored by Subaru & Reel Paper

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Resources

Featured in this episode: Lindsey IngramInstagram: @hikeovercountryWebsite: http://hikeovercountry.com/New York Times Article about Long-Haul COVIDAdventure MamasRavel Media

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Lindsey's "Adventure Pack" Contents

Note from Lindsey: While it's possible to buy a "toy" adventure pack on Amazon, I try to buy cheaper or secondhand versions of real items (i.e an inexpensive $10 pair of adjustable binoculars with limited magnification versus $5 toy binoculars that don't work at all). These items last longer, and kids are smarter than we give them credit for! This list can be scaled up or down by reducing the number of items or purchasing nicer/cheaper alternatives as your budget allows.

A pack! Cinch sacks are good for short adventures but uncomfortable for more than a few hours. I veer towards a small day pack for 4-5 year olds or a bicycle or smaller day pack with a water bladder for kids 7+. My general rule of thumb is something big enough to carry a jacket in.Lightweight, flip top water bottle that doesn't leak if no water bladder is included.Snacks (a few healthy and at least one piece of junk snack like M&Ms).WhistleEasy to read compassBinocularsMagnifying glassHeadlampSmall notebook for a field notebookMarkers, twistable crayons, or large crayons with the wrappers pulled off (for rubbings, tracing, and drawing)Small battery operated fanBandana, hat, or buff for bug and sun protectionSmall ponchoTravel size sunscreenSome kind of kids field guide like a bug book or tracks book, depending on your area -- your local nature center or library can provide some recommendations!Small coupon book for free adventures with you, the giver.

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