Featured Woman: Linda!!

Your Life. Your Path. Your Story

Hi! My name is Linda Bowers. I am a 59-year-old adventurer, partner, mother (empty-nest), and now "farmer" living in the Sierra Foothills.

I met Raquel in 2012 and eagerly joined her as she workshopped all her earlier creative adventures; trail running lessons, trail photography, you name it. I always volunteered to be her guinea pig because I am no fool. I recognize fun when I see it. When Raquel's ideas evolved into hiking and enjoying her delicious meals with a Catalonian twist, I mean, seriously, who could resist?

A reason I love being part of the group is the conversations. I always learn something new from amazing women from all over the world!

Each hike is a revolving set of conversations as we all find and change our pace. One minute I'm discussing parenting, and the next, learning about a mushroom species, possibly, morphing into potty humor. It's all good.

Linda on the far right reveling in youthful joy after completing a hike.

My favorite part of enjoying gourmet meals is ALL OF IT. I love good food, and enjoying it in good company is one of life's greatest pleasures. Raquel is a fabulous cook, and she offers up a healthy, delicious menu that I won't find at home. Also, this meal is EARNED! I feel no guilt in taking seconds.

I can't name one favorite thing. It's an Alchemy of great personalities, beautiful views, good food, and physical exertion.

I have always been an outdoor gal, but I can quickly become disconnected from the natural world when life's responsibilities consume me. Registering for a hike is my way of creating a boundary for "me time." And every hike is a reminder of the importance of self-care. I always ask myself, "why are you not doing this more often!?"

Linda's hiking hack for you:

I always bring my hiking pole. It keeps me level and is always good for poking at things.

Linda remembering that looking up when in nature always gifts us with a majestic view and perspective.

Linda Fill's in the blank:

I would never go on a hike without bringing my Water Bottle and wine-cava collapsible cup.

Connecting with w.o.m.e.n outdoors means: Affirming life pleasures of old and new friendships, delicious food, and physical movements.

Spending time outdoors with other women has allowed me to Be me. I don't have to be an extreme athlete. I don't have to meet a specific goal. I can if I want to, but it's not necessary. The group is truly the most inclusive and kind group of people you will meet. There is a hike for everyone in every hike...if that makes sense.

From Raquel,

Thank you for supporting my creative efforts to inspire women to be outdoors, moving to enjoy nature from running to hiking speed, including capturing time and the great scenes.

You are always there with a smile and ready to give your personal best. You continuously offer thoughtful input to my will to inspire the connections outdoors and be part of the adventure and experience. You say you always enjoy learning from others, and I say I always enjoy learning from you. You are a bucket of surprises with fantastic knowledge about many unexpected things—an intelligent, funny woman who is ready to give the best and inspire with all. Keep walking, and thanks for the contribution of your being always.