Welcome to the Life at 9,318’ blog, where I share reflections on parenting, mountain living, community, and the questions that matter most. Here you’ll find long-form essays, stories from small-town life, and thoughtful insights on family, camp, and growing up in the high country.
Interested in parent resources?
Recent Reflections
What Are They Missing Out On? Maybe Not What We Think.
They think they’re missing out at home.
But what might they miss if they don’t go?
In a world shaped by constant connection and comparison, kids feel the pressure to be everywhere at once. This post explores FOMO, the idea of JOMO, and why summer camp offers something increasingly rare: the chance to be fully present, build real confidence, and experience life without the noise.
Preparing for Camp: How to Set Your Child Up for Homesickness Success
Preparing for camp doesn’t mean preventing homesickness—it means helping your child feel ready to move through it. A parent-centered guide to emotional preparation, staff support, and building confidence before summer begins.
The Truth About Homesickness at Camp
A calm, experience-based look at homesickness at camp—why it happens, what kids need, and how parents can support growth.
Is My Child Ready for Summer Camp?
Is my child ready for summer camp? Readiness isn’t about age. It’s about support, exposure, and how we lead kids through discomfort.