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
From Conference Ballroom to Campfire: Why We Must Rethink the Story of Summer Camp
Camp professional and parent Anne Izard reflects from the ACA National Conference on why summer camp is essential—and worth it—for today’s kids.
Homesick, Part Two: When It’s Your Child, Not You
A personal reflection on homesickness at camp—from expert to parent—and what it teaches us about trust, growth, and letting go.
Homesick and Happy (A Camp Story)
A personal reflection on homesickness at summer camp- from a former camper, camp director, and parent learning to let go.
Enrichment Outside of Silverton: Why Getting Out Matters
One of the most important things about raising kids in a small town is getting out. Perspective matters. Experience matters. Getting outside our box matters.
While many of us chose life in a tiny community for its simplicity and lack of flash, kids need more. They need to see, do, and feel things beyond dirt streets and multigenerational hockey games.