April 14, 2019 – San Francisco, California

“On belay.”

I confirm with Tara to ensure that she has set up the belay. “Belay on,” she responds. She works at a climbing gym in the city and offered to treat my cousin Kelsey and I to an afternoon of fun.

I met Tara during my year in Montana in the most random of places. Wading through the Boiling River in Yellowstone National Park, she reached out to my cousin Reese while losing her balance on the rocks. As we exited the river, we engaged in conversation.

“Climbing!”

I state as I begin my ascent up the artificial rock wall. “Climb on,” Tara replies. Our visit began early yesterday morning with a mandatory filming session—yoga, meditation, and hiking near the Land’s End Labyrinth followed by an interview at the gym. This morning, we filmed some outdoor climbing at Ocean Beach, then eventually met back at the gym. How fortunate I am.

My other cousins (Molly and Kelsey) ask Tara where she’s from, which leads us to discover that she is on a nomadic journey across the states. I’m obviously immediately intrigued. I give her my number in hopes to connect and learn more about her story.

After a few hours of climbing, Kelsey and I part ways with Tara. I thank her for the opportunity she has provided us. For participating in my project. For her friendship.

We head to Kelsey’s place for the night, where I’ll leave my car and prepare for my first solo trip out of the country.

“Keep on going and the chances are you will stumble on something, perhaps when you are least expecting it. I have never heard of anyone stumbling on something sitting down.” – Charles Kettering