Hi Friends,

I’ve been doing a lot of thinking about the year ahead and what I want our adventures to look like in 2026. Not in a rigid, “new year, new me” way, more like a gentle nudge toward getting outside more, saying yes to trips we’ve been putting off, and making adventure feel a little easier and a lot more fun.

I want to share what I’m dreaming about for myself, mostly because putting it in writing helps me actually do it, and because a lot of these ideas come directly from conversations with you.

(Be sure to read to the end for a FREE adventure goal planning worksheet + some tips to make 2026 the most adventurous YET.)

My 2026 Adventure Goals

✨ Lead a women’s group trip
​This is still very much in the idea phase, but I’m thinking of Iceland in September? If you have thoughts, feelings, strong opinions let me know! This is an idea that feels so fresh I am nervous to even put it out there! But… manifestation is a thing, right?

✨ Plan a big outdoor family adventure
​I don’t know exactly what this will look like yet, but I want to take my kids on a real overnight adventure. I’m thinking maybe backpacking, bikepacking, or a float trip. I have a ton of ideas, but I am not sure which one to do.

✨ Become more Type A about adventures (this is a stretch for me)
​I usually wing it… and honestly, I kind of love that. But when I asked what you need help with, so many of you said you want more packing lists, planners, budgets, and itineraries.
So, I’m challenging myself to get more organized, and learn as I go.

✨ Plan a solo (or mom) outdoor adventure
​I’d love to take a bigger backpacking or hiking trip that my kids aren’t quite ready for yet, either solo or with friends.

✨ Teach my son to ride his bike
​ He is so close, but I want to make sure it happens.

✨ Take my kids to swim with manatees
​We’re going to Florida in February, and I’m using this trip as motivation for the kids to become better swimmers.

✨ Build a Midwest adventure community
​This one feels big and undefined. Does the world need another Facebook group? (I genuinely don’t know.)
What I do know is that I want to help create a space where people encourage each other to get outside and explore the Midwest and I’d love your thoughts on what that could look like.

What are your goals?

Goal setting can feel scary and overwhelming. That’s why I created this FREE adventure planning worksheet to help you reflect on what you want to accomplish this year and set goals.

If you’re up for it, hit reply and tell me:

• What are you hoping to do or try this year?
• How could I help you take this next step?
• What feels hard or overwhelming about getting outside or planning adventures?

I want what I share here to actually be useful. Whether that’s trip ideas, planning help, local inspiration, or just encouragement on days when leaving the house feels like a lot.

If you need a little inspiration while you’re thinking about your goals, here are a few places to start on my blog:

• ​Midwest State and National Parks​
• ​Kansas City Hikes​
• ​Winter Outdoor Ideas​

Thanks for being here, for dreaming with me, and for choosing adventure in whatever way fits your life right now. I can’t wait to read your replies.

See you outside,​
Amy