Protect the Land and Celebrate JJ Turning 1 ♡

Our trip happens to fall on his first birthday

Our son is our miracle - to be able to bring him to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness feels like a treasure.

And I so dearly want him to experience the joy of sharing this space with his friends, family, and children one day. 

Just as my grandparents did with their children, and my parents did with us.

I’m dedicating this trip to all the mothers in my life who taught me how to be in relationship with nature. How to be kind to the land. The mothers who encouraged me to forge a path that centered the original mother - the one we all arise from and return to.

I hope to do this with my son. And along the way, I hope to contribute in meaningful ways to those who are fighting for the future. For our children, for our earth, for what is good.

♡ 7 months pregnant with JJ - Snowbank Lake ♡ 

The Boundary Waters is America’s most visited wilderness area—and one of the most threatened. Proposed sulfide-ore copper mining on its doorstep risks poisoning an interconnected watershed that cannot be repaired once damaged.

The spirit of this land, and those who wish to protect it is strong. Join us in contributing to the vitality of the mission.

For JJ’s first birthday we’re joining forces to support Save the Boundary Waters. They’re working through science, policy, and legal efforts to ensure future generations can experience the embrace of this land.

It all counts. Whether you donate $1 or $1,000, you’re helping fund the work that ensures the Boundary Waters remains in its truest form.

♡

A little about me and my family

Hey! My name is Julia - I’m a self employed commercial lady guide in the BWCAW and a member of the Save the Boundary Waters Business Coalition. I share my love for nature with my partner Mike and our son JJ (this trip is both JJ and Mike's first time in the BDubs!). I wouldn’t be here today without my grandmother and grandfather - who in 1964 took their first trip to Snowbank Lake with my mother and aunt. My grandmother sewed a tent out of my grandfather’s old military canvas. My mother continues to carry the torch of my grandfathers legacy, to describe her as a fierce woodswoman would be an understatement.

I also wouldn’t be here without the wisdom of Lois Haskin, Shirley Malcom, Jane Besler, and Donella Palmer - who for 20 years took me under their wing in the woods and taught me dang near close to everything I know about thriving in remote wilderness. As my grandfather and wild grandmothers have transitioned on, I can feel their support enveloping this work and firmly encouraging me to lean in. I do this work in honor of them and the beloved good green earth.

You can check out our adventure on instagram @fullandnourished

May the integrity of the waters, rivers, falls, and forests forever prevail!

♡

With love - thanks for celebrating with us!