Why am I starting this Friday Faves out with a picture of a Swedish Fish truck? Because on our mega-huge to do list for next week’s Outdoor Retailer is to buy some Swedish Fish as part of our super cool Under Solen swag to give to our nearest and dearest. And so three block away from my house at the end of my morning run as I was mulling over said to-do list my jaw dropped when I saw this lovely van parked on the street. Serendipity perhaps?

Just like a lot of you out there, we’ve been in high-end OR planning mode, which has included t-shirt printing, workplan writing and way too much email sending. But as I’ve made my way through the craziness of this past week, I’ve been reminded of two of the key things that you need to run a successful business: support and empowerment.

Tomorrow marks month 9 of official Under Solen business, and this gives me some cause for introspection, because when you’re on month 9 of business and still eating, you’re pretty stoked. On Wednesday we had the chance to present on Social Media and Small Business: Crafting a Strategy That Works For You at the second official Portland Society meeting. This is a group of intelligent, business savvy, bike loving women, and to be perfectly honest, I was a little nervous going into it. Come on, a bunch of independent, awesome women that all take part in making this one of the best bike cities in the country — how could you not be a little intimidated?

But as the meeting progressed I quickly went from intimidated to inspired. I sat and listened to the women in the circle give thanks to others that had helped, supported, or just brought a bit of fun to them throughout the last month and felt a new sense of empowerment being part of this community that’s not only committed to providing a supportive network for each other but reaching out to even more women.

This was a reminder that I get that kind of support everyday, not only from my ever fabulous, ridiculously hard-working business partner that I wouldn’t be anywhere without (big Friday Faves love to you Ms. Nuchols), but an amazing network of individuals that help us do what we do on an everyday basis, and keep us inspired to continue to move forward.

Women like Karyn, who works tirelessly and never ever complains, and Rachel, who’s always up for a photo shoot (with dogs and doppios) and life advice, and Julie, who’s number one in the Under Solen role model book for always being on her game and appreciating funny emails, and the other Julie ,who always has something positive to say. And then of course there’s the 23 Feet ladies who are rolling in to Portland tomorrow, which means we get to transition from long distance email chains to good ole in-person creative brainstorm sessions.

But that’s only a handful of the people that keep us on our toes on a daily basis; the connections that make Under Solen function on an everyday basis span the globe. Running a business is all about taking risks, but taking those risks is doable when you have a support network in place, and I couldn’t be happier about the one we’ve got around us.

So this weekend, take time to thank your own support system, and empower them to go out and do great things. That’s how we’re going to make positive change in the world.

-Anna

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Been playing around with some presentation tools today here at Under Solen, and we’ve got to say, there’s just something about the simplicity and entertainment behind Prezi. Seriously. So much better than a sleep-inducing power point.

After a few minutes of playing around, here’s what we came up with:

Once again we’re getting revved up for Outdoor Retailer, and since our collection of all the hip and happening events was so popular last time around, we figured we’d do it again! Keep checking back as we’ll be updating leading up to the show. And if you’ve got something that should be on here, track us down at @undersolen or leave a comment on this post. (PS: yes, that is a Swedish flag made out of backpacks at the winter show… We’re hoping it makes an appearance again this time around!)

Ongoing

Conservation Alliance Sale

WHAT: Tons of Conservation Alliance member companies have sweet gear up for sale, with part or all of the proceeds benefiting the Alliance. You can check out the full list of offerings over on the Conservation Alliance site.

WHERE: All over!

Help Save Elephants! And Win Gear!

WHAT: Elephants are being killed by poachers at a rate of 10 percent per year. With just 470,000 elephants left in the world, it means that in just a few years we might lose our wild elephant populations. So, this winter, the Epicocity Project is embarking on a forensic biology expedition to the remote jungle of the Democratic Republic of Congo with the goal of saving wild elephants from the illegal ivory trade.

Take Action right here at OR!

1. Become a Fan of the Elephant Ivory Project on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/elephantivoryproject

2. Donate to the cause! Every little bit helps, and every single dollar goes directly to our cause — whether it’s $5 or $50.

WHERE: Visit one of these three booths and drop off your donation and a business card in the box:

Osprey Packs, Booth # 5010

Mountain Khakis, Booth # 34181

Adventure Medical Kit, Booth # 13019

AlpineAire Foods, Booth # 140

WHEN: If you need some extra incentives to take action, we’ve got some sweet gear up for grabs. On Day 3, August 5, we’ll pick 2 lucky people to win two awesome prize packages, including an Osprey Packs Raptor 6 Hydration Pack with Mountain Khakis, an Adventure Medical Kits First Aid Kit and some snacks from AlpineAire! So c’mon! Save some elephants today!

Monday

National Geographic Monster Fish: Jungle Catfish TV Premiere

WHAT: The Epicocity Project teamed up with Monster Fish man Zeb Hogan to explore a forbidding 400-mile-long river: the Rio Roosevelt. They’ll have to navigate Class V rapids, avoid potentially violent tribesmen and survive in one of the most unforgiving places on the planet. The team hopes to find giant piranhas, painted catfish and perhaps even a new species of fish unknown to science.

WHERE: Lumpys 145 W Pierpont Ave

WHEN: Monday, August 2, 8pm

Tuesday

Moving Comfort Smoothie Bar

WHAT: In celebration of fit and powerful women, Moving Comfort is serving fruit smoothies — a refreshing treat following a pre-show run or something healthy to start the day.

WHERE: Moving Comfort Booth # 36149

WHEN: Tuesday, August 3 and Wednesday, August 4, 9-11 am

Happy Hour with Arc’teryx and the Conservation Alliance

WHAT: Come raise a glass to celebrate conservation! Buy a $3 raffle ticket while you’re there and be entered to win a sweet Arc’teryx jacket! All proceeds support the Conservation Alliance.

WHERE: Arc’teryx Booth #1019

WHEN: Tuesday, August 3, 4 PM

Waterkeeper Alliance/ Save Our Gulf Happy Hour

WHAT: Beer and a limited sale of the new Forge Pro at $20/pair. All proceeds to Waterkeeper Alliance/Save Our Gulf.

WHERE: Teva booth #7001

WHEN: Tuesday, August 3, 4–6 pm

Sierra Designs Revival Pack Party

WHAT: Sierra Designs is launching a new line of technical backpacks at ORSM 2010.  To celebrate, we’re giving away a trip for two to Ecuador with international guide service Alaska Mountain Guides.  Stop by, grab a beer served in a custom made Sierra Designs pint glass, and enter for your chance to win SD swag, a new SD backpack, or our grand prize Ecuadorian adventure.  You must be present to win.

WHERE: Sierra Designs booth # 26036

WHEN: Tuesday August 4, 4-6pm

Keen SP11 Launch Party

WHAT: What’s bright and fun, with a small footprint and big social impact? Come party with KEEN to find out the answer and kick off our biggest giving effort yet. Drinks + food!

WHERE: KEEN booth #31183w

WHEN: Tuesday August 3, 5-6pm

Outdoor Retailer Industry Party: Taco Tuesday + Merrell Beach Volleyball Challenge

WHAT: Briggs & Riley Travelware, Brooks Range, CamelBak, Green Guru Gear, Hi-Tec, ITW Nexus Global, Merrell, Outside Magazine and Patagonia are all hitting the sand in this benefit volleyball game for the National Park Foundation. The game is in honor of Yellowstone’s 138th birthday, so study up on your National Park trivia, as there will be plenty of prizes to give away.

WHERE: Pierpont Avenue, which is being turned into a beach volleyball court

WHEN: Tuesday August 3, 6-8pm

Wednesday

Keep It Wild: Take Action for Conservation!

WHAT: We all know that if we want to get wild, we’ve got to protect our playground. So visit eight member company booths to take action on behalf of a Conservation Alliance grantee. Take action at all eight booths, have your Keep It Wild passport stamped and be entered to win a fabulous prize package! Click here for details.

WHERE: All over!

WHEN: All day Wednesday, August 4th

The Conservation Alliance Breakfast: A Talk by Historian Douglas Brinkley

WHAT: I know, I know, 7 a.m. comes early, but mark your calendars for this event. Arrive tired and leave inspired! Click here for details.

WHERE: The Marriott

WHEN: Wednesday, August 4th, 7-8:50 am

Conservation Alliance Fundraiser

WHAT: Conservation Alliance Happy Hour with Outdoor Industry All Star Band. Purchase KEEN product to raise money for the CA. Enter to win an ultimate gear package including a $500 AMEX gift card to travel to the HybridLife destination of your choice.

WHERE: KEEN Booth # 31183w

WHEN: Wednesday, August 4, 4:30 pm

Chaco Mimosa Morning

WHAT: Custom Z/1’s for $25 with a portion of proceeds going to the Conservation Alliance AND free mimosas! What better way to kick off day 3?

WHERE: Chaco, booth #34127

WHEN: Wednesday, August 4, 10am

Kelty Vintage Pack Bash

WHAT: Kelty has gone to the archives to design a new line of vintage-inspired packs and bags for Spring 2011.  To get this new category off in style, we’re throwing a party to benefit the Conservation Alliance.  For a $20 donation, you will receive an individually numbered, one-of-a-kind Mockingbird backpack.  All proceeds go to the Conservation Alliance.  We will also be serving micro brewed beer in custom made Kelty pint glasses and giving away vintage-inspired swag.

WHERE: Kelty Booth # 28017

WHEN: Wednesday August 4, 4-6pm

First Descents Book Signing

WHAT: Catch up with The Epicocity Project and have them sign your copy of First Descents: In Search of Wild Rivers — a chronicle of the best writing and most daring adventures in whitewater paddling to date.

WHERE: Wilderness Press/Menasha Ridge Press Booth # 32108

WHEN: Wednesday, August 4, 2pm

Paddlesports Industry Night

WHAT: Join NRS and Canoe & Kayak for free drinks, industry awards and paddling movies.

WHERE: Pierpont Plaza, 163 Pierpont Ave

WHEN: Wednesday, August 4, 6 to 9pm

Woolrich Adventures Party

WHAT: Woolrich will be celebrating the launch of Woolrich Adventures with the drawing for a trip for two to the Canadian Rockies.  Woolrich teamed up with Travel Alberta, Via Rail and the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge for this exciting trip.  Stop by for some Canadian beer,  product giveaways, and a chance to win a trip of a lifetime.  Must be present to win.

WHERE: Woolrich booth # 19001-20001

WHEN: Wednesday August 4, 5-6pm

Kamchatka Project Happy Hour

WHAT: Bryan Smith, Kamchatka Project filmmaker/lead expedition kayaker. Slideshow presentation / q&a from his whitewater kayaking expedition in remote Russian. Free Beer!

WHERE: Outdoor Research booth #26015

WHEN: Wednesday, August 4, 5pm

Teva Mountain Games Happy Hour

WHAT: Celebrate the Teva Mountain Games and Teva’s new Gnarkosi with the Vail Valley Foundation. Music, beer and a C4 Waterman iSUP board drawing.

WHERE: Teva booth 7001

WHEN: Wednesday, August 4, 4-6 pm

Teva Party

WHAT: Teva’s Pair for a Foot launch party with Dilated Peoples at Club Elevate. Invitation required. Suggested $10 donation to Waterkeeper Alliance/Save Our Gulf.

WHERE: Club Elevate

WHEN: Wednesday, August 4, Doors 9 pm

Thursday August 5

15th Annual Wasatch Wobble 5K Fun Run Badrock Battle – A Superhero Theme

WHAT: Why wouldn’t you kick off Day 3 of the show with a trail run? Montrail is proud to announce that the Wasatch Wobble will be back again for the 15th running of this fun 5k trail run. Dress up in Superhero costume for a chance to win the costume contest! Stop by the Montrail booth #25001 on Tuesday or Wednesday, August 3rd or 4th, to register and receive your runner goodie bag! All proceeds support the Conservation Alliance.  Click here for more details.

WHERE: Bonneville Shoreline Trail.  Start is just north of Red Butte Gardens, Salt Lake City

WHEN: Thursday August 5, Run Starts at: 6:45AM Check-In: 6:00-6:30AM

Waffles for Wilderness

WHAT: Clif Bar is celebrating Winter Wildlands Alliance and their new seasonal flavors with Waffles for Wilderness. Join us for some great morning waffles and support Winter Wildlands Alliance.

WHERE: Clif Bar booth #7026

WHEN: Thursday August 5, 8:30-10am

Book signing with Eugene Buchanan

WHAT: Eugene Buchanan will be on hand in the Kelty booth signing copies of his new book, Outdoor Parents, Outdoor Kids from 2-3 on Wednesday.  Do your part to help raise the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts by stopping by for your copy of this very informative instruction manual for getting your kids active in the outdoors.

WHERE: Kelty booth # 28017

WHEN: Thursday August 5, 2-3pm

Dam Busters: Save Our Wild Salmon

WHAT: Snake River salmon swim more than 900 miles inland and climb almost 7,000 feet to reach their spawning grounds — the highest salmon spawning habitat on the planet, and the largest and wildest habitat left in the continental United States. These one of a kind salmon travel farther and higher than any other salmon on Earth — not to mention tackling eight massive dams along the way. Come celebrate these amazing fish and catch a glimpse of their epic migration first hand with a film trailer from the Epicocity Project and an amazing photo exhibit from the International League of Conservation Photographers. The filmmakers, photographers and Save Our Wild Salmon crew will be on hand to answer questions and help you take action to protect these one of a kind fish. FREE beer and smoked salmon!

WHERE: Patagonia Booth # 13027

WHEN: Thursday August 5 from 4-6pm

American Alpine Club Happy Hour

WHAT: Osprey hosts the American Alpine Club Happy Hour. Enjoy a gin and tonic and keep a commemorative rocks glass. Enter to win a climbing pack and schwag from Osprey and the AAC.

WHERE: Osprey Packs Booth # 5010

WHEN: Thursday, August 5, 4:30pm – 6pm

Mountain Khakis-KEEN Block Party

WHAT: Go fast and have more fun with KEEN trail shoes at the KEEN and Mountain Khakis block party. 3 Legged Races, Frisbee golf, Corn Hole beer and prizes!

WHERE: KEEN Booth # 31183w

WHEN: Thursday, August 5 at 4:30 pm

Teva House Fiji Happy Hour

WHAT: BULA! Teva House Fiji adventure with Tui Tai and OARS. Head-to-head industry insider drinking games… Think “boat races.”

WHERE: Teva booth #7001

WHEN: Thursday, August 5, 4–6 p.m.

A sunny Friday here in Portland, which means we’ve got berry picking and biking on the brain.

It’s been a crazy week here at Under Solen (which included dancing in a salmon suit), with lots of exciting stuff happening. Plus it’s summer… and we couldn’t be happier!

Photo by Andrew Ferguson

Here’s just a small selection of stuff that got us stoked this week and that we think you’ll enjoy:

• Did you know that more than 100 elephants are killed every day by poachers? Save some Elephants by becoming a fan of Elephant Ivory Project over on Facebook.
• Need some wanderlust? Read this great post about Moab from the ladies over at 23 Feet.
• Kids get it. Nature that is.
• Plastic bag ban in Portland. Hopefully.
• A bike-thru? Yes it might be a reality.

Now that’s enough being on the internet. So listen to this (our official Under Solen summer anthem), grab a friend, and get outside!

We recently learned about 3 Peaks 3 Weeks, an annual all-female climbing event that raises money and awareness for key issues facing Africa, and we were immediately intrigued. Bringing women from around the world together to summit Mt. Kenya, Mt. Meru and Mt. Kilimanjaro, 3 Peaks 3 Weeks is certainly a combination of adventure, inspiration and positive change. We caught up with one of the participants, Chris Kassar (who’s also part of our favorite Rios Libres) to learn more about this woman-powered initiative and how it’s bringing real change to Africa.

Tell us a little bit about 3 Peaks 3 Weeks

In January 2011 (which is fast approaching!), I will join a team of 11 ordinary women from around the world as we attempt to summit 3 of Africa’s highest peaks (Mt. Kenya, Mt. Meru and Mt. Kilimanjaro) in just 3 weeks! Our aim is to raise money and awareness to address 3 peak issues currently threatening Africa: environment, education and health. In between each climb we’ll spend time with the African organizations that 3 Peaks 3 Weeks supports so we can see where each dollar we have raised is already helping to make a difference.

How have you been training for the event?

I haven’t had to change much in my life to train since I’ve always spent a majority of my free time running around outside. However, I’m aware that this is going to be one of the hardest things I’ve ever done so I’m definitely ramping up my usual efforts.

Ironically, I was in the middle of trekking in the Himalaya when I found out that I was chosen to be part of the 3 Peaks 3 Weeks team for 201. I had just been to Everest Base Camp that very day. So…I guess my training was already well under way since I spent the majority of 2 months in Nepal hiking with a heavy pack over rough terrain at pretty high altitude.

At home here in Flagstaff, I get out into the mountains as much as I can and however I can – skis, snowshoes, running shoes, mountain bike, hiking boots. I am also currently spending a lot of time on a road bike and in the water since I am training for my first triathlon. I’m really new to swimming and biking so this is a good challenge. My success on these climbs is going to be just as dependent on my mental fitness as my physical fitness so yoga, meditation and visualization are an important part of preparing for Africa, as well. Breathing at altitude can be so hard, but yoga and meditation have made this a lot easier for me.

To get some real life climbing practice and altitude exposure, my friend Julie and I are going to do a “3 Peaks 3 Days Challenge.” So, next week we are heading to Colorado for 5 or 6 days of backpacking during which we will summit three 14ers (peaks above 14,000 feet) in 3 days.

Why do you think going on an all-women expedition is so powerful?

With each passing year, I have come to value the brilliant, passionate, tough, sweet, bold women in my life more and more. Sisterhood (both genetic and chosen) is one of the most powerful bonds that I have ever encountered. It’s hard to explain in words, but something happens when “sisters” tackle a challenge together – things get done, fun is had, passion oozes and confidence grows. Our power on this expedition will come from the fact that we are united around a common goal. Our ability to support each other, work as a team and rise to the challenge is critical if we are to accomplish what we have set out to achieve.

Aside from its impact on those of us participating, I think part of the power of an all-women expedition comes when others witness it. Even though it is 2010, I still think it is imperative for the rest of the world to see women demonstrating their strength, courage, bravery and determination.

The goal of the expedition is to raise awareness of three peak issues facing Africa: Environment, education and health. How do the three go hand in hand and how does supporting one support the others?

These are the largest issues affecting East Africa today and I believe that addressing all 3 of them is critical for the future of the people and lands of Africa because doing so is key to reducing the impacts of poverty. Simply put, providing someone with basic healthcare and education can provide them with an entire future. And because East African communities are typically incredibly dependent on their surrounding environment, it is also imperative to conserve wildlands while benefiting the surrounding communities.

Halting environmental degradation, providing education for more children and improving health care are going to become more and more important as populations continue to rise and development progresses. These are tangible and hopeful issues to focus on because individuals and groups can have a concrete impact on them; with some dedication and effort a person can create positive change in these arenas by taking action and accountability, whereas other issues – i.e., corruption – would be more difficult to target directly.

There are a lot of groups that have launched in the past few years that focus solely on women’s issues. In a place like Africa, what do you think are the benefits of this?

Actually, all 3 organizations we support do not only focus on women or women’s issues. In some cases there are certain projects that do, but overall these organizations serve a broad range of people who need help. Nonetheless, those groups that focus solely on women’s issues are extremely important. Because of the central role that women hold within communities, they are often the key to helping families and villages out of poverty.

All of the money that you raise goes straight to Africa, while you’re responsible for your expedition costs (~$10,000). That’s a lot of money. Why do you feel strongly about putting that amount of your personal money into this kind of travel?

In the past year I spent a good deal of time in Nepal, Southeast Asia and South America. As is always the case while traveling, I was reminded of how lucky I have been throughout my life and how much I have to offer to this world as a result of where I was born and the opportunities I’ve been given.

Traveling reinforced my gratitude for simple things like freedom, health, family, peace, access to education, clean drinking water, financial security and physical safety. These are things I often take for granted, yet each day of my journey I was reminded that there are millions of people throughout the world who do not have the same luxury. And so, the financial challenges are outweighed by my desire to use my talents and tenacity to help this amazing planet and those who don’t have as much as I do.

Besides supporting this expedition, what’s one thing that people can do to have a positive impact on these issues facing Africa?

Great question because it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by big problems in a continent that can feel so far away….It’s a tough one because there is no “quick fix.” Direct handouts may have their place in emergency situations, but supporting those kinds of programs in East Africa is like putting a Band-Aid on a wound that really needs surgery. So, I’d suggest that people learn as much as they can about the situation and support initiatives, programs, groups and individuals that empower people to take control of their own future; those that follow along with this idea: “give a man a fish and he eats for a day, teach a man to fish and he eats for a lifetime.”

That’s the amazing thing about 3 Peaks 3 Weeks – all of the money I raise goes to sustainable projects that enable individuals and communities to be accountable for their own success over the long-term.

This trip and cause is pretty inspirational. What inspires you on a daily basis?

Nature – She inspires me because she is simultaneously strong, graceful, beautiful, powerful, loving and humbling.

My family – My mom and dad, sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins are each an inspiration in their own way, but they share a common thread which also inspires me: they all sure know how to give love! And even though they may worry about me because of the crazy way I’ve chosen to live my life, they support me and believe in me no matter what.

My 5 year old friend Finley who just had open heart surgery and his parents – They have inspired me to be fearless and to act fearlessly.

People who work to make their dreams a reality regardless of the associated challenges.

The rare beings who are truly honest with themselves and with others.

Chris will be heading to Africa in January. To help support the cause of 3 Peaks 3 Weeks, you can donate by clicking here.

© Neil Osborne, iLCP

We’re thinking that most of you have already bailed on office work (and hence keeping up on your favorite blogs) for more entertaining, long-weekend adventures, so we’ll keep this short and sweet.

This week has been focused on exploring, in all forms of the word, from the beautiful landscape of Idaho’s Sawtooth Valley to taking off on crazy Airstream adventures to creative brainstorming on new proposals. So for this week’s Friday Faves, we’re giving you our top picks — in 5 different categories — that will ensure that you’re inspired to get out and explore this weekend.

Adventure: Something everyone should do at least once in their lives: buy an Airstream and take off on an epic road trip.

Conservation: How do you protect a species? Give people amazing visuals.

Nature: The Flathead Valley scores another break, which might mean even more protection for this wild and beautiful place.

Travel: Got a pack that’s crammed full of gear? Take a photo and win another.

Foreign: German techno dance beats? Yes please.

Here at Under Solen we get to hang out and work with some pretty inspirational people. Allie Bombach is certainly part of that crowd. A fellow 20-something-kick-ass-female-that-does-her-own-thing, Allie is taking on the world of adventure, video camera in hand. Beyond running Red Reel Video Media, she’s currently working on one of the most intriguing projects we’ve come across in awhile: 23 feet.

What is 23 feet? In a short answer: One film, three women, 23 feet of Airstream, and 2600 miles. With a love of adventure travel, Allie scored herself a sweet vintage rig and is planning on spending the next little while exploring the wild lands of the west, advocating “activism and awareness of conservation through promoting organizations that dedicate themselves to preserving these wild lands, and encourage people to get outside and see these places for themselves.”

We caught up with Allie to learn more about the project and what keeps her inspired.

Airstreams are hot these days. What was the first thing that happened that made you think, “I should get one of those?”

Being an outdoor videographer, my job keeps me on the road. I think the moment of realization came when my roommates were surprised to see me at home, and when I could sleep better in my car then my own bed. I have had a crush on old Airstreams since I was a kid and after traveling from place to place and only spending a few days a month at the room I was renting, it just made sense to get a home on wheels. I love the classic look, and that they are light and aerodynamic. Lasting through generations, they are meant for the roads and not the landfills and to me it resembles buying an old historic house verses a cookie cutter – more funky, fun, and the ability to have restoration creativity. I also love simple living. I’m excited to have limited space, so only the necessities are inside.

Did you think about buying the Airstream and then figure out the idea for the film, or vice versa?

I bought the Airstream first and was planning on moving to Portland, OR in the summer of 2010. After attending the 5point film festival and being overwhelmingly inspired to create by the filmmakers, I felt the story I wanted to tell was already there, it just needed to be set it in motion.

How did the idea for 23 Feet evolve?

At first it was about challenging myself. I am happily addicted to change, risk, and putting myself out of my element and the undertaking of living full-time on the road was a welcomed adventure. After discussing the challenges with others who had been on the road pursuing their passions, I realized that a lot of the conversations came back to community. It’s easy to feel alone out there when you’re always showing up in new place without knowing a soul. But, people who are passionate about the outdoors and getting outside are usually a pretty easy group to approach, and it’s hard to leave that new place without making a friend or two. So, it evolved into a story about the traveling community. A big theme of the film is enjoying our wild lands which, ultimately, go hand in hand with taking responsibility for them. Every day we are reminded that we cannot take these spaces for granted – every day we lose more and more precious wilderness. We are striving to stir people to action by reminding them of how lucky we are to have access to nature, and to bring awareness to conservation efforts throughout the West.

Who’s involved in 23 Feet?

When I offered to take friends with me on my trip across the West, I really didn’t expect anyone to say yes. After all, taking over a month off of work isn’t really something most people can do. And it’s not like this would be a vacation! Filming production is a lot of work, especially on the road. But Greer Glasser and Lisa Montierth not only said yes, they are drastically changing their own lives in the name of this adventure. I love that these two ladies are willing jump onboard, let me throw them into some pretty hairy situations, and at the end of the day crawl into some pretty tight quarters for some shut-eye. Greer is a long time friend and a very solid gal to have at your side. I’m sure I wouldn’t have made it out of many a foreign train station if it not for her savvy travel skills. Not to mention, as our designated events manager, she knows how to throw a damn good party! Lisa is also a welcome companion on this trip because as a talented writer she is able to see the beauty and fun in almost any situation. When the travel days are long and Greer and I are about to put on our cranky pants, Lisa will be there to help us appreciate our surroundings. As Red Reel Video Media’s writer, she’ll have a vital role in telling the story of 23 Feet, and she’s also going to teach us some well needed Yoga skills…

Tell us what it’s like to take on this project as a group of three women?

It’s easy to see this project as three young ladies headed out for an adventure, and part of that we embrace. However, our true dedication lies in telling a story that has not much to do with gender, but the inspirational stories of many individuals and their passion for the outdoors. Taking on any film project presents some unique challenges and we are so lucky to be backed by a diverse community of rockstar people who understand and care about the story we are striving to tell. The fact that we do happen to be three young women is, of course, part of that story. I think it will be really interesting to see what that will ultimately mean to the project and how people will respond to us throughout our travels.

“Community” is a common theme in your idea for this film. What’s your own definition of community and how do you think this adventure might change that?

Community to me is really a bond where people share a similar passion. I think what pops into my head first is physical locations, like the community of a town. Although, when I think of my own community, I am unable to name just one place. I’d say that my community is defined more by a feeling then a location and I hope that this adventure proves it to be stronger then I thought.

Since embarking on this project, what’s one of the main things that you’ve learned? What do you think you’ll learn over the next several months?

There have been a lot of hurdles up to this point in the process of making this project a reality. While rebuilding the 40 year old Airstream I kept asking “Is that possible?” in reference to things like plumbing and electricity. My step dad, who has been a HUGE help in the restoration, always replies without hesitation or concern “Allie… nothing is impossible”. At first, I thought he was talking about installing solar power or having a collapsible rain barrel, but I think his simple reply has had a deeper meaning to me in the last few months. I’ve come to realize that many of my friends and family have traveled in their lives for extended periods of time. My grandparents traveled the United States for 10 years while I was growing up. From Vancouver, BC to New Orleans, LA, visiting grandma’s house was an adventure because it was always somewhere different. I have come across many people that not only live on the road, but work full-time in converted Euro vans or trailers. It’s becoming more and more apparent that many have taken on this lifestyle if not now, at some time in their lives. Every now and then I hear from friends that they too would love to travel, but it’s just not possible. I can hear my step dad speaking up at this point. I hope to learn more about how people perceive what is possible, and what is pushing them forward or maybe…holding them back? ….And I hope Lisa will teach me some Yoga skills.

What’s the plan for the project?

Our dates aren’t really set in stone, but we will head out from Durango to Silverton, CO on the 4th of July for the famous firework show. Then, through the month of July we’ll head through Utah, Nevada, California, and Oregon. We’ll pull into Portland OR in early August and will premier the film in later in the Fall. We encourage people to follow along on our Facebook page as well as on our site www.23feet.org. We’ll be keeping in touch through words, photos, and short video clips. We also encourage people who are out there right now to let us know their own stories and meet up with us for a high five!

We will be having a 23 feet launch party at Serious Texas BBQ in Durango, CO on June 30th as a farewell and a high five to the Durangatang community. Local music, tacos, and brewskis will be on from 4-8 pm and the Airstream will be there to tour!

You’re making a film that’s certainly about inspiration. What inspires you on a daily basis?

Inspiration comes in so many forms for me. Something that keeps inspiring me lately is what happens after inspiration has taken hold of others; the drive in people who are determined to take what inspires them and turn it into action. One talk motivates someone to be active in a nonprofit, one film pushes someone to change their purchasing habits, one person challenges another to take on life as a precious gift, it’s endless. I feel so lucky to have such a great group of friends that inspire me in this way on a daily basis; people who are taking charge, setting goals, and making change.

Happy Solstice! Today marks the first day of summer (and the longest day of the year) and despite the current lack in sun here in Portland, we’ll be celebrating all week. Why? Because we’re Swedish, and when you’re Swedish you learn to celebrate the sun.

Official Swedish midsommar festivities kick off this Friday, but we figured you could probably use a good dose of Sweden on a gray Monday. So enter this ridiculous IKEA commercial (that eventually got banned on account of its negative portrayal of the Swedish tradition).

We’ve once again made it to Friday, and here in Portland the sun has finally decided to grace us with its presence. Thank you sun!!! And sunshine obviously makes us want to get out and play, which gets us thinking about why we love the outdoors so much. A big part of that is from our upbringing, so this week we want to give a special shout out to our good ole dads. We wouldn’t be where we are without you.

I’m going to go ahead and give a personal shout to my father, who taught me the beauty of outdoor eating and exploring. A big part of what we do here at Under Solen is promote getting outdoors, and he was a big part in instilling that value in me. So thanks dad. And thanks for teaching me that trips should always have good food and good wine, no matter where you are in the world.

So instead of spending your money on some ridiculous Father’s Day gift (trust us, he doesn’t need another grill…) take your pops outdoors. And if that’s not possible, take someone else outside and show them all the great reasons why we should protect the places that we love.

Sure, we spend most Fridays telling you to get outside and get active… but that’s the Under Solen mantra! Now hop to!