I used to do a lot of backpacking. In fact, I viewed work solely as a means by which I could spend all available summer days on trails in the mountains somewhere. My good friend M (mentioned recently) is the one that introduced me to backpacking, which is one good thing. She also introduced me to fine food while backpacking, which is entirely different and wonderful.
M used to organize all-female backpacking trips every summer, and invited me along the first time in 2000. We ate linguini with crab, roasted brie in brown sugar with dried apricots and sourdough for dunking, burritos with fresh avocado, salads, fresh fruit… you get the idea. We had wine with every evening meal and the best coffee every morning. It was M’s goal to convince us that there was no reason to sacrifice fine dining just because one was living in a tent at 6000 feet.
She also felt there was no reason to skip fashion up there, as she applied perfect makeup every morning with color-coordinated earrings and sandals by the campfire, but that is a whole other story.
In any case, her lesson stuck, and I do eat very well when camping, and I never miss an excellent cup of coffee on the road. The photo above was taken in the Lost Dutchman State Park during my road trip last month. It reminds me that camping weather is almost upon us and I need to remember to buy some brie.
Conscious Engagement 
Your friend M is my new hero. 😀
(Also, I’ve loved reading your last set of posts about your journeys through the American wildernesses. Very nice stuff, and great photos.)
My favorite coffee is Salt Spring Metta Espresso. It’s local (Salt Spring Island is in the Salish Sea) and dark roasted, which is my preference. Also, the guy who runs the place is pretty awesome — I had extended correspondence with him last summer as I worked as inventory manager and menu decider for a restaurant. I also enjoy a nice cup of Hawaiian Lion’s Brand Vanilla Macadamia from time to time. I shall have to try Peet’s — I’m a coffee snob who’s always on the lookout for fresh tastes.
I confess that I am a coffee snob too! If you do try Peets, my fave is the Sulawesi-Kalosi, and for a good, all-around satisfying cup, the Sumatra hits the spot.
Ms. M is one of my heroes and I feel like the Universe gave me a big fat gift when She introduced me to my friend.
Very enjoyable, poignant and interesting entries. Thank you for inviting me.
Of course! FYI, as far as I recollect, you have read many of my older entries, back when it was on Gaia. I had time to copy all the old ones and re-post here on WordPress before Gaia died.