Our hike in the Latemar Mountain range has been the most meaningful part of our trip for me so far because being on the mountain and taking in this view was a very meditative and spiritual experience. This is exactly what I came on this trip for, to connect with nature and get a sense of magnitude and perspective. I grew up in a city pretty removed from nature so I definitely encounter a great sense of awe whenever I see anything this vast and expansive. I’ve always loved whenever I can see the stars and this is definitely a similar experience. I also loved seeing the cows and thinking about the people who have lived in the Dolomites and have been using these same practices for centuries. Because the US is such a young country and has problematic relationships with its past the majority of us do not experience this deep cultural connection to our land or practices. This adds a societal depth knowing that people have been experiencing these same feelings and drawing inspiration and guidance from this land throughout history.

I would have included more images but because of poor service the past few days I have decided to just submit what I can. This is my favorite picture of cows as well as a picture of the view.