≡ Chris Olson

Inspiration From the Mind of the Coog - Discover new music, read interesting stories, watch powerful videos, and learn from fascinating people that keep me motivated with this bi-weekly series.


Share This


IFMC #9

Nov 02 2020


Hiking the Pinnacle in Stowe, Vermont is a right of passage for both visitors and those of us who call the Lamoille Valley home year-round. To make this relatively short hike to a stunning view of the Green Mountain Range even better, you'll often encounter two furry friends without a care in the world guarding its summit.

Baylor and Sampson, two golden retrievers who live nearby, are often found making the trek or hanging out at the summit, without an owner in sight. I'll never forget the first time I encountered them both while heading to the poular rock outcropping for another Vermont sunset. 

Perched in a comfortable lounging position atop the actual summit, which is also the best viewpoint, it was clear they hadn't a care in the world. It was also clear that they had no plans of moving for anyone else who had visions of occupying this iconic vantage!

So alongside them both, we sat there and watched another day turn to night.

Chris Olson, Vermont writer and athlete, enjoys a Pinnacle sunset with the #stowepinnacledogs

That evening, I read more stories online of these two friends chasing each other up the mountain for years, sometimes with controversy, and I couldn't help but feel my affection for these two guardians of the Pinnacle grow.

Imagine escaping the watchful attention of you mom and dad, chasing your best buddy up a beautiful hike numerous times each week, watching the sunset, all while serving as summit celebrities which brings with it nonstop petting and plenty of photo ops.  

Baylor and Sampson have me thinking...

Maybe it really is just a dog's world, and somehow we're all running around crazily within it! 

#StowePinnacleDogs

IFMC #8

This quote from acclaimed naturalist, Henry David Thoreau, may be just the reminder you needed to pursue life with passion, regardless of your path.

Read More

IFMC #7

Giving back to the places that I love and embracing a new wardrobe item that has become a staple in my life...

Read More

IFMC #6

Get ready to reboot your outlook with some important messages from an unlikely source, 17-year old high school student Zach Sobiech... 

Read More

IFMC #5

Whenever life puts your plans on hold, remember this quote from a famous Brooklyn opera singer...

Read More

IFMC #4

After a couple hours of serious vegging on the couch last Saturday evening in front of our smart tv, I decided to click on one more Youtube video before calling it a night. This is the video I chose...

Read More

IFMC #3

Use this simple trick to help you remain a lifelong learner...

Read More

IFMC # 2

Improve your DIY skills with the help of Jeff Thorman, host of the increasingly popular youtube channel Home RenoVision DIY...

Read More

IFMC #1

The inaugural post featuring Inspiration From the Mind of the Coog introduces you to a new, Swedish artist...

Read More

Inspiration From The Mind Of The Coog - What Is This?

Learn more about this bi-weekly series that will give you the chance to discover new sources of inspiration...

Read More

BEFORE YOU GO!

I hope you enjoyed your visit to my online home. I do my best to only publish content that is relevant, interesting, and provides you the opportunity to learn something new. If you found even one thing of value, or just want free stickers, please consider showing your support. Sharing your email is free. It’s easy. And it lets me know that at least someone out there finds what I do useful!

© 2024 Chris Olson Outside All Rights Reserved | Website by Edgeworks Creative