If asked, I would probably describe myself as “refined country”, which means I don’t mind visiting the big city, but I’m at home in the country. I’m okay with wearing cammo but need to have my smart phone by my side. I live by the scouting motto of “Be Prepared”.
A little more about me:
Howdy. I’m Jay and live with my lovely wife Steph. I have a beautiful daughter who is just starting her journey through adulthood. We love to hike, travel, and spend time with family and friends.
My genes are steeped in a long family history of being “in the wild”. My parents both grew up on family farms, and some of my fondest childhood memories are of just being outdoors: playing in the snow, helping Dad cut wood, or helping Mom clean vegetables from our garden. My dad is one of the hardest workers I know. He’s a creative artist and an extremely accomplished gardener. Mom has a cool head under stress, and—in my book– is the best cook around, which has helped drive my love of food.
As a kid, I could usually be found riding my bike, playing in my tree house, or carrying my trusty Red Rider BB gun. In high school, those activities turned into participating in everything from sports to journalism, going swimming, four wheeling, or just hanging out with friends from church. My time in Scouting (and a family trip to Yellowstone National Park) further cemented my love of nature.
As life allows, I try to spend as much time as possible pursuing my love of the great outdoors—hiking, foraging for wild edibles, hunting, and fishing. I also have a passion for gaining knowledge, whether it be learning how to repair a small engine or figuring out how to configure/use the latest piece of technology.
I am always up for trying something new: traveling to a new location, eating something unique and exciting…Only seven more states to go and I will have made it to all 50!
– Jay
Fort Theory 