So, this is actually our first official team adventure. The
other 145 sprinkled throughout the year are best left for private introspection,
and adventure might not be the best descriptor for a boat load of change. And I
really like the numbers 146. I’ll explain that another time.
Today, Sadie and I were in search of aspen trees showing off
their pretty yellow and red colors. It’s a narrow window, but a guaranteed 5
star show. In all truth, Sadie was in
search of a ball to chase, as usual, but she’s a good sport and even better
company. We stopped first for hot pumpkin coffee for me and a hot dog for her. We headed west on Highway 285 to Staunton
State Park. Kenosha Pass was the original destination, but having heard so many
reports of long lines of cars and traffic, we came up with plan B.
Seeing the highway sign that said “Watch out for wildlife
and falling rocks” made me very happy.
There was a time in my life where fear of driving this type of road
would have prevented me from going. Now, I love the twists and turns and endless
views! It feels good to not have that fear any longer.
Staunton State Park did not disappoint. There were small
groves of beautiful aspens, some peak, some still approaching and a few past
peak. Gorgeous. The crimson leaves twinkled in the soft breeze and danced in
the reflection of the sunlight, coming alive only as aspens can. The trail was
easy, albeit a bit crowded. However, it was great practice for us, and it
certainly felt safe. The park volunteers were fun, and guided us to a nice
trail. Sadie had plenty of opportunities to sniff and post her own strategically
placed ‘What’s up pup’ messages. We enjoyed the fresh air, blue skies and a few
hours connected to the great outdoors.
A
few rookie mistakes. I forgot my pack back and hiking boots! Easy to remedy
this- they will be put in my winter bin in the Subaru for easy access.
Hopefully, we will have many adventures to share. As a
single woman, I’ve decided to embrace and see all I can. It’s great to do this
with family or friends, but everyone is busy and there’s no time like the present
to create a great day.
The boatload of change this year has inspired me to think
outside the box and go for it. Realizing on the other side of sadness is joy. On the other side of fear is courage. On the other
side of regret is possibility. I’m spending much more time on the right side of
that continuum, and that feels great.
And even in those moments when I do miss what was with a
fierceness that produces a hot torrent of tears, I realize it’s not how far you
fall, but the courage it takes to climb back up. To know that all we experience
and all those we cherish, even those we may never see again, contributed to the
tapestry of this grand life....each thread woven in cosmic perfection, forming
a net that will always, always catch you, if you can surrender and trust.
We hope you’ll join us as we recount the fun we will have. I
can’t promise every adventure will have Sadie included, as she will likely be
the main star here, but I’m guessing most of them will.
Live a great story, friends. Until next time.
S & S
No comments:
Post a Comment