Chains and snow boots excite me and they should if you’re Colorado. That was one of the first things I noticed upon arrival – the need for tire chains and the common practice of keeping spare boots in cars. Colorado has been on my bucket list for a while, and I’m immensely grateful for finally making the trip.The state is incredibly scenic, offering a palette of natural, earthy tones with striking contrasts. From the crimson rocks to the snowy evergreens and towering mountains, Colorado truly has it all.
Initially, I approached the trip with a business mindset, but technical difficulties with my video camera hinted that maybe I should just go with the flow. At over 7000 feet in elevation, nestled in a mountain resort, I found myself naturally disconnecting from technology.
I embraced living in the moment, barely snapping any photos on my phone. It was a refreshing change of pace – a pace that I will want to revisit in the future.
This trip taught me the beauty of spontaneity over meticulous planning. Three days before leaving, I made the impromptu decision to go. It also led to unexpected adventures like spontaneously hiking up rocks to catch a breathtaking sunset. Relying on rocks as makeshift step stools and hugging tree branches as if my life depended on it, I was reminded of the profound support nature provides in our lives. If you’re ever having a rough day, turn to nature; it’s always ready to welcome you with open branches. And yes, I learned that Uggs surprisingly double as hiking shoes.
We took a road trip to Glenwood Springs and it felt like being enveloped in a snow globe, surrounded by mountains in a comforting rather than overwhelming manner. It reaffirmed my love for mountain towns. A kind local also offered to assist us with loading groceries into our car. I had never been asked that before, but it was a lovely gesture that brought a smile to my face.
We saw numerous dogs and a child experiencing the joy of riding a bike for the first time, while Colorado’s genuine essence of carefree spirit permeated the atmosphere. How could one possibly feel burdened by worries when surrounded by the sight of nature thriving in its own ways?
After days of snowboarding, I welcomed the soreness as a reminder of the physical challenges I overcame. Relaxing at Iron Mountain Hot Springs provided much-needed rejuvenation, including my first-ever cold plunge experience. I understood that it was purely a mental challenge, and as soon as I entered, I felt paralyzed, hesitant to proceed. Despite my aversion to cold, my body eventually acclimated, and after the initial discomfort of the first 30 seconds, I managed to endure for 2 1/2 minutes.
My body thanked me afterward, reminding me of the importance of self-care. The following day, I felt better than I ever had before, fully prepared to excel on the slopes. It served as a clear reminder for me to heed my body’s signals more attentively and prioritize its care, considering it’s the one looking out for us in the end.
Figuratively speaking, things were looking uphill for my body and I, but in a literal sense, it was all downhill from there.
Amidst a phase of feeling rushed, and “not having enough time” Mesa reminded me to slow down and embrace even the messy (Mesa) moments. This trip served as a reminder to prioritize leisure over work and to fully immerse myself in new experiences. The trip wasn’t supposed to be anything other than a break for me. Maybe that was God’s way of connecting with me in a way that would make sense – through travel. While I may not have captured many photos, the memories are vivid, making every moment truly unforgettable.
Instead of showcasing perfect pictures, why not recount the perfect moments shared during this journey?
Love always,
American Girl Meets World
