My blog would not be complete without giving some thanks.
I truly am thankful for all I have in my life. First and foremost, my three beautiful children. My kids are all very different, however, they were taught well. Through example, taught to be compassionate, polite, always willing to help, and most important; strong. I taught my children to never back down, not to be afraid of confrontation, and not to run from their personal problems. I think I did a pretty good job, especially in this crazy world and my not traditional family. I pride myself on my connection with the the three of them, the trust level is unmatchable, my children are not afraid to share with me, and they do not play judge and jury, when it comes to letting me know when things are shitty. They allow me to get, “angry” and even scream. They take their lumps, knowing that I always have their back.
I am blessed for my husband, we had a view rough spots, and things were shaky for a while. I am glad we hung in there, as I can’t see myself doing this and sharing that with anyone other than Todd as my partner. I look back and can regret a lot of my many shitty decisions, and I have. I have held myself accountable for all my errs. I let it go, I forgave myself, I made my amends and now look forward instead of the rear view mirror.
I am thankful for still having my dad, and knowing that I lived a life that always included them. I am a good daughter, and will continue to be till the day I am not afforded that opportunity. I will forever hold my mom as my role model, the love of my life, the most forgiving, giving and sage woman I will ever have had the privilege to meet. Forever in my heart, my best friend, my confidant, I love you here and there.
I am most thankful for making it out west, two times in the last 11 months. I am thankful that my husband and I share the same interest.
A friend of mine mentioned, that she would like to take this trip. Her husband would prefer to fly, he did not want it to be a marathon, comparing it to our itinerary.
It made me think. We all are different and all have different priorities and stamina. I wanted to clarify, anyone who may be following our trip and share the same travel mindset. There was not one moment that Todd and I felt like we were rushed, or that we missed anything. As a matter of fact we found ourselves with plenty of down time, hence my blog, video and photos.
We had 20 days out west, here is what we accomplished:
- five days in Sedona
- two days in Zion and Bryce
- two days in Moab
- one day in Vail
- five days in Estes Park
The drive out here was 3 days, and it was breathtaking. Most important, it allowed us flexibility that we wanted in a vacation we worked so hard for. [example] Vail was not on the list of stops, but we found ourselves with extra time and wanted to check it out, so we did.
Driving worked for us. If we flew out here, I would have had experienced altitude sickness. Driving and pacing ourselves, helped us to acclimate to our new found altitude and loss of oxygen.
This trip is NOT for everyone, and I provided this blog as a tool for those who wish to drive cross country and are looking for a model itinerary. This is more than a vacation, this is a life experience.
So today was a great day on the river. I have never white water rafted before, and it was an epic experience. I think I laughed and smiled so much, I added to my crinkles. Our guide was amazing, a young girl named, Ann. We used Rapid Transit Rafting, and we highly recommend them. Here is a youtube video of our rafting highlights. Nancy and Todd White Water Rafting 2018.
We got back to town by three and took the camera out for awhile. I spied this beautiful Elk, and looked around for a mamma bear and her two adult cubs. We could not find her.
We ventured to the village, and Todd bought me an early birthday gift. The most beautiful, hammered silver pendant with the most beautiful Navajo turquoise, hanging from a strand of Navajo beads. Absolutely stunning. I feel like a princess, and this will be my new favorite Navajo piece. Thank you Toddy.
We celebrated my necklace over dinner at Casa Grande Mexican Restaurant, some ceviche and tacos, just wow!
Tomorrow we will leave Estes and make our way back east. A stop in Arvada, to take my stepson and his wife out for breakfast and a look around town, this will be our morning joy.
Peace from Estes.
Somewhere in America 