Traveling, it's a never ending journey. Traveling through life, through memories, through stages and phases. It also signifies journeying to a new landscape. Facing new climates, challenges, and wonders. I’ve grew up in a little town called New Melle: population 480. Where farm fields, tractors, and small town traditions made it a place I call home. My family decided to branch out and vacation at Colorado Springs: population 426,388. Gorgeous mountains, endless forests, and abundance of natural beauty made this a city worth driving 781 miles for. After a 13 hour road trip, we were exhausted yet enthusiastic. Fortunately the coming week would be more entrancing than anything we could ever imagine.
Day 1: We hiked the North Cheyenne Canyon Trail. 1,600 acres of picturesque slopes, waterfalls, and an abundant amount of laughter. Caution: higher altitudes may cause headaches, and difficulty breathing.
Day 2: We went White Water Rafting through the Arkansas River. For a bunch of Missouri hicks, this was a bit of a adventure. The tour guides did little to calm our fears, but once we hit the water we were ready to go. The bone crushing water surrounded by canyons and mountains was such a extraordinary sight. The excitement intertwined with family and friends made the trip all the more memorable. Lessons learned: wear a wetsuit when the water is 50 degrees and under. Also, take note that when jumping off a cliff do not do a back flop.
Day 3: Our plan for the day was to conquer Pikes Peak. Surprisingly this day was by far one of the worst of the trip if not one of the most miserable days of my life. Sometimes things go your way but at times despite all your planning things still manage to go out the window. I got a severe migraine directly upon leaving our rented cabin. The day turned out to be a disaster, I couldn't see the beautiful views, and was in such pain for the 6 hours of touristing. But on the bright side at least I can say I've thrown up four times at 14 thousand feet.
Day 4: We visited the American Safari Ranch. This included a open range horseback ride through the mountains. The feeling was incredible, indescribable, and incomparable. I rode Tequila, a high spirited mare. We were accompanied by cowboys decked out with country hats, boots, and plaid. Half way up the mountain lightning crackled and thunder rattled. Thankfully the horses weren't ever spooked by the electrical storm. But I sure was. I’d pat Tequila on the neck, but I don't know who I tried to reassure more me or the horse. Then the rain came. Pelted with freezing rain wasn't as unpleasant as it seems but rather it turned into a wonderful ride. Instead of shivering and wishing for the rain to subside we met it with open arms. The positivity radiating from everyone even in the stormiest of times taught me to live life to the fullest, and turn a unfortunate event into a memorable one.
This vacation wasn’t a trip but a adventure, it made me realize that I can’t ever be content without seeking out new places around the world. I’ll never be satisfied being in one lone town without venturing out to view the rest of this spectacular world. In ways this single travel was a never ending journey. I’ll keep the memories with me forever, reminding me of what the world has awaiting.
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