Out of Texas and Into the Rockies

We have found that it takes a few days to hit our stride on these trips.  At times it is excruciating.   Spending weeks-on-end seldom further than arm’s length from one’s entire nuclear family, even if the entirety is merely three, takes an adjustment period. The assimilation is both catalyzed and hindered by these first few days which usually involves five to six hundred interstate miles, ten to twelve hours in the car and very little physical activity. We are all so eager to get out west, get out of the car and get to hiking and such that tedium runs a close race with reward.

But the promise of somewhere new beckons.  The daily grind and routine worries are slowly shed in favor of our new concerns - a level spot for the tent, a nearby water source, proper food storage from critters and the number of remaining daylight hours.  These things become the everyday.  Ashlin is the best litmus test for the transition from the norm.  People often ask how she spends her time when we are around camp. This morning finds her filling an empty Gatorade bottle with small rocks then pouring water on top of the pebbles before she dumps the bottle’s contents and starts over. She’s been doing this for about an hour as we pack up camp.  This is a good sign that we are turning a corner in our transition.

This morning as we move from Texas into the New Mexico Rockies the excitement begins to build.   We are getting to the good stuff and it is evident in our family’s mood.  Today marks the first day of something new and somewhere we haven’t been. The red rocks and mountains of the southwest desert will be our playground for the next few days. After a stop for supplies in Albuquerque (where we are now) we will be out of cell range and internet access points so we’ll update after the river trip in the Canyonlands!  Have a great week!

Peace. D-