Out West

I am certain that we would never have taken the trip to Colorado if it weren't for Mark's sister, Becky who shared some of her travel points with us. It was just the nudge we needed to get away and enjoy our time together. 

We always said we would be sure to carve out special time for our marriage once we had kids.  But, putting that into practice is sometimes easier said than done. And, there were times during this trip when the distance felt tangible...and painful.

"Why do you go away? So that you can come back. So that you can see the place you came from with new eyes and extra colors.  And the people there see you differently, too.  Coming back to where you started is not the same as never leaving." ~Terry Pratchett, from A Hat Full of Sky

It seemed like they both grew up so much in one week.  Nora was cruising around furniture and talking up a storm with her new words: tank-oooo, peees, bite, 'top dat (in a sassy voice mimicking her brother). Our sensitive (and sometimes tentative) little boy suddenly seemed so confident and mature. (*side story: One morning he apparently woke up at 5:30am, went to the attic to find the step stool, took it down to the kitchen to get out a bowl, cheerios, milk and a spoon and then had breakfast. all.by.himself.)

But, even though I missed them like crazy, I think about all the things we would have missed out on: the amazing views, delicious food, lots of Colorado beer and most importantly, time to reconnect. And, they would have missed out on quality time with family spent painting, baking, playing, learning, and growing; discovering new parts of themselves and seeing their world in a new context.

 On the ice cream cone factory tour:

At the Pittsburgh Children's Museum:

Somehow our week was rejuvenating, despite the busy schedule. Maybe it was the fresh mountain air or views that went on forever, but there was such a peaceful contentment. We were free to be spontaneous and do whatever we wanted, like late night drinks or sunset hikes: 

  

We went to a Rockies game

tasted great beer at the Fort Collins Brew Fest (despite the 100 degree heat)

explored some Colorado vineyards

camped in Arches National Park in Moab, Utah

 visited with my Aunt Cindy in Vail

and got to hang out with my cousin, Ben, too

Becky and Matt were wonderful hosts and tour guides.  We had so much fun seeing everyone!


But, my favorite memories were the unexpected and simple moments, like holding hands:

or his impromtu (and very sweet) toast over our first dinner and drinks:

or the road-trip conversation-starter questions that got us thinking and laughing...and even shedding a few tears...

And, for me, there is almost nothing better than live music, especially outside in summertime. We hit the jackpot with the Avett Brothers at Red Rocks. There were a few moments where I took it all in and closed my eyes, trying to capture a picture in my mind that I would never forget.  More than just the scenery---it was the way I felt right then.

There is something almost spiritual about the combination of powerful lyrics set to beautiful harmonies. So, it seemed like a fitting end to a wonderful week to hear these words. 

 "Always remember there was nothing worth sharing
Like the love that let us share our name" ~Avett Brothers

I was emotional thinking of how important this week had been for our marriage, and at the same time, how desperate I was to hug my babies again.  More than anything, this week was a reminder of the connection and commitment of family. 

And above all else, it is that love that really matters most.