The morning after Mike left to go back to Indonesia the
kiddos and I loaded up in my parents RV and headed to the great and magnificent
Western Slope. The destination: Camp Wildcat. For many, many years it has been
a tradition to spend the 4th of July camping with my dad’s side of
the family (the life-loving crazy people). We arrived with ATVs in tow and
parked along the circle of other ATVs, Razors, RVs and an airplane hangar.
We set up camp and headed in for the festivities. That
night’s game was Giant Jenga where all of us little and big kids took turns taunting
each other and laughing as the large 2x4s toppled to the ground. A great start
to the long holiday weekend.
Friday, the 4th, began with an awesome accomplishment
when both Hannah and Mason learned to ride their first motorcycle (a 50) with
the help of their Uncle Paul. It was a bittersweet moment because they really
enjoyed it and did so well but I know Mike would’ve love to have been there --
such a big milestone. After the, oh-so competitive, Olympics (teams of two
competing against each other playing various games and sports) we finished the
day by atv’ing up a large hillside to watch the fireworks. I was a little teary
because last year we spent the 4th in Indonesia with great new
friends but it felt like we were still so lost at that time. We have come so
far!!
Saturday we all traveled to Paonia, Colorado for the Cherry
Festival (cheers to delicious cherries, right my Tembag friends!?). Paonia is a
beautiful and quant little town nestled amongst orchards and vineyards – super
gorgeous! The Cherry Festival had local vendors, food, music, games etc. They
had body pumper balls where you slide into large inflated balls and bump the
crap out of each other. It was hilarious!
Sunday we loaded our atvs and headed to Escalante Canyon. A
gorgeous, dry, canyon marked with ancient Indian carvings that are overshadowed
by graffiti from derelict visitors. It was a beautiful, hot and dusty ride.
Most of us adults continued on and zig-zagged through the canyon viewing
historical sights until we met up with the rest of the group at the infamous “Pot
Holes”. These “Pot Holes” are natural made pools where the river rock has been
hollowed by the swirling, rushing water. They are perfect for swimming in with
a little beach on the side. We all played in the river, dousing each other, as
the little ones floated down a perfectly made water slide from one pool to
another. Another great finish to a beautiful day!
Monday came quickly and it was time to pack up but before we
left, the kiddos and I, got to visit their grandparents who live just a hill
over. We enjoyed catching up over a cup of coffee, a horseback ride, a tractor climb and hike up
a large hill. It was a blessing to see them!
The RV was loaded, gassed up and away we went back to
Denver. On our way we stopped on the top of Vail pass. Another favorite place
of mine as it was where Mike took me snowmobiling for the first time. A memory
that I hold dear to my heart. We reveled in the outstanding luscious view for a
few moments and then journeyed back.
It’s been a tremendous, fun-filled, packed vacation with
still more yet to do. I am looking forward to participating in a photoshoot
for a dear friend of mine who owns a boutique that sells items made from
survivors of sextrafficking. Excited for the opportunity to help a great friend
and amazing cause.
As always to be continued!!!!!....
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