We had a great time at Pagosa Springs when we drove through early in the trip, so we camped there to spend a few days exploring the area and enjoying the hot springs. On Sunday we decided to check out Elmwood Pass, which is a "road" that settlers traveled along and over the Continental Divide when they headed west in their covered wagons. The road is somewhat maintained by the National Forest system, but it was still slow going (even in the 4 wheel drive Jeep). I can't even imagine what a long and difficult journey it was for the original settlers. The Pass is about 19 miles long, and it took us about 2 1/2 hours to drive. It took the settlers about 3 weeks to travel those same 19 miles! They must have had such incredible determination!!
Both kids had fun riding bikes and playing in the Animas River, which flowed right behind the campground.
We visited the springs all 3 days we were in town! The kids both told us that was one of their favorite parts of our trip, so we decided to soak in the warm, relaxing mineral water as much as possible before heading home :) Although, Big Sister spent almost as much time playing in the mud in the river as she did enjoying the hot springs! She would go into the river to "cool off" and would get distracted making mud pies! She and John even had a few mud fights!!
I'm so very thankful for the special moments we have shared together over the last month. Overall I think we stay too busy and get caught up in all the little details of life, so it was so great to be able to unplug from all of the demands of life and be able to spend time together exploring our beautiful country. I've always treasures the memories our family made together when my parents traveled with us when we were growing up (thanks Dad and Mom!), and I'm hopeful that our kids will feel the same way. I'm also hoping to re prioritize our schedules when we get home, so we focus more day to day on the things that really matter in life.
Ready to journey HOME!
No comments:
Post a Comment