Slowing Down

Despite no longer doing an official thru hike of the Colorado Trail, Roxy and I have adapted to a new lifestyle. We are still climbing mountains and exploring the outdoors, just at a slower pace. Roxy is eager as ever and seems to have recovered from whatever was ailing her paw. Although she is seemingly back to normal, I am reluctant to push her too hard. The last thing I want is for her to sustain a serious injury, so we are enjoying life in calmer ways.

Since we aren't hiking from sunrise to sunset, I now have time and energy to focus on all the beautiful details of nature that I previously had to rush past. In the mornings we lie around and admire the sunrise from the comfort of my tent. Every evening we build campfires and often cook smores with friends we meet along the trail. Hiking breaks are commonplace and hour-long lunches are standard. I can afford to sit and watch birds in hopes of snapping a good photo. Nothing hurts and I never feel like I'm actually working hard. Although my conscience is always creeping in and telling me I'm being lazy, I know my lack of physical effort is for Roxy's well being.

Although I'm trying my best to keep Roxy happy, I know Colorado is not her favorite place to be. Afternoon thunderstorms are standard and hail falls from the sky at least once a week. We hide in our tent every time the weather turns nasty, but I know Roxy would rather be back on the Appalachian Trail where the weather was more predictable. For me Colorado is a dream, but realistically I know Roxy and I will not be doing anymore trips out here.

As Roxy transitions into retirement we will continue to focus on enjoying life and making the most of every moment. This past week we have only hiked about 30 miles, but we have met dozens of awesome people, eaten glorious meals made over campfires, and spent tons of time admiring the beauty of the mountains.

Several other hikers have asked why I don't just send Roxy home. For me this is a matter of loyalty. If you make a commitment to another living thing, you don't abandon it once it is no longer convenient. I can't stand people who give up pets when they get bored of them or when they get too old. Roxy has given me the best years of her life and stuck with me through years of chaos and uncertainty. She has been an unwavering and supportive companion who has helped me maintain my sanity while continually pushing me to better myself.

Now that her age is catching up to her, i owe Roxy for helping me obtain happiness and peace. We have about two more weeks left in Colorado and we will continue to take it easy and make the most of the rest of the summer. Life is changing,  but I couldn't imagine spending it with anyone other than Roxy.