This past weekend, I drove my 3 kids and I to visit a town in the mountains (Estes Park, CO). This is a huge accomplishment!
Why? Normally:
- I am scared to drive too far for fear of falling asleep
- I’m afraid to drive into the mountains because I get motion sick
- I’m afraid of the possibility of scary narrow roads in the mountains
- It’s too tiring to get 3 kids ready for an all day excursion
- We can’t seem to get out of the house before 10AM, which limits our day.
- I like staying home.
Now that I am a single parent, I feel more adventurous. I can’t be afraid or else I would do nothing.
Despite my thyroid still being off, I was feeling pretty clear headed for the first time in awhile and was actually able to get everything ready the night before. I printed the directions, got lunches ready, and packed bags. Normally, I can’t think that far in advance. I used to be able to, but I have felt so brain foggy that it’s hard to think ahead.
We did get out the door around our usual 10AM time despite my goal of 9AM. Even though it was later than I wanted, I still plowed ahead with our plans. I wanted to get out and do something!
I think it took about 1.5-2 hours to get there. I made it! The roads were a little scary, but not too bad as long as I focused on the road and not the huge drops on the side of the road.
Rocky Mountain National Park was having a free day, which was the main reason for the trip. I braved the roads and drove quite far into the park. We couldn’t find any parking since it was so crowded, but I tried! Only on the way out did I happen to find one spot near a creek. My kids loved playing near the water, picking up sticks, running around, etc. I was surprised!
One good thing about the park on this particular day was the visitor’s center. It just happened to be Earth Day, so there were kid’s activities set up. My children loved it! Got some free homeschooling in!
We found a path near the Estes Park Visitor’s Center where my kids can ride their bikes. Next time we come, we will do this hike. I can’t believe that I’m thinking about a “next time”. I’ve always wanted to visit this area, but haven’t had the chance or nerve to. Now, I can’t wait to come back and explore more of Estes Park.
I figured I drove for maybe 4 hours. In light of that, perhaps I could do that 8 hour road trip I’ve been wanting to do sometime? 8 hours seems so daunting.
I’m ready to live life, explore, go on adventures and find the joy in living! I want to make memories with my children and for them to remember this time of life as fun.
