Since our trip to Colorado, Jordan and I have been on a “Rocky Mountain High.” A few things might have contributed to this feeling.
Maybe the high came from the rare opportunity for a kid free vacation with Jordan, my parents, my sisters, and my brothers-in-law. This was only made possible because the Bonders stepped up big to watch Charlie and Jack for the long weekend. And since painting your nails, throwing a ball, swimming in a pool, and eating treats for breakfast is always cooler with your cousins, the Bonders gave these kiddos one of the best weekends of their life.
The high could have also come from Casey and Mikey asking me to officiate their wedding. I’m so honored and I can’t wait to bring our late night “heart-to-hearts” to the altar next summer. Mikey and Casey: Please send over your nutrition and workout plan in advance, so I can try to look the part too.
Perhaps the high came from the meaningful conversations that we shared with Jessi and Pete as we drove through the mountains. Apparently any topic is free game above 6,000 feet.
On the flip side, the high could have also come from all the meaningless conversations and hilarious moments that were inspired by the strong drinks and staggering altitude throughout the entire weekend.
The high could have come from the literally breathtaking bike ride alongside Lake Dillon into downtown Frisco, or maybe dinner at the Quandary Grill with some of the best people looking out at some of the best views.
Or it might be from the white water rafting trip with our guide named “Squirrel.” Although our adrenaline spiked amidst rapids like “Zoom Flume,” all the normal stress in our lives seemed to wash away as we floated on the Arksansas River through the gorgeous canyon.
The high could’ve also come from jamming out to “Scotty Doesn’t Know” at Rocky Mountain Underground, or the late night we had at Gold Pan Saloon where we tore up the dance floor with an eclectic cast of characters who we might never see again, but won’t forget about either. The high might have even come from our last night at the Air B&B playing “Pass the Pigs” and “Fishbowl” when everyone seemed to turn up a little bit.
I’d be remiss if I didn’t credit part of the high to Mikey’s ridiculous magic shirt. Dad relentlessly heckled Mikey about his Colorado fashion statement until Dad gave the shirt a try and immediately became the most admired guy on Breck’s Main Street.
The high largely comes from the actual occasion that brought us out to the Rockies. Mom and Dad: this was such a special way to celebrate your 60th birthday. You’ve always shown us how to celebrate the big moments in the best way. I’m so grateful for all you’ve done for me as my parents, and for also continuing to be some of the best friends, next door neighbors, and grandparents we could ask for. I love you guys to the top of the snow capped mountains and back.
As we settle back into reality and the mountains fall out of view, the high still hasn’t faded. We have new memories to reminisce, many experiences to look forward to, and the same special people that make ordinary life as extraordinary as the Rockies.
I guess when people say that they got “Rocky Mountain High” in Colorado, this must be what they’re talking about…right?
The Janiec Reflection 