Perspective

How could I possibly miss Raleigh with views like this? 

Tomorrow will mark one month since I began my adventure and the day I leave my "home" in Utah for the unknown of Colorado. The excitement and anxious feelings begin again. If you're reading my blog, then you probably know that I research, plan, and play out worse case scenarios in my head. It doesn't stop me from venturing out, however it prepares me for mishaps, wrong turns and disappointments.

Many people have told me that they think what I'm doing is great, but that don't think they could do it or they would be lonely. Let me tell you it's all in your perception. For the past three weeks I have not been alone or lonely. I have hiked in 5 National Parks with new found friends from Japan, Germany, Italy and the USA. I have shared dinner each evening with these same individuals, each on a journey of their own.

Having social media, WiFi and cell coverage has kept me connected to my friends and family, this helps in letting us all know we're safe. The comforts of home you leave behind will be there when you return and I suspect I will have a new perspective of them.

In the past week, I went to Zion National Park, Cedar Breaks National Monument, Kanaraville Canyon, Mammoth Cave and many other local hikes. I had an opportunity to visit Brian Head, where they are recovering from a massive forest fire. Each exploration has been wonderful.

Some of my favorite shots.

So thrilled to be cooling off by walking up river and the falls.

Court of the Patriarchs Zion National Park.

A dispersed camp site in Kaibab National Forest. Hung out
for the day to read and enjoy the peacefulness of the woods.

Cedar Breaks National Park at 10430 ft in altitude, this is a new
favorite. No crowds and a high of 68 degrees. Fantastic day!

Alpine Pond the wild flowers are amazing. This is also part of
Cedar Break. This picture doesn't do it justice. 

After all that hiking, driving and adventure, it's great to wind down with some local music.

Colorado and new experiences start tomorrow. I will camp for the first time on my trip! I'll let you know how it goes.