Grateful for a Glorious Adventure

I am grateful for the glorious opportunity to soak in the awesome beauty of creation. Michelle Obama in her book, The Light We Carry, said, “Allow yourself the gift of absorption.” I believe that I have done that. This trip was an exercise in being rather than doing. I have focused on living in the moment, soaking in the surrounding beauty as I have sauntered through 21 National Parks which include:

Theodore Roosevelt, Grand Teton, Yellowstone, Glacier, Mount Rainier, North Cascades, Olympic, Crater Lake, Redwood, Yosemite, Pinnacles, Sequoia, Kings Canyon, Channel Islands, Joshua Tree, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, Arches and Great Basin

I have encountered beckoning sunrises and peaceful sunsets.

I have taken in prairies and mountains

I was in awe of the rocks and trees.

I have basked in the wonder of water; oceans, lakes and streams

I have marveled at the diversity of plants and animals.

I have been blessed by the connections with family and friends

I was disappointed that I did not get a picture of Paul and Kay Hansen in Billings, my cousin Pam, Laurel and Andrei and my godchild Jacci and her family. However, I was delighted that they were a part of my journey

I am grateful for every mountain vista and ocean view.

I am grateful for the opportunity to just be-to let go of the doing, the caregiving, the demands, the routine-grateful to learn that just being is enough, more than enough. I am grateful for the sauntering which is about being.

I am grateful for the great American treasure of our national parks.

I am grateful for the people that shared the journey; Tina, Greta and Eric, and for those who graciously gave me respite (a flush toilet, warm water, a shower and a comfy bed), Joanna, Cathy and Pam/Joe, Abby, Laurel and Andrei, Jacci and family and for those with whom I shared a meal and conversation along the way, Paul and Kay, Barb and Jim, Andy and Brenda, and Vicki. So grateful!

I am grateful that I stayed healthy, avoided any mishaps on the trails, had no car troubles, and enjoyed great weather. I am grateful for the strength and endurance I have gained.

I grateful to be home and look forward to sauntering through the memories of an epic, awesome adventure.

I am grateful that you joined me on the journey