In this 46er journey, there have been many memorable moments, but we had one intense unexpected snow in Nov 2021 doing Esther and Whiteface, so to keep things pure, although we weren’t able to coordinate with the weather to do it together, we agreed we needed to reclimb this peak to ensure we actually completed it before our finish.
We had planned on an attempt on Sunday, but the forecast predicted a washout. I was free today, and the weather was good. Becky had Monday available to rehike this high peak with a favorable weather forecast. It would be nice to take in some views since the last time we were on this peak, we faced high wind and white-faced’ conditions.
Although the conditions made this trail non rememberable (getting down as the storm was ascending was the priority), I confirmed it was dog friendly, and took the Tela Moose McNaughton along for probably her last ADK high peak, Whiteface.
So off she and I went leaving my house around 3am, and began the drive to Wilmington, NY. As we drove as I often have this summer while being able to hike have raised my eyebrows at the weather forecast vs. what would actually happen. As I drove through the rain, I hoped for the forecast to correct itself once we got closer. Thankfully, it did, although a very high humidity, we began our hike of Whiteface at 4:55am. It has been a wild time weather wise, so wet, the DEC had issued an advisory regarding high peaks, especially those with water crossings. Reviews and conditions for this peak seemed low risk, and we were the first there.
We started ascending via the Marble Mountain trail with a headlamp on Tela, the trek up to Marble Mountain is pretty steep, gaining about 1015 ft of elevation in .9 miles. Luckily the trail was dry and in good conditions. We could see the sun rising but not high enough to grab a good shot.
We continued on to Lookout and the trail conditions became a bit muddy, but nothing more than the ADK has presented in the past. I’m so happy we rehiked this mountain. I would definitely not feel I could say I hit the true summit after seeing what more the trail offered. Although I had to give Tela some pep talks to get through the descent and attack of bugs, we made decent time and were back at the car by 10am. So happy we had such a beautiful day with these amazing views. Very different than the first time I hit this mountain up. Other hike repeats to come between other summer activities. Our finish of the 46er journey hopefully will happen in September. Keep on adventuring, pushing yourself and living life to the fullest. With love to all!
It’s been a minute since our last adventure completing Street and Nye, as we have been patiently waiting for “Mud Season” to end in order to get back on target to complete the goal of the journey to 46/46. I “orphaned” this peak last summer as it is usually paired with Giant. Chris wanted to do a high peak that was short and had elevation pre our CO adventure last summer, so I decided I would do Giant without the usual combo of Giant and RPR, and resesarched a different way to accomplish Rocky Peak Ridge (RPR). Becky had already done this one so I needed it to catch up as she was 2 peaks ahead of me. In looking at this trail, the weather conditions were critical to be clear as this way was all about views, views, views!
So when Memorial Day weekend arrived the forecast was set to be nothing short of spectacular. Laura was in need of this peak so off we left, taking a risk that this trail (which is now my favorite ADK trail) was not so popular, and left my casa at 5:00, arriving at an almost empty parking lot on a holiday weekend, and started our hike at 6:34am. The first few miles of the trail on the way to Blueberry Cobbles was very forested and then POW, all of a sudden you are on a ridge with views all around you. Not only could you see all the ADK high peaks, but even out to Lake Champlain and the beautiful green mountains of VT. The trail has a lot of up and down, but was not technical in nature. We traveled through multiple diverse forests including a ‘fairy elvish” birch forest and some thicker forests. The alpine vegetation was truly magnificent in these forests, so when you weren’t getting views of the amazing peaks and hues around, you were enticed by the beauty of these forests.
After climbing past Blueberry Cobbles- the blueberries aren’t quite in season, but this trail offers wild blueberries as an added incentive if you choose your time wisely. We continued onward to Hedgehog Notch where we heard a porcupine in the bushes. Thankfully he was on his own adventure, and we continued on our way. This trail, over and over left you with views every few hundred feet on all sides that left you saying “HOLY GUACAMOLE”.
After moving through Hedgehog Notches, our sights were on Bald Peak. The entire hike, Rocky Peak is in your view. This is not to be confused with the High Peak Rocky Peak Ridge. So lots of people talk about ‘false summits’ on this trail, but really, it’s just understanding you have several other non-high peaks to reach in order to get to your final destination. There is no other trail in the ADK that I’ve been on that offers this type of ridge trail views. It easily won its place as my favorite trail in the ADK, moving RPR to my favorite high peak above Gothics, but I can say that is likely due to this trail approach. I’m not sure I would feel the same way if I approach from Giant, so again so happy to have discovered this gem, and will absolutely look forward to taking in some fall colors from this trail. As they state in the “Mandalorian”, “This is the way!”
We made it up to Rocky Peak, and then onward to our final destination, Rocky Peak Ridge. Yay, 37/46 for me and 19/46 for Laura!.Another great part of this hike was the fact it was an out and back as the views were just coming right back to us on the way out. What a gorgeous bluebird day, minimal mud, some bugs, but since it’s black fly season in the ADK, we lucked out as there was little wind. Highly recommend this trail to anyone in the #ADK and whether you have already done RPR with Giant, get after this trail on a clear bluebird day. You will not be disappointed! Hues and Views for the win!
“Between every two pine trees there is a door leading to a new way of life.”
Today is my Granny’s birthday. The last year we were able to celebrate her birthday with her on Planet Earth was 2016. Time flies by, the world changes in so many ways, but I thank God I have wonderful memories of my Granny to hold on to tightly.
The last years of her life were very difficult as she was fighting and struggling, and I miss the possibility to have one of our many conversations. I often wonder what she would say watching the events of the last years evolve. This post is a letter to my Granny, honoring her life and the amazing inspiration she was to so many.
Dear Granny,
As I sit on a Sunday morning, thinking of you and how much your guidance, spirit, drive and determination has influenced my life, I wanted to take a moment to really celebrate your life today. You helped raise me, taught me the lessons of hard work in the garden, caring for the crops that would yield an abundance of vegetables, and fruits that would create an independence of reliance of store bought items.
When I reflect back on your life and teachings, one thing was crystal clear, you always gave everything you had to give and more. It didn’t matter if you were tired, your unyielding kindness and dedication to provide for your family and others in your community is unparalleled. In the spring you would spend time planning the crops to be planted, and then spend the summers getting up early to beat the heat in the multi-acre gardens, picking whatever vegetables could be harvested and putting a substantial bounty away for the winter months, just in case times got tough. I think some of this drive came from you growing up in the times of the depression, being poor financially, and the determination to be self-sufficient. You would spend so much time on the vegetables, from planting, to picking and harvesting, to shelling, shucking, carefully going through either a canning process or freezing process to preserve. One of your many acts of kindness was going through this work, and then giving away the fruits of your labor to so many in the community, and your family.
After starting your days early, then you would prepare yourself to work second shift as a nurse at Wake Medical Center, getting back home post midnight. On days you weren’t working in the garden, and when the winter came, your passion of quilting and making quilts not just for family, but your church family members was awe inspiring. In today’s world, most people who are making and designing quilts are doing so for money, but that thought never crossed your mind, you saw this as a way to create something your family could keep and treasure, and also serve functionally to keep warm with. The many quilts you created for me during my life, I am still using and feel like it’s a big hug from you everyday.
You can’t talk about Mary Parrish, my beloved Granny, without talking about Sunday ‘dinner’ or ‘lunch’ at your house. Again, the energy you spent to bring your family and community around the table for Sunday lunches, was something you took great pride in, and I know brought you and all those you invited to enjoy those special meals in your humble home great satisfaction and love. You spared zero efforts working with your daughters to ensure there were several meats, vegetables, biscuits, cornbread, and a multiple selection of desserts to please everyone. If someone had not been able to come in a few weeks from the family, you would call and make sure they knew they were welcome, and in turn, you would also make that person feel special, because you would cook their favorite of your delicious recipes.
Busy making biscuits
After the cleanup from the feast was done, we would gather in the kitchen and living room and catch up by telling stories, catching up on the events of the world, watch college basketball during the season, and sometimes sing hymns together.
Another memory that the photo above clearly demonstrated was your love for greeting cards. Prior to the days of email, you would take care each week to share a card of kindness, sympathy, support, holiday celebration, birthdays or anniversaries for all of your loved ones, and many times those who were extensions of your family. Sometimes I wonder just how many cards you sent over the years to bring a smile to others.
You brought a richness to so many lives, my dear Granny. Everyday, I cook with your cast iron frying pan, wrap your quilt around me for a hug, and hold on to all the life lessons you taught me. You fought through so many challenges, domestic, financial, cultural, health, and you never once gave up. You always were a rock of determination, and your spirit lives on through all those you were an example for. Specifically, to try be a strong, independent woman, who aims to be kind, loving, and giving. I do not measure up to you in any stretch of the imagination on a scale, but am I one of the luckiest people in the world for having you as a strong woman role model and influence? You can count on it! Happy birthday in Heaven my sweet, strong Granny. I can’t begin to to you thank you for everything you gave, how you inspired me to live my life, I miss you still more than I would ever be able to formulate words for.
You’re smiling at me From your picture frame And I miss you My life keeps on changing But you stay the same I miss you So many moments That we should have shared I miss you
And the days turn to years And it hasn’t stopped yet The memories we shared I will never forget No I will never forget
There’s a hole in my heart That will never be filled I miss you This all should get easier But it never will I miss you I float through the days And the long lonely nights I miss you
And I hear your footsteps You’re coming down the stairs Lost in your laughter The sun in your hair A brief recollection The light in your eyes I see the reflection But it passes by It passes me by
You’re smiling at me From your picture frame And I miss you Every morning I wake up And I whisper your name I miss you You’re in faces of people I see on the street You’re everywhere You’re everywhere You’re everywhere
Lyrics- Trey Anastasio
“When we do the best we can, we never know what miracle is wrought in our life, or in the life of another.” – Helen Keller
A few years ago, I was on an audit just outside of Barcelona. It was a big international trip and the logistics were so complex I had to keep a spreadsheet of cities, hotels, number of people and who was in my company vs. a joining company. Ten working days, six audits, six countries… good times.
One of the benefits of traveling for work is that you get glimpses of areas you would want to explore more or go back to one day. During that trip, we stayed at an Eco Resort, https://www.massalagros.com/ecoresort/. A part of our stay including an amazing tasting dinner at their restaurant, 1497. https://www.massalagros.com/gastronomia/. During this time, I had the most amazing lamb that I have ever had in my life. I half-joked that I would marry that lamb.
As we departed Girona; Chris and I both had a lot on our minds. We had learned that his grandmother had suffered a brain hemorrhage, and had surgery. At first the recovery process was looking positive. After talks with the family in the US, it was decided to wait a few days before making the flight back to the US.
We left Girona to reach the Mas Salagros resort in Vallromanes. Mentally tired from processing everything going on in the US, this resort was a blessing to return to for pleasure and not business. The Ecoresort has fantastic touches in the rooms such as a bathtub with a view, and intricate architecture and touches such as arches and stained glass. The last time I was in this beautiful place, I encountered a magnificent sunset, and this evening was no exception!
So, let’s talk about your memories of food for a moment. That lamb many years ago, really set the precedence for how I believe lamb should be prepared. My coworkers and I have spoken about it many times since eating there years ago. Would it be as amazing as I thought? Let’s break it down quite simply. When I eat food that I love or have a passion for, I typically try to take a photo. Although I managed to get photos of the rest of our meal, I was so excited for the lamb, my photo was blurred. However, I can tell you after speaking with the chef, understanding the 48 hour slow cooked lamb and preparation, it was so tender, juicy, and simply exquisite. I am married, but yes, I would still marry that lamb. ;).
Another hindsight 2020 moment was the lack of allowing enough time to fully enjoy Mas Salagros, as we stayed just one night and were off to the final destination of our holiday journey, one of my favorite places on Earth, the Gran Son Net Hotel in Puigpunyent, Mallorca.
We got a decent night’s sleep, checking in on the family in the US before deciding to continue on. We started our journey early in the morning, There aren’t many major airlines that fly from Barcelona to Mallorca. We flew Vueling and another it’s a small world reminder occurred. On our flight, were many of the musicians and the conductor/maestro from the Opera and ballet we saw in Barcelona. As we deplaned we had an opportunity to thank him for the performance which is always a good feeling. Artists and musicians always give so much to the world- it’s great to be able to personally thank them.
We collected our luggage, Chris’s bike, grabbed the rental car and off we went. We made a short pit stop at a grocery store to buy some water and snacks for the trip for hiking/ biking. Chris unpacked his bike and off he went for his first ride on the island. I drove to as I have mentioned one of my favorite hotels in the world… the Gran Son Net Hotel in Puigpunyent. There are a few places in this world where I immediately feel at home. This place is in the top five of my bliss zones. There is pure raw beauty of the landscape, the amazing hotel and staff, and the outdoor activities are endless. From hiking, biking, meditating, and relaxing, I can get my balance with euphoria.
“It’s filled with magic that’s how I know if something’s real.”
Nikki Rowe
There’s a lot to be said about staying in places where the staff treat you like family. That is the mind set of the feel since we first stepped on the grounds of the Gran Son Net hotel. Picture this- you feel as comfortable as you ever have with your family or friends, and you are treated like royalty. That’s the beauty and magic of the Gran Son Net. Mallorca is known to be an amazing cycling and hiking destination. In the busy season, we have heard it is very crowded. There’s something extra special about visiting during off-season meant easy opportunities to have a belated second anniversary dinner in the same amazing location of the first. So we spent our first days hiking, biking and exploring to our hearts content.
As we each explored to our hearts content, soaking up the beauty of this island,Unfortunately, back home the tides had changed. and things were looking quite different for Chris’s grandma. We were able to enjoy our belated 2nd anniversary dinner in our favorite treehouse in the world.
In a scurry of logistics arrangements, we worked to get Chris off the island of Mallorca back to Barcelona and onto Denver. The best route we could find put him in the US on the 6th Jan. He left the beautiful oasis of Mallorca on the 5th, flew that evening to Barcelona, and spent the next few hours in a crappy hotel before making the flight from Barcelona-Frankfurt-Denver.
Due to some wifi issues in our secluded part of the hotel, they kindly switched me to one of the most old world amazing suites in the main part of the hotel, as I would finish out our stay before traveling back. This was quite an experience, and I enjoyed having this unique time. I visited my favorite local restaurant in town, The Rose after dropping Chris off for his flight. This family run establishment is simply exquisite. There is nothing “fancy” about it- again they just want you to feel at home. The owner immediately asked where Chris was at when she saw I was dining alone, and gave me a free meal due to the circumstances. I guess comfort food includes potatoes made two ways! It was such an act of unexpected kindness and reminded me that:
Unexpected kindness is the most powerful, least costly, and most underrated agent of human change
Bob Kerrey
The flights were too expensive to change for both of us. My last days in Mallorca were spent arranging all my logistics, Airbnb, work situations, rental cars, flowers for the funeral, making sure Tela was taken care of, and rescheduling my infusion.
My last two days in this magical paradise, gave me time for reflection, grieving, meditation, and planning for logistics. The magic is undeniable. My undying love for this oasis, will live in me forever, and I hope to continue to be blessed to visit, explore, connect with the people and the culture of Puigpunyent, Mallorca.
And so that concludes the trilogy of our Spanish holiday; and the three part blog series of Hindsight is 2020. Although the year did not begin as we hoped, I am grateful for the time, flexibility, love and light in this world. Next stop up Colorado for family, friends, and celebrating the life of a wonderful grandma, mother, and woman. As the day I post this on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. day, I end the blog with a picture of my last sunrise at the Gran Son, and one of my favorite quotes.
Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.
Before I start out the rest of the story, I have to take a minute to celebrate the life, and mourn the loss of an amazing woman, Chris’s grandmother, who passed away on 05 January. We are now back in the motherland of CO. An entire blog celebrating Chris’s grandmother, who was much more like his mother, is forthcoming- until then my love, strength, and hope goes out to all the family and friends as they grieve this truly amazing woman.
When I last left off on our Spanish adventure, we were completing our time in Barcelona. The next leg of our journey taught me a few lessons in life and travel. A good reminder that no matter how experienced or old we get we can always learn from our mistakes and errors.
Our original plan was to take a train from Barcelona to Girona. This would be the least expensive, and a very efficient way of traveling. I had already booked a car to be picked up in Girona, so this seemed very practical. Closer to the day before departure, Chris and I had a discussion of pros and cons. Disassembling his bike and packing it in a bag seemed like a big chore, however me taking the train and managing all the luggage (two suitcases, two backpacks and a bike bag with no bike) also seemed impractical. We settled on a compromise that Chris would ride his bike from Barcelona to Girona, and I would take a cab service to Girona. Chris timed his departure so he would arrive the same time I would arrive. The plan worked pretty well, minus the fact that it was a holiday on 26 December in Spain (St. Stephen’s Day) so many of the streets were not passable. We had rented an apartment for our stay in Girona, which was directly in old town. Girona has quite a rich history – https://www.spain-holiday.com/Girona-city/articles/experience-girona-history-and-culture-in-catalonia ; and an extensive amount of steps and cobblestone streets.
Unfortunately due to the road closures, it was not really possible to make it to the apartment by car, and the luggage had to be carried/rolled over the hilly cobblestone streets of Old Town until we reached our destination. This made me happy that we didn’t take the train as it was even further away, but it was quite the task.
Once we reached our apartment building, we met our host, Eric, a great young gentleman in his 20s. The building we were staying in had been renovated by him and his family, and during the process, they discovered parts that dated back to the 4th century. The apartments although nothing “fancy” were really amazing in the architecture with stone walls and arches, and the view of the old town was nothing short of spectacular. There was even some projectile artifacts discovered during renovation.
Once we had settled into the apartment, we were chatting with our host, and talked about needing to pick up our rental car. Our original plan was to rent the car in Girona, drive back down towards Barcelona and end up returning the car prior to our flight to Mallorca. It turned out there was also a rental car pickup at the train station that was much closer than our reservation at the airport. Eric recommended that we see if we could switch to a train station pick up. I called to change the reservation as we were pretty tired from the trip. The thought of taking additional transport to pick up the car seemed like such a chore, and since we could change the pick-up location to the train station, this would make life easier… no worries. Everything seemed to be in alignment as the company told me there were cancellation or change fees, but I needed to re-book online. I figured this was no problem, so I cancelled my original reservation.
And thus I started with a big “lesson learned” the hindsight 20/20 came completely into play as it wiped out my original plans for this leg of our trip for my recreational exploration and hiking… I made a decision based on the fact that both the rental car agency and the local host thought this would be no problem for a change… but it was… we tried a variety of options, but the lack of inventory of cars drove up the price to something that was unjustifiable for me. I accepted I would be without a car in Girona, and explore the area quite locally rather than explore the Costa Brava region and the Pyrenees as I had originally planned. Flexibility and adapting to changes is just a part of life, so I rolled with it.
Chris found a great bike shop that did many group rides in the area, so it was a great way for him to engage with other riders across the world. The owner of the bike shop also owned two coffee shops, one with a great breakfast/brunch, that Chris and I both enjoyed a few times.
So, let’s talk about the Catolonia food… well, to sum it it up it was pretty amazing. From simplistic Mexican tacos, bravas, seafood- including my favorite the lobster paella, mussels, it was pretty, pretty, pretty good.
So, you may have seen things about the protests in Catalonia. We did not see any protesting or issues when there, but we saw many yellow ribbons and signs for independence. Our world is constantly changing, evolving and if we look to history, someone is always fighting for their independence. It’s a reminder that no matter how much things change, somethings in life are always present. Fights over rights, independence, religion have been ongoing throughout recorded history. Until the Earth rotates no longer, this in my opinion will never change.
Being a Game of Thrones geek, it was cool to walk around the city to see where different scenes were filmed. Being around such historic places and architecture made the history dork in me filled with joy… sometimes it’s nice to just soak it all in. One of the best advantages of walking the Roman walls of Girona is that you can see the entire town — and beyond — from the spectacular vantage points. Girona offers so much including the iconic cathedral, one of the most prominent sights from the walls, and in the distance you can see the snow capped peaks of the Pyrenees.
Hiking and running around Girona seemed quite mystical. I happened upon what appeared to be a Jedi Council meeting place in the forest, someone’s lookout tree nest all while seeing the Pyrenees and the old stone buildings in the background.
Jedi Council Meetings
Chris took a great bike road along the Costa Brava region, it’s a great place to put on the list to return to for some hiking and biking
Girona during the last week of December is normally pretty quiet, but not on NYE. An old stone scenic area turned into a massive rocking party to ring in 2020 a few hundred yards from our apartment. One tradition that our host, Eric ensured was we ate the 12 grapes at midnight.
“The twelve grapes of luck”) is a Spanish tradition that consists of eating a grape with each clock bell strike at midnight of December 31 to welcome the New Year.
The twelve grapes date back from at least 1895, but became established in 1909. In December of that year, some vine growers popularized this custom to better sell huge numbers of grapes from an excellent harvest. According to the tradition, eating the twelve grapes leads to a year of good luck and prosperity.In some areas, it is believed that it wards away witches and general evil, although this “magic” is treated like an old heritage, and in modern days it’s viewed as a cultural tradition to welcome the new year.
And with the 12 grapes, we began the year of 2020- Never underestimate the power you have to take your life in a new direction. Every moment is a fresh beginning. Life’s not about expecting, hoping and wishing, it’s about doing, being and becoming. I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past. Stay tuned for the next part of the journey, when we stop into Vallromanes and then hop over to one of my favorite places on Planet Earth, the place that inspired me to blog to begin with, Mallorca.
Again it has been a long time since my last blog post… life and time flies by as usual. We have been enjoying life as much as possible, on the positive enjoying some cooler summer weather and enjoying the fruits of Chris’s labor in our garden. We’ve been able to make homemade pesto, salsas, and soups. As I grew up with a garden full of fresh fruits and vegetables as a child, I can still attest there is nothing like fresh homegrown tomatoes!
We had been looking forward to finally visiting Zermatt since moving to Switzerland. I was able to take a couple of days off from a public holiday and bridging day; so we spent four fantastic nights in this beautiful city. Zermatt, in southern Switzerland’s Valais canton, is described as a mountain resort renowned for skiing, climbing and hiking. This sounded like a bit like a perfect match for our mini- vacation.
I need to take a moment and talk a little about the town of Zermatt. First off, the town is considered car free, which means arrival is by train. There are electric taxis, horse driven carriages and bikes allowed for transport within the city. The hotel picked us up from the train station in their electric taxi, and we were welcomed with a glasses of Prosecco and light snacks. After a three hour train journey, this allowed you to take in the beauty and catch your breath. I can’t say enough about the hospitality and care we received from our wonderful boutique hotel, Hotel Coeur des Alpes ❤ (https://coeurdesalpes.ch/). This family run hotel makes you feel completely at home and goes out of their way to ensure you have the best experience possible during your stay. Once we were shown our loft, we were so excited to be able to end and begin each day from our balcony area with a view of the Matterhorn.
Since Chris’s birthday was coming up the Friday after our trip, we decided to take our first ever helicopter flight around the Matterhorn with #AirZermatt.
Flying in a helicopter was something I had wanted to experience for many years. I have flown in planes more times than I can count, but flying in a helicopter was a brand new journey, and I hope to take many more helicopter rides in my life! The weather was not perfectly clear, but the clouds, wind shifts, and slight moments of turbulence as we flew over the glaciers, surrounding mountains and directly close to the summit of the giant Matterhorn, only added to the overall excitement of this breathtaking flight. There are no real words for the scenery or the experience. Seeing the glaciers from above, the movement of some of the glaciers, and of course being so close to the Matterhorn we were able to see the variation of the climbing routes was stupendous. Our pilot pointed out all the various peaks, ridges, huts, glaciers, and gave us information on the Swiss route vs. the Italian climbing routes for the Matterhorn. Getting the view of the entire area from an areal standpoint was such a brilliant experience. They don’t call it a bird’s eye view for nothing.
“Feet on the ground, head in the sky, it’s okay, I know nothing’s wrong…”
Chris Frantz / Christopher Frantz / David Byrne / Jerry Harrison / Tina Weymouth This Must Be the Place (Naive Melody)
After coming back to the ground, we leisurely strolled around town, checking out the amenities, and all the wares. We enjoyed settling in and planning for the next day’s outdoor activities.
The next day, Chris set out on his mountain bike, and I set out for an alpine hiking adventure. Although I planned on a 3-4 hour hike, it stretched to almost 7 hours. The scenery was absolutely breathtaking throughout the hike. It began with wildflowers, steep elevation gain, stone and rock faces with waterfalls. One of the many things I love about hiking in Switzerland are these fantastic family run restaurants at the top of certain hikes. As I approached the second one on my hike, I decided it was time to purchase something and enjoy the view I had climbed to. Not only was I treated to a special homemade ice tea, but also the owner started playing the Alpenhorn for the hikers who had stopped to enjoy the view and take a small break. Kindness prevails in the mountains as I overheard a couple who did not have cash, but only a credit card ask for food and beverage options. The owner did not have the capability to take credit cards, but as mountain towns are small worlds, the owner told the couple not to worry, they could pay in the town of Zermatt by card and order what they would like. The couple was so grateful, and it reinforced something I love about the Swiss culture which is trust.
Once I reached the summit of Trift, I decided to continue on for a bit. The bit due to a long descent became about four hours, but that’s what we call adventure and eventual soreness. Along my extended hike, I was filled with amazement about how truly stunning the alpine landscape I was navigating through was. There were wildflowers all along the trail, and so many honeybees searching for their nectar. A few flowers were covered with various types of bees, so their nectar must have been delectable.
Along the alpine hike, I think I only encountered a total of six people. I did find friends, beautiful black nosed sheep in three different herds. As time started ticking by and my Garmin clocked more miles, I tried to pinpoint my path. Unfortunately, I did not foresee myself able to complete the journey to the Schwarzsee and make it back to Zermatt. So once I encountered more exposure from the ridge hike and waterfalls creating a small obstacle, I decided to retreat and head back. It was a wise decision, as coming down the mountain,my pace was slow. The beauty of the experience outweighed any pain I may encounter. Along this ridge line, there were many plaques memorializing the locations where someone took their last steps or breaths along the way of my hike and it reminded me of just how special and delicate the alpine land and environment I was exploring truly was.
After a long decent, I finally reached tree line again and turned my phone back on. Oops where had the hours gone? I assured Chris I was safe and finally made it back to the hotel for a shower and getting ready for food. By this time, we were both starving, and it was exciting to get some much needed replenishment.
“The mountains are calling and I must go.”
John Muir
The next days of our journey included more mountain biking for Chris, one solo hike for me in Gonergrat, and then we both had one of the top five massages of our lives. The massage therapist as not Esther (my beloved friend and massage therapist in NC); but she definitely knew the best massage techniques for the money. We both left feeling like our muscles had regained full blood flow.
Our last full day in Zermatt, I awoke and then proceeded to awaken Chris to a magnificent site, the moon dipping just below the Matterhorn.
Walking across this suspension bridge was pretty cool, but it was not my favorite experience of the trip. We ended the day leisurely enjoying a nice chef’s sushi choice dinner and relaxing at the hotel. Yes, in these modern times, it’s possible to get fresh fish even in Switzerland…
After four nights of a wonderful holiday, we awoke on Monday morning to some rain, this somehow made it easier to leave this magical place of Zermatt. We packed our gear after one last breakfast and the hotel owner dropped us off at the train station.
We had been waiting to visit Zermatt since we moved to Switzerland, and I’m very happy we waited for a time where we had a few days to dedicate rather than rush everything. It was a magical time, and I hope I’m lucky enough to return for more adventures sooner than later!
It’s been almost a month since I last wrote! Terrible me! Life since returning to Switzerland has been ultra busy. When I returned sadly we were in the midst of the end of June European heatwave. Heat is kryptonite to almost eveyone with multiple sclerosis. Sensitivity to and intolerance of heat exacerbates the symptoms of MS. MS causes nerves to lose their myelin sheath, making them more vulnerable to heat and temperature changes. Heat exposure can cause or heighten fatigue, numbness, blurry vision, tremor, confusion, imbalance, and weakness. This is referred to as a pseudo-exacerbation as symptoms typically dissipate once the body is cooled, although this could take several hours, days or weeks to return to normal.
Heat is a major enemy of MS!
Therefore, I always feel like I’m a child being grounded now during summer heat. I can’t go outside with out risk, exercise the way I desire, or socialize how I want. Experiencing a heat wave here in Switzerland, is an extra layer of grounding vs. the USA, because in most places in the USA, even though it’s hot and humid, you can count on central Air Conditioning to cool you down. In Switzerland, I am extremely lucky that my workplace has an HVAC system, and that our semi-detached residence has two portable AC units, so it’s relatively cool in the main house, and in the bedroom allowing sleep. Thankfully, today at least is a much needed rainy cool Sunday with highs in the 60’s. Although we have had two heat waves this summer, I’m hoping we’ve seen the worst of it.
When I returned from the US, there was also a lot of understanding of how to help my husband post his cycling accident. It was really a blessing he was alive or not injured worse because of the accident. The Friday before I came home from the US, I exchanged texts with him and he told me he was in the hospital. My husband never goes to the doctor without being forced, so the hospital, what!?
Finally, I got the full picture that a truck with a trailer had turned left in front of him as he was finishing a ride. There was no opportunity to stop or avoid the inevitable crash in which his shoulder absorbed the 30mph sudden impact. The journey has been over a month of sorting out the exact damages to his body and most importantly the best treatment and recovery path. Luckily, the MRI finally was conducted and no tendons are torn. Although the scapula has a severe fracture, they do not think surgery is required, and physical therapy is helping regain the range of motion. So all signs point to hopeful positive recovery and getting back to baseline physical capabilities. Just as healthcare cases are difficult in the US when dealing with an accident, Switzerland has it’s own system with their insurance structure. So we continue to learn more about living and dealing with unique challenges while abroad.
I’ve been fortunate to take some small local hikes and enjoy this beautiful landscape locally, in the Jura mountain region. I’ve slowly been learning chess on our new board, but still am learning the strategies of the game. Chris will beat me until I study more strategic moves :), as long as he can keep his patience with me, I’ll be a novice for a while.
Chris’s garden has started slowly producing and we now have a small harvest. We’ve been blessed with fresh raspberries all summer- now time for my favorites squash and tomatoes, and a ton of Basil ;).
Pan fried squash and onions, and a caprese with our tomatoes and basil 🙂
In a few days, there will be some upcoming holidays, which are really much needed for a mental regroup. 01 August is Swiss National Day, similar to the 04 July, with many fireworks and celebrations.
I’m excited this year, as we will celebrate with two friends, their families and dogs, bbq time at a lake, enjoying fireworks, catching up and enjoying life. Hopefully the weather will lend itself to some hiking up in the mountains as well. I’m very much looking forward to a week of vacation beginning of 15 August “Assumption Day”. We will travel (finally!) to Zermatt and spend five days with beautiful nature and exploration in hopes of good weather and clear views of the grandiose Matterhorn.
A splendid time in the wonderland of Switzerland has been all the sunflowers in bloom! In the meantime- keep your chin up, embrace all the challenges and changes, and keep fighting, learning, experiencing, and keep L-I-V-I-N!
My last few days in the United States on this trip were filled with great times with family, friends and colleagues. It was a time where although I was missing my husband, I was enjoying the time of all the familiar things and easy life of my homeland.
Tuesday evening, I got more “mexican” cuisine with friends and colleagues. Aaron and I shared the parrillada, it’s a mexican bbq of meat! Jalapeno Margaritas to fight the summer heat were a must.
Thursday and Friday were Swiss holidays so I had worked Monday-Wednesday after the Blue Ridge Father’s Day Adventure, and then on Wednesday night, I spent my evening in complete Self-Care mode. One of my dear friends, and former massage therapist, the talented beautiful Esther Rodgers and I enjoyed an evening of catching up, massage (she is undoubtedly in tune with my body), and gave me the best massage as usual. Highly recommend her to all my friends and family. We shared a post massage dinner at our former stomping grounds but sadly the short ribs recipe, although still good had less red wine and more gravy, which let it in a state of less than the best short ribs I’ve ever tasted. I missed seeing the owner, Jeff apparently just by a few minutes. I’m always wishing him and his family the best though! The store (which is known as the five star gas station), is still a warm place in my heart. I was able to get my favorite Big Spoon products to carry back for my husband to enjoy as well! Sometimes, you don’t know what you miss until you relive it. I miss my Esther!
I was thrilled to have one last chance on the trip to see my family, and eat at our favorite local BBQ place, Stephenson’s BBQ near where I grew up. This place has fond family memories, as a child and adult. As a child, I used to play and climb under the tables as both my Granny and Mama were waitresses. The owner, Mr. Paul Stephenson (RIP) knowing my Mama was a single mom, would allow me to come after school and play in the office or chat with the diners while my Mama worked. What I continue to love about the establishment is the people are REAL. There is no sense of pretentiousness, just down-home good people. The art on the walls remain the same, the interior although totally dated is still just what I recall as a child. The food is still the same as it ever was, delicious. It gave me a chance to see all my aunts on my mother’s side minus one who we missed, and a few of my cousins! My childhood best friend and I got three chances to be together on my trip back, which was much needed therapeutic enjoyment. Again, I miss her so much.
After a delicious meal and great time at Stephenson’s I began my journey to the western part of the state, Asheville. I had rented an Airbnb in West Asheville, that looked super cool. My friend Lulu, was kind enough to drive from Nashville to come and visit and spend the night with me. We laughed, shopped around downtown Asheville, and discussed life, love and culture. We ate at one of my favorite restaurants which I have been going to for over 20 years, the Laughing Seed Cafe. While I am far from vegetarian, the establishment has grown significantly and expanded with fresh paint, art and additions, but the food quality has gotten even better! I don’t like beer, but I love Ginger Beer. We found a Ginger Beer Brewery, and had some samples to determine our favorite. My winner was the limited edition Serrano Lime Agave- fiery, made with Serrano Peppers and blended with Lime Agave. For me- magic. So at the old age of 43, I bought MY first ever growler. I have gotten growlers for others, but this was my first!
Minus a few encounters with some spiders in the AirBnB, Lulu and I had such a hilarious time together. Laughter indeed is a key medicine.
We slept through the night, dreams of black widows in our heads, and woke on the Summer Solstice morning quite early. We were to meet her friend Stacy for breakfast at Biscuit Head! Stacy came over to our Airbnb and we enjoyed the outdoor swing, and endless hammock options.
The day began super relaxed, but unfortunately for me took on a dose of shock and surprise. I received a text from my husband that he had been in a terrible cycling accident with a truck and I was distracted from everything for several hours. Thankfully he was managing this situation alone quite well, but I was able to secure assistance if needed from a colleague in case he needed help until I could get home. The outcome was no surgery and he would be released from the hospital, with a broken scapula and quite beat up and in some shock. Oh hi reality! As I was off in my tiny little corner I was swung back to how fragile this life really is. I was so super grateful the injury wasn’t worse, and this too shall be navigated.
After we had a path forward for the short term for Chris, I could somewhat emotionally come back to a wonderful moment in time, the opportunity to meet my friends Isadora and Yuri’s sweet newborn, Iris and lion poodles Hugo and Sagan :). Although I was a bit still in shock over my husband’s accident and concerned, I was able to enjoy some moments of this special time.
The final journey of my experience on this US trip was quite special, as I was going to be able to see one my favorite live musical acts for the 206th time, Phish. My friend and colleague Aaron would join me, and my friend Esther and others for a much need healing musical journey. We arrived to the lot around 1600, and we walked around checking out some of the finest people watching around. I saw really positive things, the most spectacular were two guys operating the Big Green Eggs and cooking local steak and brisket. Ok, this brisket, may have been one the most succulent pieces of meat I have ever enjoyed. The best part was these guys were not charging any money, nor would they accept any money. They just wanted to see people smile. This was a special reminder of how giving this community really can be, and again, I miss being a routine part of that living abroad. We walked around avoiding the sun and seeking shade where possible. For dinner I ate the bacon grill cheese with Sriracha, amazing. We met up with my good friend Chad, who was kind enough to arrange face value tickets for some pavilion seats.
And then finally the time was near, we entered the venue and found our place and lots of ice as the sun was still beating down. I had asked a favor for a Tweezer inspired show since I don’t know when I will get to see Phish live again. The setlist was amazing, hitting all the feels I needed, and a blissful time ensued.
I definitely felt the feeling I forgot, left my new life behind for a while, and stepped into the freezer, and encoring with “More”(which for those who don’t know inspired the title of my blog followed by Tweeprize, the night ended in a special way. Oh what pure joy, release and bliss dancing again to my favorite :). Thank you #phish and all the friends who helped me enjoy myself!
ENCORE: More > Tweezer Reprise[1] No intro. This show was webcast via Live Phish. The first Tweezer included Walk This Way teases from Trey. Trey teased Mercury in the second Tweezer. Scents and Subtle Sounds did not have the intro. Trey teased If I Only Had a Brain and Mike teased Gotta Jibboo in A Song I Heard the Ocean Sing. Taste included a Scents and Subtle Sounds tease from Trey. Have Mercy was quoted in Possum. The Final Hurrah was quoted at the end of Tweezer Reprise. Source: http://www.Phish.net
The day after, Aaron and I grabbed lunch at one of my last NC favorites, Tupelo Honey Cafe. So let me tell you about a southern delicacy I forgot I missed, fried green tomatoes, and their famous goat cheese grits!
I was able to share some Olive Oil from Tuscany, and some Swiss chocolates with Chad, and then off to the flight! My time on this trip in the US was up. I must admit I was eager to get back to my husband, sleep in my own bed, but this trip was a healing process for me. A rebirth of inner awareness and strength. The next chapter once home meant trying to help my husband find the best path to recovery for his injury, dealing with a week long Swiss heat wave and infusion weekend- but more to come on that later. For now, it’s nice to bask in the memories of the last couple of weeks.
Last July, I left the US with my husband, off on our new adventure to Switzerland. We left with hopes high professionally for me, and personally as a couple to adjust and adapt to our new lifestyle. We both had goals to adventure, travel and see as much as we possibly could manage.
As usual, life throw it’s curveballs our way, and we fight to overcome them. What I realized is although you may take on the physical challenges and prevail, if you don’t pause to assess the impact on your emotional well being, you could be left with a void if you don’t address the elephant in the room.
Coming back to my home country, I realized many things quickly. I really miss my closest friends, who are primarily in North Carolina. My desire to move past the last six months has prevented me from being real with myself about my emotions. After a conversation where my husband gave some direct feedback on the process, I realized I had indeed lost some of my self-love along the way of my journey. It won’t be an easy process, but I am committed to rediscovering who I am and redirecting my journey, body, mind and spirit back on the pathway to find happiness.
Undecided, undefined Undisturbed yet undermined Relocated not retired Reprimanded and rewired Mystified and misshapen Misinformed but not mistaken Reinvented, redefined Rearranged but not refined Unrelenting, understroked Undeterred yet unprovoked Reinvented, redefined Rearranged but not refined Mystified and misshapen Misinformed but not mistaken Undecided, undefined
One place I can go to get grounded, and find my inner strength, is the beautiful area of Boone, and the Blue Ridge Mountains. No, they aren’t the Alps, they aren’t the Rockies, or big 14ers of Colorado; but there is something about the energy of this area that grounds my soul every time I visit. There is no doubt, in my mind that I will spend my last days retiring in a cabin in the Blue Ridge Mountains, hopefully hiking my life away. From the sunrises over my favorite overlooks, hiking peacefully through the forests on trails I have hiked over a 100 times after nearly 20 years on the same trail, it was clear to me, this doesn’t get old.
I am grateful this year that I was blessed to have my mother and niece visit me for Mother’s Day, and that I was able to spend Father’s Day in the Blue Ridge with my parent’s and my niece, who is more like my little sister. I’m so proud of her and her accomplishments. A parent’s love is unconditional and timeless. It’s difficult to watch our parent’s age, to experience the aging process ourselves. This is why once again, we must take every breath and every moment and LIVE.
Embrace life, those you love, and tell them. The past months of challenges have taught me who will be there for me, and who will not. Most importantly, I am trying to fully embrace, and hold close to me this quote-
The journey in the US is not complete yet, I have one more day of work, then some family and travel time, visiting with those who I have not seen in ages, and the chance to dance, indeed it sparks the feeling I forgot!
I work in a small industry. It’s big to the outside world, but in reality, it’s quite tight knit. I consider myself to do a somewhat decent job at keeping in touch with those professionally that I admire, that have taught me how to be a better person leading by example, professionally or personally.
What is this life without the opportunity to bond with others that you respect, can learn from, share your feelings, emotions, and passions? In my opinion if all of this were removed, life would not be nearly as enjoyable. In my career, I have been fortunate to form not just professional relationships, but friendships as well.
Social media outlets such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram have opened a networking opportunity for multiple generations to stay connected as everyone traverses life’s walls and cliffs sometimes outside of the domestic US and over to ex-Pat living.
Last fall, I was able to reconnect in person with my former colleague and friend, Pam, and her husband Steve. In the many years it had been since I had last seen them, our lives had both evolved. Not only had we both moved across oceans to experience work and personal life throughout Europe; but our families had expanded.
Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”
Mark Twain
For multiple reasons, that I won’t elaborate on in this blog post, I never was able to have children of my own, (minus the dogs in my life) :). Through a few of my friends, I have experienced a glimpse into their family lives, and spent some real quality time playing Auntie to their children, and enjoying this aspect of life that I will never really own for myself. This past weekend was one of those times I was able to truly have submersion into the joy of the two children of my friends Pam and Steve. We read, goofed off, laughed, skipped, loved on dogs, I watched them be simply amazing in their flexibility with gymnastics, and exchanged many hugs.
Last week was Ascension holidays in Switzerland. Chris and I had been wanting to re-visit Tuscany as we did not feel we were able to spend enough time during our first visit last year. Learning our friends were closing this chapter on their journey in Italy, left in my heart and mind a clear quest. Even though, life was busy for all of us, we would seize the opportunity for one last visit with each other before they were 9 hours time zone difference away.
Sometimes as life goes, I was not able to leave work behind on Wednesday as scheduled, and we ended up leaving Switzerland via Snow White (the Scooby Doo Outback) two hours behind schedule. We were virgins traveling through one of the longest road tunnels in the world, the “Gotthard Road Tunnel” during a holiday.
We both had traveled it during Mother’s Day with no traffic issues. My coworker gave me advice to ensure we had snacks as the back-up could get quite intense through the tunnel and then to cross through border control. Our original plan, was we would drive four hours just south of Milan and get a decent meal and night’s sleep and then head down to Siena the next day… I learned of a cool car/train trick in case we take this trip again, but the path was set for our journey as reservations were required to take your car on a train. So we hit traffic indeed… for safety reasons several years ago where there was a fire in the tunnel, the Swiss government limits the number of cars allowed in the tunnel, so we were delayed a total of approximately 2.5 hours.
We arrived at our hotel south of Milan around midnight with some exhaustion, some delirium and frustration for needing to find the hotel parking in the deep darkness. Thursday began with sunshine and the promise of reduced stress, journey and exploration.
We made it to Siena got our things settled into Pam and Steve’s beautiful Italian home and ducked into a trattoria around 1430 for a much needed meal. Steve needed to pick his girls up from school, so we decided to adventure more around the Siena city and the Duomo di Siena. As 30 May was Ascension Day, it seemed more than fitting to explore the cathedrals and soak in the history. The rain stopped and the Tuscan skies began to clear as we walked around exploring the amazing cathedral. We waited in line for a long time for only what was labeled a panoramic viewpoint. The approach seemed odd as they were limiting the number of people who entered and then they would be escorted back. The rationale became all too apparent as we finally reached our turn. There were several single pass spiral stairwells to climb before we reached the landing which overlooked a breathtaking view of Siena and the surrounding Tuscan countryside.
The last time we were in Siena, we only had a day and a half to spend, so it was quite rushed. This trip afforded me almost all of Thursday, Friday and Saturday to spend with my friends prior to them departing Italy to begin their next chapter of their adventure. Minus the rainy start of our time in Siena, we were truly treated the rest of the time with magnificent sunny weather that was not too hot. I had often heard many people speak about the hues of the city of Siena, and depending on the time of the day, sunrise, sunset, twilight, you could see the magnificent glow of the hue change from ‘raw’ to ‘burnt’. Now that I have experienced this phenomenon with my own eyes, I would best akin it to experiencing the beauty of an alpen glow. It’s no wonder there are several colors named after this city, although spelled slightly differently.
We were delighted for Steve to take us for an adventure on Friday, when we went to explore the Tuscan history of Volterra. There is a lot of history to be shared about Volterra- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volterra. The walled city in the Tuscan hills is absolutely stunning, breathtaking, insert super positive adjective.
Several life memories were made on this day, as Steve took us for a tour off the beaten path, and taking us to local artisans including a shop that we made a purchase of art and functionality. I decided to stop fighting to learn a game that I’ve only attempted a few times and that Chris really loves. So I vowed with Steve as my witness to fully commit to learning how to play chess, and we purchased a handmade alabaster board that inspires me and makes me want to learn and enjoy the game so many others have loved for years. Steve also introduced us to a Tuscan painter, Vanna Spagnolo, who was pure passion and energy, walking through her shop and speaking with her, I was overwhelmed with a special connection and happiness that comes along rarely in life. This artist, so beautifully talented was pure, connected and inspired by nature in the same way I am, but unfortunately for me, I am not artistically talented. Chris and I chose the painting together, and I look forward to hanging the Tuscan landscape in our home to brighten any day or moment.
We enjoyed good food and Tuscan wine as Italy does not ever disappoint me from a food and drink perspective.
As someone who has moved international understands fully, there are a million and one things to accomplish. Steve needed to drive to Pisa to sell one of their cars on Saturday morning. We had never seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and Pam and Steve wanted to show us their favorite sea side town. We went along for the adventure, saw all we ever needed of Pisa, for anyone questioning themselves, it’s not worth other time that you can spend elsewhere in Italy. We were happy to go because there was a need to get something accomplished, and we saw an important historical sinking building but… trust me, skip it. You can look it up online and get the picture. Visiting Catiglione della Pescaia was a lot of fun, especially watching the girls play along the water and in the sand. I do not get my energy from the ocean. I love the ocean and appreciate the power of the ocean, but it tires me out usually, the sand, the sun, the salt… but I do enjoy very much small doses of exposure to the sound of the ocean and walking along in the water.
To end this time together, we made homemade pizzas and relaxed from the long day. My next day I headed back to Switzerland, with a long day of train travel. I was happy that Chris could stay a few extra days to spend time with our friends and explore some Tuscan biking, including the Strade Bianche.
I can not thank Pam and Steve enough for being the wonderful souls they are, allowing us to be a small part of their family, and wishing them all the best in life’s next chapter!
Adventures in this thing we call Life 