Several weeks ago when Britta and I were still in Colorado, we decended from a mountain to find ourselves facing a highway with some type of bike event convening in the trailhead parking lot opposite us. The speeding cars and swarming crowds gave us a moment’s pause as we pulled up our maps and tried to ascertain whether or not we needed to head into the madness. A day hiker passed us and, upon seeing us ogling the chaos, grinned and called out “Culture shock!” While it wasn’t quite ‘culture’ shock so much as ‘civilization’ shock, the sentiment was accurate.

Spending a week at home brought out that same sentiment. I found myself deeply appreciating all the luxuries I’d taken for granted before: tossing clothes into a washing machine whenever I wanted, delicious clear water straight out of the faucet – no filtering involved, internet at my fingertips, crunchy ice, endless food in the cupboards. The list could go on for a long time.

My older sister’s wedding was absolutely lovely, and I also got to enjoy the local fair for a day with some of my family, as well as simply relax. It was a rejuvenating vacation from the trail, and I’m ready to get back to walking!