THE LAST STOP {ROCKY MOUNT NP}

"I only went out for a walk, and finally concluded to stay out till sundown, for going out, I found, was really going in." - John Muir

Personally, I absolutely despise using quotes within my posts but this one, to me, sums up the end of this trip perfectly. Sure, we continued on our way east, clipping New Mexico, overnighting in Dallas and roaming the French Quarter of New Orleans, and staying a few days in Destin soaking up the sun. But nothing will compare to meandering through the mountains, scaling Arches, wading through canyons, connecting with the pulse of the earth and its many loves. All of this, while walking beside one of the most beautiful souls I've ever known, made this experience one of the greatest blessings that have been bestowed upon me in this lifetime.

When I share this story with others, the most common reaction I get is "Ugh, as amazing as it sounds... I just don't think I could do it. That's a long time to be on the road." And my reply is always, "Not long enough."