Summer's end

I am overwhelmed with nostalgia and sentiment as the summer of 2016 comes to a close.  This was the first summer we were able to fully enjoy as residents of Colorado.  Rex was able to explore and have fun like never before.  We hiked, we camped, we swam, we fished, we read books, we even slept in on more than one occasion.  Rex also played a lot of video games...

It is hard to believe that Rex is going to be a kindergartner.  This feels like a beginning and an end: an end to the carefree and innocent days of preschool and toddler-hood, but a beginning to a life of academia and maturation.  I know, I know, he's only going into kindergarten, but I can't help but feel like I blinked and the first five years are gone.

As for myself; I'm happier than I've ever been in my entire life.  I feel stronger, more stable, and more confident.  I believe this is partly because of our belated exodus from Florida, newfound proximity to family, a healthier lifestyle, and a never ending immersion in nature.

That being said, this was the best summer of my life.  Rex and I shared experiences that I'll remember for the rest of my life.  I was able to enjoy every day, whether we were hiking on the Grand Mesa or binge watching Netflix.  We gained new friendships that will last a lifetime.  We tested our strength and endurance, not to mention patience.  More than anything else, we had a lot of fun.