Finding clarity while camping Above, right; The campfire fizzes and crackles, as day slowly turns to night at nearly 12,000 feet. Above, left; Observing Big Union Creek roaring past one of Weston Pass’ many campsites. PHOTOS BY OMAYRA ACEVEDO[/caption]

My dearest readers, our last weekly journey together takes us into the heart of camping in the Rocky Mountains, where adventure, beauty, excitement, peace, and quintessential Colorado memories are made.

It has been years since the opportunity to camp presented itself to me. A couple of weeks ago, I packed the truck, and headed west into our majestic mountains. With no real destination in mind, I decided to drive up and down random roads in hopes of finding my perfect campsite, to no avail.

Eventually, I found myself driving through Weston Pass, between Leadville and Fairplay. I passed several campsites, but they just didn’t fit the bill. Suddenly, there it was. The most picture-perfect location to call home for the weekend.

Fire-pit-ready and Big Union Creek roaring 20-feet away, it was a beautiful balance between shade and sunshine. There was a perfect place for the tent. The remainder of this season’s wild flowers were stubbornly holding on for dear life, and the smell of that Rocky Mountain air intensified my alreadyheightened senses.

After grilling dinner, but before starting the campfire, I spent some time by the creek. I walked away to gather wood for the fire, where I sat for several hours, thinking of you. Yes, you, my readers.

For over three years, I’ve been able to combine two of my greatest passions: writing and Colorado. You have openly embraced my column and made me part of your life. This is truly humbling and I can’t thank you enough for your support.

No, I’m not leaving you. I’ll still be in touch with you, but only twice a month instead of weekly. I did not want to wait for the chance to fall on my lap again, just as I had done with camping. By cutting back on my adventures with you, I’ve offered myself the opportunity to work on something dear to my heart. It’s a project I’ve been working on and one that I hope to share with you after it’s finished.

We live in an incredible state that’s filled with so many things to be a part of. Don’t wait to hear from me again. Get out there, explore, appreciate what you are surrounded by, and allow yourself, just as I have, to enjoy the little things in life, like sitting around a campfire.

For more information on Weston Pass visit: https://tinyurl.com/ wzyvvb8r