Omayra Acevedo, Peak to Peak. I can’t remember the exact date, but sometime around October/November of 2019, I was introduced to a gentleman who after hearing my name, acknowledged that I wrote for The Mountain Ear. I was humbled and petrified. I never know if recognition is a good thing or not. But let us stay positive, and safely assume that it was a good thing, shall we?!

Fast forward to a few months later. I bump into the same gentleman at a different establishment and he said hello as he walked through the doors. He sat at the bar as a friend and I sat at a table venting and chatting about life’s unforgettable moments. Little did I know, I was about to have one. As this man was leaving, he turns to me and says, “Bye and thanks for writing.” He thanked me for doing what I love to do. Caught somewhat off guard, all I could say was, “you’re welcome and thanks!” 

I love when experiences – no matter the size – make you feel alive and rejuvenated. Like watching the first bloom of Spring. It’s exhilarating! Speaking of which, March 19, 2020, 11 days after moving our clocks forward, will mark the first day of Spring. What will you do to celebrate the changing season? Me? I think I’ll go for a hike. 

My first Spring hike in Colorado was March of 2012. I was on a not so off-trail hike near Wild Basin in Allenspark, Colorado. I only saw two other hikers that day and a ton of Moose! At one point, I was crossing the road at the very same time that a momma moose and her two calves were crossing. Luckily, they were at least ten yards away from me and I remained very respectful. I was so thrilled to have seen them that I could feel my insides twirling and shaking with excitement! If you get a chance, I’d recommend exploring some of those Colorado hidden trails. They offer more than just a walk with nature. 

The hike itself was great! The views, the untouched grounded snow, the sound of silence and the teasing blooms were just enough to create a perfect memory. I like Spring time because it feels invigorating to me. One place I like to go snow shoeing and hiking is at the Brainard Lake Recreational Area near the town of Ward. What’s your favorite thing to do in the Spring time? I love wildlife watching too. Especially, when you can get a glimpse of the babies (from a safe distance of course). Having positive encounters with nature as well as with people are, without question, unforgettable. 

What I should have said to this gentleman was, “Thank you for reading and accepting my words into your life. Thank you for your support, kindness and for just letting me be me.” His compliment might have been simple words to him, but in my heart, they felt like a hike during Spring time.