September 1 – 2, 2024
Mile Marker: 1696.1
Miles Hiked: ZERO!
What a glorious couple of zeros.
On Day 79 we slept in well as our hotel room has full blackout curtains and could keep the sunlight out. It was almost shocking when we opened them and light blasted through.
We had a coffee in our hotel room then eventually decided we should snag a free breakfast downstairs before they closed.
We grabbed some yummy food and decided to sit outside rather than inside. I found it interesting that we were the only ones who chose to do as such. Even though we have the nice furniture inside, we still prefer to be outside.
We then did some town chores like Journey getting a haircut and fixing my sleeping pad.
Then we spent the rest of the day lounging in our hotel room. Most of it was spent laying in bed or taking an Epsom salt bath. Doing everything we can to give our bodies a break.
It’s interesting though, as soon as we stop, our body starts to hurt worse and legs swell. The constant movement almost keeps everything at bay and once we stop to rest, our bodies are flooded.
We also ran over to REI to get gloves and hat for the cold weather coming up then went to Black and Haus for dinner with Debbie, Bob, and Maddie.
It was a glorious time. We had delicious food and shared many laughs as we reminisced and told Journey family stories. It’s always a good feeling when you are laughing to tears.
Oh my heart is so full. 🥰
We then went and got some Rita Italian Ice cream that was incredible. It was my first time trying it and I was a huge fan. This was also my only picture of the day as I was so preoccupied.
It was sad saying bye to Debbie and Bob tonight. It has been such a pleasure having them around and just enjoying each others company. I hate to be apart but I know I have unfinished business.
Day 80
We woke up early and got on the road to Winter Park by 8. No one wanted Maddie to have to drive back in the heavy traffic so we figured getting an early start would be helpful.
It was a beautiful drive back into the mountains.
Once in Winter Park we stopped for breakfast at Wake N Bacon. As we walked in we noticed Captain sitting with a PCT friend and chatted with him for a while. He let us know about their cinnamon rolls then we noticed them in the glass case. Score!
I ordered a breakfast burrito and cinnamon roll and was happy with both choices. The cinnamon roll was a 7 out of 10 so not as high as some of the others but still tasty!
We then had Maddie drop us off at our hotel and said see you later. We gave each other a gigantic hug. I am so proud of her and all she has accomplished thus far. It was a joy to see her new life in Parker!
We then hung out in the hotel lobby until 1:30. Right before Aster and Whatever showed up and we were able to catch up on the past section. It’s always so uplifting to be around these people.
We spent the day lounging around, eating some food, and just being lazy.
Around 7 us 4 went to dinner at a Mexican restaurant across the street called Fuego Azteca. I ordered a chicken burrito and was surprisingly able to eat it all.
We are planning to head out early tomorrow to try and get to the base of Grays Peak. We all have our eyes on the weather as rain and thunderstorms is in the forecast but are hoping we can make miles and be off the ridge beforehand.
Hoping for sleep.
Iz and Oz
Izzy + Ozzy 