After six incredible days of travel, we took a break on Day 7! 

Today was Friday, and we spent this day sitting on the couch, watching movies all morning long. It felt really good to have this option and enjoy some down time.

In the afternoon, the kids enjoyed games, puzzles, and more.

Rimrock Coffee Co.

At about 2pm, Tim and I went out for a cup of coffee at the local shop; Rimrock Coffee Co.

The shop was adorable, with fresh coffee smells, local art for sale, baked yummies, along with home-made stickers and friendly service too.

Lake Montezuma

After our caffeine fix, we stopped at the local tourist site near our stay: Montezuma Well. This land was donated to the National Parks Services.

The Local Library

After our hot walk to the well, we picked up the kids and headed to the local library. The librarians were pleasant and conversational. We love our library, and it’s fun to visit new ones.

As we see new books to read, we snap a quick picture for reference! Tim snagged a few titles for his future reading list.

Grateful for Rest

As I look back on this trip, I can’t help but feel extremely grateful for the adventure.

Many times, we packed the day with amazing destinations. Other times, we decided to lay back and do nothing. In both the walking and the resting, we found refreshment. 

Our trip out West could have been stressful and filled with expectations or pressure. Upcoming holidays and vacations can make me anxious. But instead, this trip felt like a peaceful adventure with my best friends. 

We decided to have fun together, no matter what we chose to do.

Grateful for Squabbles

Not every moment was loving or patient. I could write an entire post of the mishaps; from unexpected laundry loads to arguments and disagreements. (Arguments that happened right after amazing, thrilling moments.)

We had a sibling squabble come up as we pulled away from the Grand Canyon Watchtower. It took time to calm down. We waited. We loved each other through it and gave grace (even when it took the other person longer to ‘let go’).

Now, we giggle about this moment and can’t remember why we argued or who was “right.” 

Life can be this way. Full of the best and the worst all within a 5-minute time period. I want to remember what is true in these moments:

• I love these people and want them to feel loved by me.
• We all make mistakes, and I can love them through this mess-up moment.
• The Lord is working and loving us in our story.

These truths bring perspective. Remembering these truths helps me to live life as the Lord designed me to live it; loving Him and loving others.

Conclusion

Thank you for reading Day 7 of our trip WEST last summer. No matter if you’re busy about your school year this Fall or taking a trip away from it all, enjoy the time with your family and loved ones today.

And if you have a squabble just minutes after a special moment, take a breath and love. This too shall pass. 🙂

Keep Walking Friend,

Christina

20 Days Traveling WEST

• Day 10 of 20 Days WEST; California
• Day 9 of 20 Days WEST; Rimrock
• Day 8 of 20 Days WEST; Hiking in Sedona
• Day 7 of 20 Days WEST
• Day 6 of 20 Days WEST: A Tour of GCU
• Day 5 of 20 Days WEST; Visiting the Grand Canyon
• Day 4 of 20 Days: Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona
• Day 3 of 20 Days Traveling WEST: New Mexico
• Day 2 of 20 Days Traveling WEST: Bass Pro Shops
• 20 Days Traveling WEST – Day 1