08/20/2026
The Bradleys returned to Colorado for a visit!
We pulled up roots and transplanted them to Vancouver in 2018. The last time the girls went back was in 2019– seven years ago. This impromptu trip organized around Joel’s work was way too short and didn’t involve nearly enough reuniting with friends, in my opinion. But it was so good to be back glimpsing the memories of our younger years–before covid and cancer.
It was good:
To crest Monument Hill and marvel at the purple mountain majesty of Pikes Peak, a mother watching over her pebbles.
To drive past the hospital where I birthed my babies and to step inside the house of their first words, first smiles, first steps.
To smell a sweet grassy summer scent before dark grey clouds flooded down thirsty raindrops as they often do on late summer afternoons.
To be surrounded by thousands of country music fans belting out Zach Bryan’s lyrics, “If you could see 'em now, you'd be proud” in the stadium where the Denver Broncos play.
To taste Lulu's Frozen Yogurt, each flavor a melt-in-your mouth memory of little girls who sneak another free sample.
To run along mountain single track paths in Winter Park feeling the heavy lung breathlessness of high altitude.
To feel stress ease as we soaked in a hot tub under a black sky speckled with sparkling stars.
To remember who I was in this place that shaped me and to bring back pieces of her with this new me.
