{Our last day in Colorado // Mason's final hockey game}

Since Mason didn’t have to be at the rink until 9:00 am, we got to sleep in a bit...a small but welcomed gift after a week of early mornings and go-go-go. But in true Hall fashion, we were still a little early. 

We arrived in time to catch the last 30 minutes of the game before Mason’s, and something about watching that game just broke me wide open. I wept like a baby. Twice.

The first time was when one of the goalies made an incredible save, and their entire bench erupted in cheers. The team was so loud, so proud, so in it together… it gave me chills. It was one of those moments where you just know you’re witnessing something good. Something pure. And yep...I cried.

Then, when the game ended, they played a sad song about having to leave, and I absolutely LOST it. I had to walk out into the atrium to pull myself together. Mind you, my kid wasn’t even in this game! But just watching these young athletes wrap up their week...knowing they’d worked so hard, grown so much, and now had to say goodbye...it hit me right in the feels. Sports have always made me emotional.  So much work, grit, and determination by these athletes. 

Mason’s game kicked off at 9:30, and we had the best little cheering section made up of us and the Browers. He played mostly defense, and we were so proud of how well the team did, even though they came up short with a final score of 5-8.

Every player on that ice gave it their all, and it showed. It was such a fun game to watch...and thank goodness they didn’t play another sad goodbye song afterward because I genuinely don’t know if my heart could’ve handled it again. 

After the game, we headed back to the Browers’ house to pack up our things and say our goodbyes. And like always, it was hard.

But these aren’t just friends...they’re family, the kind you choose and hold onto for life. The Browers were so incredibly gracious to open their home to us all week, and we’re beyond thankful for their hospitality, warmth, and all the laughs shared around the table and in the backyard.

Saying goodbye never gets easier, but thankfully with friends like this, it’s never really a goodbye... it’s just a “see you later.”

On our way out of Colorado, we decided to make a quick detour to the Royal Gorge Bridge...something that’s been on our radar for a while. We were excited to see it in person and walk across the iconic suspension bridge. Nate and I have done it before, but it was many years ago. Much has changed since we've done this attraction. And, we wanted to experience it with Mason. 

Unfortunately… that didn’t quite happen.

When we arrived, we found out that most everything was shut down due to high winds. Major bummer. We had driven a bit out of the way for this stop, and while we were still able to take a few pictures, we didn’t get the full experience. It was disappointing for sure, but we tried to make the most of it. Sometimes that’s just how road trips go!

Even with a few bumps and unexpected turns, I wouldn’t trade this trip for anything. From watching Mason play on Air Force Academy ice, to visiting castles, Red Rocks, and driving to the top of Pikes Peak...this week was full of moments I’ll carry in my heart for a long time.

Until next time, Colorado… thanks for the memories.

On our way home we stopped at Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, TX. You can find that post here.