River, Rinse, Repeat

I recently spent time floating down the Green River with eighteen wonderful women. It was the second time I had taken the same trip through the Gates of Lodore and over a stretch of river that John Wesley Powell described as Hell's Half Mile. In fairness to Powell, he was describing the hell of transporting his boat over land to avoid the rapids and I admit that I would have likely also considered that journey to be hellish. Luckily for us, we experienced the heavenly version of the trip.

The planning for the trip was accomplished over many months. We began with a core group of friends and then extended the invitations to friends, family and acquaintances. In the end, fifteen women traveled from all corners of the country to come together for four glorious days. Many had never camped before; most had never been river rafting but all of us arrived with open hearts and excitement. We spent four blissful days laughing, sharing and marveling at our surroundings.

The first time I took the trip, I feared that I would not have the physical capabilities necessary. My fears were unwarranted, and I soon realized that I would never turn down the opportunity to return to the river. If you are a person who avoids this type of adventure because it feels too intimidating or because you don't like the idea of "roughing it", I encourage you to rethink. This trip is all luxury, in ways you don't expect.

There is the luxury of place. You float past towering, deep red canyon walls that expose geological history. The river provides a calming soundtrack, cools you down when you need a break from the sun and thrills you with its changes in current. Nature surprises you with unexpected visits from bald eagles, big horn sheep and deer. Can't sleep? A million stars keep you company.

There is the luxury of time. No cell phones or electronics to pull your focus, just an opportunity to listen and reflect. Imagine having the time to meet new people and get to know them in a meaningful way. What journeys have they taken? What gives them joy? What value do they hope to create in this world? No news, no politics, no conflict. It's a luxury we rarely get the opportunity to enjoy in a noisy world.

There is the luxury of self. It is glorious to have days to spend in relaxation and renewal, especially when you are the one choosing how you spend your time. Hike or don't hike. Nap or don't nap. Swim or don't swim. You are free to simply be, without the constant hum of "to do" lists, emails and life demands. You don't even need to brush your hair if you're not in the mood. It's a rare and glorious way to care for yourself.

Want to start planning your own adventure? I highly recommend Holiday River Expeditions as a starting point...and I encourage you to invite the people you love. www.bikeraft.com