Earlier this month, when we landed back in Denver from Baja, Mexico (sea level), we decided Denver’s 5,000 feet of elevation wasn’t enough gain for one day. So we picked up Justin’s sister’s cats and dog and drove to their cabin for a long weekend of pet sitting.

We, of all people, know going from sea level to 10,000 feet in a few hours is NOT recommended, but the truth is, we really wanted to beat a snowstorm. When we arrived to the mountains just as the first flurries started falling, we knew it was worth the shortness of breath.
We needed to buckle down and get some work done, so hibernating at the cabin with snuggly cats was a perfect motivator. Except for some people who couldn’t resist a mid-day nap (not naming names).



Once the snow stopped and the famous CO bluebird skies returned, we capitalized on the fresh powder. In fact, we pushed the limit even more and went snowshoeing at Hooiser Pass (nearly 12,000 feet). I huff and puff no matter the elevation, so what’s a few more thousand feet?







As much as we enjoyed our beach time in Baja, the mountains are where we feel most alive … once I get over the persistent headaches and congestion from the dry air of course …

This week, we start full-schedule work at the Leave No Trace office in Boulder. And some more pet sitting. Always pet sitting while in Denver!
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Nice! I feel the same way about the mountains – they’re home. Can’t wait to hear more about your continued work with Leave No Trace.
You really are the best pet sitters! You could be professionals! I loved the photos especially the one of Patrice through the window. Did Justin actually take it!? Luna, Ember and Bailey thank you and look forward to your visit in two weeks 🙂
Thanks Jamie!!! Means a lot that you are happy with our care and I’m glad we can help out. That’s actually Justin through the window (he had on his red jacket). I was trying to get creative!
Thanks for sharing your beautiful pictures & story! Enjoy your journey & stay safe! Love Cathy
Looks like a lovely way to re-integrate back to mountain life! 🙂 Beautiful kitties, too!
Those cats are gorgeous!
Aren’t they? Their cat of 14 (?) years passed this year & they fell in love with these sisters. They’re all kitten right now, but when they settle to snuggle, it’s precious.