Nature Journal #4: Garden of the Gods

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This past year has been filled with a myriad of new experiences for which I am incredibly grateful. I entered 2023 with an attitude of openness and inviting diverse experiences into my life. I had the absolute pleasure of studying abroad in Madrid from January to the end of May this past spring. This meant completely immersing myself in the Spanish culture--whether it be sharing tapas with a Spanish native, giving a presentation entirely in Spanish, or memorizing the Spanish metro system, Spain became my home away from home, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunity to have lived there for five months. I already miss it terribly and am hopeful to return one day.

Departing Madrid, I flew straight to Denver, Colorado where I was to spend the next 2.5 months in an internship. After getting over the initial jetlag, my passion for adventure and exploration was reignited, and I became extremely excited for the summer ahead in a brand-new city. Furthermore, a new city meant new people, new restaurants, and new activities—I didn’t know where to begin! I had the most incredible summer immersing myself in the wonders of Colorado and already began planning my next visit in the fall. Luckily, I was able to travel to Colorado once again this semester to marvel at it's unparalleled creations. One of the first places I ventured to was the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, Colorado. I had heard a great deal about the National Natural Landmark and was absolutely ecstatic to finally make a trip to see it. Upon arrival, all of my preconceived expectations were blown away by the colossal beauty of the sandstone rocks. The entire park was beaming with life and pure joy, and I couldn’t wait to hike around the grounds and admire its wondrous beauty and enchantment.

While traversing the well-maintained trails, I was astounded by the awe-inspiring landscape of towering rock formations that seemed to defy gravity. The rocks exuded a mystical and otherworldly ambiance, and I cherished every step through the terrain and began to understand why it was named Garden of the Gods. I now understand Edward Abbey’s adoration for nature and Earth’s creations—they are truly magical, each equipped with their own story.

I am so thankful to have been afforded the opportunity to visit, study, and explore the groundbreaking landscape of Garden of the Gods--it was an enchanting break from my life here in Fort Worth, and I am already dying to go back! 

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