Monday, July 11, 2011

Mondays with Marin- Vacation Dog

We just got back from a week long trip to Estes Park, Colorado. I grew up going to the YMCA of the Rockies each summer with my family and this year I got to bring along both a husband and a dog!

Marin did great in the car for 15 hours and was a wonderful source of entertainment since the cabins have no TVs. I'll write more later about our trip, but since its Monday, I'm focusing on the four-legged member of the family.

Road trip dog. She had more room than anyone else!

I am convinced that Marin was born to be a cool-weather, outdoor dog. I have no idea why she was picked up as a stray in Texas. Her fur is black. She hates the heat. She whimpers when she's away from the AC. She refuses to get in a hot car.

Now, Colorado is in her blood.

She got to hike, chase ground squirrels, watch hummingbirds and deer, attend her first parade, and jump up on all the couches and beds. It was vacation, after all. And the bonus: all activities were done in about 70 degree weather. Perfection.

First hike. At the summit of Bible Point.

On the way to Homestead Meadows, a dog friendly hike in the National Forest.

At one of the old homesteads. 3 miles in.

On our daily walks in Texas, Marin Dog usually lasts for about 45 minutes on a good day and then lays down in whatever shade she can find and does not move. In Colorado, my girl hiked for 6 miles and had energy to burn. It was great to see her truly enjoy herself.


Crashed out after a long day with the backpacks.

Finding a comfy spot on my parents' bed.

Most of all, I was really proud that all our hard work in obedience class and the training Evan and I have done paid off. She was the perfect guest. Friendly, calm and well behaved. I was a very proud mom.

Now if we could just find a way to move to Colorado....