Exploring Denver’s Highlands While Koda’s Away

With Koda spending a few cozy weeks in Pennsylvania with my parents until Christmas, my apartment has felt… quieter than usual. Anyone who knows me knows that life with a husky means constant movement. Walks. Parks. Adventures. Even just the energy of having him stretched across the couch like he pays rent.

But without him here during the week, I noticed something strange happening. I wasn’t leaving my apartment. At all. Not for a midday walk, not to explore, not even to grab coffee instead of making it at home. It was like my routine left with him.

So today, I decided to change that.

I threw on a jacket, stepped outside into the crisp Denver air, and headed toward a neighborhood I’ve somehow never given myself the time to explore: The Highlands.

And wow… I should’ve done this sooner.

The Highlands has this charm that feels both historic and young at the same time. Big trees arch over cracked sidewalks. Old brick homes sit next to modern builds. There’s this soft hum of people living their lives — walking dogs (yes, I stared lovingly at every single one), carrying coffee cups, chatting on porches.

It felt good to be out. Good to move. Good to let myself wander without a plan.

I walked block after block, just taking it all in. Sometimes slowing down. Sometimes imagining what it would be like to live in one of these houses with the big porch swings or the quirky yard décor. It was grounding in a way I didn’t expect.

And since this was a one-way adventure, I made a deal with myself: walk as far as I want, explore as much as feels good, then Uber home. No pressure. No rush. Just vibes.

Koda being away has reminded me how much of my world revolves around him — in the best way — but also how important it is for me to keep exploring, even when he’s not leading the way.

So here’s to new sidewalks, new neighborhoods, and creating little moments of adventure in the middle of an ordinary Wednesday.

And don’t worry… when Koda gets back, we’ll be returning to the Highlands together. I already know he’ll approve.