I’m Climbing 2,768 Stairs with 23 Pounds on My Back. Here’s Why.

This week’s episode is deeply personal. It’s just me—no guests, no fancy production. Just a heartfelt message recorded from the road as I prepare to climb the Manitou Incline in Colorado this Saturday, August 23rd.It’s not just a hike. It’s a tribute.August 23rd marks 6 years since I said goodbye to Nomar, one of the two senior cats who changed my life. His passing hit me hard—unexpected, gut-wrenching, and tangled up in all the guilt and questions that often come with pet loss. And yet, here I am, six years later, still finding new ways to carry him with me.So on the anniversary of his death, I’m climbing 2,768 stairs with 23 pounds on my back—one pound for every day of the month—up the steepest incline in Manitou Springs.Not for glory.Not for fitness.But for love, grief, memory... and healing.In This Episode, I Share:* The story of Nomar and Mia—and how they became my heart* What happened in the week leading up to Nomar’s sudden passing in 2019* The weight of grief and the questions I still carried for years* Why I chose to climb the Manitou Incline as a tribute to him* The symbolism behind every step (and every pound in my ruck)* What this has to do with you and your own pets—past or present🐾 I’d Love to Hear From YouIf you’ve ever lost a pet you loved deeply...If you’ve ever done something to honor them…Or if you’re simply walking alongside me in spirit this weekend…Drop a comment and let me know:Who would you carry with you, step by step?Let’s remember them together.📘 Recommendations for Cat Parents* Don’t wait to honor your pets—alive or passed. You don’t need a big hike. A photo. A journal entry. A quiet moment. It all counts.* Consider ways to transform your grief into something beautiful. It doesn’t erase the pain, but it does give it meaning.🎧 Listen + Cheer Me OnI'll be reading every single comment before the hike. If you feel moved to support me or share who you’re remembering this week, I’d be honored to carry your story with me.➡️ Please leave a comment below. Get full access to Golden Whiskers at www.goldenwhiskerslove.com/subscribe