Congratulations on your 25th anniversary! What a wonderful way to celebrate this milestone by tackling the challenging Long's Peak hike in Estes Park, CO. The fact that you pushed through and made it to the summit despite feeling every one of those extra years is truly admirable!

The view from the top must have been breathtaking, with sheer drop-offs on three sides and 360-degree panoramic views of the entire valley. It's great that you had some encouraging strangers who convinced you to continue on and experience this incredible reward.

Long's Peak is indeed a formidable mountain, being one of Colorado's fourteeners. It's not surprising that it took more effort than expected to reach the summit. But it sounds like the stunning views and sense of accomplishment made all the hard work worth it.

Did you enjoy any other aspects of your Estes Park visit, such as exploring the town or taking in the scenic drives? And how does this experience rank among your most memorable adventures together? 

 The hike was actually to the top of Lily Mountain.  I hiked a 14er (Mt Elbert) when I was younger.  I think my 14er hikes are over, but we made it just shy of 10,000 feet and it was very steep with a hard rock scramble at the top, so I feel good about it and even better that I'm able to move the next day.