Through fire and hammer, we are forged anew

In the tumultuous landscape of the COVID-19 pandemic, the decision to leave the family business was already in motion, uproot and move to Missouri carried with it a unique set of challenges. It was akin to stepping into the unknown, and I approached it like any blacksmithing project. We planned for it as much as we could. The heat of uncertainty surrounded every decision, and the weight of the circumstances pressed down like a heavy hammer. 

As I settled into my new rural surroundings, it was as if I had returned to the simplicity of my childhood. The simple lake life of Lake Ozark reminded me of memories of the carefree days growing up in the small town of Colorado. Yet, amidst the tranquility and the heavy humidity in those thick oak trees, there lingered a sense of isolation, a reminder of the distance from the familiar comforts of home; those Rocky Mountains that still called out.

Over time, much like the metal shaped by the blacksmith's skillful hands, I began to adapt and find my place in this new environment. Each challenge I faced, whether it was finding a new community or navigating the intricacies of rural life, served to temper my resilience and strengthen my resolve.

But as the years passed and the pandemic's grip began to loosen, the call of home grew stronger. Like a piece of metal drawn back to the forge, I felt a pull to return to my roots. When the opportunity presented itself to return to Colorado in 2023, we jumped on it without hesitation and left Missouri. The decision to move back to Colorado was not without its own set of challenges, but it was a journey I knew I had to undertake.

Looking back on my experience of uprooting during the pandemic, I am reminded of the lessons learned along the way. I learned the importance of resilience, adaptability, and the power of human connection. I learned that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope to be found, and strength to be discovered within ourselves.

As I reflect on my journey, I am reminded of the words "Through fire and hammer, we are forged anew." In navigating the challenges of uprooting in 2020, I was forged anew, shaped by the experiences and challenges I faced along the way. And though the path was not always easy.

Dirty Smith has evolved as well as a shop has been located on the front range and I will be back in business in a matter of weeks of this post. Looking forward to the future.

Glad to be home, refreshing to see those mountains.

-Rory