Ever felt as if you’re learning something about yourself a little too late? That’s how I’ve been feeling lately. I shared a moment with a friend a few weeks ago, and as I confessed just about everything weighing deeply in my heart, I had somewhat of an epiphany.

The air was crisp, and the sun gently settled on the table just outside the front door of the Silver Llama Market & Eatery where we sat. My friend ordered his coffee, black, and breakfast bagel sandwich. I ordered a chai with coconut milk and a breakfast salad. Yes, there’s such a thing.

It was my second time eating at the Silver Llama. I appreciate they have meal options that cater to all diet preferences for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It’s also fun to say, “I ate at the Silver Llama.”

After a six-month struggle searching for a job, owner and founder Sherry Randall saw a sign that “sparked an idea and an opportunity to open her own business.” With nine cookie recipes and one pot of coffee, Randall opened Cookies With Altitude on November 7, 2009.

For ten years, she served the Leadville community breakfast burritos, sandwiches, soups, strudels, doughnuts, cakes, cupcakes, fudge, and cookies. Before long, over 26 signature cookies rotated throughout the year, turning Randall’s dream into reality.

By 2019, Cookies With Altitude relocated to the newly renovated KW Plaza and rebranded into the Silver Llama Market & Eatery. The name was inspired by the town’s history and its modern-day uniqueness.

In the 1880s, Leadville was home to the largest silver camp in the world, and llamas have been used to haul supplies to aid stations for the 100-mile races held in the town each summer. The past and present have given birth to the Silver Llama, the place that sparked success for Randall and served me with a whooping plate of truth.

As I poured my heart and soul into depletion, unintentionally, my friend made me realize that I had been a fool. Once, a long time ago, I gave up a lot for the silliest reasons, and as much as I’ve been in denial, it’s time I set myself free from burden.

Perhaps I’m not learning things too late. Maybe, just maybe, I’m realizing things at the most opportune moments. As inconvenient as this particular lesson seems, it’s occurring at the precise moment it’s supposed to, forcing me to grab onto my dreams and hopes like I never have.

The Silver Llama Market & Eatery is located at 615 Harrison Avenue, Unit B, Leadville. You can find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/silverllamamarket/ or you can give them a call at 719-486-1026.