Denver/Vacation

Our trip to Denver was much needed break from life - work life, unit life, Valley life. We really haven't gotten away as "just the two of us" since we arrived; the exception being our travel to Albequerque to fly home. It was a weekend of luxury, city life, stores, cars, people, and food. If you can't tell, I loved it. It wasn't so much Denver itself that I loved; it was the breathing space from other people and the opportunity to reconnect with Jeremy. So, what did we do.....

On Friday, we checked into our hotel - Wyndham Tech Center... a really expensive place for business people during the week, but practically dirt cheap on the weekend. It was very nice; they had a great, well-equipped fitness room and a swimming pool. We went to the Boulder Running Company so that I could do a test run and get advise on the type of shoe I should be wearing. I have a normal (no pronation) stride. I have good shoes in general; I'll probably just stick with them. Then, we went to the bargain theater to watch Juno. It is a fantastic movie - for both men and women. I thought the story had depth, and the acting was well-done. We ate popcorn for supper. It was wonderful.

On Saturday, we slept in .. well, I slept in, Jeremy worked out in the fitness center. We went shopping at Steve and Barry's to pick up some cheap clothing. Then, we visited the Columbine Memorial. I included a picture to the left; it was almost 9 years ago on the day we visited (April 20, 1999). It was very interesting to read the inscription about the students and the teacher that were killed during the school shooting. There were a wide range of emotions conveyed within each inscription. Some of those who wrote still seemed angry and confused. Others seemed at peace with what had occurred. Many were very faith based and showed a deep trust in Christ. It was a very touching memorial. After this we lightened things up by going to the "Mother Ship" (the original Chipotle). Jeremy was incredibly excited (see picture to the right) Surprisingly, Jeremy agreed to share a burrito with me. It was nice not to feel so full you can't move. We went back to the hotel shortly after to get ready for our big night out. We had reservations at Ruth's Chris Steakhouse. We took the train downtown. It was incredibly windy out, so our getting dressed and ready was a bit worthless, but that's okay. We had steak that was juicy and delicious, along with potatoes, broccoli, and a salad. Since we were celebrating my birthday, I got a free dessert. They brought out a HUGE apple tart - literally, 6 inches in diameter.. a minitature pie! It was a good night to feel pampered.

On Sunday, we went to eat at IHOP for brunch. I know, really romantic, but it was my first time to an IHOP, and I liked it. I give them credit for great french toast. We then went to the Museum of Nature and Science; it was a free day in honor of Earth Day. The place was packed with families, stollers, running children, and mild chaos. It was still a good time. There were a lot of stuffed animals, many gems and minerals, and displays of Native Americans across the United States. Jeremy was able to pose with the mighty Polar Bear (Go ONU!). I was able to photograph a Beaver (Go Bluffton!).

Jeremy was caught like a mule deer in the headlights. And I was frightened by the sheer size of the walrus.

We took one last picture with the Denver skyline in the background before leaving for home. It is a long trip - 4-1/2 hours from Denver to La Jara. It was good to get out of the car by the time we reached home. Life welcomed us back quickly with a house meeting (legistics of the week to discuss) and chores to do. Work started back up today (great day at the Boutique for me - probably made the most money I have all year.)