School's out for summer . . . and while everyone else was enjoying 90 degree weather in Indiana, we enjoyed an unexpected winter squall on our way to Steamboat Springs, CO.
The climate (and temperament) however, quickly changed.
Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Everyone says that if you love Colorado in the winter, you will love it even more in the summer.
I first fell in love with Steamboat as a teen. For almost twenty years, our family spent a week every spring skiing in and out of Townhouse 28 in Storm Meadows. We made moguls of family memories together and my dad and I celebrated many birthdays together on the mountain. Steamboat and I even shared our 40th together a few years ago --- and even though it had been almost ten years since we had been there, it still felt like home.
So . . . for a homesick, homebody like me, I was elated when our friends invited us to be their guests on Storm Mountain.
The unexpected winter weather proved to be short, but dramatic.
Our hosts, Bill and Marsha, redefined "all-inclusive" by showing us overwhelmingly genuine hospitality and 10-star accomodations. We quickly felt at home and immensely enjoyed their company over gourmet dinners, hiking, horesback riding, fishing and while simply enjoying the view. I truly believe that they enjoyed pampering us as much as we enjoyed being pampered!
Marsha and Bill in the kitchen --- one of Bill's favorite spots.
Brandy (and Rachel)
We were also blessed to share this time with my parents.
(Mac always goes on vacation with us too.)
HIKING
HORSEBACK RIDING
MORE HIKING . . . more challenging
TRADITION: Stones from June Falls
Along the way . . .
FISHING
CATCHING!!!
Life is Good!
ONTO THE NEXT ADVENTURE:
White-water rafting down Clear Creek in Idaho Springs.
Rachel had a BLAST and is ready for bigger rapids. Sarah doesn't like the wetsuits, helmuts or cold water, but still had fun too.
From Clear Creek, we headed to Longmont to visit our friends Brandon & Kim and their girls Sydney & Reagan. We were greeted with HUGE hugs and kisses from the girls even though the last time we visited, Sydney was just a baby and Reagan wasn't even a twinkle yet.
Our reception was so warm (94 degrees) that we headed to Water World for the day.
The Lazy River
The Lazy River ala Reagan & Steve
The next day was 50ish and raining --- a good day for 4-wheeling.
Steve and I chickened out when we hit these rapids the first time, but Brandon and Steve went back and powered through it.
Sarah and Rachel were content to stay on the fire trails while we chased in the Hummer.
We also amused ourselves playing Nintendo Wii on Brandon's BIG screen . . . . and playing with Sydney and Reagan.
Our last look at the Rockies: the view from Brandon and Kim's house.
I can only imagine - I love tagging along with all of you on your spectacular trips. Keep on keepin' on !!
Love to you all, Auntie Jean
Really love the photos, but especially appreciate that ones outlined in black of the mist. . . .
Ron who?????