Colorado

Phil, Max and I road tripped to Colorado last week. I have to say that the drive was not terrible. I survived and only complained once. We took our time, stopped a million times to use the bathroom, and just enjoyed each other.

While in Colorado we were able to see my sister and her kiddos as well as my mom. Max is so lucky to have family here in Albuquerque that love him. I feel bad that he is so far away from other cousins and his Aunt and his Grandma. I guess that is just life. I am just happy that we are close enough to road trip for a visit.

We packed our days very full and literally went non stop from sun up to sun down. Max did not nap once and he was a trooper.

We visited the Denver Zoo. It was super hot but super fun. This zoo is HUGE and they have a new exhibit with Monkeys that literally climb around outside. They are not caged in. This kids sat and watched the monkeys for a while. I was in awe with how gracefully they climb. We also sat through a bird show and Jakob and Max just giggled the whole time. Apparently the birds were quite funny.  During our zoo trip the kiddos really had a chance to bond. Max and Jakob were the map readers and the girls were the supervisors. Little Miss Adyson was just plain cute. These pictures below are in no order, just enjoy!

We made a trip up to Estes Park. Estes is very similar to Sedona, minus the red rock. It is a small mountain town that I just love. Growing up I spent a lot of time in Estes. I was either strolling the shops or hiking. It felt good to be back.

 We stopped and had lunch at a burger restaurant/bar. There was the perfect view, a guitarist singing Dave Matthews jams and the best (next to Five Star Burgers) veggie burger I have ever eaten!

 It really is beautiful! The creek runs along the shops. So peaceful!

 Love this picture! Sums up the kiddos :)

While in Estes Park we went to the Stanley Hotel. It is famous hotel. Ever read The Shining by Steven King? This hotel was the inspiration. It is also featured in the movie. We wanted to do a tour, a ghost tour, but little Max was too young! Next time!

The rest of the trip was spent outside at the park or at the splash pad. Or sitting around the dinner table catching up.

We were sad to say goodbye, but as always it is good to be home.

I have less then a month left of summer break. My contract begins August 7th. Max starts preschool August 8th. I start my Masters on August 20th! I am going to make sure this last month is filled with some good quality family time.