Hello everyone,
On October 2nd, Mr. R came to visit. He had never been to Denver and his work was rather hectic. I thought it would be an excellent idea for him to come visit. His flight got in early on Friday morning and we went for brunch at Snooze. I would've taken a picture, but I was super hungry!
After brunch, we headed back to my place and hung out for a while since neither of us had gotten much sleep the night before. Then it was off to dinner with some of my friends.
After brunch, we headed back to my place and hung out for a while since neither of us had gotten much sleep the night before. Then it was off to dinner with some of my friends.
Sorry it's so blurry, it was REALLY low light.
The plan was to go to a local arcade bar, but there was a band playing and nobody wants to pay $25 to see a band they don't know in a seedy bar. Not going to happen. SO....we ended up at a hookah bar instead and then plotted the next day.
As we were plotting Mr. R mentioned that Denver wasn't quite what he was thinking. People assume all of Colorado is mountains and trees. When, in fact, there are mountains, plains, and deserts. How could I show him the Colorado he was thinking? Aspen. I was worried it was a little late, and in some areas it was, but seeing the aspen trees change is definitely something you should put on your bucket list if you haven't already.
The decision was made. We went to brunch at one of my favorite cafes, The French Press in the Belmar Shopping Center in Lakewood. After that we headed to Aspen!
On the drive, we stopped for a couple photo opportunities as well as taking the obligatory selfie. :)
The weather was perfect. It has been unusually warm in Colorado, meaning that we weren't dealing with snow. This is nice for the drive, but global warming is definitely making its effects known.
Knowing that there wouldn't be much snow, we took the drive that runs through Independence Pass. This typically closes after snow starts in the mountains. After taking pictures in front of the sign, we take the short walk up to the overlook. This is why I love the mountains. They make you feel like you're on top of the world while showing you how small you really are. We are both invisible and infinite.
After a quick stop in Aspen itself for food, because, well, food, we headed up to Maroon Bells. We ended up waiting in line for an hour. I have no idea why there were so many people wanting to go at sun set, but there were...so we waited.
Once we paid our $10 fee, we headed in. Part of the reason I love Colorado, it that almost all of the drives are gorgeous.
Once we made it there, we had to work our way through the crowds. I was very grateful that everyone was being kind and taking turns so that people could get pictures. I loved that the water was so clear.
I was surprised that I didn't see more people taking pictures of the view the other way. Yes, the glacier lake is beautiful, but the mountains behind us were just as beautiful.
I would like to state that I'm thrilled that I've finally managed to get a reflection shot. I've never been able to manage. This year is a year of firsts!
MOOSE! This is the second time I've seen a moose this year, actually, ever. Mr. R had to take this picture on my phone, though. I was too short and all I kept getting were its antlers. I know moose are highly aggressive and there was even a park guide walking by telling people to stay back for that particular reason, so we decided to leave. I know Kilo thinks he's big, and I like my pups alive.
I find it odd that certain animals I've always liked have started showing up in my life. On the way back from Burning Man, I saw both a wolf and a moose for the first times in my life. I feel like there's been a shift in my life, and I'm doing my best to pay attention to the signs of the universe. I've learned that fighting the universe is unwise. Instead, it is more wise to listen, follow, and use what is given to me to my advantage. My life has become much more peaceful and loving since making this discovery.
On our way back to the car, I couldn't help but snap an up close picture. It was just too perfect to pass up. ^.^
On the way out we stopped by a place that Mr. R had seen on the way in. It was an excellent photo opportunity since the sun was setting and illuminating the clouds and mountains.
I completely understand why the call it "Colorful Colorado," now. One has to make it into the mountains to see the wonders it has to offer.
As we drove into the sunset, I was overcome with an overwhelming sense of peace and happiness. The right travel companion can make all the difference. I've been to Aspen twice before, and neither of those trips were horrible, but neither were this amazing either. I learned a lot about Mr. R, and I am grateful that he's going to stay in my life. He is an excellent friend and I shall eventually get out to San Francisco to finish our Brunch Wars between Denver and San Francisco. But don't worry, there's always Portland. :)
Be the love you wish to have in your life,
Victoria
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