again with the catch up

June 5 2011-  Again with the catch up.  I know, I know.  But no having internet connection for 5 days is pleasantly refreshing.

Colorado trip was needed.  We had neglected the Nickell family since no real emergencies occurred with them.  All ASHBY.  Now that those issues are settled it was time to see the mountains and family.

One snag was finding parking.  A holiday weekend makes for crowded parking on and off site.  Thankful for the Wally Park at still having spots available.

Easy trip out on SW.  I know people hate the line up but the faster turnaround is amazing.  SW is celebrating 40 years so something must be okay.  With no bag fees, humorous smiling staff, I will continue to use them while they are cheap.

Landed hard into Denver.  I found myself staring at the bottom of two very strong margaritas and as the comedian Jim Breuer says, then the Tequila in your belly starts inviting EVERYONE.  And additional 3-4 beers and then surprise on Sunday morning when the emergency evacuation was required.  Good thing the Nickell family gathering wasn't happening until after lunch.  Once McD fries (the best hangover cure ever) was procured, the stomach was open for business.  Lots of catch up with the Nickells.  Chad's nephew even wore a tie to show Chad he missed him.   He is a sweetie.

Monday morning was a trek to Boulder for Chad to run in the Bolder  Boulder, the nation's best 10K.

 Even the Scotts were out in the wee morning to welcome in the first waves of runners.

 The finishers from Colorado School of Mines.  DL was in from Seattle and Chad the old man slowed him down.  We were both moving slow from the margarita adventure from Saturday.

 This evil black cloud kept the mountains hidden.  Idaho Springs is 200% for snow pack, Arapahoe Basin ski area is open until July and Trail Ridge road in Rocky Mountain National Park is still not open for traffic.  Going to be more flooding in CO this summer, whenever it decides to show.

 What would be the Flat Irons of Boulder without the cloud cover.

 Couldn't entice Chad with a free beer, even an IPA at this local bar.  My brother's nickname (one of many) is Harpo.  Cheers brother!

 Our rental car.  I know a huge truck?  But we got in on Saturday night of a holiday weekend and this was what awaited us.  Huge legroom in the back.  Sucked some gas but not too bad.

 A trip to the Mothership was required.  Chad had a 20% off coupon and in need of new running shoes.  REI does have an amazing return policy so if you spend the money, there is the place to spend it.

We spent Tuesday in Colorado Springs with Chad's mom.  We took her to lunch and a movie.  Thankfully we decided to see Pirates instead of Hangover.  Not sure I want to see that many penises with the MIL.  We took a fast road out of Springs and headed to Red Rocks for Films on the Rocks.  For the price of a regular film ticket, you get to take in a classic (this time was the Big Lebowski) and the beauty of Red Rocks and metro Denver staring back at you.  Several DUDES, a pair of scissors and a Viking princess were spotted.  Reminded me of all the midnight movies in college.  Fun for all.  Margaritas were our pre-drink at Morrison Inn.
Again my tummy went on revolt and my allergies were no good on Wednesday.  I stayed in bed until the last possible moment.  Off to the goofy roof and return to the whiny kitty and barky doggy.  Now for errands, craft projects, yardwork and dragging Chad to buy some new shorts.  Wish us luck.