For those of you who didn't know, on June 2nd I hopped in a car and drove west ... for a very long time. 3 days. My destination: Colorado. Why? Because that's where Luc's family lives. Also because I've never been past the Mississippi River. I cannot say that anymore. My current farthest westward point is now the restrooms just on the other side of the continental divide up in Rocky Mountain National Park. No joke.
It's been a good vacation so far. Even though the drive was long, it was interesting to see the changing countryside. I have uploaded pictures I've taken so far from the trip, for those of you who have been bugging me for immediate pictures. Since arriving in Colorado, I have gone into Rocky Mountain National Park and seen snow (yes, it was snowing up there, but 75 and sunny down in Boulder). I hiked up to the top with an elevation of about 2.3 miles above sea level, maybe 1.2 miles above Boulder. I went to the Celestial Seasons tea factory and saw how they made tea and got some free samples. Also ate in a persian styled tea house ... given to Boulder by their sister city in Tajikistan.
Boulder is an interesting place. Upon arrival, I kept hearing about all the crazy hippies that live in Boulder. It is true, but I suppose in a good way. These hippies are not your typical poor crunchy hippies, but more of the chic trendy blend. This I have discovered because it can cost $59 for a pair of shorts at a normal chain store (probably only like $45 back on the east coast). They also enjoy their super eclectic restaurants and bars and the big thing one notices is how into nature they are. Upon giving Luc's dog a walk, we found a spot of freshly turned dirt along the path by the creek with a handwritten sign stating, "a snapping turtle laid eggs here, please do not disturb 6/3/07". The dirt was surrounded by sticks to be sure no one trampled it accidentally. I have also heard that residents of Boulder wished to build a wall deep into the ground so the local prairie dogs could not wander out of the city limits where they could be shot (Boulder has a no killing of animals policy). Despite these oddities, Boulder is beautiful. That is the only word that could possibly describe the simplistic grace that this part of the country exhibits. Can air possibly feel any fresher or crisper when drawn into the lungs? I think not. Thanks to the hippies, this wonderful piece of beauty has been preserved, and probably will be for all time. No building in Boulder can be higher than 3 stories, to prevent overdevelopment which would block the view of the mountains. Everything is built to fit in with the surroundings. Boulder is apparently one of the 10 healthiest places in the country, and this is readily apparent with the many natural, organic and health food stores (thanks again to the hippies), the many bikers crisscrossing the streets every day (and when I say bikers, I mean top of the line road bikes ridden by helmeted, tight-clothed riders with shoes that clip into the pedals). People up here are serious about being outdoors and enjoying it. It is nice. Refreshing. I am loving it.
So check out photos and be ready for more updates. Just a reminder, since this is a trip, the photos are found in the "travels" section of the website. Tomorrow we leave for Keystone, which is in the mountains on the other side of the continental divide. Can't wait.
