Turkey Turkey!

Happy Thanksgiving!

The "Boat"

My wet body shivered in the cold night air. I reached for my towel in order to provide some warmth. Franticly searching for my warm layers of clothing, I was experiencing both pain and pleasure. After soaking in the Strawberry Park Hot Springs for about an hour and half, it was time to get out.

This past weekend, I had the luxury of driving a mere 3.5 hours to beautiful Steamboat Springs, Colorado to visit the springs, dine, and enjoying some bluegrass stomping music. While, we intended the basis of the trip to be the springs we also had seen so much more "The Boat" had to offer (including the FM Sons signs that drove with us the last ten miles into town...quite literally I might add).

After soaking in the springs, we wrapped things up and headed for Cafe Diva. Opening in 1998, Cafe Diva manages to offer upscale fine dining yet still maintain that warm and relaxed Steamboat vibe. The decor is sleek and modern but still has a mountain look about it with plenty of wood and earth tones. Cafe Diva's wine selection is way above average, and they have a special wine vault where they keep their ever-expanding roster of vintages. Our meal included, lobster tomato bisque, curried diver scallops with pumpkin spaetzle and whiskey sage cream, stuffed acorn squash with truffle pecornio, and elk tenderloin with veal demi-glace.

After a most enjoyable meal, we decided to hang with the locals at the Tugboat. The oak floors and rough barn-wood walls cloaked with game and fishing trophies, sports memorabilia, and celebrity photographs are the trademark of this foot-of-the-slopes establishment(The hand-carved cherrywood bar, circa 1850, came from the Log Cabin Saloon in Baggs, Wyoming, a Butch Cassidy hangout; look for the bullet hole in one of the columns).


Just shy of ski season, Steamboat without all the skiers was quite nice not to mention the intoxicating hot springs, fine dinning, and music.

Next time you near...make sure to stop!

Pumpkin Carving Madness

This week, the "to do list" has been extra long..something going on every evening, conveniently enough the same week as Halloween. Consequently, pumpkin carving with the sweetie fell short on the list.

Finally, last night we decided (even though not getting home till 10:30 mind you) that we need to get into the Halloween spirit. We turned up the music nearly waking the neighbors (okay maybe it wasn't that loud) and tried our hands at crafty pumpkin carving. After having a few glasses of wine at a celebratory dinner, this "little project" was surely going to be interesting.

After having a brief discussion regarding techniques and pattern choices we dug in. Two hours later with roasted pumpkin seeds for munching, the end result was....priceless?

Big Whigs

Is the Republican's party "big tent" falling apart? Probably not, but worth considering given the recent very public departure of many realist conservatives from the McCain ticket. Colin Powell makes his position very clear.

A Tribute to Mozart

At every single symphony orchestra performance, composers, conductors, instrumentalists, and audience members make wonderful musical discoveries. Even though I am not steeped in musical talent, last Friday, I attended a beautiful musical tribute to Mozart performed by the Denver Symphony. During the performance, I was able to enhance my musical experience by paying close attention to the variety of instruments which, comprise the modern symphony.

Like actors on stage, each instrument plays a critical part, which the conductor is trying to replicate. The intimacy created by the music tells its own story as the audience attempts to enter the mind and heart of the composer.

Race Day

Last night, I went out for what was to be my "last meal" pre-race day. After consuming some delicious sushi and spirits at Jianken ( way underrated in my own opinion) with friends, my head finally hit the pillow at midnight. Deep down, I knew this wasn't a wise choice but, after all, I was only running the half marathon. Keeping this in mind, consuming a beer or two and not getting a proper night's rest the night before the race wasn't that important...or was it?

I was up before the alarm went off (5:20am), already making my pre-race energy jolt...a French press coffee. Throwing on my favorite running shorts, (as my parents so dutifully remind me are Cal colors, Go Bears!) I was out the door and on the way to Denver by 5:45am.

Making it to Denver with twenty-five minutes to spare, I hit the bathroom one last time (another adventure in itself which, I will spare you of), and headed for the start line. I was all smiles in the chill of the early morning air ready to run.

One hour, two hours, and by mile eleven my quads were on fire! With only two more miles to go, I began to feel the consequences from my poor decisions the previous two evenings. In pain and not properly hydrated, I pushed on chanting a mantra that I saw on a sign at mile marker six. "Do it today, do it today, do it today." Each time my foot hit the pavement, I continued "do it today, do it today, do it today," surprisingly it kept my motivation alive and I began to push myself harder.

I looked up and the clock read two hours and ten minutes. I did it! I was done! Oh man, did it and does it feel good.

Running Together

After three months at a failed attempt to stick to a daily running regiment, I am running the Denver Half Marathon this Sunday. Feeling a bit unprepared, I have been loading up on carbs and hydrating all week. If not physically ready, perhaps, I can convince myself that I am mentally.

As race day is rapidly approaching, I am reminded that winning doesn't matter. Running has always been more of a form of meditation, relaxation, and self- reflection for me.

Whether running the trails or running the city streets a friendly face is the only reminder I need to "go the distance." Since moving to Boulder, my dear friend Tara has reminded me of exactlly that. I am looking forward to many laughs, "claps", daydreaming of different foods, and yells of "are we there yet," this Sunday as I sit back and enjoy running for what it is...simply running.

This time I won't be leaving anyone in the dust!

Support Your Local Farmers

I can't believe I've waited till now to write about the Boulder County Farmers Market. The best organic food is what's grown closest to you and you can find it here! Whether its homemade baked goods or Colorado grown peaches, the Farmers market caters to every type of foodie there is...

So, support your local farmers and come taste the freshest produce around!

Trails on Trailridge

As I have mentioned before, one of the greatest things about life out west is the accessibility to the outdoors. Boulder's backyard is home to the Rockies and only naturally Rocky Mountain National Park. A few weekends ago, I was fortunate enough to spend some time up Trail Ridge Road where, nature is only visible to those who are up for an adventurous drive.

Trails off the road exist where one can see what life above tree line is like. However, make sure you know where the "non-touristy" spots are in order to get some good wild life viewing...

Yet another reason to love life out west.

Western Charm

The Stanley Hotel, best known for its role in the Stephen King novel, "The Shinning," epitomizes old world charm and historical architecture at its finest. Freeland Stanley and his famous steamer, journeyed west in 1903. Settling in Estes Colorado, Stanley made the decision to construct the hotel, sharing the beauty and wonderment he found in Estes with others.

This Saturday, I was able to experience the hotel first hand. After touring downtown Estes, a refreshing beverage to quench our thirst and rest our feet sounded ideal. We watched the weather role in over the Rocky's, while comfortably sitting on the front porch, as if it were our own. Laughing and talking as if we had been in this moment before...life is good.

"Dance, Dance, Dance, All Night Long"

A summer in Colorado would not be complete without experiencing Red Rocks. A open-air amphitheatre with spectacular views that reach Denver, Red Rocks is a can't miss. Combining nature with music, the gigantic red rocks encompass the theater, allowing performers and concertgoers alike to become a part of something truly unique.

This past Thursday, I attended Steve Miller Band with family in tow. I had a most enjoyable evening catered by my favorite market, Whole Foods, while sipping on refreshing white wine. As we heard the music begin to play, we quickly gathered our things and headed for our seats (although, I think not one of us sat the entire time).

For the evening, we felt as though we were all celebrating our youth as we "danced, danced, danced, all night long."

A Rainbow of Thoughts

Rain provides a certain sense of relaxation in the summer months and sometimes in its wake, one can bare witness to one of the most fascinating natural phenomenons...a rainbow. Staring in awe as if I were a child, a smile suddenly crossed my face. I looked to the right and saw beautiful natural light beaming up from the flatirons while, to my left primary colors painted the early evening sky. If I had any doubts, today I remembered why I journeyed west...

East meets West.

Ideals and fascinations in response to the Rocky Mountain West are common. Some people are looking for ranch property, others for a secluded sanctuary, and still others a ski-in-ski-out chalet. I came because I needed to explore, to do something new, to greet the unknown.

My decision to travel westward was not a long thought out one. Simply stated, I woke up one morning and decided I was going to move. I thought to myself I am young, uncommitted, and wanted to be able to physically connect to nature. I was about to make a huge change in my life for reasons that were personally daring. I did not take into account others thoughts or opinions, nor did I move in the hopes of salvaging personal relationships. For the first time in my life , I was doing something for myself.

So that was it, I kissed my roommate goodbye and left one of the most intellectual stimulating environments I had ever been part of for a new natural environment...

What do I want? What do I need? Who do I want to spend my time with? Finding yourself and seeking out your own personal journey is important. We all want inner peace and value in love. We all want to share this with someone but, more importantly with who?

Enjoy your moments...

A summer evening in Boulder, Colorado wouldn't be complete without spending time in Chautauqua Park. Watching the sun set over the flatirons while enjoying good food, friends, and live music, the summer in Boulder is just beginning.

Last night, the Indigo Girls performed for a very enthusiastic crowd in Chautauqua Park . I couldn't have asked for a more perfect end to a most enjoyable weekend. A few of us decided to go early plant our feet in the grass and enjoy a few laughs, a few drinks, and of course always delicious food.

Fans since our adolescent years, Megan and I were so excited to see the Indigo Girls live! We only hoped that we would be able to get close enough to the outdoor stadium in order to hear and see the music. For a few hours before the concert, we enjoyed a lovely picnic filled with nothing but laughter and of course wonderful company.

As we began to hear cheers from the stadium, Megan and I knew we were "moments" away from hearing some of the music that shaped our growing years. We left our picnic gathered our drinks and headed towards the outside stadium for a closer view. Megan and I quickly became engulfed by the music and shortly after were signing and dancing as if no one else was there.

As the evening wore on, Megan and I wondered how the boys were doing witnessing this whole experience. After all, they were a minority this evening. We turned around only to find the boys behind us looking on with someone elses binoculars. They were already making new friends at the Indigo Girls concert. I swear by the end of the night, both Peter and Danny were signing along...

I am sure more "enjoyable moments" will be created this summer...

There's Gold In Them Hills!

Last weekend, I took a most incredible journey to Gold Hill, Colorado just a short ride from downtown Boulder. A quiet isolated haven, with no paved streets, but easily accessed by dirt roads, Gold Hill is true historical landmark. Originally a mining camp, it was the sight of the first major discovery of gold during the California Gold Rush in 1859. A population residing of 210 people Gold Hill's historic wooden structures are a sight to be seen.

I was in great company with another Connecticut native turned westerner. We sat at the "Gold Hill Inn," where our Sunday was all about the mountain air, whiskey, and hearty fare. Listening to the live jazz band in the backround provided a fair amount of entertainment while, we made new friends as if they were already old ones.

I recommend strapping on your boots and heading up the Hill. Who knows maybe you'll find some gold.....

OM Time

After a two month break, I have taken my thoughts back to the mat. I often forget how important it is to cleanse both the mind and soul. Reflecting on life, relationships, values, and spirituality provide me with a calming sense of detoxification. On my mat, I feel peace from the constant distractions provided by societal pressures perceived in western culture. The breath and body move fluidly together allowing both mind and spirit to connect. A connection that is so powerful, you feel an explosive energy pulsating throughout your entire body. Whether or not you are a spiritual person, on the mat you give yourself and your thoughts up to something bigger than yourself. You see life more precious, you view each breath more valuable, and you focus on becoming selfless in a very selfish world. Physically and mentally yoga teaches us to exceed our limits and provides us with a sense of discipline and structure which we take off of the mat and into our lives.

Trouble In A Runner's Paradise!

Okay, this is for all you runners like me out there. Colorado... what other beautiful place would you pick for outside trail running and training? Perfect right?I recently decided to train for my first ever marathon right here in Boulder. Only two months into my training program and I have already pulled my IT ban. Can you believe it? Well, I can't stand it....the thought of hanging up my running shoes for a few months is heartbreaking....(literally)

The Beach

Spring has sprung and the flowers are blooming. Time to put the skis away until next season. Think again, the scene at Colorado's local resort ABasin (http://www.arapahoebasin.com/) is still hanging onto that wonderful spring snow. Where most resorts have closed for the season, Arapahoe Basin has embraced the warm weather taking skiing to a whole new level. Taking turns through soft silky snow in t-shirts under blue skies and warm weather provides a relaxing and enjoyable environment for skiers and snowboarders alike.

Spring skiing at ABasin is better known for its abundance of fun and unique atmosphere. After taking a few runs in the sun kick back and experience the beach. Located at the base of the mountain, the Beach (as it is known to locals) provides delicious barbecue, cold beers, and plenty of reggae music. Unbuckle your boats sit back and enjoy making new friends who enjoying skiing just as much as you.