Mom Trip

A few months ago my mom approached me with an idea. What if we took a trip together with just the two of us? This led to multiple conversations about possible destination spots. We wanted to visit a place that we had never been. Enter Glenwood Springs Colorado. My brother, Brandon, had visited with Kendra and had rave reviews.  After a plane ticket and hotel reservations were in place we were ready! Last week I flew to Utah for a week and spent time on the Wasatch Front with my family, then my Mom and I took a 3 day trip to Glenwood Springs. The week was relaxing, spontaneous, and fun! I am back feeling refreshed and with the sense that my relationship with my Mom blossomed more than it has in years.  The best way to tell a story is through pictures. So here we go!

Glenwood Springs

We drove into town, checked out our options and made a fantastic day plan . On Saturday I had a morning workout, then we headed up the mountain side in a little orange Gondola.  The top of the mountain held many secrets in the form of caves, and many not so secret tourist attractions. Our plan was to go up and enjoy the two cave tours, but the rides looked pretty fun and we do what we want! We ended up enjoying a zip line, a 4D movie, and an alpine slide that I may or may not have giggled for the entire ride down! We did that one twice just for kicks! 

At the hotel we met a gentleman who referred to himself as 'Mr. Tap,' He was very friendly and invited us to an afternoon tap dance performance he was hosting. My mom did tap and clogging at BYU on the Folk Team and this sounded like great afternoon entertainment. It did not disappoint! I love watching people doing what they love and being completely in their element. On the way out we realized that the keys were in the car and it was locked. This was serendipitous because I went back in the library while we waited for AAA and I found out there was a college production of Picasso at the Lapin Agile. We quickly bought tickets, headed to the sauna, then took off for the play. Who needs to eat???  The play was loosely based on the idea of 'What would happen if Picasso and Einstein met at a bar?' It was a fun comedy written by Steve Martin. I wish I had a bit more time to delve into the background of the story because I am sure some of the jokes went over my head. We ended the night with a small dinner at a local Mexican place. It was a perfect day!  Here are some pictures, plus a few other activities we did while in Colorado.

Check out the views from the gondola. The red mountain was spectacular! This picture also shows why we are often mistaken as sisters! I hope to age as gracefully as my Mom.

I have been on cave tours before, and this one did not disappoint! We had a great time. 

This is Oscar. He has a drip that helps him grow. I thought this was a cool picture that captured his life source in action. 

Did you know that some rocks glow in the dark? Shine a black light, or use a black light laser pen and the glow is real. We may or may not have had a rave party in a cave that involved pen lights. 

The best local taco dive! I love hole in the wall places, and this did not disappoint! Excellent taco menu with drinks in a mason jar! I might go back to Glenwood Springs just for the tacos.

This was my favorite part of the vacation! We visited these vapor caves that use the hot springs to create a natural sauna. It was an exceptional experience.

A good recommendation led us to Coloradough- a donut joint in town. I have now officially tried a 'cronut.' 

Around Town

Our time in Glenwood was just the beginning! The week was full of activities from gardening, home painting projects, birthday celebration (for my mom), card games, and more! I saw a lot of my sister Shannon and her son Nathan, and Brandon and Kendra.  I also enjoyed some time with Eric, Brandon and Kendra's new baby boy!

Gardening time. Happy Spring!

Eric was a sweetie!

Park City

Mom and I set aside a full day to to spend in Park City. We checked out the outlets and I introduced her to her new favorite cycling store, Pearl Izumi. She didn't even know that was missing from her life! She bought a new cycling kit that she loves. We then headed to Main Street to check out local art galleries and other fun offerings. We had good conversation, enjoyed the art galleries, and tasted some unique truffle flavors.  Good times!

Obligatory Main Street photo.

Obligatory food photo.

Monday

On Monday everyone had to return to work, so I took a day for myself. In the morning I headed to The Front to get some good climbing in. This is one of our favorite climbing gyms in the SLC area, and it did not disappoint.  After climbing I headed to a little local deli to meet Adrian for lunch. Due to his work schedule I wasn't able to see him when the family got together. We had a pleasant lunch followed by some more delicious truffles! I always enjoy good conversation with him, and we had a nice relaxing lunch together. Later that night the family got together at Mom's for a great homemade meal with good conversation.

The week was full of good conversation, fun new stories, and great activities. I feel refreshed and thankful for the relationship growth, new memories, and fun stories about  both my Mom and my Dad. 

Shout out to Logan who rocked it at home with the kids! I came home to a clean house and happy kids. That was a great end to a wonderful vacation. 

Have a good week!