Thursday, July 8, 2010

Celebrating Independence Steamboat Style

Typically, we travel to Sheridan, WY for the Independence Day weekend.  Since we are only eight weeks out from having a new baby, we stayed in state this year.  Instead, we traveled to the North Central part of the state with the Stack family and celebrated in Steamboat Springs, CO.  It is a beautiful part of the state and the driving view was amazing.  We were anxious to get there so we didn't stop to take any photos.  On the way home traffic was horrible so again we didn't stop for photos.  We did discuss someday taking a Colorado state vacation just to check out this wonderful place we live and take our time to explore the roadside views.  Someday...

The temperature was perfect, especially for an eight month pregnant lady.  We either had sunshine and 70 degrees, or clouds and rain.  We could have passed on the clouds and rain but since we heard it was pouring down rain in Denver, we didn't complain.  We did take advantage of the time we could to see the sights and get some pool time in. 

The first agenda item for the Fourth of July was the parade downtown.  The parade was a HUGE hit for Oliver.  He LOVED it!!!  They were also suppose to have a cattle drive down main street to kick off the evening rodeo.  We missed both of those events, which I know Oliver would have loved as well.  The cattle drive was during nap time and we opted for a nap since it was going to be a late night.  After nap time the storm clouds and cool weather moved in, so we opted out of the rodeo.  Next time, we'll hit it all!

Oliver and Parker enjoying the parade with the best seats in the house.
Right behind us the Steamboat Springs firetruck parked and it was clearly attraction for many people, especially the kids.
Oliver took a moment to give me some "cheese".  Believe it or not, it was tough to peel away his attention from the parade for a photo moment.
The condo we stayed at was near the ski resort and was three miles from town.  Luckily, there was a free town bus.  This too was a big hit for Oliver.  Here we are, Craig, Jen, Parker, Carrie and Oliver on our ride back to the condo.
After nap time, we hit the pool, clouds and all.  The sun came out a few times to warm us up, but the boys didn't really seem to notice either way.
We splurged on a $2.50 raft for Mom to float on.  You'll see who thought it was his and turned it into his personal yacht, complete with a driver.
Oliver giving clear and direct driving instructions to his driver.
Oliver and Parker playing catch.
The pool balls were a big hit and the boys loved throwing them around.
This photo cracks me up.  Check out the matching expressions as Oliver waits for Parker to throw the ball his way.
That night, we waited for the rain to pass and then headed downtown for the fireworks.  It was still sprinkling a little but we toughed it out.  Oliver enjoyed the fireworks but when they were over he made it very clear that he did not like the big ones, only the little ones.  If you ask him why, the big ones are noisy and the little ones are quiet.  OK.  At least there were no tears just focused attention.  We'll try again next year and maybe he'll grow to like the big ones since those are the ones Keith and I favor.
On our way home traffic was horrible!  We planned to stop in Idaho Springs for lunch but as we approached Empire, Oliver made it clear he was done with the car seat.  Just then we saw "Jenny's", a diner in Empire.  We pulled over and gave it a try.  Luckily, it was just what the back seat driver ordered.  Lunch and a stretch!  The food was great and the people were very friendly.
After lunch, we took a walk through town, the whole three blocks.  Oliver spotted this bench and wanted to have a sit.
About that time we spotted a roadside ice cream shop, my favorite!  Time for dessert!!
One of my favorites, twist ice cream cones.  YUM!!!
A nice lady at a nearby table asked if we would like her to take our photo.  Why, of course!  You can see, it was a bit windy, which give Keith a new look.  HA HA!!
We had a great weekend away.  Thanks Stack family for a great time!!

1 comment:

rbgarner said...

great pictures and looks like ya-all had a great time.

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