12:05 p.m.
A recent trip to Trinidad, Colorado was quite a fun time.
I started this story a couple of days ago, and of course I ended up a bit sidetracked in between posts!
I do get busy, that's for sure.
We almost didn't make the trip this year. Two of Dad's brothers had to cancel their plans to come, and it seemed like a bit much to go when half the family would be missing. But after Dad spoke with his sister, it was decided that we would go ahead and stick to the original plan.
We started out by renting a nice Suburban from Enterprise rentals. This baby took us home and back with only four gas-ups! The good mileage really surprised all of us!
There was plenty of room for eight adults, a little dog and a lot of luggage. It was fun being together through the whole trip.
Molly hasn't spent a lot of time in cars, so she was not happy at first. She calmed down once she realized she wasn't off to the vet or the groomers.
We got to Trinidad just in time for a beautiful sunset over Fisher's Peak.
Clearly, it is a mesa, but it was christened after Captain Waldemar Fischer, who ascended the peak in 1846. He picked a flower there, with the intent to send it to his wife in a letter. Romantic, huh?
The Trinidad History Museum is always a great place to visit. It is full of old photographs and period furnishings and household items.
This was my second visit, and there were plenty of new things to see this time.
The map of Mines, above, was particularly interesting, since out grandfather and great-grandfather earned their livings in those mines.
There are three buildings to explore when you visit--the main building and two mansions. Staff is friendly and helpful, and tours are available.
I always like to go to the top floor of this mansion and take pictures of the places across the street!
FYI--it's hot up there!
No matter what, I have decided that all trips to Trinidad must include a meal at Rino's Restaurant. All the staff sings, taking a turn on the mic as patrons enjoy excellent food.
*FYI--don't try the Lemon Meringue martini. Yuck!* Okay, we all said yuck. Some people must love it, since it is still on the menu after my taste-test last year.
Anyway, we loved our meals, and the entertainment was terrific!
We didn't feel comfortable leaving her alone in the hotel, since there was no room for her carrier in the vehicle. Luggage for eight takes up a lot of room. The solution, of course, was to leave her in the vehicle with the car running and the air conditioner on. I wasn't thrilled at first, but she did great. She was locked in, safe and comfortable. Nap time!
You could never do this in Denver. If you leave your engine running, you'll get a ticket. Luckily, there are a lot of places to eat there with outdoor seating.
Back at the La Quinta, we had great seats on the outdoor patio, and spent time visiting and laughing. There were some musicians with guitars--all family. Dad even played a bit!
Of course, no trip would be complete without a ride out to Trinidad Lake Dam.
The dam is relatively new, as you can see. The area where my father and his siblings grew up is mostly underwater these days, which is why we do reunions in Trinidad.
The view from the patio at the hotel is pretty spectacular!
We took a less scenic route home. The eastern side is plains and ho-hum. What can I say, I didn't take pictures. We did stop in Broomfield and had lunch. My son snagged the grandkids and brought them over to say hello-goodbye. That little visit went by way too fast!
And home again! Whew!
This is Shablo summer. Mom's side of the family is coming up in less than two weeks. So ready/not ready.
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Since our return, it has been busy around here, getting medical trips and such out of the way.
And now, I must go and feed people, before they fire me!
Ta ta!
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