Summer is in the rear mirror; and winter is ahead, but in the meanwhile, we have the beauty of Autumn in the Rockies.

Since moving to Colorado, we have come to look forward to “Aspen Season.” Unlike back east when fall seems to linger for many weeks, your opportunity for viewing the glory that our golden Aspens provide is quite fleeting…usually lasting only a couple of weeks, before a wind & rain storm or even an early snow ends their beautiful display.

This year was no exception with snow, wind and rain playing havoc, but still what a beautiful display. Fortunately, we had two opportunities to drive up into the mountains, only a short scenic hour’s trip. Even better, being retired, we can avoid making the trek on a weekend when the traffic can be horrendous and the crowds off-putting.

This season’s first trip was with Mart & Bob Larson and Martha Birney, two Mondays ago. This is an ongoing tradition for our small group. iPhone photos can’t do justice to the beauty of the scene. The aspens leaves sparkle in the sun and whistle with every breeze; you have to be there to understand and appreciate the experience.

The second foray was with our neighbors, Reid, Ping & Emma Hawk. For Emma, who is ten and in the fifth grade, it was her first time! She liked the aspens, but perhaps even more enjoyed playing in someone’s abandoned teepee skeleton.

Both trips were very successful and delightful; it makes one feel more alive being out in the fresh air and admiring Nature’s handiwork. Whenever we drive up to Kenosha Pass, we always make sure to stop at The Shaggy Sheep Restaurant, usually for breakfast. If you find yourself there, make sure you order the jalapeño and cheese biscuits with gravy–oh my!

Finally, as some of you might know, this past week, Sue celebrated her 81st Birthday; she has long been superstitious about this birthday (her mother died a month before her 81st birthday), so it was good to get this one behind us! I

It was made even better because on her actual birthday, Charlie & best friend and honorary grandson, Dylan, were able to join us for a dinner that featured Sue’s favorite food, oysters on the half shell. Charlie says he enjoys eating a couple, but still prefers them to be fried. Dylan thought one was enough thank you.

When we got home that evening, Erin’s flowers were waiting for her; Erin & John are sill in Cuba and will be until next summer. Bryn & Joel couldn’t be with us for the birthday dinner, but they made up for it by taking us to their favorite neighborhood diner, Looking Good, making it nearly a week of celebrations!

We hope your fall is a nice one!