What is it about Colorado?

What is it about the state of Colorado that makes everyone who visits fall in love with it?  Dozens of songs have been composed about it's beauty.  Many of our American Wild West tales involve Colorado (it was Doc Holiday's favorite place because the arid, cool climate and hot springs soothed his TB racked body- he actually spent the last part of his life around the Glenwood Springs/ Vail/ Leadville area).  I think Colorado is special because it brings out the adventurer in even most "indoor" person.  Whether you're at the top of a mountain about to ski down or hiking up to an alpine lake, the serenity and vastness of your surroundings makes you feel like you could do anything.  I missed taking part in the skiing this year (hence the first chipper then surly post from a few days ago) but look forward to getting back in the game soon.  Below is the gorgeous view of Vail from our condo.

I am a proud mama of two adorable little skiers (and the extremely proud wife of a man who was skiing blacks & moguls!).  Below are my two oldest after an exciting day at ski school.  This was my daughter's first time on the slopes and from what I understand she was a little hesitant during the morning session, but found her stride in the afternoon.  I wonder if she had a particularly good run towards the end because she's telling everyone, "I was too fast for my ski teachers!"...hmmm...I doubt that, but she had fun and wants to go again soon.  After a rocky start on the slopes last year, my son had a wonderful time this year. He also found his stride and made some great progress.  Most importantly, both really enjoyed it.

In our condo, the four kids had a great time playing and resting after a long day.  In addition to skiing, there was plenty of fun to be had playing in the snow, warming up in the hot tub, and exploring the Vail ski village.

The fun rapidly came to an end when my daughter caught a bug and was up most of last night vomiting and coughing.  She'll be staying home from school tomorrow.  Back to reality!  But when I'm arguing with a testy student this week or cleaning up vomit from a sick kiddo, I'll go to my happy, peaceful place - watching the snow silently fall on the mountains of Colorado.