It is possible that a bit of insanity took over my brain when I decided to head to Colorado for 5 days before “2019 wedding season 2.0”… but I also kind of don’t care. ;) I’ve got a bunch of work to catch up on, but it’s a blessing! And I was able to see some great friends, drink some good coffee, take my first solo hike, and feel refreshed before the next 10 weeks of nonstop work!

Colorado has long been my favorite state. Since childhood, I’ve cried each time we drive away from the mountains, because they really bring such joy when I can see them! And since discovering Fort Collins in December, I really can’t decide which city has the best view. ;) So I visited all three of my favorites… the Springs, Denver, and Fo Co!

First up, Colorado Springs! My sweet friend Jan suggested we meet up at Wayfinder Coffee, which was this traveling gal’s dream! You can get coffee, tea, snacks, or wine! Sit outside or inside depending on the weather, and it’s got lots of cozy chairs for chatting or just journaling.

Next up, dinner with Katie! Another dear friend who I could have caught up with for years. (Since it’s been that since we last really talked!) She and her husband have re-modeled their entire house, and after dinner she gave me the tour. SO thankful for this generous & kind-hearted friend!!

Morning coffee, breakfast, notes to high school gals at church and running to pick up my Amy Koz original painting. SO stoked for that! After a day in the Springs, up to Denver to walk to the grocery with Heather and grab some pizza for dinner.

Thursday kicked off with a new coffee shop (Steam on Pearl St!!— so wonderful) and a blast from the past. Alli and I met on Tumblr, emailed as pen pals, and finally became human friends… all in high school. Now she’s married and living in Denver! So hopeful for future ski and hiking trips with her and her husband.

My friend Jen suggested Evergreen, CO for a hike and a cute coffee shop. So I stopped there to grab some flatbread for lunch (amazing) and ended up taking a photo of the bathroom. Old fashioned toilets make me excited, apparently.

Hiking the Sisters Trail was a great experience. It’ll be my future suggestion any time I’m near the area! After the hike, I showered and had dinner, then Heather and I headed downtown to try to visit Peaks Lounge for a view of the sunset behind the mountains. Sadly, an event prevented us from entering, so we relocated across the street to rooftop 54thirty. Less impressive view, but the ambiance was nice.

Fort Collins was the cherry on top of this trip! Seeing old friends that I hadn’t seen in 4 years (and didn’t expect to see!), an incredible wedding and kickoff to marriage for Libby and Joel, and lots of new friends who I can’t wait to visit all over the States… and world!