The mountains of Colorado are so spectacular, and the scenery amazing ... spell bounding. Echo Lake is becoming one of my favorite places. It is an easy drive from Denver, less than one hour west, on the road to Mt. Evans 14,000+ foot peak. The town of Idaho Springs is at the "bottom" of the "hill"...itself at 7000+ or so feet! Idaho Springs is a wonderful small town, very touristy and I am glad, it provides income for the folks who live there. I haven't yet shopped in Idaho Springs, but plan to on future trips. We have eaten in one of its fine Italian Restaurants, very very good. The Sousa Band of Colorado concert celebrating Idaho Springs' 150th Gold Rush Anniversary was the occasion that brought us back to this wonderful little mountain town...and to Echo Lake. Belinda got wind of the concert and she and Nori joined us for the gala festivities. They watched as all the towns people gathered for a photo of themselves; ala 1859 style, on the village green, as Jack and I shared a picnic up in the mountains. We met at the city hall...Nori helped as we parked the car in a spot directly across the street...couldn't get any better or closer. The concert was just superb (of course you realize I am in no way bias), the ladies of the town baked cakes of all flavors, sold ice cream and water and other goodies. Belinda enjoyed the chocolate brownie cake and I savored the homemade lemon cake. Moist, sweet lemon cake and icing oh, so good! We had water ourselves and Belinda had some hot tea - a black English tea that hit the spot. Being up in the mountains the temps were cooler than in the mile high valley below. Our temps were in the mid to upper 60s with bright blue cloudless skies, while in Denver they enjoyed the same blue sky and temps in the high 80's and low 90's. Chatting with Belinda was extra special nice. Reminiscing old days when our parents were still alive and the fun and adventures we shared. It is interesting that we have reconnected in Colorado, interesting and wonderful! We vow to keep in touch better...and I truly plan to make it a priority. Such very special people those Conants...Belinda, Terry, and their spouses, Nori and Colleen. They
Well, there are my thoughts for now. Lord bless you.
Grace and peace - grammie betimes.