Our Whirlwind Vacation…..

We started out in Ft. Collins, Colorado.  We went to visit my brother Rich and his family.  I’m pictured here with Ryan and Rich’s niece, Penelope.  We traveled a couple of hours from Ft. Collins to the Georgetown Loop Railroad.

Loved the scenic and relaxing ride!

The railroad was used in the late 1800’s for gold and silver mining.  Read more on the history of the railroad here.

It was great to spend time with my brother Rich (far right), and my nephews Cory (center), and Caleb (left).

Pictured here with my nephews is my sister in law Pam.  She is a massage therapist….total jackpot!  Yes, I received a glorious massage from her the day before my journey back to Chicago. 

My brother Steve also came along, he too lives in the Chicago area.  It was so great to be with my brothers!

The next day after our train ride, we ventured on to Estes Park and the Rocky Mountain National Park.  In one word….BEAUTIFUL!  One of the things I noticed from the moment I arrived in Denver was the lack of trash on the road sides and in public places.  There is a great respect for nature.

 The entrance into Rocky Mountain National Park.

It was great to bring Penelope along, Ry had a pal for the trip!

Awesome Caleb….the scenery is pretty awesome too!

This picture was taken from my car, thank you very much!  There were people getting far too close for my comfort.  The rangers came along and made the spectators leave.

Here you see a herd of elk.  We saw other herds and smaller groups through out our ride through the mountains.

Beauty.  Pure and simple.

What would vacation be without some fun in the sun and swimming???

My big (soon to be) first grader….

Ryan and I returned to Chicago with my brother Rich and Caleb.  We were home for one night then off to Michigan for a couple of family reunion picnics.  So FUN!

Aren’t cousins the best???  Here we have Ryan, Caleb, Lucas, and Bianca.

So fun, so great to be back home!  Now it’s time to gear up for school!

Have a wonderful day!

Angie