Captains Log: 12282012…
Good News, Jim is feeling better. Bad news, None! Everyone is well.

A much needed sleeping in and lingering morning was a just start to the day! As afternoon approached we ventured out into Colorado Springs with our trusty tour guide, Uncle Joe, to show us the land. First up, The Garden of the Gods, an area of beautiful red sandstone rock formations, including one that looked like camels kissing.

Then off to a waterfall in Cheyenne Canyon. However, slick roadways proved too much for our front wheel drive Sienna. As any man would do, The Captain backs up and tries again….then again…then again…maybe more to the left….OK, maybe we should turn around. So now, let’s reverse down the mountain and over a bridge, because that’s totally safe, The Navigator & kids bail to play in the snow, figuring if the cars going off the cliff-it’s only taking one of us with it. As you can expect, The Captain steered ole Sienna in safely, and we were back on to find another trail to hike. 

 We found that trail at Mount Cutler. A one mile hike to the summit and a 400 ft vertical incline, proved little challenge for this crew. Fortunately our guide is skilled in the way of shoulder rides, as the wee one required some confinement on the narrow pathways. We reached the summit, took in the view and headed back. Then we headed up to Denver for dinner at Casa Bonita. A Mexican Chuck E Cheese on steroids, this place is awesome covered in queso. Come early if you want to get one of the 1000+tables that are tucked away anywhere they can fit one. When you arrive, you feel like you are in line for Pirates of the Caribbean. Food is costly and everyone MUST order a meal (according to the menu) but the margaritas are delicious and atmosphere is priceless. A live dive show, arcade, light sticks and mariachi band to name a few of entertainment options. All and all it was another successful day on this awesome journey. Tomorrow Pikes Peak is on the menu. –The Navigator

 Today’s Mileage logged: A mere 172