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4 In Colorado/ Colorado Springs/ Product Recommendations/ Things to do in Colorado

Top things to do in Downtown Colorado Springs

I love Colorado Springs!

It’s not too big, not too small.

The town has great shops and delicious restaurants. It’s walkable and clean.

When my mom came to visit, we decided to spend a Day Downtown – enjoying the city, eating and getting pampered! I wanted to show her to all the best things to do downtown in one day.

We started the day at Loyal Coffee. This place is BEAUTIFUL and has GREAT coffee, and delicious food!! I loved the soft boiled egg on toast. (I now try to re-create this dish at home. Mine’s not as good)

Loyal Coffee – Beautiful inside!

Loyal coffee can get crowded, so you may have to take coffee to go.

Some other options for a delicious breakfast and coffee are OverEasy, King Chefs Diner, and Wild Goose Meeting House.

After breakfast and coffee, we got pampered at the Beauty Bar. The beauty bar is incredible inside. Super CLEAN, industrial-feel, with a friendly staff. They do hair, makeup, manicures and pedicures. Mom and I got our nails done and enjoyed the complimentary fruit infused water. They also have a bartender on staff to make you any drink your heart desires!

Next: shopping.

One of my favorite store in town is Terra Verde. This shop has a little of everything. Beautiful clothes, unique decor, lovely jewelry, good books (including MINE!), and gift ideas for any person you can imagine. They do complimentary gift wrapping too!

My mom bought me some new earrings! Thank you Mom!!

After Terra Verde, we stopped by Poor Richards. This is such a unique place – it’s three stores in one!  One part coffee shop/restaurant, one part bookstore, and one part toy store.

The bookstore is fun to browse because they have new and used books of all genres and for all ages. I purchased a copy Ferninand the Bull. My boys enjoyed the movie and I wanted them to have a copy of the book to read!

Found my book inside Poor Richards! (I’m not excited or anything)

Get a copy of my Colorado Springs Children’s book by clicking here!

Our next stop was Pikes Peak Lemonade. You must stop in and try a free sample of their delicious lemonade! We met the owner and bought some jalapeno lemonade to take home. It’s amazing!

Pikes Peak Lemonade

For lunch, we visited Rabbit Hole. I love that you walk into what looks like a phone booth in the middle of the street, go down a staircase, and enter into what really feels like a “rabbit hole.” They serve lots of yummy ‘rabbit food.’ It’s on my list of BEST restaurants in Colorado Springs.

After lunch, we took time to visit the Pioneer Museum. I love this place and wrote more about it here.

Pioneer Museum – Fabulous and Free

We didn’t get to stay for dinner, because I had to get home to my boys, but if we did, I would have asked mom what she feels like eating.

If she said Mexican, I would have taken her to Sonterra Grill.

In the mood for Italian? Red Gravy

Burgers? Skirted Heifer

After dinner, I’d recommend we sneak into Brooklyn’s on Boulder for the experience of visiting a “Speakeasy.” You have to enter an indiscreet door, stand inside what feels like a large closet, knock on another door with a small window. Someone peeks through to ask “what you want.” When you let him know you’d like to go inside, he asks you to show your ID and then quickly escorts you in.

Inside this place is a VERY cool vibe. Get a drink or order an appetizer and imagine what life was like during the Prohibition era.

Doesn’t my day Downtown sound fun?! Do you see why I love this place?

If you’ve spend time in Colorado Springs, what do you like about it?

Again, here are a couple of shops to visit on your day downtown:

TERRA VERDE

208 N. Tejon

REDOUX CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE

119 E. Bijou

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May 8, 2018 By
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0 In Colorado Springs/ Peek into our Week/ Things to do in Colorado

Peek into My week at The Gathering Conference

We had an amazing week at New Life where about 500 children, student and family pastors came to Colorado Springs for The Gathering Conference.

I LOVED being a part of it!!!

Sunday

After church and Monday we met to set up the church. Nearly every classroom and hallway were decorated to welcome guests.

That evening at home, Paul fell down the stairs at a friends house. He came home crying. I was holding him and said, “It must have been scary falling down those steps.” He said, “No, sliding down the stairs was the FUN part! I LOVED that, but my back got banged at the end, and I cried.” (His back WAS bruised, but I’m thankful it wasn’t anything worse and that it was “fun” for him!)

Tuesday

Our team arrived in the morning to complete the last details before we welcomed everyone to the conference. I helped check people in from all over the country – lots of people came from California, the Pacific North West, Minnesota, and Texas!

The day started with music by Jon Egan –  It’s always good when Jon’s leading!

Then Michelle Anthony, Pastor Brady Boyd, and Megan Marshman all spoke on doing “life together.”

That night after dinner, everyone came back to our main auditorium where it was full of “stations.” There was an area with comfy couches where men and women could just sit and pray and receive “comfort” from God. They wrote prayer requests and attached them to the wall, pictured below:

I helped at the “Be Encouraged” station. God often uses others to encourage you. What we did at this station was sit together in small groups. Each group had a jar of questions. We pulled out a question, read it out loud and answered the question as a way for us to get to know each other and “encourage” each other. One person pulled a question that asked, “What’s bringing you the most joy right now?” Each person went around and answered, but the last person responded, “Nothing. I have a hard time finding joy in anything right now.” One lady suggested we stop and pray for her. The group prayed the most beautiful prayers for her. Another person told her, “I’ve been where you are, I’d like to exchange phone numbers so I can help you through this.” I know this lady arrived struggling to find joy, but left encouraged.

Group after group “encouraged” each other with their stories.

After we met as a group, they were to write something on the board. Here’s a glimpse of the “God encourages” board:

The night was POWERFUL! It was scheduled from 7-9PM, but people were there until 10!

That night I fell into bed.

Wednesday

I got up early with my boys, got their breakfasts and lunches made, backpacks ready, and went back to church for another full and beautiful day.

Today our team performed a dance together that we’d been working on for a couple of months.

That day all the conference participant could choose “breakout sessions.” There were about 30 classes on all different topics.

I was with Dr. Jim Burns. He spoke on balancing family, marriage and work.

We had a DONUT WALL in the morning and chocolate fondue for everyone in the afternoon!

That night I made it home to spend some time with my family and tuck them all into bed with a song and a prayer.

Thursday

Pastor Daniel Grothe spoke to the entire group, then everyone chose a breakout session to attend.

I led one on Growing your Volunteer Team which went well!

We closed the conference with a “remember and celebrate” time where we reflected on our time together and celebrated a few people – one person’s birthday, another person just becoming a parent, another person won a free ticket for next year’s conference!

After everyone left, I went home to change. I had arrived that morning wearing a dress and sandals. I had not looked at the weather forecast – it was snowing outside. I was so cold that I changed into wool socks, pants, and a turtleneck. I brought two boys back to church with me for clean up and tear down.

That night our team had a “remember and celebrate” dinner downtown. The conference was phenomenal and we loved getting to relax, laugh and reflect on some of the things we learned and conversations that happened throughout the week.

Michelle Anthony gave each of us a box of cereal that represented who we are to her. She gave me a box of Smores. This cereal box is one of the sweetest gifts I’ve ever recieved. So much thought and love went into it! Click here to see what she said. 

Friday

I wasn’t feeling well today but needed some time with my boys. Luke wanted me to hold him all morning – just to be sure I didn’t leave his sight.

I asked if we could lay on the couch together and watch a movie. I told him I needed to rest because I wasn’t feeling well. He ran and brought me an ice pack and then didn’t stop talking to me through the entire movie. I didn’t get much rest, but we did get to snuggle and “chat.”

That evening I went to church and Ted took George to his piano recital, then met me at church.

It was such a fun and full week, but I was sure I had logged 100 hours. When I checked the time clock, I’d only worked 41 hours. That’s what a lot of moms do every week. It gave me a brand new appreciation for moms that work full time. I’m so thankful that I have a job that I enjoy, and co-workers who are incredible.

I’m also EXTREMELY grateful to Ted for carrying a LOT of the extra load this week so I could be a part of the conference!

Saturday

We had soccer in the morning. George scored the winning (and only) goal for his team!

That evening we had someone take pictures of our family for an article that will soon be published in a local magazine. I’ll let you know when it’s out and send you the link if it’s online.

That’s my week – how was yours?

 

May 6, 2018 By
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4 In Colorado Springs/ Family/ Free stuff/ Motherhood/ Product Recommendations/ Raising boys

Top Five Gifts for Mom on Mother’s day!

Here are some very practical, very simple ideas that are guaranteed to make your mom or wife smile on Mother’s day!
  1. Make or buy Mom dinner or lunch. Give mom a break from the kitchen!

If you live in Colorado Springs: Click here for my recommendations of WHERE TO EAT!

2. Pamper her! A massage, facial, or manicure. Anything to make her feel pretty and relaxed!

  • Mom will love a SPA Day; a runner up would be a Spa Kit. I love bath bombs or a good bath scrub!

3. Hire someone to clean for her! This is such a treat for mom to get a break from cleaning. I have four boys and the messes never end. I LOVE having someone clean for me every once in a while!

4. Give Mom some time alone! Every Mother’s Day, my husband gives me a couple of hours just myself. To nap, read, slowly sip my coffee (while it’s still hot) and just relax. With four little boys, that is such a precious GIFT! Once my kids are older and out of the house, this one might change to “time with everyone together!” I get to enjoy that most days, so a quiet break is a gift to me.

5. Homemade gifts or cards. Sweet hand-made cards from my boys are some of my most treasured possessions!

Other options that mom should love:

A plant or fresh flowers:

A pressure cooker for a mom that likes to cook (I love mine):

A great book – I want this one:

 

What is something YOU like to give or receive for Mother’s Day?

May 2, 2018 By
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7 In Colorado/ Colorado Springs/ Family/ Motherhood/ Peek into our Week

A peek into my week as a #boymom

Friday night

I went to church and invited the congregation to be a part of Summer Serve! We are asking for people to help with Supernova Kid’s Camp (VBS) and/or jump in to serve three times this summer in New Life Kids – once in June, July and August.

Saturday

We went to the gym, then went to King Chefs Diner. This place is a fun experience and I definitely recommend it! It’s on my list of best restaurants in Colorado Springs.

Afterwards, I ran to the store to grab a couple of things. Luke found a tub of cheeseballs. He’s been begging me to buy them for weeks. They were on sale this week, so I agreed. He was so happy and wanted to carry them all around the store – even though the tub was almost as big as him. When we got to the car, he began to buckle the container into his car seat. He was more worried about his snack making it safely home than himself.

Luke and his precious cargo!

That night I went out with some girlfriends to Till Kitchen to celebrate their birthdays!

Sunday

Sunday evening we met some friends at Venezia park for a nerf gun war! My boys had so much fun. I loved watching them run and play and laugh with their friends – all different ages, all playing together – and NO TEARS from anyone! (And no one asking for, or playing with electronics!)

That night I realized my first post was published for the Colorado Springs Mom Bloggers! Click here to read “The Entire City Lends A Hand” (based on this book I wrote as a child):

Monday

I usually do as little as possible. Luke and I take it easy, read and play.

Relaxing with Luke

Luke spent some time riding his “motorcycle” …then found one little dirty spot and proceeded to use an entire bag of wipes to clean it. I sent the picture to my mother-in-law (Nana) and she sent a similar picture to me – Papa was doing the same with HIS motorcycle!

Mondays are the busiest days for the big boys. They have school, then go to chess club (they LOVE Chess club!), then I pick them up, pass out snacks, cleats and shin guards, and take them to soccer practice.

This season has been my favorite sports season so far. We signed the boys up for YMCA Soccer. George and Clark are playing on the same team. I found a time slot where all 3 big boys have the same practice time on the same field each week – which is only 5 minutes from our house. All games and practices are on this one field!  There is also a playground for Luke. I can push him on the swing and watch all three boys practice! I love it. Plus, because we are members of the Y, it was cost effective.  I wish every sport would make it this easy on mamas. Paul is having fun and Y soccer is the perfect fit for him. George and Clark say it’s not as competitive as the previous league they played with, but how competitive does it need to be for 8 and 10 year olds?! Anyway, with four busy boys, it’s probably the only season that will be this easy on me – so I’m savoring it!

For future reference – any #boymoms have any advice on how you handle sports schedules and still have sanity and family time?

My nice view while the boys play soccer!

Tuesday

Luke had preschool, so I got to grocery shopping ALL.BY.MYSELF. It’s a vacation to walk the aisles slowly and methodically, all by myself. Then, I met my friend Beth for lunch. This lady was my FIRST friend in Colorado Springs. We met in the church parking lot on our family’s first Sunday morning at New Life Church. We had both just moved to Colorado Springs, and connected from our first ‘Hello!’ Unfortunately, she is moving this summer. They’re an Air Force family and her husband will begin working in the Pentagon this summer – so they are headed to DC! We had a delicious Thai lunch and could have kept talking for hours, but I had to pick up Luke from preschool.

I’ll miss you Beth!

Wednesday

Today was a work day for me. We all arrived early for rehearsal. We have planned something special for all those coming to The Gathering Conference next week.

New Life Family Ministry Team Rehearsal

Then we had a staff meeting to go over every detail – hour by hour – of the event.  It’s going to be so good – phenomenal speakers, good music, fun activities, lots of fabulous “breakout” sessions, great food – I can’t wait!!!!  Ted’s taking care of the boys so I can be there for all of it.

I also spent time on Wednesday preparing for our Friday night service, as well as a Breakout Session I’ll be leading at The Gathering on Volunteerism.

PS – If you want to join us for The Gathering, PM for a discount code!!!

Thursday

Luke had preschool so I ran errands, did some cleaning and some writing.

Friday

The boys had no school today so we met some friends to play at Fox Run Park. This is the park where Clark found a snake, tried to sneak it home, but instead LOST it in the car! The big boys played soccer and the little guys went looking for fish, frogs, and turtles in the pond. Paul got his hands on a turtle and they all begged me to let them keep it. (I said no.)

I hope your week was good! What did you do?

April 28, 2018 By
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6 In Colorado/ Colorado Springs/ Free stuff/ Things to do in Colorado

The Pioneer Museum – A beautiful, historic, free place to visit in Colorado Springs!

I love Colorado Springs!

There are ENDLESS places to visit in this city.

One of my favorites is the Pioneer Museum.

The Colorado Springs Pioneer Museum was once the city’s courthouse – but is now a beautiful, historic building full of interactive stations and information about the history of our city. And it’s FREE to visit!! (Though they do accept donations)

There is parking all around the building that costs $0.75 an hour – so bring some change with you.

Walk inside and ENJOY the beauty of the marble lobby. You’ll also see an antique cash register that was used in 1912. You and your children can push the buttons to see how store owners collected money 100+ years ago!

One thing I love about the Pioneer Museum is that they change the displays on a regular basis. Every time I visit, I see and learn something new about Colorado Springs.

My first visit taught me all about the Waldo Canyon fires – with videos, pictures, and items on display donated by local residents.

Right now, the theme is “Colorado Springs from A to Z.”

The entry way … check out the antique elevator – SO FUN!

You learn something interesting about Colorado Springs with every letter of the alphabet. For example, A is for the Antlers Hotel. Pictures and artifacts from Colorado Springs FIRST hotel are on display.

Artifacts from Colorado Springs original hotel

Z is about Colorado’s first Zoo!

 

The room my children love most is on the main level – it’s a “Play Room” for kids. They have hands-on stations and toys that teach children about our city’s history. My boys set up shop, played on an Indian drum, road a horse, and played a game of checkers.

Paul playing at the Pioneer Museum

 

Luke loves the teepee

They also enjoy visiting the small gift shop. We bought them each a GEODE – rock that they could take home and break open to reveal beautiful crystals hidden inside.

Clark with a Geode – he couldn’t wait til we got home to crack it open

They also sell our book! Pick up a signed copy if you don’t already have one!

Another thing we all love at this Museum is the antique elevator that takes us up to the second floor.

On this level, you can walk through the original courtroom and imagine what it was like to be a judge, juror or lawyer 100 years ago.

The 2nd floor also has part of Helen Hunt Jackson‘s original home built into the museum.

You can view Indian artifacts and learn about the Indian heritage in Colorado Springs.

I won’t tell you about every exhibit, because you really must see and experience this place for yourself. If you’ve been, what do you love about this museum?

George getting into character in the photography room

Here some video clips of our visit:

Before or after the museum, get some food! Click here to read the best places to eat.

For a list of other free things to do around town, click here.

April 24, 2018 By
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8 In Colorado/ Colorado Springs/ Family/ Food/ Free stuff/ Memories/ Motherhood/ My Journey/ Peek into our Week/ Raising boys/ Things to do in Colorado

Peek into my week with Mom! (And my traumatic pedicure)

It’s always a good week when Mom’s in town. She only comes to Colorado once a year, so we make the most of our time together when she’s here.

She flew in Tuesday night, and the first thing she got to do was babysit my kids!

WEDNESDAY

I work on Wednesdays and thankfully, she loves to spend time with her grandkids.

That night we went to New Life for the First Wednesday service. It was an incredible night of worship. We went with all four boys – thankfully it’s a relaxed family service, so they got to dance around with their friends. If you live in Colorado Springs, you’ve got to come! It’s the First Wednesday of each month at 6:30 PM.

THURSDAY

Thursday morning Luke had preschool, so mom and I got to go our Mom’s group/Bible study. Up until now, my mom has only participated with the group online, so I loved getting to introduce her to so many of the ladies in person!

Thursday afternoon my mom kindly offered to pay for a pedicure while she watched the kids. (I’ve got a good mom!)

George decorating cookies with Grandma

I went to a salon close by that I’d never been to before. My pedicure was a little uncomfortable … at one point I felt a sharp stab in the corner of my toe. By that night, my toe was swollen.

FRIDAY

Friday my toe was still hurting but I got through the day by wearing comfy shoes. At church that night we baptized about 30 people. I love being a part of those special nights. Two of my sons were baptized a few months ago (I wrote about it here).

All the people getting baptized Friday night came up on the stage for prayer.

SATURDAY

We to the Pioneer Museum and then to LarkBurger for dinner. My mom agreed that their chicken sandwiches and fries are some of the best things she’s ever eaten!

That night, Ted stayed home with the boys and my mom and I went to see The Apostle Paul movie. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it was a GREAT movie…I recommend you see it! It truly brings the Bible to life and I hope more movies like this are made! There are some frightening parts, so it’s probably best for children 12 and up.

Pioneer Museum

Paul playing at the Pioneer Museum

SUNDAY

We explored Helen Hunt Falls and Cheyenne canyon, then went to Modern Market for dinner. (Kids eat FREE at Modern Market on Sundays!)

Helen Hunt Falls

Toe is still sore – wearing comfy shoes and limping.

MONDAY

The boys took the day off school to spend time with Grandma. We planned to visit Cave of the Winds, but Luke was up sick the night before, my mom wasn’t feeling good, and my foot was only getting worse, so we decided to stay closer to home and hike in the Garden of the Gods. That’s always an amazing place to visit.

Mom and Luke resting

Mom and Luke resting

That afternoon I decided to go back to the nail salon to show them my swelling toe and they told me it was an ingrown toe nail. They soaked it and then DUG at it with a knife. This is the toe that I didn’t want to touch because it was hurting so bad. The lady DUG at it with a knife. And she wouldn’t stop. She kept digging until she got a piece of my toenail free. It hurt so bad I just start crying right there in front of everyone. She squeezed it at the end and asked if it was better. “NO! You just dug at it with a knife – please stop SQUEEZING it!”

TUESDAY

Luke had preschool so mom, and I got to be Tourists in our Town. I got to show her all around town and drop copies of “Climb, Soar, Swim, Soar” off at Terra Verde and the Pioneer Museum who now have them available for sale!   I’ll write about where we ate and what we did in a future post.

Mom and me time!

That night mom watched the boys so Ted and I could go to dinner.

WEDNESDAY

I had to take my mom to the airport. It’s so hard letting her leave because I’m not sure when I’ll see her again. Mom, I love you and visit again soon! Thank you for spending the week with us!

 

TOE UPDATE:

My toe continued to get worse. I should have gone to the doctor rather than back to the scene of the crime. The lady who was digging at my foot caused a serious infection. My entire foot got so swollen that I couldn’t wear shoes. It hurt to walk. I was putting everything on it to make it heal, but nothing worked so I finally went to the doctor and got antibiotics. The doctor said I could lose my toenail. What was supposed to be a nice, relaxing gesture from my mom – turned into two weeks of severe pain and possibly the loss of my toenail?!  I’m not sure I’ll ever get another pedicure!? Have any of you ever had that happen? I have pictures, but they are really gross. If you want to see a picture – I am going to post some under my review of this nail salon here: YELP REVIEW. https://www.yelp.com/user_details?userid=GrsJ5Nir8YjXaNN91ZzTUg

Thanks for following along on week with mom! I’ll post out our DAY DOWNTOWN soon! Subscribe so you don’t miss a post.

April 21, 2018 By
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5 In Colorado Springs/ Family/ Making money/ Motherhood/ My Journey/ Product Recommendations/ Review

Stitch Fix vs Sister Fix Disclaimer: Sister is HORRIFIED

Two of my friends were wearing the cutest outfits recently and I asked where they shopped. “Stitch Fix!” They both responded.

I decided to check this thing out.

I have four boys and shopping for clothes is not an easy or enjoyable thing for me – Stitch Fix is what I needed. No shopping required!

I got my first box of clothes and it felt like Christmas. I posted about it here.

A few months later I asked my sister if she would shop for me. I wanted to know how a “sister fix” would compare to a “stitch fix.” My sister enjoys shopping, knows my style, and I like that she knows how to find a bargain. She agreed to do it.

Below are my “Sister Fix” outfits that cost about the same as a box from Stitch Fix.

SISTER FIX PROS:

  • Sister buys things on sale – I get more for my money.
  • She knows my style.
  • She shopped, took pictures of outfits and mailed everything to me.
  • I loved nearly everything she purchased. I couple of items did not fit or didn’t look as good on me as they did on the hanger.

STITCH FIX PROS:

  • They ask lots of questions to understand your style.
  • They mail everything to you.
  • I spend NO time shopping or returning items.
  • I can try things on right in my own home and pair them with things I already own.
  • The box is fun to receive – it’s like Christmas morning.
  • They include a picture/style card of exactly how to wear each item.
  • They include an envelope to ship anything you want back at no additional cost.
  • If you refer people, you earn money towards free clothes!
  • $15 dollar credit towards your first FIX: http://stitchfix.com/referral/14898853 if you use that code to save yourself money and try Stitch Fix, I’ll earn money too!

SISTER FIX CONS:

  • Sister spent a lot of time picking out clothes for me – not convenient for her.
  • She took pictures, boxed and shipped everything – more of her time.
  • I had to go and return everything I didn’t like – my time doing stuff I don’t enjoy.
  • She sent me pictures of how to ‘style’ the items she sent, but I accidentally deleted it before the clothes arrived. (She resent them later!)

STITCH FIX CONS:

  • Items can be pricier than what I’d normally spend. I’m a TJ Maxx, Target and thrift store shopper!
  • I’ve heard it takes 2-3 shipments before they really start to understand what you want and like.
  • I only kept 1 item from my first “fix” – because I didn’t love the other items, and they were more than what I wanted to spend

Have you tried Stitch Fix yet? If you’d like to try it, click here for $15 off your first fix! 

Below is the video of me trying everything on.

DISCLAIMER: My sister was partially horrified and partially cracking up when she watched this video below. She does not want her name attached to it! 

She said I did NOT follow her advice in how to WeAR/Style the items she sent! We LAUGHED together about this – we are so different. She is a perfectionist when it comes to STYLE, and I did not LAYER and STYLE the items correctly. Sorry Sis! I need you to come and “style” me … I guess sending me clothes is not the answer – you actually need to come to Colorado and show me HOW to wear my clothes!

Anyway … the pictures above show the styling, the video shows the individual pieces and the fit!

Leave me a comment and let me know what you think! What should I keep? What should I never wear again!

 

April 17, 2018 By
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0 In Colorado/ Colorado Springs/ Family/ Peek into our Week/ Raising boys/ Things to do in Colorado/ Traveling

Our family of six braved Seven Falls!

Our Seven Falls Adventure!

This area is called the “GRANDEST MILE OF SCENERY” in Colorado and I think that describes it pretty well!  It really is spectacular and absolutely worth a visit or two (or seven)!

My husband took me to Seven Falls for my birthday a couple of years ago. We went on a “double date” with my sister and her husband. It was amazing. I definitely recommend this place for a date or double date spot! You get to chat, enjoy the scenery, connect with each other and with nature, all while getting some exercise! We LOVED it!

We’ve wanted to get back here ever since that first visit, so we decided to take all four of our boys during their spring break. We weren’t sure how it would go because our youngest two sons were only 3 and 6-year-olds and there is a lot of walking and climbing involved. Read on to find out how it all went!

To get started, park in the lot at the Broadmoor off of 1st street – next to the Golden Bee Restaurant. Parking is free, and a complimentary shuttle picks you up right there. After an 8 minute drive, you are dropped off at the ticket gate. The cost in the winter is $10 for adults, and $5 for children. Summer is $14.50 for adults and $9 for children over 2. Seniors and military $12.50. (Prices may change)

After you pay the entrance fee you are 0.8 miles from the base of the Falls, so you have two choices:

  1. Jump on a tram that will drive you to the base of the Falls. The cost is $2 per person. Seniors are free.
  2. Walk to the Falls. Walking allows you the opportunity to absorb this grand mile. The 6 of us chose to walk. Well, our 3 year old got a piggy back ride for most of it.

The Grandest Mile and my iPhone doesn’t do it justice.

When you arrive at the base of the Falls, I recommend that you start by walking through a tunnel inside the mountain. The corridor is lined with pictures and artifacts from history.

Tunnel through the mountain to the elevator

At the end of the tunnel is an elevator that will take you up to Eagle’s Nest landing. After spending a few minutes taking in the magnificent view…walk down the steps or ride the elevator back down.

Our family picture on the Eagle's Nest Landing

Next, walk past a trout pound and watch for the HUGE fish that occasionally jump up to say hello! Then, take a deep breath and begin the climb up the 224 VERY STEEP steps. Thankfully, there is a landing halfway up the staircase so that you can take in the view, rest your legs and catch your breath.

We didn’t know how our young boys would handle climbing more than 200 STEEP steps. Our three oldest sons did not complain ONE TIME. My husband carried our 3-year-old most of the way.   I can’t imagine having to carry 30+ extra pounds up all those steps. I was exhausted just getting myself to the top. However, 224 steps isn’t difficult for Ted, who climbs the Manitou Incline on a regular basis. The Incline is 2,744 steps – more than 10 times as many steps as Seven Falls.

If you make it to the top, you are rewarded with a gorgeous hike!

First, you’ll encounter a Ponderosa Pine Tree that’s more than 450 years old! Stop here and try to wrap your arms around this gigantic tree.  It took all four of our sons touching hands to get their arms around the trunk of this beautiful tree.

Next, you’ll come to a fork in the path. Go to the right for an easy, 20-minute hike. Go to the left for a hike that will take you about an hour. If you have children in tow, I recommend the shorter hike – we loved it. My sister took the long hike and said it was incredible. If you have the time and the energy, do both!

Next, SLOWLY walk down all the stairs. The climb down is easy but VERY steep and sometimes crowded. Keep ahold onto the handrail!

Stop at the bottom and relax in one of the wooden rocking chairs. Take a few minutes to enjoy the view and reflect on that beautiful hike you just completed.

Rocking Luke and enjoying the view

Take time to watch the trout play in the pond.

Hungry? Eat at the fabulous Restaurant 1858. I recommend the Chili Con Queso nachos. They are made with homemade wild boar chili, chips, cheese and pickled jalapeños.

For all my favorite restaurants in Colorado Springs, click here!

Slowly make your way back to the entrance where a shuttle will pick up and drop you off at the parking lot.

Before you leave, take time to stroll around the lake at the Broadmoor Hotel! This is one of the most beautiful hotels in the country and you’ve just got to see it – or stay the night.

I absolutely recommend that you make some time to visit Seven Falls in Colorado Springs. Add it to your bucket list now, and thank me later!

Watch to see how many #eglyboys it takes to hug the Ponderosa Pine!

For my top ten places to visit in Colorado Springs, CLICK HERE!
For the top ten things to do in Manitou Springs, CLICK HERE!
For 20 FREE things to do in Colorado Springs, CLICK HERE!
To get a signed copy of my Colorado Springs Children’s Book, CLICK HERE!

April 14, 2018 By
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0 In Colorado/ Colorado Springs/ Family/ Free stuff/ Memories/ Motherhood/ Peek into our Week/ Raising boys/ Things to do in Colorado

Staycation in Colorado Springs – We were tourists in our own town!

We loved spending a week being “tourists in our own town” over Spring Break! This “staycation” was exactly what we needed. Time together, exploring our beautiful city. There are still SO many things on my bucket list to do an see around town, but we got to check a few things off the list.

Read on for some incredible things to do in Colorado Springs.

Monday

We had originally planned to take the kids skiing today, but after the crazy week we had recently that landed Ted in the hospital, we are taking a break from skiing for the rest of this season. Instead…

We spent the day at Seven Falls. Ted and I had been here before with my sister and her husband. We had the perfect “double date” here hiking and enjoying a delicious meal at Restaurant 1858. I’ve been wanting to go back so we decided now was the time.

We weren’t sure how our boys would do with all the walking and climbing, but they were TROOPERS! They enjoyed it and didn’t complain at all!

We walked through a mountain cave to an elevator which took us up to the Eagle’s Nest Landing – once you are on the landing, you get a spectacular view of the waterfall.

Next, we walked up 224 VERY steep stairs alongside the Falls. The boys did surprisingly well – I was in front and George actually asked me to “go faster!” (Ted carried Luke most of the way!)  If you conquer all those steps, you are rewarded with a beautiful trail to explore.

We spent time exploring at the top before we came back down and watched the very large trout play in the pond.

After all this hiking, we were hungry and everyone wanted Larkburger for dinner. We all love this place, and I love that we can get sandwiches for $3 during Happy Hour!!

Tuesday

Being a member of the YMCA means that you get access to all the campuses around town… each place has something unique for families to enjoy. Today we spent a few hours at the Cottonwood Creek Rec Center. They have a wave pool, lazy river and huge slide – it’s like a smaller version of Great Wolf Lodge.

Wednesday

I went to work in the morning for a couple of meetings and to do some Easter preparations.

After work, we went to another YMCA – the Garden Ranch location – where they have Rock Climbing and Jumpy Castles for kids!

Clark rock climbing

Thursday

First – in honor of Easter – we quietly snuck outside to “egg” our neighbors before they woke up. Go here to read about that.

After that, we went to the Western Mining Museum. Our oldest son George, age 10, had been begging us to take him back here since his first visit a few weeks ago with his class on a field trip.

The boys loved “mining for gold” (aka “playing in mud”). They found some fun little gems and everything you find; you get to take home!

There are lots of machines and hands-on stations. I recommend taking the guided tour that happens twice a day. The tour guide explained how the machines were used and fired each one up so we could watch how they work. The Guide taught us a lot about the history of Colorado mining. Outside the museum, there are more machines to climb on and explore, plus tons of room to run and play.

Friday

In the morning, all four boys went to the dentist to get their teeth cleaned. I love our dentist’s office – they have a room with four chairs and all my boys can get their teeth cleaned at the SAME TIME! Can I tell you how much I love that?! It’s a pediatric dentist – so the lobby is well-equipped for kids, the staff are GREAT with kids.  Since the boys all did well during their visit – they each earned a “token” which they redeemed for a small prize. There is even a playground as you exit the building!

That afternoon we enjoyed a couple of hours downtown. First we stopped at Story Coffee. It’s the cutest little coffee shop next to Acacia Park. And when I say little, I mean TINY…as in TINY house TINY. It’s not a place you’d sit and enjoy a private conversation or a board game. However, just outside the coffee shop is a park with tables. My latte was perfect and the baked goods we ordered were delicious.

After Ted and I loaded up on caffeine and the boys on sugar, the boys threw a football with Ted and played in the park.

That evening I went to New Life Church to serve in the children’s ministry during our incredible Good Friday Service.

Saturday

We spent the day in Cheyenne Canyon. We love exploring this place as much as Garden of the Gods because they are both:

  • free
  • gorgeous
  • have easy hikes for the whole family
  • contain endless opportunities for adventure and discovery

To end our week of “Touring our Town,” we had dinner at Phantom Canyon. This was a restaurant we visited during our first trip to Colorado Springs almost three years ago. The ambiance of this place is very cool – it’s in an old building downtown with large windows, tall ceilings and exposed ductwork. The staff is friendly and the restaurant has quality service. However, I wasn’t crazy about the menu. Lots of fried food. We ordered hamburgers and fries for the kids, which they enjoyed, but the hummus, soup and salad Ted and I shared were okay – but not something I’d care to order again. This place won’t go on my list of best restaurants in Colorado Springs.

Sunday

I arrived New Life church by 7:00 AM to prepare for the guests that would be arriving for the 8:00 AM service. Ted and the boys arrived later and we attended the 10:00 AM service together. I stayed to serve again for our third service. It was great day at New Life!

After church the boys enjoyed opening their Easter baskets and hunting for eggs in our backyard.

They had a second egg hunt to look for Resurrection Eggs. After the boys found all 12, we opened them one-by-one together and talked about the Easter story using the little items inside each egg. This was a fun activity, and you can probably find the eggs on clearance at Hobby Lobby and save them for next year. (That’s what I did last year!)

We enjoyed (and when I say enjoyed, I mean I couldn’t stop eating) a White Chocolate Raspberry Nothing Bundt Cake given to us by the Newman family. That cake is dangerous. It’s way too good!

That wraps up our week of adventure in Colorado Springs. We are grateful for time together as a family exploring our beautiful city! This was SO MUCH better week than last week!

If you don’t have a copy yet – a recommend you purchase my Colorado Springs Children’s book entitled – Climb, Soar, Swim, Explore! 


You can buy it on amazon by clicking here.

Or get a signed copy by clicking here.

I’ve also put together a list of free things to do in Colorado Springs here.

And 10 things you MUST to do in Colorado Springs here.

Thanks for following along on our adventures!

April 2, 2018 By
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4 In Colorado Springs/ Family/ Raising boys

A Peek into our Week

Can you spot four hooligans?

Last Thursday:

I got a call from Paul’s teacher saying he wasn’t feeling good. I picked him and he and I cuddled on the couch most of the day. He threw up about 5 times!
That evening we had a Volunteer Gala at New Life Church – an evening set aside to celebrate all of those who volunteer at New Life.
I got all dressed up and even put on hose (does anyone remember those). The #eglyboys had never seen them. I walked down the stairs and Clark asked what happened to my legs and will it come off.
George said, “Mom, don’t wear those! Your leggings are SEE THROUGH!”
Paul told me I just looked weird. Luke comes over to touch my leg and looks at me sadly, like something terrible had happened to his mama and he wasn’t sure what do to. Well, I kept the panty hose on, in spite of all the protests, and attended the Gala for just one hour. It was so much fun and I really wanted to stay, but I had a sick son at home and knew I needed to be with him.

Friday:

Paul was feeling good and back to his regular self, but I kept him home from school just to be sure.
That night I went to New Life Friday night. I love seeing so many new volunteers serving and loving on kids on the 250 kids that come each Friday night!
While I’m so incredibly thankful for the volunteers that are serving, when you have a growing ministry, you always need more hands serving and hearts loving the children who attend each week. Here are 17 reasons why! 
I was chatting with a dad at the end of the service. He let me know that their family was moving out of state and their kids were so worried that they’d never find a church like New Life where ‘the leaders let us serve!” This dad was so encouraged by the positive impact New Life had on his family and would really miss being a part of our church family!

Saturday:

In the morning Ted made the boys and I breakfast (and really strong coffee for me).
It was a gorgeous, sunny day and the boys played in the backyard for a couple hours. During this time, George created his very first video! (Check it out at the bottom of this post!)
Later we went on a hike on a new trail. We were on the hunt to find a deer carcass that my sister had discovered at this location.
The hike was incredible and at the end, Ted (Mr. Details who doesn’t miss anything) found the bones of the deer a little off the trail. The boys loved examining it and imaging what might have caused it to die. (A bear?? A snake?) Clark asked if we could bring it home. (Um, no!)

 

Mission accomplished: We found the BONES!

That night Ted and I got to go out on a date and try a new restaurant called, Odyssey Gastro Pub. It was a quaint little pub that had Uh-mazing brussel sprouts, really good wings, and tacos that were just okay. (After eating the world’s best tacos at Bien Trucha in Geneva, Illinois, nothing else compares.) Our server at the Gastropub was from Oswego, Illinois…just down the rode from where we used to live!

Date night with Ted!

After dinner we spent a little time wandering through Poor Richards book store. Have you guys been there? That place is SO cool! They sell new and used books and have a section for “local authors.” An employee invited me to bring some of my books to sell!!

Sunday:

I went to the New Life Young Adults service to invite them to serve (17 people said yes!). Yay! Ted met me at church with the boys and we attended the 11 am service together as a family. Pastor Brady is teaching a great series on the book of Psalms.

Monday:

I had a whole bunch of errands I wanted to run, but decided that we needed a SLOW day. So I stayed in my yoga pants all day and didn’t put on any make up. One of the ‘errands’ was to get to
the gym but since we were staying home, I just turned on some fun music and Luke and I just danced for 20 minutes. That was WAY more fun. I did most of my work out with him on my back and he giggled the entire time.
Monday afternoons the boys have Chess Club and they LOVE IT! Paul asks me to tell him how many more days til Chess!

Tuesday:

I took Luke to school, then went to volunteer in Paul’s class. After that I worked for about an hour, then drove downtown to drop off a few copies of “Climb, Soar, Swim, Explore!” They were excited to have them because they don’t have any children’s books about Colorado!!!
On the way home, I picked up food from El Taco Rey. I’d been wanting to try their food since before we even moved here and I finally had an opportunity! It was really good! Their chips and salsa were great, and the enchiladas covered in green chili were delicious! The restaurant itself is really small and simple, so I’d recommend taking food to go rather than eating there.
Tuesday night I took the boys to the park while George had his piano lesson.

Wednesday:

I went to work in the morning. I’m honored to be a part of such a great team and do work that I love!
 Wednesday night, George has his last Cotillion for this year. The last night is held at the Broadmoor and parent’s attend to see what their sons and daughters have been learning.
I loved getting an opportunity to dance with George!
Thanks for reading about our week – how’s your week been?
Below is the first video George made. They love playing with their nerf guns and made a movie of their ‘battle!’ They just launched their own channel and would love for you to subscribe!

March 7, 2018 By
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