Denver, CO - Day 2

Denver is a wonderful city. Yesterday, after relaxing in the pool at the hotel for a little while, we walked around the city and checked out its tremendous nightlife. We started with appetizers and mini-Miller High Life's at an old 60s diner-style restaurant called Steubens. We then walked through the center of the city, and decided to check out the many micro-breweries the Mile High City has to offer. First was Rock Bottom, where there was an outdoor festival with a band performing. I have to mention the sweltering heat of Denver. At times it is offensive. Matt characterized it as "hot breath."

After Rock Bottom, we stopped at a bar where patrons (unfortunately) could still smoke. Celtic was a typical Irish bar that we only stayed at for one drink. Our search was for Breckenridge's Microbrewery, which we found right by the baseball stadium, Coors Field. Our bartender Margot was delightful, as she gave us some delicious drinks and pub fare. Matt also made friends with a Denver local named Phil, who gave him some kind advice for being in the Mile High City.

We continued on to the Wynckoop Brewing Co. for a drink, and then finally ended our night a the incredible Sing Sing Dueling Pianos Bar. Sing Sing was awesome - the two performers took requests and really got the crowd going and into the songs--the likes of which were Outkast, Billy Joel, The Eagles, Lynard Skynard, etc. We think we might go back tonight.

This morning we were up bright and early and traveled to Morrison, CO to go white water rafting. This was an incredible experience. We set off from Clear Creek with our guide La (short for Laura), who was one of the most endearing people I've met on this trip so far. She set us down the river and through the rapids, and it was just amazing to see Colorado from this perspective, along the river, staring into the mountains. It was truly breathtaking. But it was a workout nevertheless. Of course, I had to be the person to fall out of the raft, but everyone in the boat was quick to reach out and get me back in. I wouldn't have had it any other way. You can see proofs of the pictures that we bought of us during the whole rafting session. Go to this website:Pictures , scroll to the bottom, click on Geo Rafting with La 7/12/08am, and you will see our group in all its glory. The pics of me falling into the water are 6-8; they're pretty funny.

After rafting, we went right down the road to the famous Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater and saw the breathtaking and magnificent view of and from the Red Rocks. Truly a sight to behold and one that words truly can't describe.

It's been a great time so far here in Denver, and we're going to continue it tonight, going out downtown probably. Tomorrow is an early wake up and travel to Bozeman, Montana.

Just have to give a quick shout-out to Matt Younghans, who's also traveling the country. I heard from him earlier today as he was driving through Texas towards Oklahoma. Sounds like he's having a great time also. Check in with everyone tomorrow from another city & time...