Last Rockies Hike; Fort Collins; Messages of Hope Viewing

Thursday was our last day in the Rockies, so we went for a hike on the Lumpy Ridge Trail along some “big wall” rock climbing destinations; there were several groups of much younger climbers there. This is a photo of a massive granite wall that had two climbers on it about half way up. We could barely see them with the naked eye. 

I suspect their climb up was at least a four hour evolution, moving from handhold to handhold. This is not a sport for the faint of heart; accidents do happen, as this sign suggests. There was also a memorial to a local 20-year old who died while climbing here, but doing what he loved best. 

On the hike Suzanne saw a tiny pika, which looks like a tiny rabbit without a tail. He is certainly well camouflaged! 

Rudy and Gretchen slept most of the way on the trip from Estes Park to Ft Collins, and curled up together in their bed. They are "Master Sleepers"!

After arriving back in Ft Collins, we went for a walk in Old Town with Rudy and Gretchen. We really enjoyed the architecture and ambiance here. All the 19th century buildings have been very nicely restored.

There are many sidewalk dining opportunities and pianos set up all over town so passersby can stop and play. I decided not to embarrass myself for once.... there were too many people watching.

Our Messages of Hope documentary viewing, sponsored by Donna Visocky’s BellaSpark Productions, was held last night, and it was the best yet! Suzanne introduced the film and spoke afterwards to a very enthusiastic crowd. 

There were 105 attendees, and every seat in the Whole Life Center for Spiritual Living’s sanctuary was filled. There were more men last night than at most previous events.

Suzanne's books were also available for signing, and sales were very brisk following her talk. Here is Suzanne about to head for the microphone, with Carmen our book sales helper and Lisa from BellaSpark.






While Suzanne gives a reading this morning I'm going fishing with Jerry Bianchi, the husband of our good friend Elizabeth's cousin, Rusty.  Previous attempts to capture elusive Colorado trout have been patently unsuccessful.  This is my last chance to redeem myself and my fishing reputation ...