One of my favorite places

One of my favorite places in the world is Ouray, Colorado. Ouray is a small town, about 90 miles southeast of Grand Junction (where I spent most of my influential growing up years--those between middle school and college).

In the early '90s my family took a road-trip to Ouray for a weekend away to celebrate my mom's birthday. It was a little like the Christmas story--we arrived under darkness, only to find there was no room at the inn--literally. Even though it was late in the summer tourist season (end of September), there was a big Jeep Jamboree in town and all the hotels, B&Bs and inns were booked solid (and my parents hadn't called ahead for reservations--totally out of character for them). Thankfully, an inn owner took pity on us (I think he listened to my dad's request and then looked out the window and saw our sad faces in the car), and offered us the use of his rental cottage--right on Main Street. We totally hit the jackpot and after a worrisome start to the weekend, ended up having a wonderful adventure.

The trip to Ouray became an annual tradition and a special weekend getaway for our family. On every visit we'd stop by the Ouray Candy Co., the Rock Shop, the Ouray Glassworks, and a souvenir shop or two. One time we went horseback riding, and another time we took a jeep tour through the back country (beautiful!). Sometimes we'd go hiking, or take a drive up through the mountains. Ouray is nestled in a valley, surrounded by towering peaks, and the scenery is truly awe-inspiring. Oh, and I almost forgot to mention the hot springs pool!

Our Kappes Family Vacation 2010 to Grand Junction wouldn't be complete without a stop in Ouray (actually, I don't think my mom would have left the state without a stop in her favorite place). It was fun to share the city with my brother's wife and kids--they especially enjoyed the hot springs pool (Carter and Halle swam for hours with Auntie and Papa helping them race across the pool!).

(Waiting for lunch at the Pub on Main St--Halle was entertaining Nana and Papa)

It was a wonderful day filled with special memories--both new and old!

Ouray is one of the those places that I could definitely see myself living one day...I could see myself working at the bookstore on Main St., running out on my break to grab a latte from the coffee shop down the street, then heading home at night to my log cabin (complete with wood fireplace). The only downside would be that the nearest Target is 36 miles away, and I'd probably have to shovel snow...but even those things would be manageable (I'd just need to have the funds to be able to afford living there!).

If you've never been to Ouray, I'd highly recommend a visit--any time of the year! Not all the shops are open in the winter, but the hot springs are great and the views are spectacular!