My First Few Days in Estes Park!

My stay @ The Historic Crags Lodge atop Mt. Prospect in Estes Park was very relaxing.  Upon waking up from my peaceful slumber Tuesday night, I set out to explore Estes Park. Many elk greeted me first - both the pregnant cows and the bull elks.  I checked out the visitor center, and pick up some brochures of interest. I located a couple of churches, and met the pastor of one.  The library issued me a library card, and I checked out a video on the Rockies and a book entitled, Nothing Daunted, a novel about two Eastern women who came to Colorado to teach school.  It's interesting so far. Estes Park Brewery called my name for some sampling later in the day after getting soaked by rain. Later, the lodge had an old fashioned ice cream sundae social, and visited with a couple from Nevada.

Thursday was my move in day, but had some missions to accomplish.  An oil change was badly needed, and the mechanic discovered a nail in my tire which explained why my tire was low earlier in the morning.  Glad I had some expert attention.  A hike around Lily Lake with a picnic lunch finished off my morning.  I arrived at my headquarters, which is a remodeled motel.  My room consists of two sets of bunk beds, a mini kitchen with microwave, a mini-fridge, and a sink.  A bathroom with a tub/shower and a small sitting room with a TV completes the room.  I have no roommate yet, but one is sure to come as more employees show up.  Shown below is the view out my room-I am blessed.  We had supper together, and later a small campfire. 

Friday started out with a hike gaining in elevation.  I'm not quite ready to do any major hiking hiking yet-I must be aware of the elevation adaptation I need. I gathered some good information from the rangers at one of the park's visitor centers, Beaver Meadows, and then watched a couple of videos about the park. The "Egg and I" fed me breakfast, a veggie scramble - my first meal I've purchased since leaving Amery-YUM!  Rain, followed by thunder, and then hail hit.  It melted later in the day, but not a welcome event.  Counting items for inventory for The Trail Ridge Store kept me busy most of the afternoon, followed by an excellent supper fixed by a retired elementary principal, who is my boss's wife.  

Saturday and Sunday involved more inventory counting,South Dakota.  I attended a classical trio concert with piano, violin and French horn, as well as a Sunday worship service.  Took a 2-mile walk/jog, too.  Several of us took advantage of a free day for Estes Park workers @ Open Air Adventure Park.  Quite an exciting experience!  Most of my time is spent getting to know the "characters" that I'm working with.  Official orientation begins on Monday!