“There were chasms of immense depth, dark with the indigo gloom of pines, and mountains with snow gleaming on their splintered crests…….” Isabella L. Bird, A Lady’s Life in the Rocky Mountains
Have you ever vacationed in Colorado Springs? It truly was a feast for the senses for me. Last Monday, after an entire day of travel, on three connecting flights, Rich and I arrived, with our baby Seth, looking forward to four days in such a beautiful setting.
The resort we stayed at was magnificent. The Broadmore started receiving guests in 1918, and is a five star grand resort. Rich and I were invited there, along with other members of various companies, so that Rich could attend a business conference. The conference began on Thursday, and we went two days early, to see the sights.
Monday evening, after we arrived, we were too tired to go back out to dinner, so we treated ourselves to room service. Our room was beautiful, with a big comfortable and soft bed, a huge flat screen TV, and a lovely bathroom (I always get a thrill out of pretty bathrooms). There was just enough room for a big comfy crib for Seth, too. We thought it was so cute that they placed a bath set in the crib, as a gift for Seth, with rubber ducks, washcloth, soaps, and a hair brush.
We ended up pushing Seth’s crib away, into an empty spot near the bathroom. But, we thought it was cute the way he was watching us eat our dinner the first night. Yes, that’s Monday night football on TV.
On Tuesday, the weather was gorgeous, with a deep blue sky, and big puffy clouds. The air was crisp and cool, the sun was warm and toasty. We ate our breakfast together right at the hotel, outside on the patio. Because the mornings can be chilly, there were heaters hanging down from the tall ceiling of the patio. We got too warm and actually had to ask for ours to be turned off! I looked at the menu and decided to order something I would never make for myself at home—eggs benedict. Yum!
As soon as we were ready, we headed out in our rental car and visited a place called Seven Falls. Those of you who have been following my blog know how much I love nature and Colorado is stunning. I would never get tired of looking at the tall mountains. The air seems so clear and everything I saw looked bright and pretty. Visiting the falls was exciting and in order to get up high enough to see the views, we had to either go up an elevator or walk up about “a million” steps. We chose the steps, but by the time I got up there, there was no way I was going to go all the way back down them, so we took the elevator.
“This is a view to which nothing needs to be added.”
“This scenery satisfies my soul.” Isabella L. Bird
Down the side walk a little, there was another long staircase to another observation platform. This time I stayed below with Seth, and we watched as Rich walked up with the camera.
All in all, it didn’t take long to see and admire the water falls and soon we were on our way to our next destination, which was The Garden of the Gods.
The Garden of the Gods was free, and I will go back to this place, even if it’s just in my mind. I LOVED IT. The first thing we did was get lunch, at the visitors center. We each had a buffalo burger and we took our food outside to eat. We stayed full for about 5 hours after eating those things! We took a few pictures of ourselves, with the gorgeous mountains in the background.
So, basically, at the Garden, we just entered the park in our car and drove slowly around. Simple enough, but there were many mountain formations and the views were incredible. We took some pictures, but they don’t do justice to the enormous size of the huge rocks and cliffs. We pulled off the road several times, and the reason why this place haunts me a little, is because it would have been the perfect place to visit alone, with just my Bible and a notebook. I would have really enjoyed sitting for a few hours, praying and just spending time with the Lord.
“It was one of those glorious surprises in scenery which make one feel as if one must bow down and worship.” Isabella L. Bird
After the Garden of the Gods, we drove about half an hour away, to the Focus on the Family visitor’s center. I grew up listening to Dr. Dobson and Adventures in Odyssey. It was such a thrill to visit their headquarters. The lady who welcomed us was warm and gracious, and gave us a free book when we told her that we were on vacation to celebrate our wedding anniversary (which was the next day, on the 16th). It did my heart good, to walk around, reading the many awards and information that was displayed about Dr. Dobson’s ministry. FAMILY is honored, marriage, fatherhood, motherhood, children, all lifted up to the glory of God. It was refreshing for Rich and I both.
Rich, reading about Dr. Dobson’s father’s red jacket. After his father died, he wore it for the next two Christmases, in memory of his Dad. (The art work is also his father’s.)
Well, we were plumb tuckered out after visiting Focus on the Family, so we headed back to our hotel for some rest and relaxation.
On Wednesday, it was our 14th wedding anniversary. After getting into a heated argument about whether we would drive up Pike’s Peak, or take the cog railway, we headed out to “ride” up the mountain, which was the better choice (we found out later that if we had drove we would not have made it up the mountain because of snow).
Here I am, at the station, with Seth.
Well, the ride up was great. Rich and I ended up (as a gift from God, not “luck”) in the best seat on the train, right in front, with a big window ahead of us, and on the side of us. A man talked and gave information all the way up the mountain (it took over an hour).
And when we got to the top, what do we discover, but a snow storm!
Needless to say, we didn’t hang around outside. We went right in and ate lunch and donuts. At such a high altitude, a recipe had to be created for the donut frying to actually succeed and taste good. I wouldn’t say they were the BEST donuts but it was fun to eat them as a treat on the top of Pike’s Peak!
Going back down the mountain proved to be a misery for yours truly. We were warned that in order to avoid altitude sickness, we needed to drink lots of water. There was a bathroom at the top, but no bathroom on the train and I spent the next hour in agony, “holding it”. What a wonderful experience, to finally make it back to civilization, and a ladies restroom. I never ever want to be in that situation again. Ever.
On Thursday, it was time for Rich to be involved in his conference, which meant I had lots of time with just Seth. We were able to eat breakfast together, Rich and I, and then I had all day (until about 4:40-5pm) to wait until he was done, so we could go to dinner.
The first day, I had a massage at the European Spa at the resort. One of Rich’s coworkers was also attending the conference, and his wife offered to babysit Seth while I had my VERY FIRST massage. Okay, let me just say right off the top that I am not a massage-lover. However, the experience was very interesting and it felt good to be pampered. I was given a warm robe and some slippers. When I went to the bathroom I sat on a warm toilet seat. A nice lady took me into a little room with the massage table and asked me questions about my medical history and what I expected from my experience that day. (to relax) Then, she gave me my massage. It lasted 50 minutes and it was very relaxing. There was nice music playing in the background, along with the sound of running water. After it was done, she walked me out and showed me the other things I could do that day (aromatherapy room, sauna, swimming, etc, etc) but I just ate a little bit of fruit, got dressed, and left so that I could get Seth back. I thought about Grace while I was there, and bought her a nice bath “bomb” that looks just like a fancy pink cupcake. She can put it in her bathwater and it will smell like strawberry and turn the water pink and bubbly. I think I would like the spa if I didn’t have a baby to take care of, waiting for me. I would rather have a pedicure and manicure than a massage. I walked Seth back to my hotel room and took a long shower, to get the oil and “another person’s hands” off me. I’ll try just about anything once, and I’m glad I got my massage. And, wasn’t it nice of that lady (her name was Mary) to babysit for me? She adored Seth. Actually, Seth got LOTS of attention, as he was the only baby to attend the conference.
While Rich was busy, I did a lot of resting in our room, watching TV, napping, reading, and walking outside. Here are a few random pictures that I took.
One of my many reading spots. The book pictured is where I got the quotes.
Other pictures, of the hotel:
Our room,
In one hallway, they display portraits of every famous guest that has stayed at the resort.
Rich, holding Seth in a comfy chair. There were seating areas in just about every corner.
Seth had to learn to take a nap whenever he could get the chance. He was so good natured about it all.
We ate breakfast outside, with the rest of the people who attended the event. We sat at tables under the roofed pavilion, with a gorgeous view of several fountains, and the mountains. Rich is walking ahead of me, with Seth in his arms.
One of the many gorgeous places in the hotel to sit and lounge. I sat here one afternoon, in front of a fire, reading my book with Seth asleep in his Ergo, snuggled right under my chin.
The main hotel lobby,
The best part of all was reconnecting with my husband. We grew so very close again, on this trip, with just each other (and Seth) to focus on. We laughed together, went swimming in the pool, ate our meals, walked, talked, watched a little TV, took care of our baby, sat side by side on the plane rides, and it was wonderful.
This morning, at 11 o’clock, Rich had to leave again, for another week of travel. This time, when he left, we both had tears in our eyes. It was hard to say goodbye after our wonderful adventure.
Good to be Home 
these pictures are so great! i got teary eyed when i read your ending as well, as i can relate, with Joey back in school and working full time. you guys look so happy in the photos. i’m glad you got to do this 🙂
I’m so glad you had a chance to get away and see some new sights, do some new things, and spend some special time with Rich! Loved the pictures! I would love to go to Colorado some day. There are so many things in the great big, U.S. I have never seen, and now, here I am on the other side of the ocean! Life is full of surprises!
Shanda,,,,, I’m so happy you were able to reconnect, rest, restore and rekindle your relationship with Rich. What a wonderful time away. 🙂 It looks like you stayed in a beautiful location. I used to live about 3 hours from Colorado Springs and really enjoyed the scenary and vistas. 🙂 Focus on the Family is such a great spot to see too!Love and Hugs…Savor the memories you made-until Rich returns. 🙂 -Cass
Looks like you had a wonderful time. Colorado is one of my most favorite of places. We visited there one summer when I was in my late teens. We had lunch at the Broadmore and it was magnificant. I love the mountain air, mountain views and people. A refreshing vacation is so important for husbands and wives. So glad you and Rich were able to enjoy one in such a beautiful location.
Loved the ictures looks like an amazing fun trip you had! Happy for you ~sissy
What breathtaking pictures! The scenary is beautiful and snow to boot (I miss the snow)! You guys had a second honeymoon–what a blessing!
The hotel looks so lovely and inviting! We were in Colorado Springs 10 years ago and we want to visit Colorado again.Beautiful,awesome,majestic,one runs out of adjectives to describe the scenery in Colorado! We also visited Focus On The Family,Garden Of The Gods and Pike’s Peak. Your pics brought back memories……. Glad you were able to reconnect! Blessings to you!
Looks so very beautiful!!!
Looks like a wonderful time to relax and reconnect! Colorado is beautiful. The sky seems bluer and closer than here in the East. I too have been to Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods…both amazing places that showcase God’s masterpieces.
I’ve been to CO many times and agree that is a beautiful, majestic place! What a treat for you and your hubby and Seth to go there and stay at that luxurious place! I’m glad you had that experience and can only imagine how hard it was to see your hubby go off by himself on another trip. Hugs, GAil
I always enjoyed going on business trips with my husband. Unfortunately, with schooling and all the kiddos it hasn’t happened in a long time!
I love Colorado.You really had a great vacation even if the massage thing isn’t for you! Mountains just do something wonderful for us.Blessings as you get back in the swing of things at home.
Sounds like such a wonderful time together in a really beautiful place!
What a wonderful place to rest and relax ~ glad you could go ~
So glad you had a nice trip! The place for donuts around there is in Woodland Park at the Donut Mill! We’ve visited there many times since our daughter and her husband and boys lived there. Beautiful place!
Such beauty and I can totally understand you being in your element. Makes me want to do something like that with my husband someday….. I hope your week goes well.
Wow beautiful! Thanks for sharing with us. I’m glad you had a great time away. I hope this week goes well for all of you.
I love Rich’s smiles in these pictures. He looks so happy!
my husband and i just moved away from colorado springs 3 weeks ago and your pictures made me homesick!!!so glad you and your husband could have some time together– sounds like such a fun trip!
Shanda~ What a lovely time. Thanks for sharing it with us. I love the picture of Seth sleeping on the bed with his little pacifier in his mouth. Too sweet~~Cinnamon
It looks like you had a lovely time! Of course, your pictures are wonderful!
I’m so glad you had this time with your husband and Seth. Garden of the Gods is one of my favorite places on earth, and I LOVE the quotes you shared. I will have to check out that book!
What a wonderful vacation! I’ve wanted to go to Colorado ever since reading “Clover” and “In the High Valley” by Susan Coolidge (by the way, if you’ve never read any of her books I highly recommend them … right up there with LM Montgomery and Kate Douglas Wiggin and the like). I’ve never been further west than Minnesota, and every time I see pictures or hear about Colorado I feel such a tug at my heartstrings!Oh, and all the pictures are great, but my favorite is Seth hanging almost upside down out of the carrier at Focus on the Family. What a little mischief!
Hey, Wish I could have come and seen you guys. I’m right on the other side of Colorado Springs in Peyton. Where you here last week? We are getting more snow right now. Had flurries yesterday and more promised today and tomorrow. Glad you had a great time here!! Love, Melissa
You STAYED at The Broadmoor???!!! 🙂 I felt all cool just having breakfast there one time! LOL! It is so beautiful! I really enjoyed this getaway of yours. 🙂 I was in the Springs just last fall…I’ve been to the same places, so I had fun reminiscing with your photos! Love this post, your photos…your heart…
What a fun, fun time!!! I so love trips alone with my husband! Glad you had a nice time. Your hotel was so beautiful, and so were the mountains! What a blessing to be able to have that special alone time with just the two of you. (and Seth! =)) Funny how when we have our first babies, we don’t consider ourselves having quality alone time as long as the baby is around. However, a few kids later and the baby makes no difference! It isn’t listening in and paying attention!!! Have a wonderful day, thanks for sharing your weekend!
I loved your pictures, and recognized some of the places: Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, and Focus on the Family. It looks like you had a wonderful trip and anniversary celebration. We have had a wonderful trip as well, and are still north of you – enjoying a relaxing day with our daughter and her family.
It looks grand, all of it, the rooms and the views, can you imagine taking all the kids there? I would be all like “No no don’t touch that, no not that fork use the sixth one in, stop running in the halls!” Oh I can just hear myself! Janet went and it did haunt her, still does.You are so funny not liking the massage, I would enjoy having someone follow me around, when I have to do the bills she would be behind me rubbing the stress away, when the kids are fighting, there she would be again, jar of juice spilled all over the kitchen floor I would just block it all out and enjoy the massage! LOL!What a wonderful way to celebrate 14 years!
lovely pictures…looks like a wonderful vacation.
What a beautiful place! I love the photos that you took… so pretty! I am so glad that you had a blessed time with your husband and baby!
As always amazing pictures…I’m glad that you had a wonderful time and got to relax. I think I would feel the same way about a massage…a stranger is touching me!!! eeewwwww. I hope to talk with you soon – and maybe plan a time when we could visit for the weekend? Love You!
Beautiful pictures. Looks like a wonderful time. My husband and I celebrated our 14th in June. We didn’t go anyhere though. Our youngest was only 3 weeks old. With 6 young children times together like yours is worth gold for a marriage. Good for the two of you getting away. Praying you have a peaceful week running the home alone. ~ Deb
What a beautiful getaway! Thank you for sharing your pictures with us.
That’s really awesome! 🙂 I’m really happy that you, Rich and Seth had alot of fun! 🙂 The pictures are so wonderful and gorgeous. 🙂 I’m glad that you guys had a wonderful time. Happy Belated wedding anniversary!
Glad you had a lovely trip. All the nature pictures look so pretty and everything looks so green and “springy”. I haven’t ever been to CO but it’s on my list of places to visit one day! I’ll have to remember “seven falls”, looks really interesting!
I am so happy for you Shanda. What glorious pictures and what a darling couple you are. Seth is just about as cute as a little guy can get! Investing in memories again. You are good at that. I love you Shanda. m
Wow! What a gorgeous place! Your pictures and words painted a beautiful love story. :o) I bet you had a fabulous time!! It’s no wonder it was a teary goodbye when he had to leave. :o(
What a marvelous get-away you had! I love all the pictures of you, Rich, and Seth!! Rich looks so handsome, Seth is so cute and funny, and you look so darling and happy! I can so relate to this vacation as we just were in Colorado. I received my pics from my son this weekend so will be putting some of them up this week. We didn’t get down to where you were, but I can see that will be something to look forward to next time we visit!! Red Rocks was so like the Garden of the Gods…I know what you mean about just driving…stopping and looking. Really awesome! What a beautiful place to be together, both scenery and the wonderful resort you stayed at!! I want to go up that cog railway to Pike’s peak. That looks so much fun. I was glad to see you had time for reading and relaxing. Now I would have enjoyed the massage…maybe you will too as you get older and more achy. OH, and Seth blending in with his striped pants…so cute!
lovely Shanda. It was all beautiful and I am so happy that you and Rich had a wonderful time together.
Welcome back Shan and thank you for your comments and prayers! Colorado is beautiful and I’m so glad you had really good weather while you were there. When i was there (Denver) a couple years ago it rained a lot. I was there for work and there wasn’t a lot of things you could do with a little money and no car for site seeing so I went for walks. I’m so glad that you and Rich were able to reconnect. That is so important to do. God wants our marriages to be sizzling, even with six kids, 10 loads of laundry, and the whole crazy beautiful life He planted you in, because He is able to to so much more than we can even fathom. I pray He continues to bless your marriage and family, Shan! Miss you. Love you. Lish
Hello Shanda, I love this documentary post of your travels…beautiful photo’s and you two are such a happy couple and your youngest is such an adorable little boy. I’ll be back. And I love that we found eachothers blog…Be wellGodeliva van Ariadone
Wish I would have know you were so close to me! Colorado Springs is only about 6 hours from me! I would have made the trip to visit with you. Looks like you had a fabulous time. Isn’t it beautiful out here?
Well, Matt has been wanting to take me to Colorado, and now I can honestly say I am DYING to go there…how lovely!!! I couldn’t get over that first picture, the blueness of the sky, the mountains…all of it. what a splendid time away for you guys…I’m so glad you enjoyed yourselves! Thank you for sharing these pictures with us, I hope you enjoyed your anniversary, I’m sure this is one you’ll not soon forget. Love you!
Oh Shanda, I am SO SO GLAD that you were able to have this getaway with Rich. That time alone together is priceless, I can sense how much it meant to you to be able to reconnect in that way, and the hotel and nature trips were wonderful as well! Colorado is awesome. I was there with my family in 1998 and we enjoyed touring Focus on the Family as well. We also visited Summit Ministries and our dear old friends (formerly from MS)that run it. Have you ever heard of the Summit? They provide summer camps for teenagers and college students to come and be grounded in a Biblical world-view on important topics. You look so pretty in those bright colors – loved the blue, fucshia, and kelly green!<3 ❤ ❤
We love you so much.I’m sure that Rich was very gratified knowing that you could be experiencing more of the amenities and scenery while he was in conference.You chronicle so well the nuances to life and loving God that stir my soul(and others’ as well, I’m sure). I regret that I lost another reply to you earlier today due to xanga ignorance. So sorry to be xanga challenged.Much love to all – Bob
@snogerfergany – Bob, Thank you so much for the note, it was encouraging to me. You and Jenny are so special and have an amazing way of understanding my heart. Sending lots of love to you and yours today! ~Shanda
Colorado Springs is beautiful. I have a picture of myself somewhere that was taken right in front of that sign at the top of Pike’s Peak. But I had to walk up. LOL I was an intern with a ministry when I was 18 and one our challenges was to hike up Pike’s Peak. And I had the same situation coming down!! We were in a van though and I HAD to get out and go to the bathroom! It came on my so suddenly and just seemed to get worse the lower we got. Oh it was awful! I’ve never had to pee that bad in my life! 🙂