
What appears beyond the hyphen in Thursday Thoughts titles is what I'm listening to when I'm starting this - this week is Still the Same by Bob Seger
With such a diverse landscape encompassing arid desert, river canyons, and the snow-capped Rocky Mountains, Colorado is the ideal road trip destination. Home to the world's largest natural hot springs swimming pool, the state has many spectacular natural wonders. Plus, the state's capital, Denver, features a vibrant downtown area for you to explore. This itinerary will act as a guide to your travels in Colorado.
Denver to Fort Collins
After you have explored the culturally rich metropolis of Denver, just an hour's drive away is Fort Collins, where the real road trip will begin.
Fort Collins to Beaver Creek
Explore the Old Town historic district in Fort Collins, home to extraordinary 1800s houses. Once on the road, a scenic three-hour drive to Beaver Creek awaits, with ski resorts for you to stop at dotted along the interstate, like Vail. Beaver Creek is a charming ski town, perfect for hiking and then unwinding in one of the many spa getaways Colorado has to offer.
Beaver Creek to Grand Junction
After hiking, skiing and perhaps a luxurious spa break–it's time to head to wine country. The variety of grapes that grow at this altitude are highly unique. Make sure to stop at Two Rivers Winery and Chateau en route for a guided vineyard tour and wine tasting session. It takes about two hours to reach Grand Junction from Beaver Creek. Once there, you can explore the many rivers, canyons, mesas and mountains.
Grand Junction to Ouray
After a few days of driving, you will probably be desperate for a dip in Colorado's hot springs. The drive is just two hours, and once you have arrived, you are free to explore the small town surrounded by impressive mountains. Hike to your heart's desire before selecting the perfect spot for a dip from a variety of hot springs. The Historic Wiesbaden Hot Springs Spa and Lodgings is a hidden gem that houses a magical, underground hot springs steam cave.
Ouray to Durango
This one hour and 45-minute drive may need some getting used to as you cruise along a cliffside. However, if you are brave enough, the views are breathtaking. Named the Million Dollar Highway, it offers beautiful views of the San Juan National Forest. For a historical moment, stop at Silverton, an old mining town lined with Victorian buildings. Once at Durango, the adventurer could choose to paddleboard on Lake Nighthorse or bike the Animas River Trail. Don't forget to visit the Railroad Museum, which houses restored locomotives, aircraft and a baggage car converted into a movie theatre.
Durango to Mesa Verde National Park
Less than two hours from Durango is the Mesa Verde National Park, home to 5,000 different archaeological sites and 600 preserved cliff dwellings. The National Park interprets and celebrates the Ancestral Pueblo people's archaeological heritage, who made it their home for over 700 years. Make sure to check out the Sun Temple, which according to modern Pueblo Indians, was a classic ceremonial structure.
This post was written with the Life According to Steph audience in mind.
You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!
Click here to enterAs a result, they might become increasingly reliant on others to perform everyday tasks, attend appointments, and move from A to B. If you want to provide as much help as possible to an elderly relative or friend, read these top tips on how to look after loved ones when they age.
Ask How You Can Help
Your loved one might struggle with household chores, grocery shopping, or cooking. Yet, they might not want to ask for help when struggling each day. To ensure they don’t suffer in silence, you should ask how you can help them.
For example, they might need you to:
Pick up groceries
Mow the lawn
Make property repairs
Vacuum
Clean surface
Wash, dry, and fold laundry
Remember, your loved one might be embarrassed to ask for help, so they might reject your offer. Reassure them that you are happy to help and they aren’t a burden.
Talk to Your Loved One
Growing older is bound to weigh heavily on your loved one’s mind. Rather than making decisions for them with your nearest and dearest, you must talk to a relative about their declining health.
They may already have a care plan in place if they should struggle with mobility and/or cognitive function. Also, they might feel more relaxed knowing you will hold their hand throughout the years, which will make the aging process less daunting.
Consider a Care Home
A minor mobility issue or cognitive decline might not affect a loved one’s independence or function at present, but it could one day in the future. Therefore, it is important to review the different options available if they require support.
For example, if your aging relative or friend requires help with washing, dressing, taking medication, or other assistance, they could enjoy a better quality of life at a care home. While the thought might seem scary, your loved one could feel right at home at a luxury assisted living facility.
Learn About Their Health Condition(s)
As your loved one grows older, they might suffer from various health conditions, such as arthritis, dementia, or osteoporosis. To ensure they remain in good health for as long as possible, you must learn about the different foods they will need to eat, activities they should perform, and medications they must take each day. Don’t forget to learn about their risk factors, too. For example, those living with dementia must avoid dehydration and treat water infections as soon as possible.
Improving your understanding of a loved one’s health condition(s) could help you make more informed decisions regarding their diet, lifestyle, and daily support. It might also help to attend medical appointments with your aging relative or friend, which will allow you to ask questions and learn about their current or future challenges.
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Written for the Life According to Steph audience by Maggie Hammond: Proud mama to two little people, and has one too many furry friends. Passionate about alternative medicine, education, the great outdoors and animal welfare.