These senior moments are getting closer and closer.  No, not the “Colorado Senior Moments,” but the ones where I’ve skipped a button on my blouse or need to check for zipped pants, and then there are those moments when a portion of my last meal clings precariously to my chin – self preservation for one more delicious bite!  As the years go by, I deal with more of these deprecating moments.  I’d rather be savoring those senior moments I’ve spent traveling. 

  I remember years back when I stayed in my first condo resort at Snowmass, Colorado.  What memories!  Seeing that awesome antler chandelier hanging over the dining room table and knowing that each morning when I sat down to breakfast, I’d get to study how it was intricately put together, or watching out my balcony the foursome below attempting to hit that sweet spot for a long straight drive up fairway #9.  In my mind’s eye, I still see that red fox running across the green on the back nine and pick up my friend’s golf ball in its mouth scampering off into the scrubby overgrowth rough.  (www.stayaspensnowmass.com, www.snowmassclub.com). 

How thrilling it was to see John Denver playing on the fairway in front of us.  I remember hearing the caddy say, “yes, Mr. Denver.”  What a laugh we had when my friend John walked out of the club house and proclaimed that John Denver had picked up his American Express card by mistake.  Now,  that is a Colorado senior moment!  A special relaxing time was spent in Aspen itself.  We would walk the streets, getting coffee and ice cream and enjoy watching the other tourists go by,  hoping to catch a glimpse of some “star.”  When I saw the movie “Dumb and Dumber,” my senior moments began all over again as I scoured the movie for those Aspen scenes in the background.  To walk through the Jerome Hotel or The Little Nell was exciting.  I remember the classy feeling and worthy of such luxury, even if I did just visit the restroom to see the granite counters and tissue holders! 

Seniors, Aspen is the place for you and your dog.  I remember dogs of all sizes on leashes of course, and sitting down beside a beautiful collie trying to get his picture for my kids back home.  I wouldn’t say Aspen has gone to the dogs, rather, you can be comfortably casual, or “put on the dog” and you’ll blend in remarkably well.  The famous Maroon Bells stood out in the distance as we approached in our vehicle.   I still have the snapshots of yesteryears - seeing the “bells” for the first time, etc.  Visiting in the summer, there isn’t much snow downtown, however, take a ride on the gondola up Aspen mountain and you’ll stand in ankle to knee deep snow.  It is exhilarating to get a bird’s eye view of Aspen and beyond.

Aspen, Colorado is just one of those special places I hope to go back to very often in my memories, if I can’t get there in person.  Handicap accessible stores and dining facilities help make this charming place more amenable.   I suppose the only drawback in getting to Aspen is that drive up Independence Pass.  If I’m going to be driving, I’ll take the long way around!  I spent quite a bit of time squeezing the door handle and ducking away from my side of the car, as if that would help get me there any safer!  But when I start seeing those Aspen trees, senior moments start rolling over my memories and my heart sped up skipping a few beats.  I’m back in Aspen heaven!  The now deceased John Denver was correct in singing about “Rocky Mountain High” and when I’m there, I feel kindred to him. 

Getting to Colorado is easy, just set your wheels in that direction, or hop a plane to Denver and rent a car.  Although Aspen is my favorite, there are so many places to see and activities for people of all ages.  Yes, liberties do abound, so go with the flow.  You’ll come away with so many wonderful senior moments to remember forever!  While in Colorado, look for these places and activities:  Golfing at Aspen Colorado Golf Club, hot air ballooning over Snowmass Village, Elk Camp Wilderness Vista Jeep tour and guide where you’ll experience a sublime picnic at the top of Burnt Mountain over 11,000 feet up this beautiful mountain.  Large numbers of elk often range in this area.  What an opportunity for photography.  The Maroon Bells may be seen clearly from this vantage point.  Another exciting event for those seniors who enjoy the western aspect of Colorado:  Aspen Rodeo, June – August, to obtain information on this exciting Western Heritage event email info@stayaspensnowmass.com.   Fly fishing is another sport geared for anyone who likes the outdoors.  Half day, full-day and float river trips include the beautiful Frying Pan River along with Roaring Fork and Colorado River.  The costs, requirements, and dates can be found for all the above activities at www.stayaspensnowmass.com.  For the more cultured senior, there are musical festivals, art theatres, and educational opportunities.  Oh, for more of those senior moments!  Happy Traveling!

(Photos courtesy of Google Images)