Vacation

My dictionary gives several definitions of the word. The one that speaks to me is, “a respite or a time of respite from something.” For me, vacation is an escape from ordinary chores and obligations. It means being freed from the harness of daily life. I have in-laws who take exotic vacations with very structured itineraries. Every hour of their vacations seems to have an obligation to fulfill – a site to visit, something to see, something to do. Sigh, that sounds like a lot of work to me. Our vacations are completely improvised. Last night, we decided that we would sleep-in and cuddle today.

We got up around noon to have coffee, biscotti, and medicines. A shower later, we were planning our day. We decided that we would have a sandwich at Coffee on the Rocks, then go to store for a few staples, and return to our base to chill for the remainder of the day. I would cook dinner.

Coffee on the Rocks is a little bistro venue that has a small pond stocked with mallard ducks that patrons can feed with dry corn kernels. The ducks are accustomed to people, and they are fun for children to see and feed and follow. We ordered BLT sandwiches and chips, and we sat on the establishment’s deck watching the ducks.

Estes Park has an aerial tram that had been shuttered during our most recent prior visit. It seems to now be operational. Maybe we can get the grandkids to take the trip to the top of the adjacent mountain.

We went to the grocery store just as a thunderstorm was brewing in the mountains to the North. We drove home getting nothing more than a light sprinkle from the storm.

Back at home base, I made chili for dinner. Our son and his family are going to arrive at any moment. Now, that’s my idea of a vacation!