Let me guess. You're getting that restless feeling. It's been a long, hot summer already, and OOPs! Here it is mid July and summer will be over before we can invite the in-laws over for the traditional summer barbeque. Let's get out of this house, out of this neighborhood, and let's take a vacation!



But where? Let's see... There's always the beach. Yeh, the beach with the big crowds, the glaring sun, the gritty sand. And I do get tired really fast just lying around in the sun or the shade with an occasional dip in the waves.

Of course some of you rise up in unison to protest this scene of the beach. There are some gorgeous beaches and there are lots and lots of things to do.

And ALSO you will find lots and lots of truly exciting, engaging activities in the mountains of Colorado, and Ouray, Colorado, is one of the best, in my humble opinion. My wife and I just returned from a great 3-day 3-night stay. We took the inexpensive route this time. We pulled our little camping trailor into the KOA Kampground, set it up on the grass with a hill and trees to the west, and that was home for the next 3 nights. And we only used it at night. There was just too much to do to spend any time other than nights there in the campground.

This KOA is one of our favorites. These people really have down the word and the life of friendly. No question is too old or too ridiculous. The staff will spend personal time with each to provide the answers. This KOA is clean, and neat, and if you are interested in a good night's sleep, the whole camp is quiet and respectful from 10 pm on. We loved our stay with KOA!

We love the outdoors, and Ouray provides. We bounced and marveled over jeep roads. I recently wrote a blog on our own site about jeep roads in Colorado. Ouray is no exception. And these roads top out at over 13,000 feet. You can see forever. I don't know where you would go to find a more beautiful and varied floral show. Mid summer is awesom. If you don't want to jeep, then ATV, or mountain bike, or motor bike, or hike.

* Rock hounding sites around the old mines will produce some really nice samples.

* Regular outdoor hiking trails and camping sites are prolific.

* The natural hot-spring swimming pools provide fun and relaxation for all ages.

* Box Canyon Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Cascade Falls are inspiring.

* Stream fishing is just out the back door.

* Spectaular mountain scenery (water, land, flowers, and sky) release your tensions and concerns and provide scenic photography.

* The community all summer long offers community events, concerts, and activities.

* And if you just enjoy shopping, several blocks of main street beckon.

If summer is not your vacation season, then make this your winter choice.Just watch out for the snowmobilers, skiers, and ice climbers!

So, pack up the car. Load in the kids. Or leave the kids with Grandmom and take that well-deserved get-a-way. But do check the reservations for lodging. This is a popular retreat, although the crowds do not overwhelm. There is just too much open space to feel crowded. Have a great trip!