My favorite things to do in Vail Valley

this really never gets old. the views are amazing; there's endless fun you can have in a gondola and i love swinging my feet from high-up on the lift.

minturn on saturdays and vail on sundays...i believe they're stretching the use of the word 'farmers' a bit as the crafties and goodies far outnumber the produce booths. but it's fun and festive and you can do some serious damage to the bank account. oh yeah, and the strawberry and brie crepes made by local skater guys are to die for.

there's a lovely pool right off the creek down the street from my office. you can walk there and get some sun with the sound of rushing water in the background and the mountain views overhead...all in the time it takes to drive through mcdonalds. perfect.

it feels like a big city bakery. the case is full of the most gorgeous pastries and the coffee is wonderful. i don't do it often, but when i do it's magic.

i always feel lucky when i catch sight of one of these little guys.

there's just something extra special about ski bar's pole. i guess the fact that pole dancing is offered at all here is special. vail...always classy.

baking has become a whole new challenge. i'm still learning how to adjust my muffins, cookies, cakes, etc so they work at high altitude. but that just makes it all the more satisfying when it works.

in no time, you can be at a trailhead or campsite that you never before knew existed - they're everywhere and i'm always hearing of new places to check out. again, no matter where you are it's beautiful.

they make the best sound i've ever heard when the wind blows.