I’m really excited to tell you about my recent visit to the USA. More specifically, to Denver Colorado. I went there for a family wedding at Sapphire Point, one of the most beautiful places in the mountains, overlooking a lake. Breath-taking. Emotional. Special.

Denver is a mile above sea level, the mountains even higher, so drinking water constantly was a priority and being aware that high altitude can have a physical effect on newcomers. Also, the autumn (fall) weather can be cold, sunshine can turn to snow, so layers and warmth are important.

Oh, how can I say how much I enjoyed it! I stayed with wonderful people who I now consider family. Their kindness and generosity was a joy. We shared incredible experiences in incredible places – a few of them are described below, with photos.

We drove up into the mountains in sunshine, staying in a lodge with a huge elk head on the wall. (Gross!) Later, we played sardines – a version of hide-and-seek, squashing together in ridiculous places, trying not to laugh, until the last person found us all. We shared delicious meals and so much laughter, and then we congregated at Sapphire Point for the wedding, which was perfect in every way.

The next day, the snow came down and I whooped like the big kid I am. We threw snowballs, hiked in the mountains, fell over, laughed, looked out for bears and moose and other animals I was quite glad I didn’t encounter, although there were so many chipmunks.

We experienced the town of Boulder in Hallowe’en, where everyone was wearing fancy dress. I saw a mini Grim Reaper, a Chewbacca, a banana and quite a lot of giant dinosaurs. In the evening, the children came round, ‘trick-or-treating,’ and I greeted them all as an English witch, complete with hat and nails, and made a spell so that they’d get candy. I spoke Spanish to the Spanish speakers and French to one family. I had so much fun.

The people I met in Colorado were wonderful, with a great sense of humour. They talked readily and easily, happy to welcome strangers; they were ready with a smile.

I had a gorgeous time in the USA. Here are the photos to prove it.

 So, US readers, I think I know a little more about the American dream – it was fun to live it for ten days. I’ll be back.

Sending warmest wishes, always.  

J xx