Starks One...Kansas Zero!

After a long restless night in Kansas City due to loud neighbors, we headed out to conquer Kansas Saturday. Needless to say, this leg of the trip was sponsored by Red Bull:-).

As this was my first trek across the great state of Kansas, the past comments from friends and family indicated this would be one long, boring ride. I must say, it was a total 360. We enjoyed the day as it was so much more different than any other landscape that I've ever crossed. I'm not saying that I want to drive that route over and over again, but it was definitely interesting. The massive field of power generating windmills was absolutely incredible. They are definitely a formidable force.

Jenny was extremely upset to find that all of the Stucky's that they used to visit and see mile after mile have closed down. I have to find her a pecan log soon, or she'll never get over it:-)

The kids were incredible troopers, and they have earned the "iron butt" award for some long hours of travel.

After crossing over into Colorado we eventually passed through Limon on 70 (where you typically see the Front Range and Pikes Peak for the first time). Unfortunate for us, it was extremely hazy and we could just barely make out Pikes Peak silhouette in the far distance. They became clearer and clearer as we approached Denver.

Our original plans for the evening were to camp in a State Park just South of Denver. Upon arriving we realized that it wasn't really camping, but more like sharing a small tract of grass with way too many other people.

A call to some long missed friends (Liesl and Chris with their children Maddie and John pictured) in Denver resulted in them insisting that we invade their basement for the evening. We graciously accepted their fine CO hospitality and had a phenomenal time hanging out on the front porch and catching up on ten years of lost time. They had one heck of a surprise awaiting our arrival! Fat Tire beer!!! Anybody that knows me understands that I will go to many extremes to get Fat Tire as it isn't sold on the east coast. We love you guys, and really had a great time!!! Thank you so much for coming to our rescue!!!

It is great to officially be in CO, and boy do we not miss the humidity!!! I would move out here in a minute!

The next leg of our trip will take us to visit relatives in Denver and then on into Estes Park for some beautiful hiking with the kids. We can't wait to be there. I can already smell the fresh dry air! Can you say altitude?

Over and out...