Estes Park, CO-August 6, 2013

We took the day off today to celebrate our 37th anniversary. We drove to Estes Park which from here is a very long drive. From our previous home in Loveland it was a quick trip. The weather was great and traffic was light going to Estes Park. Coming back to Loveland the traffic was quite heavy. It was really crowded there and road construction made it a nightmare. But, it was a day away from it all. Our anniversary gift was a herd of Bighorn Sheep climbing on the rocks in the canyon. It is only the second time we have ever seen them. They are there everyday but the trick is to be there at the perfect time. Today we were lucky. Please bear with me while I share quite a few pictures.

They blend beautifully with the rocks they traverse. They were quite a

distance up the side of the mountain.

 

A little closer.

 

A young male and possibly one of his offspring.

 

This one appeared to be the leader of the herd. Still he is very young for such a job.

 

Adorable little baby.

 

Back on the road through the Big Thompson Canyon

The Big Thompson River

 

The river runs right through town. This bronze statue

was at a rest area. The cowboy is emptying water out of his boot.

 

 

At several spots throughout the city you can sit beside the water and relax.

 

 

Pretty butterfly having his lunch

 

 

The flowers everywhere in town were stunning.

 

What a nice day. We are so glad we had the opportunity to see Estes Park again. We have always liked to go there, but seldom find the time.