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  • 50 Cute Date Ideas in Colorado

    Here is a list of 50 cute date ideas to do in the Denver Area and surrounding area. I have categorized them in different genres such as nature & outdoors, arts & culture, community, and seasonal activities. I hope you find it helpful and please comment on things you have done or anything I have missed.

    Nature & Outdoors

    This is a short list of things we like to do outdoors, I plan on sharing specific post of things we have done and any tips for doing those attractions or activities.

    1. Hike at Garden of the Gods
      • In Colorado Springs, you only need to pay for parking. There are overflow parking lots. However, I highly recommended to go early to avoid the busy crowds. The rock formations are unique and lots of great photo opportunities. Be sure to follow trail etiquette. The trails are not too difficult, but wear comfortable shoes. Bonus: It is dog friendly. To save more money, bring your own water and snacks.
    2. Explore Rocky Mountain NP & Estes Park
      • Please note that RMNP is one busy park, depending onthe time of the year, you do need a timed entry parking pass (May 26-October 22). Please note that dogs are not allowed at National Parks. If you are visiting Colorado, please note that there is an elevation over 7500 feet. Be sure you have acclimated to the elevation and prepare yourself to prevent altitude sickness.
      • We personally have gone during the winter time which is beautiful and less crowded, just note that the Trail Ridge Road are closed due to the winter.
    3. Snowshoe at Brainard Lake
      • You do need a parking reservation to park in Brainard Lake Recreation Area. But there is no reservation required to park at the Gateway Trailhead. There is a day use fee if you enter via foot/bike.
    4. Picnic at Washington Park
      • Washington State Park is a 155 acre park with two lakes; I recommend going there early or later for easier parking
    5. Bike along the Cherry Creek Trail
      • A 24.6 mile trail out and back to Denver, it also connects to other trails if you are up for even a longer adventure. It is a great way to see Denver. You can start at Confluence Park, on the Platte River Trail and it allows you to see the center of Denver and see many local attractions.
    6. Hike at Chautauqua Park
      • Located in Boulder. This park is pronounced “shuh-TAW-kwuh” which describes the area at the foot of Boulder’s Flatirons. There are over 40 miles of hiking trails can be accessed. You do have to pay for parking.
    7. Watch a sunset at the Red Rocks Amphitheater
      • Be sure to check out Red Rocks schedule, you do not want to go there on a night where this is a concert
    8. Kayak/Paddle board at Chatfield Reservoir
      • Located in Littleton, this reservoir is a main attraction for a variety of water related activities. It is also dog friendly. There is an entrance fee and please note that the ramps are open seasonally.
    9. Hike the Manitou Incline
      • A great physical challenge of 2744 Steps in Manitou Springs. It can take people around 30 minutes – to 3 hours+ depending on your physical fitness. There are designated parking lots and free shuttles, just make sure to plan for extra time.
    10. Hike the Mayflower Gulch
      • Near Frisco, Colorado – It is one of our favorite hikes. It’s 6.4 miles out and back, we like doing this in the winter with our snowshoes and our dogs. Great views and there’s historic log cabins to see.
    11. Visit the Denver Art Museum (DAM)
      • You can check out the DAM on free days to really be budget friendly. It is free for kids under 18 years of age.
    12. Go to a first Friday Denver Art Walk
      • The First Friday Art Walks are a signature event of Denver’s Art District on Santa Fe. It happens all-year-round that happens on the first Friday of every Month from 5:30-9:30 p.m.
    13. Go to a free summer concert at Civic Center Park
      • In the summer there are free concerts, check out their website for the schedule
    14. Watch an outdoor movie
      • Denver, Morrison, Golden, Aurora and surrounding cities all have outdoor movie events in the Summer. Be sure to check out the local websites to find events
    15. Stroll through Denver Sculpture Park
      • Sculpture Park is an outdoor venue and public space at the edge of the Arts Complex. We recommend checking out this area when theres an event such as the Shakespeare Festival or workouts.
    16. Visit the Wings over the Rockies Air & Space Museum
      • This Air & Space Museum in the Lowry area in Denver, Colorado. It is an interesting museum because it features historic aircrafts and interactive/immersive exhibits. Discounts available for Military members/families.
    17. Go to the Tattered Cover Bookstore
      • Unfortunately, Barnes and Noble has recently purchased this local chain. It still is a great spot to stroll for a book or to just check out the atmosphere.
    18. Go to the Denver Botanical Gardens
      • There are some free days, with a military or student ID you can go with a discounted admission. You could also do a city pass or find a Groupon.
    19. Check out Mango House in Aurora
      • A unique shared space for refugees and asylees. There are some religious gatherings and events. We have gone there specifically for their restaurants.
    20. Check out the Museum of Contemporary Arts (MCA)
      • The MCA Denver rotates exhibitions every few months, so each visit is a unique experience. They also have a cafe & Bar is on the roof top, which provides great views of Denver. There is Happy Hour on Tuesday – Thursday.
    21. Participate in a community art project
    22. Go to a local gallery
    23. Go to a trivia night at a local bar/pub
      • Big fan of trivia, most bars/pubs have nights specific for Trivia
    24. Go to a local comedy show
    25. Go to a lecture or public talk
    26. Check out thrift & consignment shops
      • Denver has a great Thrift, Vintage and Consignment shop scene. Multiple areas with great shopping. I am a big fan of South Broadway.
    27. Go to a dance class
    28. Go to a sip-and-paint class
    29. Go to a DIY pottery class
    30. Volunteer at a local non-profit
      • Please note that most non-profit organizations require registration and onboarding prior to volunteering. However, most are pretty quick and some only require one member to do the training and can invite other people when you volunteer.
    31. Visit a christmas market
    32. Go ice skating at skyline park or at evergreen
    33. Snowshoe in Leadville to Tennessee Pass Cookhouse
    34. Do a winter drive
      • Just be sure to be prepared for the roads depending on the time of the year. If you come during the winter time, be sure to have a reliable car, winter tires/snow chains
    35. See the holiday lights at the Denver Botanic Gardens
    36. Check out the Christmas lights at the Arapahoe County Fairgrounds
    37. See the ice castles in Cripple Creek
    38. See the ice sculptures in Breckenridge
    39. Go tubing at ECHO Mountain
    40. Go to a hot spring
    41. Do a free walking tour of downtown denver
    42. Stroll through different neighborhoods of denver (highlands, LOHI, etc.)
    43. Go to a local farmers market
    44. Drive a scenic byway drive (many in co)
      • Driving through the scenic byways is breathtaking – however, not for the faint of heart – have a person who is confident driving off mountain ledges and canyons
        • Alpine Loop
        • Guanella Pass
        • Mount Blue Sky (aka Mt Evan’s) Byway
        • Peak to Peak
    45. Do the Denver Beer Trail
    46. Pedal boat ride at City Park
    47. Check out free Jazz concert at City Park
    48. Check out the peach festivals (Lafayette, Palisade, or Fort Collins)
      • Peaches are serious in Colorado. Something we learned real quick! Palisade Peaches are delicious and worth checking out the festivals in August. If you can go to Palisade, we highly recommend it. However, if you do not want to do the longer drive: Fort Collins or Lafayette offer a great festival as well.
    49. Camp at a state park
      • Lots of options for a variety of camping. Colorado has RMNP, many state parks and national forests. This allows to have a mix of developed campgrounds and dispersed camping options. Some require reservation and some are first-come-first-serve, so plan accordingly.
    50. Go mountain biking or road biking on many of Colorado’s trails
      • Colorado has so much to offer for mountain bike trails for novice to expert. My husband’s skills are much more advanced than mine – but there are a lot out there that can suit all skill levels. His specific favorite is Buffalo Creek State Park. Boreal Pass in Breckenridge is beginner friendly. Most of the ski mountains are open in the summer for mountain biking. If mountain biking is not your speed, there are also great gravel trails and road biking. One trail we frequent is Waterton Canyon Trail.

    We truly love what Colorado has to offer in terms of variety. Get out there and try a new experience with your partner. Happy exploring.

    Biking in Waterton Canyon Trailhead (near Chatfield State Park)

  • Top 25 Valentine’s Day Gifts for Husbands/Boyfriends/SO

    Shopping for the perfect gift for my husband, a 45+-year-old with a diverse range of hobbies, can be quite a challenge. As an outdoorsman and coffee aficionado with many interests, he often purchases technical gear before I have a chance to surprise him. However, through our years together, I’ve discovered several items that he truly loves and appreciates. In this curated list, I share some of the most successful gifts I’ve given him, perfect for those seeking inspiration for the outdoorsy, coffee-loving partners in their lives.

    If you’re struggling to find the perfect gift for the special person in your life, who seems to have an endless array of hobbies and interests, I hope this curated list of gift ideas proves helpful. With options ranging from $15 to $300+, there’s something here to suit any budget. Don’t be discouraged by their diverse interests—embrace them, and use this guide to find a gift that will not only surprise but also delight them.

    1. Kalita Coffee Dripper
      Kalita Coffee Dripper
      If your partner is a coffee snob who demands only the best cup of Joe, and a regular drip coffee machine just doesn’t cut it or an expresso machine isn’t an option, consider the Kalita coffee dripper. My husband is a big fan of this particular dripper, it does require the use of a filter (we use compostable filters to reduce our environmental impact). When paired with the right Eans (we prefer locally roasted, small batch beans), you’ll end up with a great cup of coffee! ($15)
    2. Karma Coffee Beans
      Karma Coffee
      We discovered this small-batch roaster when we were living in Massachusetts. They are located in Sudbury, MA, and I highly recommend stop by if you are in the area. Plus, they ship their beans all over the US, so you can still enjoy their coffee no matter where you live. Our favorite beans are the Expresso Karma, which produce a rich cream that we just can’t get enough of. Even though we no longer live in MA, we still order their beans whenever we’re feeling nostalgic for our time there. ($20)
    3. I Love You “almost” as much as my expresso machine Coffee Mug
      Expresso Machine Mug
      This mug is an ode to my husband’s love for his espresso machine. He’s truly invested in his espresso hobby, acquiring all the necessary accessories. When we travel, he’s always most excited to return home to his beloved espresso machine, so much so that I jokingly say he loves it more than he loves me! 😂 If your partner shares the same passion for their espresso machine, you can find this mug on my Etsy shop ($15)
    4. Belkin apple AirTag Secure Wallet Insert
      Belkin Apple AirTag Secure Wallet Insert
      This product has been a game-changer for my husband, who has ADHD and frequently misplaces his keys and wallet. Thanks to this item, we’ve been able to locate his misplaced wallet numerous times, saving us from the frustration and worry. I highly recommend this two-pack item, as it’s been helpful for both my husband and I.($12)
    5. National Geographic Secrets of the National Parks
      National Geographic Secrets of the National Parks
      I’m a huge fan of National Geographic, and this book is fantastic for discovering off-the-beaten-path trails and hidden gems in the National Parks. As a former Park Ranger in Glacier National Park, my husband is especially appreciative of anything related to the National Parks, but this book is a great resource for anyone who loves exploring these natural wonders. Filled with beautiful photos, maps, and expert advice from rangers, park managers, and frequent visitors, this book will help you plan your next adventure beyond the typical tourist spots.($20)
    6. Cuisinart Burger Press
      Cuisinart Burger Press
      Living in Colorado with an abundance of locally sourced beef and bison, my husband loves using this burger press to make his own ‘smashed’ burgers. It’s perfect for camping, grilling, and even cooking on our trusty cast iron skillet. Plus, it’s a great way to encourage your partner to cook more often (fingers crossed!). The heavy-duty construction and easy-to-clean design make this press a winner in our book, and we highly recommend it for anyone who loves delicious, homemade burgers.($20).
    7. Darn Tough Socks
      Darn tough Vermont sunset ridge crew sock
      If your special someone loves the outdoors, they’ll adore these high-quality Darn Tough socks, crafted in the beautiful state of Vermont, USA. As a fellow Vermont enthusiast, I can’t recommend these socks and the state enough! Made with premium materials and exceptional craftsmanship, these socks are perfect for hiking, skiing, or any outdoor adventure. With a variety of designs, colors, and weights to choose from, there’s a perfect pair for every season. Plus, they’re so well-made that they come with a lifetime guarantee! ($25)
    8. Salt & Stone Natural Deodorant
      Salt and Stone Deodorant
      I gifted my husband a Salt & Stone deodorant as a stocking stuffer last Christmas, and he absolutely loves it! Unlike many traditional men’s deodorants, the scent isn’t overpowering, and all the fragrances are unisex. Plus, it’s free of aluminum and parabens, which is a huge bonus. I got him the Bergamot & Hinoki scent, but they have several other amazing options too. It was a thoughtful gift that also helped put an end to his habit of borrowing my deodorant! ($18)
    9. AllTrails +
      AllTrails App
      The AllTrails+ subscription app is an excellent gift for the outdoor enthusiast in your life. One of its standout features is the ability to download maps and trails for offline use, which is especially handy when exploring areas with poor cellular coverage. And if the gift recipient happens to be tech-savvy, they can even download these maps to their wearable devices, making it even more convenient and accessible on the go. ($36)
    10. The Food Lab – Better Home Cooking Through Science
      The Food Lab
      The Food Lab is an outstanding cookbook for anyone who appreciates the intersection of science, food, and chemistry. My husband particularly enjoys J. Kenji López-Alt’s attention to detail in each recipe. Thanks to this book, he has mastered the art of making the perfect poached egg! If you’re looking to deepen your understanding of the science behind cooking while enjoying delicious meals, this cookbook is an excellent choice. ($32)
    11. The Art of Mixology: Classic Cocktails and Curious Concoctions
      The Art of Mixology
      The Art of Mixology is a fantastic book that I purchased for my partner, Andy, when he first began expressing interest in creating cocktails. It’s an easy-to-read collection of recipes that cater to all levels of bartending and mixology skills. Not only has it helped Andy develop his bartending abilities, but it has also introduced us to a wide variety of delicious cocktails that we’ve enjoyed making together. ($9)
    12. OXO 6-piece Barware Set
      OXO Barware 6 piece set
      The OXO barware set is a fantastic choice for both amateur and experienced bartenders alike. Made of high-quality stainless steel, this set is not only durable but also has a sense of style that complements any home bar setup. As my husband developed a passion for creating boozy drinks, particularly Negronis, during the COVID-19 pandemic, this gift proved to be an excellent addition to his bartending arsenal. The OXO brand has always been a reliable choice for top-notch kitchen tools, and their barware set is no exception.($70).
    13. Bellroy Slim Leather Bifold Wallet
      Bellboy Hide and Seek Wallet (slim bifold)
      The Bellroy Slim Bifold wallet is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a sleek, high-quality wallet. Its slim profile ensures it remains compact even when filled with cards. For those who, like my husband, have a tendency to misplace their wallets, an AirTag holder can be a practical addition. I got my husband the Belkin Apple AirTag Secure Wallet Insert, which can easily fit in the wallet, making it easy to track its location. The combination of the Bellroy Slim Bifold wallet and an AirTag holder provides both style and functionality.($90)
    14. Apple AirTags
      apple air tags x4
      The Apple AirTag 4 pack is a game-changer when it comes to keeping track of your belongings and even your pets! Not only are they great for tracking keys and other personal items, but they have also proven incredibly useful in locating my adventurous husky when he decides to explore a little too far from home. The AirTags are also perfect for those who tend to be forgetful or have forgetful family members. In short, the Apple AirTag 4 pack offers peace of mind and practicality in a compact package. ($70)
    15. Leatherman Skeletool DX Tool
      Leatherman Skeletool CX
      The Leatherman Skeletool DX is the perfect everyday carry tool, combining functionality with a sleek, lightweight design. Weighing just 7 oz, it’s easy to carry and use for a wide range of tasks. Leatherman’s reputation for quality and their outstanding warranty give you confidence in your purchase. My husband uses his Skeletool DX as an everyday tool and finds it invaluable for hiking, camping, and other outdoor adventures. If you’re looking for a reliable, versatile tool that won’t weigh you down, the Leatherman Skeletool DX is an excellent choice.($90)
    16. Lululemon Vent Tech Short-Sleeve Shirt
      Lululemon VentTech Shirt
      The Lululemon Vent Tech shirt is a high-quality workout shirt that combines comfort and performance. With a price tag of $78 USD, it may be on the higher end, but you can often find certain colors on sale for a more affordable option. My husband has several of these shirts and absolutely loves them. Made with breathable, moisture-wicking fabric, the Vent Tech shirt is ideal for workouts or as a base layer. If you’re looking for a top-notch performance shirt, the Lululemon Vent Tech is worth considering. ($78)
    17. Outdoor Research Vigor Full Zip Hoodie
      Outdoor Research Vigor Full Zip Hoodie in Grove
      This is a top choice for anyone seeking a versatile, high-performance midlayer. My husband owns two and wears them frequently for outdoor activities, thanks to their excellent thermoregulation, wicking, and breathability. The hoodie’s ActiveTemp technology rivals Patagonia’s R1 technology at a more affordable price point. With features like integrated thumb loops, a zippered chest pocket, and strategically placed hand pockets, the Vigor Full Zip Hoodie is a great investment for outdoor enthusiasts. ($72)
    18. Outdoor Research Helium Down Vest
      Outdoor Research Helium Vest
      The Outdoor Research Helium Down Vest is a must-have for anyone living in colder climates, like Colorado. This vest has become one of my husband’s favorite layering pieces and is an essential item in our wardrobe. Filled with warm, lightweight down, this vest is both cozy and durable. I love it so much that I often borrow it to layer over my sweater when walking the dogs on chilly days. If you’re looking for a versatile, high-quality down vest, the Helium is an excellent choice. ($125)
    19. Marshall Emberton Bluetooth Portable Speaker
      Marshall Emberton Portable Speaker
      I already had a Marshall Action speaker, and my husband was always impressed with its sound quality. He frequently borrowed it from me to use in his office. To solve this dilemma, I purchased the Marshall Emberton, a portable model perfect for his outdoor and garage work sessions. This speaker boasts an impressively long battery life on a single charge and is incredibly easy to use. The Marshall Emberton is a fantastic choice for anyone who appreciates high-quality sound in a compact, portable package. ($125)
    20. Patagonia Houdini Full-Zip Jacket
      Patagonia Houdini Jacket in Pine Needle Green
      The Patagonia Houdini Full-Zip Jacket is a versatile, lightweight, and packable shell that’s ideal for various outdoor activities. It has protected us from unpredictable weather and served as a trusty windbreaker during our adventures. We often pair it with a breathable fleece for extra warmth while hiking, and the fact that it packs into its pocket makes it perfect for travel. As one of our most cherished pieces of gear, we highly recommend this jacket to anyone seeking a high-quality, reliable shell. ($109)
    21. Patagonia Black Hole Duffel
      Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 55L
      It’s clear that Patagonia’s Black Hole Duffel is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts, and for good reason! We’ve owned the 55L version for years and have been continually impressed by its versatility and durability. From weekend getaways to camping trips, this duffel can handle it all. With various sizes available, we find the 55L to be the perfect balance of capacity and portability. As loyal Patagonia fans, we highly recommend the Black Hole Duffel to anyone seeking a reliable, high-quality bag for their adventures. ($170)
    22. MSR EVO Snowshoes
      MSR Snowshoes
      My husband is an avid winter hiker and snowshoer, and his first experience with MSR EVO Snowshoes over a decade ago made him a loyal fan. Since moving to Colorado from New England, we knew we had to upgrade our gear, and staying with the MSR brand was a no-brainer. These snowshoes are incredibly lightweight and easy to use, with a seamless closure system. Plus, their USA-made quality ensures they’ll last through years of adventures. If you’re in the market for reliable, high-performance snowshoes, look no further than the MSR EVO Snowshoes. ($170)
    23. Big Agnes Big Six Camp Chair
      Big Agnes Camping Chair
      Big Agnes, a Colorado-based company known for producing durable and reliable outdoor equipment, has created the perfect camp chair with the Big 6. Its deep seat offers excellent comfort, while its lightweight and packable design makes it an essential item for any camping trip. We take it everywhere. Whether you’re car camping or backpacking, the Big Agnes Big 6 Camp Chair is a top choice for anyone seeking a blend of relaxation and portability. ($150).
    24. Gregory Quadro Hardcase 22 Luggage
      Gregory Hard Case
      This luggage is a top-notch carry-on for air travel. One of its most appreciated features is a dedicated compartment for dirty laundry, making it perfect for our adventure-filled trips. Additionally, the smooth, multi-directional wheels make it easy to transport and durable hardshell exterior ensure your belongings stay protected. If you’re in search of a reliable, feature-packed carry-on, the Gregory Quadro Hardcase Luggage is an excellent choice.( $250)
    25. Coros Apex 2 GPS Outdoor Watch
      Coros Apex 2 Watch
      This is my husbands favorite gift/item of all time. The Coros Apex 2 GPS Outdoor Watch is an outstanding multi-sport watch that caters to a wide range of activities, including hiking, trail running, biking, and backcountry split-boarding. Its most impressive feature is the remarkable battery life, lasting nearly 30 days on a single charge. Despite its extensive use in various outdoor activities, the sapphire screen remains scratch-free. When compared to other GPS watches in the same price range, like the Garmin Forerunner, the Coros Apex 2 stands out with its superior GPS accuracy, making it a reliable choice for exploring new locations and venturing into the backcountry. ($350)

    I truly hope this list has provided you with inspiration and ideas for finding the perfect gift for your outdoorsy partner. Don’t hesitate to share this guide with others who may find it useful, or leave a comment if you have any thoughts or feedback on the items I’ve suggested. Together, let’s make the gift-giving experience a little bit easier and a whole lot more enjoyable!

    Disclaimer: Please note that, like many websites, I may use affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. However, I assure you that affiliate partnerships do not influence the content of my reviews or stories, as my main focus is providing you with valuable and honest content. All items mentioned are chosen based on their merit, and prices are accurate as of the publication date of each post.

  • Hello world!

    Welcome to my little corner of the internet. Thank you for being here. I am just starting this blog, please be patient with me.

    This space is going to be all about sharing the ups and downs of my daily life and personal lessons I have learned along the way, and provide some tips that hopefully would be helpful for others.

    I also love home decor, fashion, DIY projects, organization, travel, food and pets. Whether you are looking for some inspiration, practical tips, resources, or just a relatable story, I am so glad you are here.

    Learn more about me in the bio section.

    Please visit again as I build on this blog and check out my Etsy Shop for digital goodies.

This is how it all started…

Welcome to my little corner of the internet! This space is all about sharing the ups and downs of daily life, personal lessons I’ve learned along the way, and advice that’s helped me grow.

I have am a first generation Asian immigrant who moved to the USA from Canada to pursue a second career as a nurse. My life has brought me to Toronto, Boston and now Colorado. From being an international student, new grad nurse, a DIY-er, wife, IVF warrior, and proud pet momma.

I wish share some personal challenges and tips for the experiences I have endured, in hopes it helps others in similar difficult times.

I will dive into my personal interests of home decor, DIY projects, my own digital content, and some fashion. Whether you are looking for some inspiration, practical tips, or just a relatable story. I am so glad you are here!

Ruthie S

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