The Denver Do: Golden Days

Overview: This edition of the "Denver Do" takes you to the gorgeous Golden, Colorado. While it's most fun on warm days (which means year-round in Colorado), there are also indoor options. It is possible to take the new lightrail line to Golden, but I'm not super familiar with that route. This is an excellent solo or partner trip!
Expected Cost: Gas or lightrail to Golden= ~$5; Museum tour, Farmers Market or hike= free; lumch or dinner = ~$10-$20.
Solo Savvy?: Absolutely! But it's also fun with 1-2 friends. The trail is thin and a bit packed, so I wouldn't recommend more than that. (It's an awesome date...)
Expected Time: 2-4 hours, depending on the agenda you choose.
Requirements: $5 to pay for lightrail plus willingness to research the bus schedule from the lightrail into Golden. Or a vehicle.
The Do: Get yourself to Main Street Golden (Washington). Head North past all of the shops and across the river until you reach 10th Street. Now, you must decide your agenda. Take a look to your West, above the mountains: Do you see rain in the forecast? Lick your pointer finger and stick it up above your head. Is the temperature moderate? Take note of your belly (are you hungry?) and your legs (do they want to work?). Using these very scientific calibrations, choose your fire: Hiking the Chimney Gulch and Lookout Mountain Trails or visiting the Golden History Museum.
If you chose to hike, drive past the library on your left into the Lions Park parking lot. Park for free in front of the baseball fields. Suit up and head West along the river. In summer you will see all the people tubing and rafting (FYI, that's another super-fun way to spend a day). Continue along the river until you come to a bridge; cross the bridge; go right onto the trail at the "Chimney Gulch" trailhead begin your hike. You will cross Lookout Mountain Road a few times and eventually pop out at a gorgeous scenic spot halfway up the mountain. Choose to end your hike here or continue to the top of the Lookout Mountain (there's port-a-potties). There is a restroom, general store, and picnic spots at the top; feel free to ignore the meal plans below and make this your final destination! Also note that Golden has a fantastic Farmer's Market on Saturdays in the Library parking lot, perfect for lunch purchases.
If you chose to visit the Golden History Museum, turn right off Washington Street. The museum is directly on your left. There are many layers to the museum, some of which are free and some of which have a price. See here: http://www.goldenhistory.org/. It's chock-full of hiking folklore. In researching this "Do" I also noticed that there's a Quilt Museum across the street. I presume that might be fascinating, as well, and recommend adding that to your tour.
When you are finished with your hike/tour, walk South along Washington. Feel free to stop by the cute stores, hang out on the bridge over the river, and partake in general merry-making. Eventually, you will come to the Table Mountain Inn on your right. This is my first recommendation for food especially if it's nice out. Sit on the front patio, get the salmon salad and a drink (they've got a phenomenal red-blend), and people-watch. If you're on a budget and have time to wait, I would also suggest ordering the self-serve salad bar at Woody's Wood-Fired pizza across the street. It's one of the few salad bars you can still find in the city and a good one at that! Just beware that I've never been to Woody's and NOT had to wait, so if you're tuckered from your hike/tour, this might make you feel "hangry" (hungry-angry).
Congrats! You've done another do! Now go home and chill out, or partake in my next adventure: Red Rocks for Locals.

Timefullness

David Addor, my timefull friend // Over dinner the other night, my little sisters came to the shocking realization that I will be turning 25 in just a few months. As if their own 13 and 16 years were nothing to balk at. "25?!" they screeched (why can't girl's go through the voice-changing cycle like boys, by the way?). Where had time gone? // Eventually, the conversation turned to the Historic Elitches Theatre, the most recent community-building, non-profit board-serving my parents have undertaken. The Elitches Theatre (located on Tennyson Street in Highlands) is raising money for a re-vamp by showing bi-weekly films featuring the "timeless" movies and characters of the past. As viewers sigh over the images of late, remembering the stars they can remember like their own Auntie Lee, many of them murmur, "Oh, to be timeless..." // That statement got me thinking, though. Looking over my nearly-25 years of time, I have begun to think that I really don't want to be timeless. What does "timeless" mean, anyway? It means you stick in the ages, so to speak. You find that point, the ultimate plateau, and never rise past it. You are immortalized forever as that moment in which you were great, or horrible, but so utterly YOU that nothing was ever before it and nothing was ever after it. Timeless isn't human. // Unless you're blue and in Avatar (please call me if you are), we're all human. So why strive to be timeless? Why not, much more sensically, embrace being timefull? // I want to be timefull. I want to die so timefull that I don't have a grain of sand left in my soul. When I look at my nearly-25 years, I see so much time- and I feel grateful. My body, my mind, my surroundings, the things my eyes allow me to see- all are a testament of my time. My long nails? Time won against biting them. A casual walk to the store with my sisters? Time developing our relationship. The scar on my leg? That time I cheated in hide-and-seek and suffered immediate karma (I fell off a metal desk in off-limits land). My hesitation to commitment? That time called "2011" and the times when, even now, I miss an ex. // What about my future? I invest in my Roth IRA so that I can have a timefull retirement. What about this blog? A testament to trail runs, sleep, and detox after a July timefull of parties. // Why would I want to freeze? How could I ignore what's been melted? How dare I hope this moment never ends! Because I know that time-well-spent NOW illustrates time-well-spent YESTERDAY, and leads to time-well-spent SOON. Of course, time always brings woe. Yet hoping for timelesness only perpetuates the inability to deal with imperfection. So why not live timefully, in whatever way time presents? // Cheers, to timefullness!

Emily, William, Ariel, and Grace

The first time I became aware of the pervasiveness of my name was during middle school registration. My mom and I shuffled up to the sign-in table, where we were required to fill my name on several forms. I was then granted numerical identifiers to log my existence in miscellaneous Excel tracking mechanisms. People like Antoinette DeGeorge weren't requested to enter their middle initial and received identifiers like "ad1." As I proudly penned "Stewart, Emily" into the appropriate boxes, the administrator cooed, "Oh, we're definitely going to need at least a middle initial. Actually, can you enter your full middle name? There's just so many Emilys..." I gave her a blank stare. Who knew my Mom? My numerical differentiators looked more like an equation than a value: "101988emilyes" or "23456estewart" or "e2s5t6." That was because Emily Williams was in my homeroom, and Emily Johnson was in biology, and Emily Margaret Stewart was in 8th grade and on my soccer team, and my best friend was Emily Norton.
After so many flowers delivered to the wrong Emily (what a let-down) and responding to people not calling to me (also a let-down), I've toyed with the idea of another name. In college I often told annoying frat boys that my name was Esmerelda; that was fun, until I actually started to like one of them. He kept taking Esmerelda on dates- I got jealous. On my resume and my email address I list myself as "Emily Tonelli Stewart" and "Emily Elizabeth Stewart," hoping for a memorable boost. But the name I most desire in these last few weeks is actually less of an identifier and more of a reference tool, an actionable reminder: Grace.
The last three weeks have tested my grace. It is important to note that the assumptive corollary to that statement- "Emily possesses grace"- is not necessarily correct. I've had car failure, bed bugs, needy South American colleagues, resigning bosses, and the death of a person dear to my heart. I've been in the car a lot (my LEAST graceful sphere) and felt guilty a lot (it's hard to act graceful when one's conscience squirms). I just keep trying to remember to act gracefully and find myself doing the exact opposite. Maybe if my name was Grace it would be easier to remember; every one of those fumigation notices and South American emails and rental car receipts would also remind me to act with some poise. Of course, there are other names that might help me weather the tempest, and a good investigator eliminates all options before theorizing. Shall we examine other appellations?
It's become popular for parents to name their children after impressive dead people, like Napoleon and William (the Conquerer) and Alexander (the Great). This isn't such a bad idea. It would remind me to approach each wave with a weapon and a strategy. It would allow me to overcome enemies and create empires. But, it would entail lots of marching, trampling and blood-letting. I'm pretty good at that already. I think developing and nurturing relationships, rather than conquering and imposing, is a better course of action at this point.
I could be "Caressa." That kind of sounds like "caress," which would mean approaching my life in the same way someone frosts a cupcake. Except "caress" is defined as "light touch," and from the moment I was born I was more of a "wrecking-ball touch" kind of gal. Let's stick to something a little more realistic?
I could be "Mary," but when the going got tough she just threw her hands up and said (quite literally), "What the hell!" I could be "Margaret (Thatcher)," moral and just, but then she was pretty much miserable to live with by the end of it all. I am determined to be less difficult than that! I could be "Ariel" of the "The Little Mermaid" fame, but I want to use my fins for swimming rather than trying to re-constitute my resources into something they are not. Plus, she did it all for some dude. *Boring*
So, after a brief albeit inclusive study, I think Grace is the name I want to live. "Grace" doesn't signify that wild issues won't come my way. "Grace" doesn't mean that uncomfortable situations and tough decisions won't dot the landscape of my being. "Grace" doesn't mean that I have to smile through them, either. To me, "grace" sounds a little like "serenity." The serenity prayer states, "God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference." Another "graceful" idiom is, "You are the impression you leave on others." Grace is taking those obstacles with a curios eye. It is observing my reactions to them and giving myself 20 minutes to sit in them. Grace is trying to relax my face as I stomp through my office. Grace is not "crusty," "rash," or "disjointed." Grace isn't a temper-tantrum to my mom on the phone "because she'll love my anyway." Grace is the question, "Okay...I see...what now?" And Grace is the answer, "Let's have a snack and think about it." Tea-time, anyone?
Sincerely, Em[Grace]ily

Denver Do: Better with Age on Broadway

Overview: This edition of the Denver Do is all about the lesser-known sections of Broadway's wacky-and-weird. You can use any means of transportation to get there and can continue to explore the area to your desire and time limitations.
Expected Cost: $10 for food @ the bakery; optional vintage shopping
Solo Savvy?: Absolutely! But, the antique shop begs discussion.
Expected Time: 1.5 hours (unless you try clothes on)
Requirements: Some form of mechanical transportation because this section of Broadway is south past "SoBro." It's actually parallel to the South Pearl District, so it's a bit of a jaunt. I would recommend a bike, car, or "0" bus RTD bus.
The Do: This edition of the Do starts at Packrat Antiques, an antique store located on Broadway and Iowa. If you bike, take Logan Street. A lot of the those quieter neighborhood roads end at i25 (or just get funky) but Logan goes all the way through. Turn right (west) onto Iowa and it's a few more blocks to Broadway.
I have no idea how I first found Packrat Antiques, but I am ever-so-glad that I did! This place is one of the most eccentric antique shops in a section of Broadway full of eccentric antique shops. It's basically a museum of creepy old stuff run by an equally creepy old couple who I don't believe actually sell anything. The gnome/ owner in the back-right corner is well-camouflaged by his paper, beware. I have no idea what kind of antiques he's guarding because I refrain from going near, but you should grow a pair and go back there. It's probably good.
Treat this place like an art collection and be prepared to spend a solid amount of time there. You will encounter antiques from every type of American population including (and not limited to) medical devices, skeletons, weapons, pictures, metal-works, and more. Take your time to examine all sections. But use only your mind to explore; you may have your head chopped by a Civil War-era sword if you do so much as take a out your iPhone. The old couple acts as if you don't exist until you take a picture, at which point you will be summarily removed from the premise.
After you've developed a winter's-worth of goose bumps, use your feet or mechanical transport to travel four blocks further south to Regal Vintage. This is my absolute favorite vintage shop in Denver. While it can be a bit overpriced it's got a fantastic collection. The guys who run it are either lovers or brothers (TaTU, anyone?!). They may seem a bit stand-offish at first but start purring over their hand-chosen collection and they'll be your best friend. Make friends because they are often willing to negotiate on prices, especially if you buy more than one item.
Keep in mind as you explore this store: before it was Regal it was another, much weirder vintage place owned by a man obsessed with aliens. The front was actually "a front" because the back was filled with his wacky alien paraphernalia. If you shopped for longer than 15 minutes he and his homeless friend would tell you conspiracy theories. So, imagine that you have an aluminum hat from the movie Signs and you should be alright.
Feel free to keep exploring this unique area, but the final portion of this Do takes you back north for a stop by the Buffalo Doughboy Bakery. On your way there, take note of the Black Crown Lounge between Arkansas and Florida. I've heard rave reviews of this gay-friendly antique store/ bar/ music venue. Grab a schedule of the live music and invite me to join when you go!
The Buffalo Doughboy Bakery is owned by a very nice couple with a taste for all things pastry. They offer smoothies, paninis, salads and more, but their pastries are the crux of the place. Located on the corner of Louisiana, the building is instantly recognizable with it's yellow-and-purple exterior. Seating is limited but the place isn't usually full. It's a relaxing joint, so bring a book if you're solo. I'd recommend ordering one of the savory pastries (I ordered a divine spinach-something once) and a coffee. Be sure to check the hours, though, because this place is a typical bakery with awkward open/closing times.
Congrats: you've done another Do! Thanks for joining. As always, feel free to provide your feedback and suggestions! Next up: Abusing Your (Core)Power.

Background to the Denver Do

Hello, all! I wanted to offer a brief explanation of my following post. I've spent many-a-year poor, curious and hyper in Denver. I've come to find out about all sorts of cheap outings in the city and explored many of them alone. Denver is growing so quickly that I feel like the majority of my friends are young transplants. In effort to help them get to know their city and aware of the economic burden of moving to a new city, I recommended different outings to anyone who seemed interested. A lot of them told me how much they appreciate my ideas, using them for dates or random free-time. After enough positive feedback, I've decided create a column that details these outings. It's called the Denver Do. // To qualify as a Do, there are a few requirements. First, it's got to be a 1-3 hour outing that involves some sort of activity and food/ drinks. Second, it must be appropriate for solo explorers or groups. Third, the whole thing has to cost less than $50. Finally, it's got to be within driving distance of the Denver-metro area. Each Do will have a short synopsis at the beginning that quickly details such variables; then, the description offers specifics and advice. // Please provide me with feedback on this series! If it takes off, I hope to publish it in local periodicals. Of course, let me know if you have any fodder for further Do, too!

The Denver Do: Wash in the Morning

Overview: In this edition of the Denver Do, I take you to brunch and a walk in the park! This is an especially cheap and solo-friendly "Do." // Expected Cost: $10-$15 for breakfast // Solo-Savvy?: Yes // Expected Time: 2 hours // Requirements: Walking shoes, reading materials (if solo), sunglasses // The Do: One of the most popular brunch spots in the city is called Devil's Food. It's on Old South Gaylord Street, which is just East of Washington Park. OSGS is a darling neighborhood spot and Devil's Food is one of it's most popular joints. You can expect to wait upwards of an hour for weekend brunch. Try to go sometime when you have time/ patience to wait. But (if you're like me) when you're hungry you get h-angry. So skip Devil's Food and continue south on Gaylord Street to Mississippi. Turn left and enter The Local, one of my favorite brunch spots in the city! // The Local is a diner with bar-stool seats and comfy booths. If you're alone, choose a spot at the bar and pull out your book. There is usually another solo-diner, though, and it's often a TRF (Totally Rad Female). Chat, if you'd like! If you require more than a single seat, keep in mind that most people in the joint are very friendly. Ask to share tables with others- the servers won't mind! // As soon as you've marked your grounds, hop right up to the self-service coffee station at the far end of the bar. If you're into home-made breakfast breads, check out today's options in the display at front. // You won't have to wait long for service, but even if you do, the coffee should hold you over. If you're starving, definitely go for the breakfast burrito: it's massive, you can choose your chili. I've personally watched two TRFs devour the whole thing. I would also suggest the vegetarian breakfast sandwich, which is on the lighter side and refreshing. Finally, the breakfast tacos are a delicious take on an old-faithful, but be sure to request that they be wrapped in two corn tortillas or ask for flour torts. A single corn tortilla disintegrates. Try both red and green salsa, made by The Local and delicious. // After brunch, wander back up OSGS. Turn left whenever you'd like and make your way to Wash Park. Once you get there, the next hour or so is yours. I would recommend walking into the paved inside track. This is just under 2 miles around and takes you past the old buildings, lakes, ducks, and other sportsters. If you want a quiet, relaxing stroll, I wouldn't recommend going during the weekend in summer: it will be packed with beer-guzzling volley-ball playing young people. Do go during summer weekends if you want to people watch and meet hot young Denver-ites, though! Still, there are always open, friendly and interesting people at Wash. Ask to pet dogs, stop to chat with the tennis players on the South end or chase the hotties running by. // Stop by the boathouse at the top of the Northern lake. This is the headquarters for the Volunteers of Outdoor Colorado (VOC). They host all sorts of fun outdoor volunteer opportunities. Grab a schedule or sign up for their next event! // You may have worked up an appetite in all of your strolling, especially if you stopped to talk to any of the other sexy/ colorful characters there. For a final treat, I'd recommend stopping by Devil's Food and ordering a cinnamon bun/ muffin at their cafe portion of the restaurant. Ask them to heat the bun for you and eat on a bench outside. It's the perfect outwardly-crusty, inwardly-gooey mid-afternoon snack. Don't worry: it's organic so it's "healthy." // That finalizes this edition ("Wash in the Morning") of the Denver Do! Next: Chillin' with the gnomies on OSG."