By the time we arrived on the Western Slope on Sunday afternoon, dinner was almost ready. Two hours later, we watched the sun set over the mesa.

Monday, we drove around looking at the sights and views of the surrounding areas. One place we visited was Ouray, a small tourist town with the local title of ‘Switzerland of America’ because craggy peaks surround it. Fall is a wonderful time to visit the Colorado mountains. The aspen stands pop with gold among the dark green of the various firs populating the mountainsides.

We left the Western Slope on Tuesday morning, picking up some fresh produce on our way out of town on Tuesday morning, then hit the rowdy road. The drive the rest of the way home offered more views of fall colors.

The pictures, of course, do not do the scenery justice.

We arrived on the outskirts of Denver at the beginning of rush hour (because, why not?). Instead of sitting on the interstate, we cut off and took one of the alternate routes north. I’m not sure it took any less time, but traffic kept moving at a steady pace—unlike the primary route.

The dogs were so excited when we got home, they both had the zoomies. They ran around the house (outside) and took forever to calm themselves. While they exhausted themselves, we unloaded the car, bringing in all the food items. After all, it is the season that bears are looking to stuff themselves with whatever they can find to eat.

We stayed home for the next two days, only sliding down the mountain to pick up the mail on Wednesday. It’s good to be home.