Tacos and Denver Gardens

Magpies don't inhabit the eastern states, so we are fascinated by these loud and active birds. Related to Jays and Crows, these gregarious, showy, fliers are omnivores who don't appear to have a fear of humans. Beth has wanted me to get a photo of one for a while, and this Black Billed Magpie cooperated.

 While we were out exploring yesterday, the campground was hit with a thunder and hail storm. Our only damage was to the painter's tape we used to seal the top of the window. Luckily, the rain preceded the hail, so we didn't have any water in the van. After replacing the tape, we took hot showers before heading into town.

We drove into Denver to meet nephew Sean so he wouldn't have to drive out to the campground again. Sunday morning traffic wasn't bad at all. We parked in a historic residential area where there was nicely shaded on-street parking. Sean picked us up for lunch at Tacos, Tequila, and Whiskey. Eight kinds of salsa provided plenty of variety.

Sean dropped us back at the van. After thanks and good-byes, we walked to the Denver Botanical Gardens where we were admitted for free due to reciprocity with Duke Gardens back home. We weren’t alone since it was MasterCard Day.

Cast concrete and plexiglas make up the unique structure. Dedicated in 1966, this is the only conservatory in America made from cast in place concrete.

Not only were the gardens impressive, but sculptures placed throughout added interest.

Grey skies left us to imagine how this glass sculpture might look in the sunshine.

Winding paths through the oriental gardens provided a peaceful respite from the activity of downtown Denver. We learned that structures, like this one, in a Chinese garden are called Tings. "Ting" translates to "pause" in Chinese.

As the rumble of thunder moved closer, we left the flowers behind and headed back to the van. We made it just in time to stay dry. Enjoying a snack and a nap while it rained made us appreciate having a camper van.

Back at Cherry Creek State Park we visited the model airfield area to see, not airplanes, but a prairie dog town.

Always on the alert, this prairie dog was definitely watching us.

Smaller members of the family were learning the art of being a lookout from their elders.

This is our last night in the Denver area. Tomorrow we will head west.

Today's path.