Opening Day 2026

Half Marathon Training

Peer pressure got the best of us and we all committed to running the Colfax Half. In this photo, we ran 8 miles down the Bear Creek Trail and landed at the Buffalo Wild Wings to catch some March Madness games.

Coaching Clinic

In early April, I got to nerd-out with some fellow coaches from CHSAA. It was inspiring to be with like-minded people who share a passion for not only the sport, but also a passion for the art of teaching the sport.

Waterton Canyon

My cousins and I had the bright idea to run our six miles at the start of the Colorado Trail. It was a steady incline the whole way up and it kicked our butts; however, we did get in some great views, watching the fly-fishers, and saw some mountain goats.

Mid-Run Fun

Right before we hit Sloans lake, we had to hit a selfie with the crew. This was from our 10 mile run. We landed at a random Brunch spot in the Northside and things quickly got rowdy.

Post-Run Bottomless Mimosas

After our run from Lakewood to the Northside, we spent a couple hours resting and hydrating.

Our Designated Driver

She saved the day and escorted us home in her 1971 Monte Carlo.

Senior Volleyball Game

One of my EL students plays boys volleyball for a neighboring school, and he invited me to his last game before graduation.

I was happy to be there as he has been such an inspiration to me as a teacher. Three years ago he joined my program only speaking Spanish, but now, he is proudly bi-lingual and is a leader in the school and he is headed to college. I am so so proud of him and he has inspired me to continue to push past my own comfort zones.

Welcome Gift

I accepted a new job opportunity and I had the pleasure of meeting with my new staff. It felt so productive, mission-driven, and professional. The warmth was palpable and I felt recognized for my own expertise and vision. I am excited for this new chapter.

Disengaging the Rear Axle

My dad knows so much...and is so patient. I've graduated from "hold the flashlight" to an active hand....but I have so much more to learn.

Taking my Baby to the Shop

She's got a leak coming from the main seal. Sadly, we do not have a cherry picker, so....we gotta outsource this labor.

Sunshine = Lessons Outside

Last Day of School

Pickle Beer with a pickle shot. Sadly, the pickle beer was a 2/10, but the shot was a 10/10.

Oh, and the book...I am about 3/4 through and I'd give it a 6/10. I love the setting and feel, but it lacks the depth that I yearn for. I had a few people tell me it would be comparative to "East of Eden". And, that was/is very inaccurate. "East of Eden" is lush and philosophical, while this read is a nice pleasure read, but there is not much to glean from it except for the plotline of the story. But, I still enjoy reading a Western about the pre-industrialization of the plains, mountains, and valleys.

Sunrise at City Park

For race day, we had to arrive at 6am. It was an early start, but spotting the sunrise against the "Cash Register" building was glorious.

P.S. The Denver Skyline means so much to me, not only because I am a Denver Native, but because my Grandpa, "my popeye" worked construction on those two tall buildings in the center there.

Seen during the race: "You may see me struggle, but you will never see me quit".

This man was in his late 70s and out there conquering 13.1 miles. I want to be like him.

Cash with the Grandpa Fit

Looking more like a grandpa than his grandpa.

Best Movie of 2026

On opening weekend, I grabbed a ticket to catch the new Michael Jackson biopic in theaters. I wanted to be absorbed in the screen and be surrounded by his music.

Fortunately, I was not disappointed as the film really captured the spirit of Michael and his nephew resurrected that unique soul. My favorite aspect of the whole film was how poignantly captured his innocence and his desire to be a vessel for inspiration.

Fun Fact: One of my earliest memories is watching a Micahel Jackson music video on the TV. I caught a groove and turned the vacuum on its side so that I could stand on top of it and turn it into my very own stage.

Colorado's Cutest Mascot

I didn't see the "real" Dinger on Opening Day. But I was just as pumped to stand next to the "original" Dinger costume from the Rockies first opening day in 1993.

Fun fact, my sixth grade teacher, Sister Shawn, had a side-gig as Dinger's escort in the 90s/early 2000s. She used to walk around with him and hand out "free beer coupons" when Dinger would accidentally knock over people's beers with his trailing tail.

A side of grits with a bowl of love

We're Waffle House Family

We grew up with our parents taking us to Waffle House. We love the All Star Special and sliding dollar bills into the jukebox. Now, we get to share that love with the next generation.

Spa Day @ Monarch

With changing jobs, I ended up having A LOT of days to burn. So, I took a day and ran off to Black Hawk and had a spa day with my mom. We got massages, soaked in the hot tub, and fell asleep in the salt room.

Little Angels

At our school district's end of year "English Language Learner Night" I got to witness the various showcases of the success of the EL students across the school district. I sat behind these little boys and they were so joyful, friendly, and proud. They recited a poem in English and made their parents teary-eyed.

My Grandma Dianna and Grandpa Danny.

A Backyard Rodeo in Fort Lupton

A random facebook scroll exposed me to the world of a backyard rodeo. So, I decided to roll North and after being lost in some fields in my Toyota Yaris, I found a wide open field with a small metal pen with two bull chutes. The title of the event was "Cowboys vs. Vaqueros". It was a wild evening and almost ended abruptly as one of the bulls attempted to jump the boundary. It was a solid 10/10 night.

A Haven Along the Colfax Half

The choices were Fireball or straight Gin....I chose the Fireball.

Mexican Elvis

Came to Gregerios to eat a Mexican Hamburger, but was further blessed with the presence of "Mexican Elvis" and his mariachi band. When he strolled in I expected an entertainer type rather than a vocalist....but I was so wrong. This man's voice was strong, emotional, and down-right gorgeous. A true mariachi star in untraditional mariachi attire.

Carmine's Italian Deli

I'd argue, this is Denver's best Italian Deli. I'm ready to fight you.

Birding Baby Owls

My Auntie Gina has recently gotten into "birding" and last Saturday she invited me to go and see the baby owls that had hatched on the Bear Creek Trail down by the Stonehouse.

I accepted the invitation and expected to be "hunting" and looking for them for a long time. But, to my surprise they were right off the trail and spectacular to see. She said they are only a few weeks old and cannot yet fly so they stand in this same spot waiting for their wings to be ready for flight. They were so gorgeous and it was also cool to see their mother a couple of trees over watching over her babies before their time comes to fly.

Weekend Get-Away

For Valentine's weekend my parents and I flew out to California to visit my baby sister who is living in LA. It was a rainy weekend, but we had had a sunny dispoition seeing her new digs and way of life.

Rooftop Brunching

Arianna knows all the bougie spots in LA. She took us to a swanky rooftop restaurant called "The Lemon Grove". We were surrounded by lush lemon trees which juxtaposed perfectly with the hard steel of the Downtown LA skyscrapers.

The Great Wall of Los Angeles

This was a highlight of the trip for me. It was not only gorgeous, but incredibly impactful. I will most likely write more about this in the future.

Include in my Obituary

"She was a woman who knew her way around a pool table."

Vinh Xuong Bakery

Forever grateful to live in a diverse neighborhood that has the best food.

Coors Brewery Tour

We celebrated my cousin J'Andre's birthday by taking a field trip to the Coors Brewery Company. It was not only entertaining, but also very educational. Our tour guide Keith filled us with knowledge and plenty of free samples. And, as a woman who is adverse to beer...I still had a good time...and grew to love me some Coors Banquet.

Overseeing Production

And in charge of quality control.

Big Bears and Basketball

Sitting on the other side of the court to cheer on my baby cousin and also support one of my former students from ND.

A Welcomed Sight

The lack of snow this winter has been borderline heartbreaking; but we did get a couple of good days that brought some solace to all the winter-loving babies out there.

More Ruffles the Better

I scored this skirt at the thrift and she makes me feel so glamourous. I usually stray far away from khaki, but the ruffles make it an exception.

All Star Special

Sitting at the counter with my grits in a bowl after pumping the jukebox. My definition of bliss.

Eva's 2nd Birthday!

These proud parents threw a hell of a party for their little princess.

Thrift Store Score

I came across these two "filing cabinets" for floppy disks and I loved their design. I took them home, gutted the inside, and flipped them on their side so that the door glides open horizontally. I placed them on my vanity in my closet room and filled them with my various beauty products. I love them.

You remind me of Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

We love a creative compliment.

Spring Break

My spring break fell on the same week as my niece and nephew. So, we got to ball out and have all the fun.

Nina, take a picture of me!

Then proceeds to take the cutest photo ever.

Pre-Interview Selfie

I got the job. When offered the position, the head of interviewing said, "You dazzled them.".

Denver March Pow Wow 2026

The inital procession always brings me to tears.

Braid my Hair

In Native American spirituality, we believe our hair is a connection to the divine. It serves as protection and as a channel of connection with Source. Native men grow out their hair to increase their spiritual power. And for that reason, I love this photo. A woman, I'm assuming his spouse, is braiding his hair before the celebratory procession to start the Denver March Pow Wow of 2026.

PD Day

On our first professional development day back from Spring Break I looked over to my co-worker and laughed out loud during instruction when I read his shirt.

Yes, this meeting really could have been a fist fight.

A Chorizo Torta & Baseball

Walked to my neighborhood taco spot and picked up this beauty. Then, on my walk home I stopped at the baseball field to watch the Mexican Baseball League. It was a fabulous Sunday morning.

Fuschia Fine

Rockies Day @ School

It's the only Rockies shirt I own, but gotta pull it out for the hometown team.

If the sun is out...you'll find me on a patio

Skipped work on the first sunny day of the year and dove into my book while catching my first tan. Oh, and my first marg of the season.

Tournament Time at the Denver Coliseum

My team didn't make it to the tournament, but that will never stop me from indulging in watching some live state tournament basketball. Also, one day you'll see me again on that court. I already did it as a player...but next time it'll be as a coach and/or an admin with CHSAA.

Ms. Montoya is bringing in Spring

I scored this dress at the thrift and she is a showstopper for not only her shape, but for her creative mix of color.

Golden Babies

With my favorite babies in my favorite little city.

My Best Mugshot Yet...

I mean, license...my best license photo yet!

My favorite outfit from this month!

The floral vest was a recent find from the thrift store. I scored her four dollars and she paired beautifully with my flowy pink top (also thrfited a couple of years ago).

Go Pirates

January brought us into the depth of the basketball season as we began our league play.

The season has been a tough one for us as we are a young team with a lot of amateaur players. We are a small program of only 11 girl basketball players and most of them have only played basketball for one to two years. Therefore, it has been a lot of learning, and unfortunately a lot of losing.

However, through it all I am so proud of the girl's continued progress and never giving up.

Shout out to my Auntie Gina for snagging photos of the team at our game against Arupe Jesuit. This one is my favorite.

Walking in Leadville

After a long ride up to Leadville, I dragged my basketball team out of the gym for a walk around the little mountain town. My intention was two fold: to get the blood flowing before our fame and to expereince some actual winter weather since we have been so deprived down in Denver.

My Sunny Boy and I hanging at the park.

November brought us to Cashten's first rodeo around the sun!

It's the best season of the year...basketball season.

This year I am back to coaching high school basketball. We are a one-round team of thirteen girls. Out of these girls only a couple are "life-time" basketball players, with the rest of them being new to basketball in the past 2-3 years. Therefore, these past two months have been a lot of fundamental learning and experimentation.

The grind has been relentless and most of my days in the school day are 10-12 hours, but I'm having a lot of fun sharing my love for basketball again.

"Bless Me, Ulitma" at Su Teatro

My parents treated me to a night out at the theater to see "Bless Me, Ulitma" for the second time. This year's adaptation was significantly different from what I saw 6 years ago, but it was still incredibly spiritually impactful. Plus, I got to see the iconic actress who played “Ultima” for all of its runs at Su Teatro. She shared with the crowd that she was rather emotional as she felt that this would be her last time to play this iconic role in Chicano Literature.

Intercepted a note being passed ...and it did not disappoint.

I devoted myself to making hand made gifts for this Christmas. This included sewing and air clay play.

I found this coveted "Pottery Barn" curtain at the thrift store for two dollars and cut it up to make the cutest little wall decor banner.

The Holy Family

Our theme for this year's Christmas Eve party was "Classic Christmas" and the Durks delivered.

Long Days at School

The days are long, but the sunsets have been pretty incredible.

Alarm Clock Student

One of my students came to Algebra class with a dollar store alarm clock and proudly put it on display on his desk. I asked him, "Do you have an alarm set for something?". He smiled and replied, "No, my mom took my phone away and she gave me this to carry around so I can know the time.". I smiled back and said, "Wow, I really like your mom."

We both giggled and I could sense that he was almost proud of his own mother's sense of humor.

Bathroom Re-Vamp"

I've had these long gorgeous sheer curtains that I scored at the thrift and had furnished my last apartment held in storage. I decided to pull them out to figure out where they could shine in all their glory.

As I roamed around my 900 square foot home, I was hit with the idea of creating a false curtain for my hideous sliding glass door shower. And......it upped the glamour by 100 percent. I love it.

Wish List

My next dream car to add to my collection...A mini-toyota truck...preferably in red.

Party Bus

The fam all boarded a Party Bus to celebrate Bella Boo's 18th Birthday! We got to look at Christmas lights on the way to the Grizzly Rose.

Perks of Being a HS Teacher

I get to kick off my heels and workout in a deserted weightroom.

Don Quixote

This gorgouse slinky man was sitting at my favorite antique store off Broadway.

Away Basketball Game

One benefit of traveling for basketball is getting to see all the cool ass gyms AND getting to get some solid reading time in.

Menudo Season

Even though it hasn't even been remotely cold here in Denver, I still find myself yearning for a big ass bowl of menudo.

Spinning Donuts on our First Snow

Every big snow (or dusting) you will find me getting to work early to beat traffic and spin some donuts in the empty parking lot.

Cutsey Christmas

I love my baby tree and my new hand quilted tree-skirt. I found that and my Christmas Geese tablecloth at the thrift store for four dollars.

Christmas Cousins

An Unsually Warm December

I am bummed about the lack of snow, but it has opened up some opportunity for winter hiking.

This Little Cutie

I found this gorgous boy at the thrift for .99 cents.

Railroad Denim

My little man looked so handsome in his railroad overalls and hat.

Christmas Morning

This year's christmas pjs were a silky red. We all felt very classy.

Christmas Day matching pjs have been a tradition all of my life, and I look forward to it each year.

Dry Clay Christmas

And "in-process" look at the clay manatee I made for my dad for Christmas. He loves Manatees and I loved making it for him.

Day Dreaming of Summer

I'm only half way through my school year, but I am in full plan mode for my summer ahead.

My mama and I

Pumpkin Patch 2025

Marigold Queen at the Denver Performing Arts Center

My inner-clepto and Literature nerd wanted to steal her (she sells for $200). But I let her rest in her home in the AP Lit classrom.

"Sports Day" theme for Homecoming Week.

My home

Going hard in the paint...the shuffle board paint.

A lunch break oasis

My baby sister came home to visit!

Doing fall things with my boo. ;*

My beautiful boy

Tailgating with the cousins before Zach Top.

A singing gentleman in a black cowboy hat *swoon*

Literature, Empandas, and Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice

Watching Rosie dominate in flag football at arguably the most picturesque football field in Denver.

Softball Team Photo

Silly Softball Team Photo

Post-Homecoming Game Bonfire

Sun setting over Red Rocks

Bike rides during fall >

We just finished a two week lesson about Frida Kahlo; to summarize our learning we did a self-portrait project so that the kids could practice their writing skills and then their presentation (speaking) skills.

One of my student's work.

My "exemplar" that I shared with the class. My drawing lowkey looks like Michael Jackson....but hey...gotta show kids there is room for error lol

Sunset over the Homecoming Football Game

The Libra Queen & her favorite season

Dia de los Muertos in Downtown Denver

Calabacitas Season: Zucchini from the garden, sweet corn, jalepenos and a generous scoop of butter.

I've always been a DJ

Color coding a math equation to support the Algebra I students.

The softball team made it to state! We got CRUSHED by the number one seed in the state (they went on to win State), but the girls improved so much! Also, we were all gifted matching sunglasses...pretty rad, I'd say.

My favorite salad in Denver

My babies with Mr. Pumpkin

I found the most gorgeous Marigolds!

Rosie Girl and I after a family dinner.

A Masterpiece

My favorite outfit from this Fall.

The shirt I thrifted for 2 dollars and is Van Gogh inspired. However, each time I've worn it someone has thought I was full tatted chick. I'd call it a win.

Had some downtime on a random Sunday. I added this little character to my bathroom. I love her.

My loves and the Halloween "puffs".

T-Pain concert at Red Rocks was LIT.

Gearing up for bball season with some fun advertising.

Halloween 2025: Strawberry Shortcake

Back to school to start my 11th Year Teaching

A biker gang rolled up on our family party.

This little speed demon found a new owner.

The Golf Crew for this year's Arrowhead Outing.

I'm no good at golf, but I am a good time.

Sunrises in my living room

Hit an exhaustion wall during my first week back to school; luckily, that ain't nothing that a 7-11 run can't fix.

Love me a long, solid, wood bar with courtesy plaques.

A colorful Caddy at the low-low show

If you're from Denver, you know where we are.

My mom loves a selfie...and for this one she wanted to capture me in my Softball coach uniform.

Give me the green felt and a dimly lit dive.

Leading some extra math practice for my kids.

My girl has been going crazy. She was due for replant.

Dug-Out Details

Morning hikes with Wes and Ev.

My senior students repping their countries and their high school.

Sunrises and Lesson Planning before the kids get here.

First Friday Night Happy Hour of the School Year. The gracious patrons paid our bill and treated us teachers right after our first full week back with their kids.

Relaxing with the fam as we watched our Rosie Girl dominate on the flag football field.

My current phone screen saver. These cuties love school!

I would argue, that this is the most beautiful tree in Denver. I am open to objections.

Looking up at that beautiful babe in Berkley.

En route to celebrate my Auntie Angie's 7 years of sobriety. It was a joyous celebration accompanied by some rain and gorgeous graffiti.

Coaching softball has brought a lot of playfulness into my life. The girls are so sweet, the head coach is passionate, and the views as we travel the state have been immaculate.

The closest I have ever been to a rainbow.

Views from my bed

The post-book club hang

Beating all the crowds to enjoy the open water and a sunrise over red rocks.

Rolling in my mama's '71 Monte Carlo.

A post-paddle board session selfie.

I feel like this photo captures my essence: hair unkept, no makeup, and a dress thrown on over my swimsuit while driving my little car down a desolate road.

A glowy peach sunset on my Daytona Beach vacation. I love the reflection that is caught in the mid-beach puddle.

On this day we taught five sticks and no fish. But according to Ev, the highlight was just playing with the worms.

Saint Augustine, Florida was gorgeous. My cousin and I did a quick trip from Dayton to check out the picturesque little city. I would for sure go back...and I've always had a thing for my guy Saint Augustine.

Ponce De Leon Inlet Sunset

Our tour of the 2nd tallest lighthouse in Florida was ten dollars well spent.

Red pairs well with golden brown.

Fourth of July (and the three weeks surrounding it) are lit in my hood.

I am forever a lover of a long walk.

My travel mates a gorgeous boardwalk.

I lived at the airport this month, and I foresee more of that for me this coming year.

We love a festive queen.

My Uncle Chris is the family grill master. And, here he is cooking with his only son. However, I do not foresee a passing of the torch anytime soon.

Highlight of my Daytona Beach vacation, seeing a sea turtle in the flesh!

Book Club antics.

How I felt after 5 days at the all-inclusive resort in Cabo.

Downtown Cabo details.

Cabo Marina Bar Hop

My momma baiting the worm with a fresh manicure.

We met a celebrity at Yogi Bear Campground.

I devoured "Pillars of the Earth" while enjoying my neighborhood pool.

I love my bedroom.

Handsdown, the best Marg of my life.

Pink Party at the All-Inclusive. Best believe, I was standing right under that foam machine.

A Post-Pink Party selfie in Cabo!

The view from my stoop, where i do my evening reading and writing.

We read "Evelyn Hugo's 7 Husbands" for book club this past month. Therefore, we all dressed up in our best Hollywood glamour.

I found this dress at the thrift for seven dollars several years ago....I've been dying to wear it!

Sun-kissed in Daytona

The best view on our walk to the Fountain of Youth.

My gorgeous boy is 3 and headed to pre-school.

Our resort had 12 pools, This was my favorite one. Behind me was the view of the Arch.

I've been hiking a lot this summer.

I load my little backpack up with snacks, hydration, and an emergency swimsuit...in case I find any creek worthy of my birthday bod.

Pulling weeds is my part time job during the summer.

When I get bored, I paint.

My highlands ranch friends took me disc golfing lol.

Out on the water again...

My favorite little snack this summer has been an asian salad made predominantly of carrots and cucumbers.

We celebrated my brother-in-laws birthday at Cheesecake Factory.

Look at those lovebirds back there. And the baby, that's their third in four years. They love each other a lot. lol

Watching some summer basketball with the family.

Golden's First Saturday Car Show

There were a wide variety of cars and it was so cool to see them cruise down and loop the round-abouts.

For my family celebration this year, I invited everyone out for a morning hike at Clear Creek Canyon's newly finished trail.

I did a full review of the trail on my youtube video!

Waiting in line for the opening of my little neighborhood pool.

I love the diversity of life in my hood. I am so grateful to live where I do!

This is Thirty-Four!

My cousin Jaelyn took me out for a happy hour date to celebrate my birthday! We went to Tamayo on Larimer street.

It had a gorgeous interior and decent margs....they were just a bit small for my liking.

I had a full rose bush for my birthday!

Larkspurs: My first wildflower bloom of the season.

All that rain in June brought me this lush view.

I've been spending some summer time in a different genre of sand.

One of my favorite corners of the thrift store.

Our Father's Day celebration turned into a "work day" as my little sister and I helped the fathers relocate a GIANT swamp cooler to a new location.

After three hours, we returned it to its original spot. I blame the decision making on the Vodka lemonades.

Father's Day at the Mint

My dad has been working at the Mint for thirty years. And over the years, he has humbly climbed the ladder all the way to the top and now he's basically in charge of the whole operation of the building.

With that said, when protestors decided to graffiti "Fuck Money" on the Mint during the "No Kings" protest, my dad was the one who came down to clean it up. He received the call on Father's Day and without hesitation loaded up his power washer and I hopped in the car to join him.

It took hours to erase the letters. And as I watched my dad work I thought about the people who did it. They thought they were sending a message to the government, but really…they caused work for a man on Father’s Day who is very much in alignment with the values of the “No Kings” march.

It prompted me to reflect on the act of protesting: How should it be done? Are we making any difference? Who are we hurting? Do the “kings” even care?

It was an interesting Father’s Day, but I enjoyed every minute.

Paddle Board Fuel

An Aztec Dancer and Folklorico Dancer at the corner of 38th and Wynkoop.

She literally took my breath away when I saw her.

Golfing with friends from work.

Fun-Pa Friday took us to a petting zoo...

...then on a train...

...then some time to play in the creek.

Ready to cheer on the Rockies...with my four tequila shooters.

We had to visit the Giggling Grizzly one last time!

We were watching his big brother play his first game of soccer.

My little green eyed Vaquero.

Loving my afternoon gym sessions to escape the heat after an early morning of hiking/paddle boarding/ river lounging.

My birthday gift to myself! Adulting can be so sexy.

I made this little dried orange garland on a hot summer afternoon.

The beach in Chicago.

Hands down my favorite part of my trip!

I spent just over 24 hours in Chicago. I packed only a small purse and pranced around town.

Check out the video below for a 4 min summary!

I wore sandals to Chicago...and I walked 30,000 steps. The blisters were VICIOUS, but full sheets of moleskin kept me rolling.

A little Architecture Boat Tour Selfie!

My tan versus my baby's little white cheese hammies.

Cinco De Mayo in Downtown Denver

This was such a fun day in the month of May. I woke up at 5am, suited up for my first attempt at an outdoor 13 miles, and ran all over my beloved city.

At about 8 miles in, around 8am, I began to run by a long line of lowriders. Immediately I remembered that I would be running by Civic Center Park right when all the car clubs would be showing up for Cinco De Mayo weekend.

With this in mind, I immediately knew where I'd be ending my run and who I needed to call to join me, my mom.

I met my mom down by the Denver Mint, she gifted me a much needed gatorade after my first successful 13 mile run and then we wandered around admiring Chicano Culture.

It was hands down my favorite day of May.

The old and the new met on the corner of Colfax and Delaware.

This was hands down the most beautiful low rider I have ever seen. Lucky for us, she is a local of Denver.

The red velvet interior, the chrome accents, and the ghost paintings in the most hidden places made this thing a true masterpiece.

Teacher Appreciation Week Flowers!

These flowers were delievered to my school, and as they carried them into my classroom my female students went wild lol.

My beautiful Mama and my smallest baby-love!

Mother's Day with this Super-Momma

She 31, has three kids (4, 2, 6 months), she's a succesful business woman, two house home-owner, and faithful friend!

Pope Leo

Although I am no longer a practicing Catholic, I found myself entralled by the election of our newest Papa. Here's a photo of my desk during my lunch break...live streaming the Vatican.

Go Nuggets

I threw on my favorite jersey several times in May to cheer on the home team.

A little note found at the end of one of my student's tests.

May's Olympic Sport:

End of year grading while day dreaming about bikinis, patio margs, and beach vacations.

Mile High Flea Market

Growing up, I have several fond memories of going to the Flea Market with my Popeye (my grandpa on my Dad's side).

On one spontaneous Sunday, I decided to cruise North and dabble in a little nostalgia and buy some free produce.

Cigarette Collision

Witnessed a multi-car crash at the intersection of Mississippi and Sante Fe.

Everyone appeared safe, but the man who caught my eye was the man who remained seated in his blue sedan, which was sandwiched between two cars. I looked hoping to see some movement to confirm that he was alright.

After a short time, I was relieved to see him moving, and then even more amused to see that in the midst of chaos, he lit up a cigarette and reclined his seat a little.

This was not his first rodeo. I aspire to be this unbothered by the chaos of life.

Cashten's Half-Birthday

With her first grandchild, my mom created the tradition of celebrating the baby's half-birthday. This year, it was Cashten's turn!

I can't believe he is already six months! *tear*

Teachers Celebrateing Summer

Following graduation ceremony, us teachers sprinted to "Burn Down" to enjoy our own little party!

Colfax Half-Marathon: During

I got to run my first half marathon with my cousin, a seasoned veteran in the sport of long distance!

She has run four halfs, two fulls, and run countless miles around our city. AND....she's a new mom who ran with zero training for this race! She's my road dog and my favorite comedian!

I loved sharing this experience with her and I also loved leaving her in the dust!

Colfax Half-Marathon: During

The shirtless firefighters were cheering us on at mile 11....so, I naturally sacrificed my pace to snag a photo!

Colfax Half-Marathon: After

My little cheerleaders came to see me at the end of the race! It was such a great surprsie!

My neighborhood "Paleta Man": Banana flavor is my go-to!

Flores

I have about 30 plus photos of random flowers I've passed on my daily walks. I'll spare you and only post one!

Drinking with the Crones

I went with my 77 year old co-worker to have a drink after a work day. She said some of her friends would be there and she wanted me to meet them.

These lovely ladies welcomed me with open arms and shared their stories of Sturgis, battles with cancer, and Peyote retreats in Arizona.

At a blissful moment of laughter, one of them said, "How's it feel hanging out with a bunch of old Crones?!". And I said, "There's no other company I'd want to keep!".

Summer Sun

My outfit for the last day of my 10th year of teaching!

4 Year Old Landscaper

We're raising a hardworking, independent, and adventurous woman!

A Rooftop Book Club

Our first meeting for "Braiding Sweetgrass" was held in the concrete jungle of Downtown Denver.

We laughed, we cried, and we marveled at the beauty of Mother Earth and the motherhood of the Divine Feminine.

Lamb's Ear

I shall have lamb's ear in my wedding bouquet.

My Garden

My first round of summer flowers have bloomed! I can't wait to see what else she brings these next few months.

River Reading

Had some time to kill before meeting some friends, so I found a place on the Platte to read!

This year's "Opening Day" for the Rockies had us in our winter gear.

My lazy Saturday mornings were usurped by this crew as our baby started her first season of basketball.

April gifted us with some much needed snow.

The trees are in full bloom, and both my allergies and the views are kicking.

A family outing to Disney on Ice. The babies loved it, and as an adult who hasn't been in 20+ years, I was pretty awestruck with the talent and costuming.

Me: Calculating the cost to create the costumes for the "Be Our Guest" ensemble.

Day One of my Orthodontic Journey

I booked my free consultation with the orthodontist with a lot of naivety. I did not realize I would be signing up for basically my first modeling gig. They took photos of my teeth, face structure, and profile for close to thirty minutes.

Then, I was ushered into a room where my photos were on full display as I leaned back in the dentist chair that felt like a leather recliner. As I waited for the doctor, I snapped this photo and texted my mother..."Wow, look at my gorgeous teeth!". lol

Well, that moment was short lived as my fabulous doctor came in pointing out the imperfections of my smile and solutions to fix it. She said that not only my baby tooth would need to go (the main reason I am pursuing braces), but also my four wisdom teeth and possibly two more teeth close to my incisors.

Ma'am, I came here to get my teeth straightened, not to become a toothless gummy bear.

I left there feeling a bit alarmed and turned off all together...as I am not pursuing a perfect smile, but only trying to correct the gap that will occur when my beloved baby tooth is extracted (You can see her in the last photo frame on the far right).

Therefore, I decided to pursue a second opinion and this next doctor said that all those additional extractions were not necessary and they can pull my baby tooth and set me on a course to pull my adult tooth forward to fill and straighten the gap. Alleluia.

So, the plan is in motion. My baby tooth will be extracted in early May. I'll be having a "Hot Hillbilly Summer" as I rock a semi-toothless smile and then invisalign. We'll see how this goes lol.

Daily Carpool Date: Looking at the clouds with her homemade binoculars and classy leg-cross.

An aerial view of the mess that is my vanity.

A mother and her first child on their 4th easter egg hunt together.

Serving up Easter Pastels and a Tater Tot casserole on this Easter Morning.

Cousins chatting about the life cycle of Mushrooms.

Trash Hikes

During one of my runs on the South Platte, I came across a group of souls picking up trash with the 5 gallon buckets and crab-like trash grabbing tools. I stopped to thank them and one of the men said, "Feel free to join us. We have supplies around the corner". So, I paused my run, picked up my supplies and filled a 5 gallon bucket before resuming my run home.

I was so excited to meet about 20 other like-minded souls who were taking care of the trail. Picking up trash along my long walks has been something I have done since my Covid days, but it has always been a solo excursion. Therefore, I am so glad to have found this group and to help out by keeping my beloved Denver clean.

Here is the info if you would like to join us!

My view from a Sunday Morning Yoga Session at my home.

Turquoise, a blend of blue and green, generally symbolizes tranquility, communication, and emotional balance. It is also associated with healing, protection, and clear thinking. In some cultures, it represents growth, renewal, and spiritual connection.

My beautiful cousin Moranda hosted book club this month. We finished up Chelsea Handler's latest book and all left those pages having a HUGE girl-crush on the woman.

The first blooms in my wildflower garden!

Rivers: I would steal him if I could.

I spent a lot of hours on the South Platte trail this month as a I train for my first half-marathon in May. Here is a snippet of one of it's many glorious views.

Random Rant / Hot Take: I've truly never understood why taking care of the yard is considered a "man's job" in the classic patriarchial sense. Mowing the lawn might be the easiest chore in all of my household-keeping duties. It literally takes no muscle. I'd argue that mopping requires more physical exertion.

Simple Pleasure: I love drinking my coffee during my morning shower.

Call Me MacGyver

In the month of April, I got two flat tires. First one was on my way to the Rockies's opening day and it was the first time I ever had to change my tire "out in the wild". My dad has trained me all of my life for that moment, and it came. I was on the side of the busy street jacking my car up with the dinky scissor jack and spinning lug nuts. I truly felt so proud of myself.

My second flat tire came at an even less opportune time. I was leaving work to go pick up my niece from school and I found my opposite back tire completely flat. I debated jacking my car up and doing another pit crew tire swap, but determined I did not have time for that as she needed to be picked up in 15 mins. So, I rolled my car over to my local gas station praying for an air pump and that I wouldn't bend my rim rolling on a completely flat tire. Fortunately, my prayers were answered and I filled up my tire and found the hissing nail that had punctured it.

It was then that I decided that my best solution was to create my own patch via the supplies in my pencil case. I went into full MacGyver mode by using an Elmer's glue stick and some bandaids. The quick assembled innovation stopped the flood of hissing and I rolled on to pick up my niece. Once I signed her out, I let her know about the emergency and she asked to see the tire. She took a moment to look it over and she said, “I think that will work”. With the compliments from my 4 year old niece, I banked on her hope and continued to hurry to my parent’s house so we could patch my tire.

We made it home. I was relieved. My dad was impressed. And, Wesley got her first lesson on how to change a tire. Life truly is fascinating full cycle.

Me, anxiously awaiting river season.

A Northside Denver Staple

I spent many family dinners here eating the Spanoli plate with homemade noodles. Patsy was always your server when you came here; so it was only right we gave her a toast as we enjoyed her meal.

I truly do not know if she is still alive so I said, "To Patsy, whether she be down the street at Mount Carmel Catholic Church or up above watching us eat our canolis."

My fellow-fashionista: When we get home from school we promptly drop our school unifrom and "get fabulous". This day's outfit was an Oktoberfest dress, all the jewlery she owns, winter gloves, Elsa crocks, and a hair full of clips.

As I helped her dress all she would say was, "I am so so so fabulous" over and over again. And I'd say, "Yes you are, babygirl!".

I love helping to raise a confident Queen!

We did a backyard hibachi experience for my Auntie Gina's 50th birthday party!

And he came equipped with a Sake filled Super Soaker!

My Handsome: those auburn curls and big dark eyes!

I like to tell him, "You're so gorgeous!"'; to which he replies, "No, I'm handsome!".

Views from the third row. 12 people in one car ain't nothing new to this crew.

Add this to my Wish List

My color palette and design for my kitchen mural.

Before

During

After

After School Slurpees

My flowers were cracking soil and braving the final frosts of April.

My view from a downtown run.

Got to see my girl TRIXIE MATTEL live!

We danced for hours and fell in love with Rebecca Black.

Solid Pink Disco was the name, so I brought out my pinks and my little blonde bob.

The women's bathroom at Trixie's show was the place to be.

Brining the girls out for Trixie's show. Never do I ever expose the décolletage...but Trixie Mattel scares away the hetro-males and brings out the gays and gals...so I knew I'd be safe lol.

I felt fabulous and free.

When they ask me what I want to be when I grow up...