Hooray For Ouray

Pleep, Delete, Peggy and Ed were sorry to bid goodbye to Hugh Jay and Nancy.  Ed pointed out that Pleep hadn't yet worn out his welcome and that it is always best to leave before you are asked to go.  Heading west out of Vail, the route to Ouray led through Minturn, past Camp Hale where the 10th Mountain Division trained in World War II, Leadville, Gunnison, Montrose and finally came to halt at The Beaumont Hotel.  Pleep used his time in the car wisely examining the Beer Drinker's Guide To Colorado map and coupon book.

Convincing Ed that Buena Vista meant a lovely place for a view and a beer, Pleep navigated to the Eddyline Brewery.  Pointing out that we had already been traveling for 90 minutes with no stops and that there was a coupon for a free pint with souvenior glass, Pleep convinced Ed it was worth a stop.  Plus, he thought maybe another free beer or two would be offered because Ed's nickname is Eddie.  After watching Pleep stick his whole head in the pint, the bartender thought it might be best to cut him off.

Before getting back in the car, Ed insisted Pleep demonstrate his ability to navigate by taking a hand eye coordination test on the climbing wall.  The instructions were very clear, even for a monkey with minimal reading skills.  Pleep had no problem scaling the wall.  After reaching the top, he broke into the victory dance version of his monkeybutt manuver.

The drive offered spectacular views of the mountains, valleys, creeks, and small lakes.   The VW Jetta TDI made great mileage averaging nearly 45 miles per gallon.   There were numerous warnings about elk, deer, and mountain goats but the only animals Delete spotted were Texas longhorns and sheep.  

Arriving in Ouray, Pleep was very excited to be checking into the Beaumont Hotel.  He was a bit disappointed when he learned there was no discount for mentioning Beaumont Parker at check in.  The hotel is on the historic registry and was completely renovated in 2003.   The restoration was done with exceptional care and preserved many of the original features from 1886.   Pleep and crew are looking forward to spending a great day in Ouray checking out the galleries, hot springs, and, of course, the local breweries.