The Reservoir

Similar to June, July is flying by. The summer heat is intense, but there's no room to complain after the rainy spring this year. Outside of work, I enjoy staying active through yoga practice and run club. I also tag along for a workout at Red Rocks when Anna and Alex extend the invitation.

As far as new adventures, I recently took a longer bike ride along the Cherry Creek Trail. This 40-mile paved trail begins downtown and travels southeast through various suburbs and small towns. Though quite familiar with the section in town, I set out this time with my sight set on Cherry Creek State Park--just over 10 miles from downtown.

Cherry Creek State Park is a 880 acre reservoir that offers a quick escape without having to leave the city. This popular summer destination is perfect for swimming, fishing, boating, picnics, and camping.









On my way back from "The Reservoir," I stopped at the Cherry Creek Shopping District. Although I work at the Whole Foods in this neighborhood, I rarely visit the other shops located in the large outdoor mall. It is a generally affluent area, but I still enjoy admiring the chic boutiques and eateries. In addition, it serves as the venue for several events, including the annual art festival and sidewalk sale, as well as the summer farmers market.



Another day off was spent across town in LoDo. I travelled up the busy 16th Street Mall, stopping at Skyline Park and the well-known Tattered Cover Bookstore.

  

Towards the end of the mall lies picturesque Larimer Square.

Just beyond this plaza lies Confluence Park, where the Platte River meets the start of the Cherry Creek Trail.

Centennial Gardens can be found to the West of this trail merger...

...while Commons Park sits directly East. The city's homeless population has a noteable influence throughout these public areas.

The rest of the afternoon was spent at the pool in Anna and Alex's apartment complex. To be clear, I love my low-key lifestyle in Capitol Hill. However, I do enjoy the occasional visit to my sister's trendy neighborhood.

It is hard to believe that I have only been living in Denver for a little over three months. It seems like much longer, likely due to the vast amount of changes that have taken place. Looking forward, I am currently preparing my application to become an Air Force Pharmacy Officer. In the meantime, I will continue working at Whole Foods until I hear back from the competitive program (or any other job prospects). My flight to Pittsburgh over Christmas has been booked, and I am hopeful to make a few other small trips between now and then. Just because I relocated to a new city doesn't mean that I've lost sight of my passion for travel!