Annual Pueblo did not disappoint!

Years ago, we started an annual trip to Pueblo with a core group of followers... and even though our families have evolved tremendously, we have kept this tradition alive.  You will notice no pictures of our little ones below.  That is because we have always made the event a kid free zone.  Not because we don't love our little rascals, but because it is fun to connect as adults and not worry about a diaper or hungry kiddo.  This year was a bit different for the Cannodes though.  Evidently, they (whoever 'they' are) disapprove of leaving 2 children under three at home alone for the weekend.  I guess we kinda agreed - so ... plan B included splitting up time in Pueblo for Kris and Amy.  Amy went down Saturday morning alone, Kris came down Sun morning (kids in tow), Amy took the kids back to Denver ~ leaving Kris to enjoy his kid free zone, only to have Amy return Monday morning (after dropping kids in daycare).  It was not an ideal situation, but we feel we pulled it off flawlessly.  Uncle David has always said, "Once they are potty trained; I will babysit" ~ we are calling you out next summer, Uncle David!!

Amy's first day began with an initiation.  In past years, we have had an initiation to our new captain (Josh) and this year... we initiated another boat driver, Jim.  But it wasn't for his driving abilities - it was for his DB sunglasses.  Ms Erika did not disappoint with the presentation!

The rest of the day included plenty of swimming time, as well as a quick trip up to Brokeback Mountain for the boys.  I say 'quick trip' as the boys were summoned back down to the boats due to an incident that involved one beautiful girl, a mean and scary prop... and blood.  Poor Erika was kicking around the back of the boat and ended up kicking the prop with her knee.  We were worried it was pretty deep, but after being analyzed by Five wonderful doctors on the boat and one at the hospital (just in case) - we determined all could be solved with a hello kitty bandaid and a beer (or two).

"What do you think, Doctor?"

What? You never fished with Fries??
Works like a Charm!

 

Such a Cute Couple. Their Love for each other is Amazing!

After our eventful swim session - we decided to take a nice slow boat ride back to the ramp for dinner.  Well, Josh and Jim's boat ~ AKA: Speedy #1 and Speedy #2 ~ Flew back to the ramps.  Amy, Angie and Lindsay, enjoyed their leisurely cruise on the water; taking a few added spins around the lake.  Gave plenty of time for enjoying the fading sun, taking fabulous pictures and of course losing Lindsay's brand new ballcap (Sorry, Linds!)

The Girl's Boat at Pueblo - Nice Lookin' Crew!

That night was filled with a wonderful campfire and food provided by Ms Erika (injuries don't stop this girl from cookin'!).  She had prepared an amazing chili before heading to Pueblo. We just heated it up in a crockpot and ENJOYED!  Actually, all weekend we were really pampered with meals.  Erika made chili one night and a mexican dish (that I can't pronounce) the second night.  We also enjoyed ziplock omlettes each morning and Billy's Chicken Curry on the boat (compliments of Sarah).  Sarah did a Great Job at the curry, considering she hasn't even had Billy's official version.  Very tasty!

Day two, Kris showed up at the campsite and 6:30 am, with Kasey and Karsten.  That meant he had to have gotten out of bed at 4am! WOW - he must've been really excited for Pueblo!  Thank goodness the kids could sleep in the car!  After a yummy breakfast for all - Amy watched as her boat was lowered into the water and cried a little while she had to drive home.  Actually ~ Amy was really excited to get back to Denver as she had a play date at the Denver Zoo with the Geelan Girls and had a Girls Night with Alisa (dinner and a movie) that followed!

Once Amy left it was time to head out for some water sports, Amy's favorite part.  Unfortunately for Amy, the wind would not cooperate on her day at Pueblo, but the water was perfect once she left.  A few people were able to wakeboard and Sarah, Lindsay & Angie even tried their hand at water skiing.  Not everyone was successful water skiing but a good time was had by all.

 

The wakeboarder's boat

Jim waiting to wakeboard

What do you guys think of my life jacket?  Jealous?

Angie's attempt at water skiing

Once everyone was exhausted from water sports it was time to go relax and enjoy some adult beverages.  Sunday is usually a day of rest at Pueblo since everyone is heading back, this year Sunday would be the 2nd day, not the last.  Kris was even able to enjoy some Brokeback time with the boys since he missed it on Saturday.  While the boys were on the mountain, the girls spent their time floating around the boats.  Although the Ryerson's and Prehm's were spending their last day at the lake, everyone was able to have a good time.  The Prehm's even managed to stay for a night time "booze cruise" after dinner, which included less booze than usual due to the marathon drinking day. 

The girls enjoying floating the lake

The boys descending Brokeback

Thank goodness for this rope

Whoa...almost lost it there for a minute

On Monday morning, after dropping off the boys at Daycare, Amy headed back down to Pueblo.  She had heard the Cannode boat broke down (sniff, sniff) and she was sad to hear that the Ryersons and Prehms both had to leave on Sunday, but we made the most of the day with the remaining crew and one remaining boat.  Due to the amount of people on the boat - we chose to just dock up in a cove and enjoy the view, the water and plenty of good chatter. 

The Proud, The True, ... The Pueblo Girls!

I just wish Angie could Relax a little...

Why are you guys hiding from the sun...
did someone have too much already?

Although we will be the first to admit - this was NOT a normal Pueblo .... we were not disappointed.  There were many laughs to be had and is Pueblo tradition... something of the Cannodes broke down.  At least Parts of Pueblo were considered 'normal' ~ ha.  Thanks to all for returning year after year.  We were sad to see certain friends not be able to make it (Sivahops, Suks, and Froistads), but also had fun with some first timers (Sarah, Angie and Lindsay).  Thanks for helping to make another Pueblo year Memorable and we Can't wait for Next Year!

Makes the shuttling back and forth all worth it.