Hubbuzz's Northern Colorado, Colorado Blogs

All Coffee Should Come in Mugs

Amber Rose — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 09:57:37 -0500

Mugs (coffee house) warmed me today with a simple, huge cup of tea. Centrally located on College Avenue, this funky café just does it for me. I like the staff—friendly, honest, and hardworking. I love the casual atmosphere: sofas, bistro tables, computers, stuff hanging from the ceiling, posters for local theatre and music. Also, the clientele is interesting and diverse which can make for fun observations.

An environmentally conscious coffee house, there are reminders everywhere to take care of the planet while indulging in cappuccinos. My favorite—one I noticed today staring into space—is a large translucent trash bag suspended from the ceiling. It is filled with empty paper coffee cups. The sign reads (I paraphrase), “The amount of trash you would produce from drinking one cup of coffee in a throwaway cup every other day in a year.” Mugs is persuasive and rewarding when it comes to making good decisions.

Over the months I’ve popped in for house coffee, iced chai, and today—the regular old hot tea (if you can call organic silver chai “regular”). All are prepared fresh and of high quality. Their menu is extensive, and I look forward to enjoying a little snack sometime when I have more than a minute or two. Baked goods, healthy sandwiches and wraps, and smoothies definitely caught my eye.

Mugs is cool. With outside seating, indoor on two levels, and comfy couches and chairs a-plenty, you will feel right at home. With so many places to sip, write, and stare, this café does a nice job of beating the others in many ways. Fort Collins has no shortage of coffee houses. These businesses have to work hard to have me return. I’ll be making my fourth trip to Mugs very soon.

Mugs Coffee Lounge
[where: 1033 S Taft Hill Rd, Fort Collins, CO 80521]
www.mugscoffeelounge.com

Where you want to buy a home in Fort Collins…

Amber Rose — Mon, 05 May 2008 16:52:09 -0500

I’m not a realtor, but I bought a house last August, and I stay fairly abreast of the market. I also walk and run my neighborhood quite frequently. I see what’s for sale, how long it stays on the market, etc.

South College Heights has got to be one of the better markets in Fort Collins. The classic, late 1950’s homes are nestled into a quiet, clean area; however, they are so conveniently located. We can walk to Whole Foods, Sunflower Market, King Soopers, as well as a large variety of other businesses. We can drive pretty much anywhere in the city in under twenty minutes.

One recognizes South College Heights by the appropriately named streets: Yale, Harvard, Princeton, and Cornell to name a few. With College Ave. to the West, Drake to the South, Stuart to the East, and a northern border of Spring Creek, the area is quite small and intimate. There is also a very interesting quality to this neighborhood. Streets meander a bit, and houses differ greatly in style; however, everything looks in place. In contrast to other newer neighborhoods in the south end of town—trying to achieve a traditional look with a few variations—South College Heights effortlessly demonstrates what new developers attempt.

The house down the street from us sold within two weeks of hitting the market last week. Houses do not sit here; they move very quickly. In such uncertain times, despite my desire to stay in this house forever, this comforts me greatly.

Cleopatra’s Day Spa

Amber Rose — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 11:36:54 -0500

The treat of my life is pampering. Massage, facials, pedicures, anything that pampers this worn out body of mine.

Always a thoughtful mother, mine gifted my husband and me with massages this past Christmas. She found a lovely, convenient day spa just minutes from us. Cleopatra’s offers every spa service you can think of (and some you never would imagine). I had a chocolate-peppermint rub/massage and my husband had a hot-stone massage. The only bad thing about great massages is the ending.

Back to Cleopatra’s . . . right at the corner of College and Prospect, this cute cottage bursts with comfort within. A soft haven of soothing rooms, music, heavenly smells, and kind service people, the spa invites and encourages one to stay. Clean, professional, organized, and on time, the day spa will keep you coming back again and again.

Just like any good day spa, Cleopatra’s will treat you like a queen (or king) and take away your troubles for the time being. Everyone deserves royal treatment now and again. After moving a truckload of sofas and boxes, indulge at Cleopatra’s.

Cleopatra's Day Spa
[where: 1435 South College Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80524]
970-221-0506

Recycled Cycles

Amber Rose — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 06:17:08 -0500

The great spring weather reminded me of my major purchase last fall. My bicycle has hung from its hook all winter (I’m not a fan of snow in the spokes like other brave souls). Dusting off the seat, I saw the sticker from the place of purchase.

A salesperson at a large sporting goods store sent me to Recycled Cycles after not being able to help me with the type of bike I wanted. Gotta love that when the big store sends you to the little man’s shop. Recycled Cycles not only found me a great bike, the shop gave me a great experience.

Actually, I’m usually pretty lucky when it comes to finding what I want quickly. The salesperson asked me what I was interested in, and led me to something he thought I’d like. To make a long day into a short story, I chose that first bike after trying a few (twenty or so) others. It fit me well, was within the price range I asked for, and looked great. The shop allowed me to take my time, and has lots of parking lot room for trying the wheels out. They even held the bicycle for me all afternoon while I truly mulled the decision.

The selection at the shop is huge, but for more than just bikes. I found their accessory choices great, and they also sell exercise machines.

You might be wondering why the store is called “Recycled” Cycles. While I purchased a new bike, the used bicycle choices are also grand. The service team does a great job of truly “recycling” these bicycles into great looking machines.

Hope you check it out. It’s a great Fort Collins find.

Recycled Cycles
[where: 4031-A S Mason, Fort Collins, CO 80525
970-223-1969

CSU Store: Lory Student Center
970-491-9555

Mulberry Pool, a six year old’s dream come true

Amber Rose — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 15:40:43 -0500

March 30th in Colorado—always unpredictable. It seems that every year I toss around the idea of an outdoor birthday party for my daughter, but then get cold feet. Cold. Hmmm. Thankfully the weather report indicated the possibility of snow on her birthday this year (again . . . but early enough to plan). Even though the day before it was sixty-five degrees, I arranged for an indoor party.

Mulberry Pool, besides the typical lanes and diving area, is like a playground on water. The large play structure has a great slide, squirting mechanisms, and waterfalls. It is mostly a wading pool, and then gradually gets to about three feet deep. The water temperature is bearable, as is the indoor temp. It was actually quite a tropical escape from the falling snow outdoors. The six year olds loved it. My two and a half year old was pretty overwhelmed by the streams of water jetting past her and the noise of the kids, but after awhile she warmed up and soon found her niche in the wading area.

Even with forty or so kids running, jumping, and swimming about, it felt manageable. The lifeguards do a great job of keeping things safe. The locker room and other bathroom facilities are clean and well managed. There is plenty of seating for parents who have kids old enough to just observe—on the pool deck as well as bleachers up above.

We were able to reserve the birthday area, for a small fee. I set up the snacks and cupcakes while the kids toweled off then came upstairs to feast and watch my daughter rip open her presents. All in all it was an hour and a half party—perfect for this age group. They got their swimming, their snacks and juice, a cupcake, and a party favor bag. I got to go home to a clean, quiet house.

Mulberry Pool will win your kids over on a cold, hot, or any Colorado day.

Mulberry Pool
[where: 424 W Mulberry St, Fort Collins, CO 80521]
970-221-6657

Poudre School District Student Exhibition

NoLa — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 11:38:09 -0500

The Poudre School District Student Exhibition is currently running now through March 27, 2008 at the Lincoln Center Galleries.

The PSD Student Exhibit is comprised of student artwork created at the elementary, junior high and high school levels from all fifty schools in the Poudre School District.

The exhibit coincides with "Youth Art Month" celebrated throughout the month of March. Nationally recognized, "Youth Art Month" strives to emphasize the importance of fostering quality art education in our schools.

On Thursday, March 27, 2008, there will be a closing reception in the Lincoln Center's Lobby Gallery from 5:00 - 6:30 pm. The closing reception is free and open to the public.

Lincoln Center Galleries
[where: 417 West Magnolia, Fort Collins, CO 80521]

Hours:
Monday - Friday: 8:00a - 5:30p
Sa: 12:30 p - 5:30 p
Open evenings of performances

The Lyric Cinema Cafe- Look for your indie film house no further

Amber Rose — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 11:55:44 -0500

Eclectic, vintage, original, innovative: the Lyric Cinema Café in downtown Fort Collins invites me in for a movie with more flair than my couch and Netflix can offer. My husband and I took the leap one very infrequent date night in November. After a yummy dinner, a bottle of wine, and dessert downtown, we thought a walk was in order before heading home. We stumbled upon the Lyric that was showing Into the Wild at the time.

Upon entering the cozy lobby area, we were greeted by a café atmosphere. Ten or so small tables, a counter with a few friendly faces behind it, and a huge blackboard inviting customers to partake in snacks, desserts, coffees, and a wide selection of microbrew beers. I don’t even think popcorn or fountain soda at $4.50 each even entered the owners’ minds.

We had time before the film to enjoy some beverages, and even invited a few guys to sit with us so we could chat about the place and the movie with some others. We were so excited to have come upon this gem. Our new friends, also locals, were enjoying the theatre for the first time as well.

The warm feeling followed us as we entered the theatre—a vintage, narrow house with maybe two hundred seats. In the back, behind the worn, velvet seats, we found four or five aged sofas. Lounging into one, with beers in hand, we enjoyed the independent film with nostalgic comfort.

It’s rare for us to get a date night; however, our next one will definitely include the Lyric Cinema Café. I frequently check their website and am tempted by independent films of all genres and various special events. The Lyric is just another one of the many reasons that Fort Collins is such a cool place to live.

Lyric Cinema Café
[where: 300 E Mountain Ave, Ft. Collins, CO 80524]
970-493-0893
www.lyriccinemacafe.com

Photo Credit: Lyric Cinema Cafe website

Spring Creek Trail Takes You As Far As You Can Imagine

Amber Rose — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 11:14:51 -0500

Discovering Spring Creek Trail in Fort Collins is like being surprised with a hot fudge sundae with all the works—whipped cream, nuts, cherry on top. We actually just happened upon it glancing over a free city map we picked up at a Visitor’s Center. “Looks like a good long paved bike path,” my husband said. We assembled the family biking machine (me with a tagalong bike for the five year old and my husband with the seat on the back for the two year old) and rode a few blocks down to the start of the path around Overland Trail and Drake.

Thus began our long affair with Spring Creek Trail. The route links together so many parks our expert kids can’t even keep count anymore. Every trip we see friendly dogs, rollerbladers, pedestrians, strollers, and other bicyclists. Everyone shares the trail respectfully and joyfully. Off the trail we get close to horses, frogs, ponds, and other stray wildlife. We learned where tennis courts are, where dirt bike and skate parks are, and even swimming pools. As newbie residents this trail provided us with free education. Suddenly Fort Collins was no longer just a “best place to live” but a living, breathing network of healthy activity.

On a solo journey one sunny afternoon I took the trail East—to see how far it went. Eventually I found its “end” which meets up with another trail (the Poudre River trail—I believe). Recreational bicycling literally has no end in this city. People new to Fort Collins have to experience it to believe it. The Spring Creek Trail will surpass any expectations. Ride it, walk it, paw it, roll on it, this path brings happiness to all who share it.

Apartments Near Northern Colorado University

GreeleyGabFest — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 17:46:52 -0500

Living in one of the many apartments near Northern Colorado University has its benefits. You’ll be able to check out the hip cafes, bars and restaurants, and get culturally enriched at The Union Colony Civic Center as a resident in one of the many apartments near Northern Colorado University. Did we mention there are plenty of outdoor activities here too? Hiking, fishing, swimming and golfing are all just moments away.

Live in one of the apartments near Northern Colorado University. Who knows, you may even want to sign up for that psychology class you’ve always wanted to take.

*photo courtesy of www.stateuniversity.com

Do You Know Where Your Dog is at 5 p.m. (When you are on Vacation)

Amber Rose — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 08:47:24 -0500

“Doggie Daycares” and other boarding situations vastly exist in Fort Collins. These work for many dog parents, but for some—especially when more than one dog is involved—it is unaffordable. Also, perhaps you have a dog like Scout, one who is not exactly welcome in many public forums.

Still new to the area and without neighbors to dog sit swap, I found a great pet sitter who puts my mind to ease and makes my dogs want to go home with her. Claudia with TLC Pets (pet sitting) treats Scout and Zooey like her own. She meets their every need, as well as putting pet owners’ minds to rest. She met our dogs when we lived in the apartment and walked them midday for us. She spent lots of time getting to know each dog’s idiosyncrasies and our desires/rules. This holiday season, when the dogs couldn’t come along on the trip, she came to our rescue again.

The doggies get to be at home, where they are most comfortable. Their schedules are kept, their beds are familiar, and everything smells right. Claudia feeds them, lets them out, throws the ball to them, picks up their poo, and wipes their paws before they reenter the house. She promises to call if she has questions or concerns, she is pet CPR and First Aid certified, and is a true animal lover.

Claudia works the entire Fort Collins area and beyond. Pet-sitting is her passion, and no one can doubt her commitment to animals. I can leave the dogs for a week and have no worries; they are just as happy as if we were home. Claudia and Bob can be reached at tlcforyourpets@msn.com and will professionally respond to your needs.

If you are still not convinced, just ask Scout or Zooey.

Tortillas, Quesadillas, Enchiladas, Oh My!

Amber Rose — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 15:33:44 -0500

I’m a discriminating diner. For some reason this is especially true when it comes to Mexican restaurants. One visit tells me if I hate, like, or love an establishment. Just around the corner from us, at Drake and College, is my new love: Tortilla Marissa’s.

It’s often the small details that make a difference. The cute cottage-like exterior invites everyone in to enjoy the “North of the Border” cuisine. A contained breezeway prevents the extreme weather from entering the cozy interior. Immediately greeted and seated, one is wrapped in informal décor. Bright colors adorn the ceiling and walls. It is clear this is not your “traditional” Mexican restaurant, though the festive atmosphere does not deny the culture.

The menu presents a balance of tradition and Marissa’s-originals. While perusing, one will no doubt begin to sample the fresh chips and warmed salsa. Friendly wait staff informs and answers all questions efficiently. Like any good menu, the challenge is in the choice. Whether its Tortilla Flats, the Mango and Shrimp Quesadilla, or the famous Blue Corn Enchiladas—there is never a bad decision.

No matter how full you will be at the end of the meal, or whatever kind of diet you are on, please order a ‘sopapilla’ before closing your tab. As a family of four, we share the puffed fried dessert with a little honey, and leave totally satisfied.

In addition to all of the amazing details previously mentioned, Tortilla Marissa’s truly honors its locals. In December I visited with my mom for lunch. We received a red envelope—a holiday gift from Marissa’s—with the message to NOT open until we returned in January. The envelope contained a coupon for one of five discounts/gifts that would be revealed when dining. We were granted 20% off our entire bill when we returned! Also, it pays to fill in their customer review cards and give personal information. My husband just celebrated his birthday with a $10 dining certificate compliments of Tortilla Marissa’s—sent to our home before his birthday; that’s more on time and filled with love than most family members can boast.

See for yourself. Tortilla Marissa’s is the favorite of central Fort Collins.

Tortilla Marissa's
[where: 2635 S College Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80525]
970-225-9222
www.tortillamarissas.com

Sunflower Market

Amber Rose — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 09:18:03 -0500

When I moved from California to Colorado the only thing I missed more than the ocean was Trader Joe's. Colorado's liquor laws do not allow grocery stores to sell hard liquor or wine, so Trader Joe's won't be moving in until something is legislated in its favor. My new friends told me about Sunflower Market, however, and I gave it a try.

Honestly, the first trip I wasn't completely sold. Whole Foods is closer to me, and their samples keep my kids really happy. After a few months of over-exhausting my grocery budget, however, I knew a compromise was in order. I returned to Sunflower.

The positive features of this smallish market far outweigh the negatives. I am able to find great bargains; their brand boasts "Serious Food, Silly Prices". The choices, while sometimes limited, save me time because I'm not so caught up in comparing twenty different brands of pasta sauce. The Sunflower Market brand foods remind me of Trader Joe's--simple things like artichoke hearts with no crazy additives at a reasonable price. The bulk food section is easy to navigate. Their supplements selection is plentiful. People gather in the coffee bar area at all times of the day. There are quirky items like a huge selection of Crocs in the front of the store.

I'm a Sunflower Market convert, though I still dabble in some items at Whole Foods. I even force myself into King Sooper's for a few items I can't get anywhere else. That's the great thing about the middle of Fort Collins! Everything you need or could want is right here.

Sunflower Farmers Market
[where: 2601 S Lemay Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80525]

Off-campus life at Colorado State University

sass — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 13:32:16 -0500

Sitting at the base of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado State University can be found in the CSU ‘hood of Fort Collins. Not just an Ag University anymore, today CSU is among the nation's top public institutions with more than 24,000 students attending one of the eight colleges. Green and gold rule here and don’t pass by Cam the Ram without a cheer – here’s the skinny on the big C.

Where to Study
Not feeling the vibe at Morgan Library, The Lory or The Oval then head to Cafe Bluebird (if you’re in The Oval, head west on Laurel you can’t miss it). It’s a locally owned quaint cafe where the coffee is strong and breakfast is served all day long (Sat and Sun). Do not leave this café without trying a homemade soup de jour served with a warm; you guessed it, homemade wheat roll. It’s pretty much perfection!

Where to Chow Down
On College Street of course. Don’t miss the ‘ol stand-bys, D.P. Dough and Pizza Casbah for some za and calzones and Big City burritos and Los Tarascos for some hot peppers. If the ‘rents are paying, stop by Nimo's Sushi Bar on Elizabeth and order dessert at Yum Yum’s – you definitely won’t be disappointed.

Where to Unwind
Take a trip to Avogadro’s Number – order a frymelt and a Fat Tire and enjoy the live entertainment. Or gather some friends and take the FC micro brewery tour where your sophisticated palate can sample hand-crafted beers from New Belgium, Odell and Fort Collins breweries. Most importantly they are all located within minutes of each other so strap on the camelback and enjoy!

Where to Live
Most CSU students choose to reside close to campus. Hubbuzz has plenty of options for those looking to live in the campus area. Check out apartments in CSU Campus.

Even if you’re not technically a green and gold, CSU campus has plenty to offer.

Check out more neighborhood hotspots and decide for yourself.

Canyon Concert Ballet School

Amber Rose — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 10:25:08 -0500

From the time she was born I dreamed of taking my daughter to The Nutcracker. At five and a half, I knew she was ready (having already experienced vocal concerts, plays, and musicals). A new velvet dress, patent leather shoes, and curled hair, she happily entered the Lincoln Center holding my hand. After a breathtaking first act, Kendyl performed her own version in the lobby as smiling patrons cheered her on.

Ballet was not just the new thing of the week; it became her passion. Luckily I had picked up the Canyon Concert Ballet School schedule at The Nutcracker. The ballet school/company produces the holiday tradition each year. I figured if she was on her way to becoming a prima ballerina she might as well train with the best.

Canyon Concert Ballet School busies itself with a variety of classes, instructors, and performances. Equipped with numerous studios, a locker room for changing from school clothes to tights and leotard, two waiting areas (one with a TV. and VCR and toys for siblings), the school can be crowded, but cozy. Kendyl quickly fell into place in Miss Gretta’s class that practices ballet for the first half and tap for the second. The upbeat, positive feel of the school resonates in the class of twelve girls and one boy.

It was “parents day” last week; free to adore our children from the studio (versus sneaking peeks through the window), I watched Kendyl smile more in an hour than she has in a week. My eight or so years of ballet experience are now irrelevant to her because “Miss Gretta knows EVERYTHING about ballet.” After observing class firsthand, I agree with Kendyl. Miss Gretta masterfully rallied her five and six year olds with praise and enthusiasm. She skillfully tricked them into learning technique, even at their young and inexperienced point of ballet education.

Without a doubt, Canyon Concert Ballet instructors are top-notch dancers and teachers. I have a feeling, with my 2½ year old already trying to follow Kendyl into class, that we’ll be spending many years with this excellent school.

Canyon Concert Ballet
[where: 1031 Conifer Street, Fort Collins, CO 80524]
970-472-4156
www.ccballet.org

Photo from the Canyon Concert Ballet Website

Harris Bilingual School in Fort Collins

Amber Rose — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 14:50:32 -0500

It was the first day of school. New clothes, new lunchbox, new backpack with fresh school supplies: everything was laid out for success. The only problem was that my daughter had been dreaming of her first day of school for three years at the school in our former town. Fort Collins was a new place with no friends, no familiar faces, and no idea what to expect. Lucky for her, Moore School of Core Knowledge quickly became her home away from home. Her friends from all over the world (the school draws from the International Graduate School Housing) learn reading and math along side her and play chase at recess.

Moving to Fort Collins with children opens up a world of opportunity and choices. Schools, of course, are always a concern for parents. If you are considering Fort Collins, the potential educational opportunities should encourage you.

Poudre School District offers a variety of programs for children of all needs. Each school possesses individuality, much like your child; therefore, finding a school to match your child’s needs is actually a possibility here.

With over twenty-five elementary schools, six middle schools, four traditional high schools, and several alternative schools, Fort Collins kids have a chance to succeed in a school that suits them. Of course, some schools offer programs that prove to be more popular than others.

Harris Bilingual, a dual immersion elementary school, educates Spanish speakers and English speakers alike. When students exit the school, (approximately sixth grade), they are considered bilingual. In today’s world, that seems to be a priority for many parents. The school operates on a lottery system; so if you have a kindergartner next year, apply before February 8th to be considered. After kindergarten, the chance for kids to get in dramatically falls.

IB, or International Baccalaureate, is a worldly program offered at all levels in PSD. Two elementary schools, two junior highs, and one high school offer this prestigious pathway of learning.

Experiential learning schools, non-graded schools, Core Knowledge schools, Charter schools, and many other specialized programs await your children in Fort Collins.

Check out the Poudre School District’s website to find out all that happens in this great family town. Again, if you are interested in School of Choice—or specialized schools—the deadline to apply is February 8th, so don’t delay.

Moore Core Knowledge School
[where: 1905 Orchard Place, Fort Collins, CO 80521]
970-488-8260

Harris Billingual School
[where: 501 E Elizabeth, Fort Collins, CO 80524]
970-488-5200

Searching for Hope

Amber Rose — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 14:13:30 -0500

Like any college town, Fort Collins boasts activism on both sides of the political hemispheres. Anyone around for the past semester at CSU, or within a wide radius, knows that the obviously liberal campus newspaper now has an opposition paper offering balance to all Rams. I attended a university in a small, quiet conservative town, but still nothing can turn up the heat in an election year like the educated future of our nation. On an unseasonably warm afternoon, I visited the much-publicized Obama headquarters on Oak Street to see if the university students were really shirking their studying for good old-fashioned campaigning.

To my surprise, the office was buzzing with young Progressives, but also a fair number of non-traditional folks (AKA older than political science majors). Set up in a law office in the residential area west of Old Town, the Fort Collins Obama Headquarters resembles a true grassroots effort. All the usual—t-shirts, bumper stickers, pins, yard signs are offered, but also dozens of people are engaged in checking off names as they make call after call alerting voters to the upcoming event featuring the Senator in Denver this Wednesday. Campaigners told me a second unofficial local office recently opened to support the Obama effort.

I received an invitation on my door the other night from a neighbor hosting an Obama house party. (Interesting that no other canvassers/invites have come my way in such a heated primary/caucus time). The message of hope will bring neighbors together over coffee and desserts.

Other than this well-oiled Obama campaign machine, I have yet to hear or read of any other local headquarters; however, some lawns papered with Ron Paul signs might qualify. With caucuses set for February 5th, there’s still some time to hear more about the Fort Collins political efforts. A truly diverse town, it is sure to bring varied support for the presidential candidates still in the race.

Rules of the Dog Park

Amber Rose — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 23:02:45 -0500

Upon arriving in Fort Collins last summer, we rented a teeny two bedroom while we were still paying a mortgage on our unsold house (sound familiar to anyone these days?). Just East of Hughes Stadium lays a land of rentals—affordable, but cramped, and without fenced yards. So, our pooches, pried from their home on a third of an acre in the country, were forced to spend their existence being walked. Can you imagine? Walked on leashes. Oh, the incaninity. Sure, they also got to (illegally) romp every once in awhile in the grassy “parking lot” of Hughes Stadium—like a few other brave dogs, but that was often cut short by Scout making a run for home (leash-free) toward the Frogger-like, massive street, Overland Trail.

Guilty dog owners, recognizing our folly of expecting Australian Cattle Dog Mixes to survive on walks alone, decided to drive Scout and Zooey to the dog park.

The Dog Park was a wake up call for these often-bratty mutts. All the rules they had learned in the “country” and in our home were scoffed at by the dogs of the dog park. Every dog bigger than Scout quickly informed him of the rules; “Hey, man, you think you can put your paws on my back just cause you’re so small? I don’t think so, buddy.” SNAP. To our surprise, it was not the other dogs that ultimately let us know that Scout was not really welcome or appreciated. Dog owners rarely found any humor in his approach to get to know their dogs. Many let us know, in not-so-subtle ways, that Scout needn’t teach their dogs any rules. He really wasn’t the cute class clown we found him to be. Meanwhile, poor little Zooey trotted around happily wondering why her brother was such a numbskull.

It should be noted that the Spring Canyon Dog Park is really quite a remarkable tribute to our canine friends. Adequately spacious, with all the amenities one would desire (poop bags, trash receptacles, benches, water fountain, good views). They even thought to include smaller pens for shy and small dogs. Two other dog parks, Soft Gold and Fossil Creek, also await your well-behaved dogs.

Alas, our old home sold and we immediately got into our midtown home—complete with a HUGE fenced yard.

Spring Canyon Dog Park
[where: W Horsetooth Rd, Fort Collins, CO 80526]

Soft Gold Dog Park
[where: 520 Hickory Street, Fort Collins, CO 80524]

Fossil Creek Dog Park
[where: 821 South Lemay Avenue, Fort Collins, CO 80524]

Fort Collins- South College Heights

Amber Rose — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 14:32:14 -0500

My family and I recently moved to Fort Collins from a small southwestern Coloradoan town. We fell in love with a 1958 home in South College Heights, and purchased it immediately. At the corner of Yale and Harvard, we see our mostly-retired neighbors shoveling their walks, cleaning out their gutters, and religiously walking to the nearby strip mall. My two young daughters rejoice in a diverse neighborhood of varying generations and cultures. They also love the
family walks to Whole Foods . . . and, when indulged, McDonalds. The strip mall and adjoining businesses to the West of South College Heights are as welcoming and diverse as our neighbors. We frequent three “restaurants” directly to the West—often “safely” jaywalking across College Ave. in less than five minutes.

Die-hard fans of Whole Foods prepared meals, we all love the “café” feel of the enclosed porch—open air in good weather. The girls love choosing their meals from the salad bar, while my husband and I usually opt for freshly prepared sushi. The self-serve water and amazing ice cubes are a hit with everyone. Following dinner, a bold espresso tops off our meal—a treat not often found in restaurants. I
also praise the Whole Foods staff for its clean-up hospitality. Every time we dine, one of our girls spills—water, coffee, whatever. The Whole Foods employees graciously (and immediately) clean up the mess without our offers of help.

We, like other discriminating parents, viewed “Supersize Me”—the McDonalds expose with disgust for one of the restaurants which fed us through college. Our first daughter probably never tasted McDonalds until age four, when her aunt treated her to a Happy Meal. Apathetic exhaustion, combined with a surge in road trips in the past year, led us to submit to the great arches more than we care to admit. The toy box, littered with McDonalds junk, professes our guilt. Despite our self-loathing for our parental laziness, we joyously skipped with the youngsters to McDonalds one fine fall day declaring that if you can walk to and from the restaurant, the exercise outweighs the fat and salt. We won “parents of the year” that day with the deciding votes by our adoring daughters.

The final venue we regularly visit is Mulligans. A pub atmosphere, the loud televisions and (outside) fire pit create a fine eatery for screaming young kids and their parents who enjoy a tasty local beer with dinner. The build-it burgers and chicken sandwiches provide choice and freshness. The kids’ chicken fingers actually resemble chicken. It’s a terrific place for a family, despite the pub facade.
Furthermore, pub-goers actually appreciate kids, I’ve found. After a few drinks, no one minds a two-year-old peering over the booth divider, saying “hi” for the fortieth time.

As these retro homes of South College Heights become available for one reason or another, I hope more young families consider this quaint, affordable, and convenient neighborhood. And it doesn’t hurt that our kids acquaint themselves with the names of universities and colleges to shoot for in their not-so-distant futures.

Whole Foods
[where: 2201 S College Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80525]
970- 267-9200
www.wholefoodsmarket.com

Mulligan's Pub
[where: 2439 S College Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80525]
970-482-2584
www.mulligans.com

Madison and Main- A One-Of-A-Kind Gift Shop in Greeley

blargilicous — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 12:01:16 -0500

Madison and Main is located right across from the University of Northern Colorado's northeast campus, perfect for grabbing that little something after a long day of class.

From handcrafted items such as glass beads, charms, pendants, stained glass, vessels, silk flowers and home décor you’re sure to find that special gift for you or a special someone.

Madison and Main also acts as a cooperative for over 30 artists to showcase their works. Many of these artists showcase oil/acrylic/watercolor paintings, weavings, pottery, photography among others. This unique little gem in the heart of Greeley can't be missed, so don’t forget to stop by for their next showcase Feb. 29th!

The gallery is open Monday through Friday, 10a - 6p and on Saturdays, 10a - 4p.

For more information, call the gallery at (970) 351-6201 or check out their website at www.madisonandmain.com.

[where: 927 16th St, Greeley, CO 80631]

Roma Restaurant and Lounge in Greeley

blargilicous — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 11:17:51 -0500

As a college student, everyone knows that we are thrifty when it comes to grub and the occasional drink or two. Roma Restaurant and Lounge satisfies just those exact needs with a touch of laid back atmosphere thrown into the mix. With its unassuming vibe and hip tracks playing overhead, Roma will definitely go down in some of my best memories of college. Many nights were spent enjoying all-you-can-eat spaghetti, supreme pizza, enormous Italian Margaritas (among others), and the famous hot-house calzone.

It is cheap - especially w/ half off coupons which we always seemed to have an endless supply of. What makes Roma so popular is the great lunch/dinner and drink specials that brings customers crawling back for more. I recommend splitting the Family Salad with friends which consists of a mound of lettuce piled high with fresh veggies and a side of ranch. Then the Large Deluxe Pizza hand tossed made from scratch and topped with two of the finest salty cured meats sausage and pepperoni while a generous amount of green peppers, onions, mushrooms, black olives and mozzarella cheese.

I have to say that one of the downfalls of this place are the crowds, but that never held me back from getting an amazing meal and drinking with friends for under $10 bucks!

Roma
5750 W 10th St
Greeley, CO 80631
970-353-6541

Check out specials and the menu on the Roma website:
www.romagreeley.com

Click here for a Roma coupon