Women's Basketball | 12/15/2008 11:56:15 PM

BRIGHTON, Colo. - The Methodist University women's basketball team had one final day in Colorado and made sure to spend every minute wisely.

The team grabbed a hearty breakfast from the hotel and loaded up the vans for a trip to Estes Park.  It was a bit of a trek up the slightly icy roads from the snow on Sunday, but the caravan arrived safely at Estes Park Mountain Shop to rent sleds.  On the way up, the vans had a slight delay when they came upon some animals that are yet to be determined.  Perhaps someone within our readership can identify these wild animals that interrupted the drive.  The trip continued into Rocky Mountain National Park where the vans parked and everyone went sledding at Hidden Valley.  Almost everyone took at least one trip down the hill and some daredevils tried out numerous methods to find the fastest way down the hill.  There were a few crashes, but no injuries that required medical attention.

Time flew by and it was time to load up and head back to Estes Park.  Everyone grabbed a quick bite to eat before visiting the Stanley Hotel.  Stephen King brought the hotel notoriety with his 1978 book, The Shining.  While the Jack Nicholson flick was not filmed at the hotel, the 1997 ABC miniseries was shot there.  Just in case you were wondering, there were also two scenes from the award-winning movie Dumb and Dumber filmed at the hotel.  The group was greeted by the delightful tour guide Dawn, who took great care to share her extensive knowledge of the hotel.  She incorporated several members of the group into her reenactments of actual historical events that kept everyone engaged throughout the presentation.  The group definitely received their money's worth.

It was another trek down the mountain to stop at the hotel for a brief respite prior to the last supper in Colorado.  On the way back down, the vans met up with another group of furry friends just pausing for their afternoon snack on the side of the road.  The sight ignited another photo opportunity as the group ooohed and ahhed over the wildlife.  The caravan traveled across street to Lonestar for another scrumptious meal.  The waitstaff was especially cognizant of our group and brought much merriment to the occasion. 

Monday brought another day full of laughter and adventure on the snowy peaks of the Rockies.  Tomorrow the team packs up to head back to the airport for a day of travel.  The Monarchs will disperse before returning to campus after Christmas to prepare for the USA South Athletic Conference play.

Photos from the Day