Did you ever wish you could step back in history? This past weekend, my hubby, Don, and I stayed at the Hand Hotel in Fairplay, Colorado, in the shadow of Mount Silverheels. An easy drive from Denver, Fairplay reflects its mining camp history at every turn on the banks of the South Platte River. Visitors can explore the South Park City museum, a reconstructed town of old cabins and structures from the area.
The Hand Hotel is restored to reflect the area’s late 19th Century history. When you enter the hotel, you step back in time and become a part of the Old West. Each room is decorated in a different style for every taste. If you prefer something frilly, you can stay in Grandma Hand’s room, in honor of the Hand family matriarch, who caught fresh fish to serve to her guests for breakfast. Our room choice was the Rancher room, decorated with cozy quilts and pictures of steers on the wall. No modern TV or phone here to pull you back into the present. To learn more and see pictures, go to: www.handhotel.com 
Soon fall will arrive in Colorado. Fewer distractions will pull us from our appointed duties and goals. Adventures enjoyed now will provide great memories and ideas for writing during the months ahead.
Joyce Lohse, 8/27/2008
Joyce Lohse speaks about blogging for Women Out West Magazine
recorded by Deborah Kunzie
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