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Who Dunnit?

"Interactive, modern-day Clue game: a murder mystery dinner/party"

I remember being young and being captivated by the board game Clue. Scoping out who killed who, where it went down and what weapon dealt the final blow. It was like an old-school version of CSI. Sadly, I am grown up and that good ol’ board game doesn’t hold the same weight in my crime fighting and crime solving book. However, I recently attended a birthday gathering that became my interactive, modern-day Clue game: a murder mystery dinner/party.

Here in Denver, I know there are various “playhouses” offering this type of evening on the town. I actually attended one with my family for my 30^th birthday. I can say, it was a good time – essentially watching a slue of actors act out a murder mystery while the audience looks on and tries their hardest to solve the crime.

Yet, this recent gathering/party was different. I received an invitation yet, this invite was very different than the typical party I attend. After confirming I would be there, I received a notification of my character…Cindy Butt. All of us that RSVP’ed were given characters, a general description of what our character was like and the general scenario of the party, along with the victim – the individual murdered. We were also given suggestions for attire as the party itself had a theme – ours was set in the 20s. The host of the party coordinated all of this and was the only one who was aware of who was who and who committed the crime.

Dressed up with my character in tow, we all gathered for the party. As we arrived, we were given money (play money) and another description of what to focus on in the first scene. The money was to be used to buy things…bribe people…blackmail…etc. We then all mingled in character; striving to determine who had killed the individual in the original invitation. Yet, someone at the party was killed that night as well, which placed the biggest twist, figure out who killed the person at the party.

Long story short, we roamed around for quite some time in character. Acting within the constraints of our character, striving to figure out who was the culprit. We laughed, ate, drank and had fun in a way that was slightly different than any other evening I have participated in. At the end of the night, we cast our votes; gauging who was guilty. Everyone did a good job in character, as only one person actually guessed the true guilty party.

Want to try something new? Host one of these gatherings – the company will supply you with everything you need, apart from the guests and their outfits. They have tons of themes so you can choose something that works for you. And for up to 12 people, it's only $40. The reality is, trying something new is always better than sitting on your couch.

A Romp In The Mud

Although September seems months away, preparation can be a good thing. Knowing how much time you have before an event rolls around, can often help you figure out what, if anything, needs to be done by then. Regardless of your level of activity, engaging in events that challenge your fitness level, simply get you moving, or allow you to show your support for a good cause…is a step in the right direction.

For you ladies out there…a September event here in Colorado does all of the above…with a twist. The event is called Dirty Girl – a 5k race. The twist is that this race is a mud obstacle course. For me, this is a dream come true. Seriously? A race that allows me to romp around in the mud? I am not an avid runner, so engaging in a 5k race is a challenge all on its own. However, throw in some mud…a non-timed event…and a race where part of the proceeds are given to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, and I am completely in. The nice thing is that you can do this race “lone ranger” or grab some friends, create a team and enjoy a memorable experience with one another.

Reality is, there are hundreds of charities out there. There are numerous races and events out there as well. Dirty Girl is one of the many. Although my calendar has the Dirty Girl race jotted down, surfing the internet for another race or event that may be better suited for you, allows you to do something healthy, do something positive for yourself, your community and a cause bigger than all of us.

Restaurant Week

We celebrate our birthdays, holidays, and anniversaries. We celebrate sporting events and milestones in our lives. As humans, we essentially can find a reason to celebrate just about anything. Here in Denver (and I believe in many cities across the nation), the city celebrates culinary masterpieces by offering two weeks worth of culinary specialties – for the fixed price of $52.80.

These two weeks are filled with various restaurants throughout the city, concocting multi-course meals to allow those who splurge on this, to sample a culinary menu that many may dodge the other 50 weeks of the year.

The 5280 week now goes through March 9^th, 2012. So, one week has passed and there are mere days remaining in this flavor festival. $52.80 may not seem like a significantly cheap evening on the town, however, it’s important to note that $52.80 is for two people and as previously noted, encompasses a multi-course meal. The restaurants here in Denver that participate in this, are not necessarily the cheapest restaurants in the city - $52.80 is a good deal.

The multi-course meal offered, is often established for this deal – meaning that the culinary chefs have chosen what to offer you. With that being said, they offer some selection from which you can choose. To break this down better, let’s take one of the restaurants that participate in the 5280 week – Trillium. Should you opt to tap into Trillium during 5280 week, you are looking at a three course meal. First course will offer you small plate options – salads, poached shrimp, etc. Second course offers bigger plate options – beef tenderloin, trout or a vegetarian entrée. Last but not least, third course offers dessert plates – carrot cake, Swedish pancakes or panna cotta. You simply pick and choose what strikes your fancy. Each restaurant opts for different selections, so you can skim the available restaurants, their menus and go from there.

A two week window is all you get, and with one week already past, it’s time to make your selection, grab a friend or loved one, and head out on Denver’s town for some culinary magic and a pretty good deal.

A Place Of Remembrance

Almost thirteen years ago, Colorado (specifically Littleton) was jolted by such a traumatic and tragic event, that the nation as a whole mourned alongside of them. Columbine high school is nestled in Littleton, Colorado – a picturesque landscape with a scenic mountain backdrop. From the outside looking in, it appears to be no different than any other high school in the nation. Hallways lined with lockers, students sputtering around from class to class, teenagers focused on cell phones, boyfriends, girlfriends, the sporting event of the week, and teachers doing their best to maintain order. Yet, due to events years ago…these walls now have a different story to tell. A story of heartbreak, violence, death, tragedy and innocence lost.

Today, I visited the Columbine memorial. I was in college when the news story broke across the bottom of the television screen. School shooting. I recall watching the news that day, as students were ushered from various parts of the building, SWAT team members working to get inside and keep people safe, and the news broke of the thirteen individuals lost that day. It seemed surreal – bad things happen all over the world…yet, for anyone in school…or having children in school, a new wave of fear settled into our hearts. Could this happen anywhere? Could this happen to me or someone I care about?

I am not from Colorado, but as noted, recall the events of that day. I have been in Denver for years now; and for years, never even knew there was a memorial. Today, I had the pleasure of standing within the memorial, reading about each individual lost, reading quotes from students and teachers and community members. Some of you may hear the word “pleasure” and wonder why in the world I would use that word to describe any feeling I felt visiting a place of such loss and tragedy. I would likely wonder the same thing, had I not experienced the memorial firsthand.

I cannot deny that sadness lingers in each word within the memorial. I cannot deny that visiting it, did not bring tears to my eyes. I cannot deny that my own individual memories of April 20^th, 1999 were not triggered by standing in the “Ring of Remembrance” as the words “Never Forgotten” lie beneath my feet. Yet, standing there also gave me a new and different understanding of these tragic events and the memorial itself. This memorial was in remembrance of that day – those lost, injured, and affected. However, the memorial is also a place of healing; the words of students, teachers and community members that line its walls, sing softly a hymn of forgiveness and knowledge. The wisdom to learn from this day and ensure we all strive to be better individuals.

We often go about our days and our lives, focused on the things around us – those things that we each see as important. We often fail to stop and smell the roses, so to speak. We often miss small cues that life throws our way; we disregard things that seem trivial and insignificant to us. We often miss the bigger picture. This memorial was not only a reminder of that day and those lives lost, but also a reminder that we need to pay attention to the world around us. We need to learn from our mistakes and the mistakes of others. For if we fail to do so, we fail to nourish the memory of those lost along the way.

Skate Your Way Into Their Heart

Valentine’s Day is approaching and for those in a relationship or looking for the perfect date night, the pressure is on…9 days remaining. There are always the nice dinners, movies, and romantic nights at home. And believe me, there is nothing wrong with any of those ideas. Yet, at times, we like to spice things up…opt for something new to experience with your loved one or possible romantic connection.

In an economy that continues to struggle, for many, Valentine’s Day simply poses as another holiday designed to tap into our wallets. So why not get creative and look into low cost or free options?

They are out there…and for me, Valentine’s Day isn’t about acquiring the best gifts or splurging on expensive meals or outings. Essentially, it is a holiday fashioned for individuals to show their love for one another. What better way to impress a date or show your loved one how you feel, than tapping into something that you two have never done…or simply, an activity that allows you to spend quality time with one another. Reality is, when we are far older than we are today, we will (unless it’s an engagement ring) not likely recall the gifts we have received for each holiday. But we will recall, the time we spent together…creating memories that can often last a lifetime.

This Valentine’s Day falls on a weekday, so many may celebrate their holiday over the weekend. In Denver (well Lakewood), a nice day time activity that can be experienced is ice skating…whether you are good or bad…experienced or not, this activity can create those lasting memories. What better than lacing up the skates, holding onto one another for dear life, and enjoying one of the best things Colorado has to offer…Winter. A time to layer up, get close to one another for warmth, enjoy a winter activity and then cuddle together while sipping hot chocolate or coffee. Best thing of all…it’s free. Bring your own skates or rent some for only a dollar and there you have it…an interesting date for this holiday season.

This activity occurs on February 12^th, 2012 at 3pm at the Foothills Ice Arena in Lakewood (2250 S. Old Kipling St).

A Not So "Slumber" Slumber Party

"With Valentine’s Day approaching, a slumber party could be your ticket to finding that very special something"

Slumber parties…for girls, it’s a night filled with friends, laughter, pillow fights, snacking and gossip. Young girls gathered together, enjoying one another’s company, while conquering the adolescent milestone of the slumber party itself. Reality is, as a grown woman, there is a part of me that misses those simpler times – the times of freezing bras and staying up late talking about the cutest boys in class.

Then the day came where I received an invitation to a slumber party. Seriously? An adult slumber party? I wondered what exactly this would entail – grown women freezing bras and gossiping about work, children and significant others putting the toilet paper roll on wrong, being messy or the need to spice up the evenings in the bedroom? Staying up late…until midnight that is, and having wine or margaritas? I have to admit that I was intrigued, although a bit hesitant to RSVP.

I opted in – figuring I would take on this adult milestone and if nothing else, would have interesting stories to tell. Wow…was that an understatement. First and foremost, this slumber party was quite a bit different than it was when I was young. This was definitely an adult slumber party – one focused on romance, sensuality and sexuality.

These slumber parties are hosted by a consultant who offers the female participants a fun filled, educational, sensual and informative evening of delving into a world of pleasure – whether that is directed at oneself or partner. Many of us have taken a journey into an “adult store”; a place offering a variety of adult toys designed to spice up one’s life in the bedroom. Some people are comfortable heading to these stores, but many seem to hesitate due to the lack of anonymity and at times, the anxiety of asking a store employee questions on a product. The luxury of the slumber party, lies in the notion that these hesitations can be dismissed – comfort of your home, a consultant at your disposal to answer questions and provide information about products, a chance to explore the products and a discreet manner of purchase, should you opt to do so.

Reality is, many of us strive to ensure that our partners are happy in the bedroom – whether that is adding a new “toy” to the mix, engaging in sensual massages with various oils, etc. Slumber parties allow you to do so. Imagine a selection of your closest friends…sitting around, having a glass of wine or a beer, laughing and enjoying one another’s company, while a consultant provides you with products and information designed to make your life or your love life with your partner, a bit more enjoyable.

Exploring the adult slumber party is easy…if you are looking to host a party (meaning, acquiring a group of your female friends to attend at your home), you contact a consultant and book a date and time. A website has been included below. As the host, you often receive a gift or percentage of the evenings sales to spend on yourself. So not only do you get a fun evening with your friends, you also likely get a little something for you. And your friends…they get to enjoy your evening, possibly purchase a little something for themselves or their partner, and experience a not so average evening with some close buddies.

With Valentine’s Day approaching and those in relationships seeking the perfect gift, a slumber party could be your ticket to finding that very special something.

Should you be interested in becoming a consultant, that too is an option and you would simply need to look into the same website below and follow the prompts to tackling your new, exciting, part-time job opportunity.

Although this slumber party looks different than those when we were children, this is one slumber party you will not forget – and one that your partner will be happy you attended.

Art and Drinking? Is There Anything Better?

No matter where you reside, bars… taverns… clubs have a tendency to occupy as many storefronts as a Starbucks. And honestly, for those of us who have frequented enough of these establishments, it is pretty evident that most of these places are the same. Alcohol, pool tables, arcade games, dart boards, juke boxes, bar flies. I am not saying that bars aren’t fun…but tap into them often enough, and it can get monotonous.

Fortunately for those of us in Denver, we have the luxury of something a little different – Canvas and Cocktails. Essentially, this establishment merges cocktails and adult beverages with the best part about kindergarten – painting. Now, this kind of painting is a bit more advanced than the finger painting we tackled when we were young, yet it is still suited for the young at heart, the beginners, entry level painters and those just looking for something fun to do on any given night of the week.

Basically, the premise of this is simple. Each night a painter teaches all participants how to paint a painting…step by step. Although some of the paintings look complex, the teacher walks everyone through each brush stroke…allowing everyone to paint the same painting…with slight variations based on your actual interpretation of the directions. The best part of this is that next to the painting tables, is a fully stocked bar. House wines and various beer allow all individuals to kick back, learn to paint something, while having a few cocktails to make it all that more interesting.

If you visit their website, they have a calendar offering a picture of each painting that will be taught each day of the week. You can choose which one appeals to you, sign up and there you go…a fun evening on the town alone, with a loved one or friends. For all activities (paint, canvas, brushes, teaching), it costs about $30…but you also have the luxury of keeping your painting, taking it home, and showing off your artistic abilities to those around you. If you are looking for a place to do a shower, a kids’ party, a bachelorette party…they also host those. Book a small group or a large.

Although this isn’t the cheapest activity in Denver, the reality is…it’s something different. A change of pace from the normal day to day or weekend to weekend bar shenanigans. And…you get to take your painting home…slightly different from the other things people bring home from other establishments.

A Little Gift in Denver

"obtain a $25 gift certificate at select restaurants for $1.00"

Every city is filled with things to do… music, general attractions, museums, art, outdoor and indoor activities…and one of my favorites, food. That seems to always be the theme when traveling to a new place or when you live there and want to try something new… food pops into play often. What new restaurant can we try, what is top rated for this area, where can I get a good deal?

Denver has a large volume of restaurants and they range in price and range in flavor. Given the “big city” feel, one benefit is that Denver also has a relatively eclectic selection to choose from. Whether visiting Denver or just looking for something new…one thing that I found this holiday season that allows you to tap into a discount or simply a means to try a new restaurant is www.restaurant.com .

Restaurant.com is currently offering a promotion which allows you to obtain a $25 gift certificate at select restaurants for $1.00. Seriously? Yes…seriously. I actually purchased two. Essentially, this website offers a variety of restaurants throughout the Denver area…you can search based on zip code and add the gift certificate to your cart. Type in their promotional code JOY…and ta-da… savings applied to your balance and $1.00 remains. The certificate is emailed to you following payment and you can simply print this out and use next time you go.

Not only is this an extremely GREAT discount, it never expires…so there is no rush to use this immediately. Typically, the “catch” is that a certain spending amount is required to use your gift certificate. For example, I may have to spend $35 at the restaurant to use my certificate. Yet, that still gives me a $10 meal plus tip…which for here in Denver, isn’t a bad deal at all.

Great stocking stuffer option or simply something to snatch up and use at your leisure. Happy holidays. Hurry….this expires today!

Mediums, Psychics, Readings...Oh My?!

"Where do our loved ones go when they no longer physically walk this earth?"

It is likely that most people have experienced loss through the painful journey of death. Sometimes what seems to be the most difficult component, is the remaining unanswered questions left for those still journeying through life. Where do our loved ones go when they no longer physically walk this earth? What would they say to us, if given one more opportunity? How do we know that someone who is gone… is okay, safe, and in a better place, for lack of a better phrase?

There is no way to be certain that these questions are answered. We can pray at night, continue to ensure that individual’s memory lives on in each of us, and hold onto faith that they are some place better, watching down on their loved ones. However, although these questions cannot receive a solidified, concrete answer, there may be a portal here in Denver…that allows for closure, clarity and a little peace. That portal is oddly enough, in human form…Deb Shepard.

Deb Shepard is a medium…a teacher of the spirit world and a guide for spiritual wisdom and connections with those who have passed. She speaks on the radio, offers various classes and individual readings and provides lectures on the many things she specializes in. Believe me, I am well aware that this is a controversial topic. Many are believers and many more are skeptical…if not, simply against the notion that some individuals have a connection to the world of spirits, let alone, the ability to communicate with people in it. I had always fallen in the skeptical category.

That is, until I attended a lecture. With any medium or psychic…or whatever label you put on them…significant costs often come with gaining contact with the spirit world. Often times, people provide their money with a desire to have some closure with someone they love. And many times, the results they obtain are poor. Lacking validity. Lacking closure. Lacking any real connection at all. Deb Shepard does offer various services and individual readings or classes (to improve your own spiritual connection or journey) range in cost. However, for you disbelievers or skeptics, she does offer something far more simple. Simple, yet real, honest and inexpensive. An opportunity to see her ability for yourself and to determine from there, whether or not, you desire any further exploration.

Once per month, Deb Shepard offers a seminar at a church in Denver. It costs $10 to attend. During this seminar, she will speak regarding a spiritual topic (i.e. Intuition, Fear). She then does spiritual readings for individuals in the audience – as the remaining members of the audience watch and listen. If you were sitting in the audience, you have the ability to raise your hand…ask a question or desire to speak with a passed loved one. This moment alone has quite the ability to sway your belief.

I attended one of these seminars. However, I did not choose to raise my hand; I only wanted to listen to others. I was with a friend and she chose to step outside her comfort zone, having lost her mother a few years back. I watched as her eyes filled with tears, as Deb offered information about her mother. That moment, along with listening to the stories of others, made me a believer.

This is a unique and inexpensive, yet possibly life altering activity that someone living here in Denver has the opportunity to experience. Whether you watch, listen or learn…this is a Denver opportunity few seem to know about. Her website is included below. This gives information on her services and the various events she is part of each month. It is worth exploring. Who knows…she may be exactly what you are needing to let go, move on, or simply have a little faith that there is so much more, following our journey through life.

The Land of Santa

Fortunately for us living here in Colorado, we have a just such a place – North Pole Santa’s Workshop in Colorado Springs (about an hour from Denver).

What’s better than being a kid, knowing Christmas is slowly approaching, being dazzled by the concept of Santa, elves and reindeer, and actually being able to go to a place designed to be the North Pole/Santa’s workshop? I remember being young and overwhelmed by the holiday season. I am reminded of this innocence through the eyes of the children in my life and at times, I wish that my life was once again that simple. Although age has likely hardened me and slowly diminished my whimsical childlike ways, capturing the spirit of Christmas for those children out there who remain enthralled by the season, can rejuvenate the season and whisk away the bah humbug spirit.

Fortunately for us living here in Colorado, we have a just such a place – North Pole Santa’s Workshop in Colorado Springs (about an hour from Denver). Nestled at the foot of Pike’s Peak, is a Christmas themed wonderland for the little ones…and those of us who want to recapture our own holiday spirit.

Think about it….kid and family rides, Santa, elves, snacks, various shows, an arcade, and places to shop…all designed to target the Christmas season and the imaginative world of Santa right here, almost in our backyard. For the kids….can it get much better than this?

I know that not all kids believe in Santa. And most of us adults, had that dream shattered long ago. However, during the holidays…don’t we all strive for something to believe in? In a harsh world, I for one, am all for a place that (real or not), takes me back to a simpler time, reminds me of my childhood, and strives to build smiles on the faces of those that do still believe.

Holidays are about spending time with loved ones and this offers an opportunity to do just that. Of course this comes with a price…kids under 2 are free, but otherwise, it costs about $17 per person. They offer group rates, should you have a large family or opt to reign in enough people to make that happen. They also offer letters from Santa as well…postmarked from the North Pole.

Tis’ the season, I suppose. Enjoy it. Make time with your children and families and if possible, take a trip to the North Pole. We don't get that chance too often.

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