Once I graduated from Florida State University, I initially took a job in Florida, but within three months I realized that my heart was in Steamboat. So, I sold everything that would not fit in my Buick and drove across the country to try to make a life for myself in Steamboat. That was over three years ago, and I don't plan on ever leaving. Steamboat is the perfect place to live for so many reasons.
Next, Steamboat is a town that knows how to have fun. Not only does the town present free concerts all summer long, there are constantly other types of events going on that make people smile. There is the hospital fund raiser called the Penguin Plunge that is full of funny costumes and the Old Town Hot Springs pooch paddle where dogs get to enjoy the pools with their humans. Then there is the Annual Dance Theatre Benefit where people from every corner of the community commit to learn a dance or two in order to raise money for dance scholarships, and the end-of-ski-season, throwback, ski wear fashion show on the mountain. Add to that, crazy events like the Cardboard Classic (photo to left) and the Winter Carnival, and there are plenty of opportunities to have a laugh with new and old friends. There was even a flash mob at last year's Winter Carnival that almost everyone in town learned. Living here, special moments like that are the norm, not the exception.
Finally, Steamboat is a place of friendships. Because people are spending so much time outside of their houses and are constantly engaging in things that make them smile, right along side their neighbors, friendships that are formed here, run very deep. When I first arrived, I marveled at how easy it was to meet people. No matter where I went, people introduced themselves, invited me to cook outs, and encouraged me to join them on their team/league or in various outdoor activities. Soon, I was the one hosting game nights, organizing climbing outings and being the one to reach out to new people I saw around town. In three years, Steamboat and her people have woven themselves deep into my heart.
My Steamboat: a beautiful little ski town hidden in the Rockies who will steal your heart if you give her a chance.