Year: 2023

A life redefined in Mancos, ColoradoA life redefined in Mancos, Colorado

In the heart of southwestern Colorado lies a hidden treasure that promises a life unlike any other. Mancos, a small town that exudes charm and tranquility, offers an idyllic setting for those seeking a break from the fast-paced urban lifestyle. From its breathtaking landscapes to its strong sense of community, living in Mancos is a choice to embrace the beauty of simple pleasures and reconnect with nature. I’m happy to say I did that 32 years ago.

Nature’s Embrace: Living in Mancos means waking up to the stunning beauty of nature every single day. Surrounded by majestic mountains and lush forests, the town provides a front-row seat to nature’s ever-changing canvas. Imagine sipping your morning coffee as the sun rises over the San Juan National Forest, or taking a leisurely walk along the Mancos River to unwind after a long day. In Mancos, nature isn’t just a backdrop – it’s an integral part of your daily life.

Sense of Community: One of the most remarkable aspects of life in Mancos is the strong sense of community that envelops the town. Here, neighbors know each other by name, and a friendly wave or warm greeting is a common sight. From local festivals that bring everyone together to small businesses that thrive on local support, Mancos fosters a tight-knit community where everyone is not just a resident but a valued member of a larger family. Make sure next year you don’t miss Burro Fest or Mancos Days.

Embracing Slow Living: Life in Mancos is a departure from the hustle and bustle of city life. The town’s slower pace allows you to savor life’s simple pleasures – whether it’s spending a lazy afternoon reading a book by the river, cultivating a garden, or enjoying a leisurely bike ride through the countryside. In Mancos, you’ll find that time moves at its own rhythm, giving you the space to appreciate the present moment.

Exploration and Adventure: While Mancos is synonymous with tranquility, it doesn’t lack adventure. The surrounding landscape offers a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and camping are just a few of the activities that allow you to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the region. Have you driven up to Jackson Lake and hiked the trails? With Mesa Verde National Park a stone’s throw away, you’ll have the opportunity to explore ancient cliff dwellings and connect with the area’s rich history.

Artistic Inspiration: Creativity thrives in Mancos, making it an ideal haven for artists, writers, and anyone seeking inspiration from their surroundings. The town’s artistic community is vibrant, and the local galleries and studios showcase a diverse range of talents. Living here means having access to a wellspring of creative energy that can fuel your own artistic pursuits. Check out Mancos School of the West for various workshops.

Mancos, Colorado, isn’t just a place to live – it’s a lifestyle that encourages you to slow down, appreciate the beauty of nature, and forge meaningful connections with those around you. It’s a place where you can escape the chaos of the modern world and rediscover the joy in life’s simplest moments. If you’re ready to embrace a life that’s rich in community, nature, and authenticity, Mancos is waiting to welcome you with open arms.

Discover the transformative experience of living in Mancos and find your own slice of serenity in this charming Colorado town.

Got kids and thinking of moving to Mancos Colorado? How are the schools?Got kids and thinking of moving to Mancos Colorado? How are the schools?

Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Colorado, Mancos boasts a school system that offers more than just education—it provides a gateway to growth, community, and a promising future. Here’s why Mancos schools stand out:

1. Academic Excellence:

  • Mancos schools prioritize academic achievement with a dedicated teaching staff committed to student success.
  • Small class sizes enable personalized attention, fostering better learning experiences.

2. Holistic Learning:

  • The curriculum goes beyond textbooks, emphasizing real-world applications and critical thinking.
  • Students engage in experiential learning, outdoor education, and projects that ignite their creativity.

3. Supportive Community:

  • Mancos is a close-knit community where educators, parents, and local businesses collaborate to nurture students. Last year I was a mentor for a high school entrepreneur class that got kids thinking and gave them 6 college credits.
  • Strong community involvement translates to a well-rounded education that extends beyond the classroom.

4. Cultural Enrichment:

  • Mancos values diversity and offers programs that celebrate different cultures and backgrounds.
  • Cultural awareness is integrated into the curriculum, broadening students’ global perspectives.

5. Technology Integration:

  • Mancos schools embrace technology as a tool for learning, equipping students with essential digital skills.
  • Interactive classrooms and tech resources prepare students for a tech-driven world.

6. Extracurricular Opportunities:

  • Mancos believes in the importance of a balanced education and offers a wide range of extracurricular activities. The whole town (almost) comes to the football and basketball games!
  • Sports, arts, clubs, and organizations allow students to pursue their passions beyond academics.

7. College and Career Readiness:

  • Mancos schools prepare students for higher education whether that is college or trade schoos and future careers through counseling and guidance programs.
  • Partnerships with local businesses create internship opportunities, bridging the gap between education and industry.

In Mancos, education goes beyond the classroom walls. It’s about nurturing well-rounded individuals who are prepared to take on challenges, contribute to society, and lead meaningful lives. The schools of Mancos, Colorado, stand as beacons of opportunity, enriching the lives of students and the community they serve.

Ways To Stay Cool This Summer!Ways To Stay Cool This Summer!

It is hot out! Here are some great ways to fight the heat and stay cool this summer:

Lake Nighthorse – 2 miles southwest of Durango. $10 daily pass. Swimming, fishing, hiking, boating, and there is an inflatable course as well. 

Jackson Lake – Mancos State Park $10 daily pass. Boating, fishing. Camping. Biking. No swimming.

McPhee Reservoir – Outside of Dolores. Camping, fishing, boating, biking, hiking, and cliff jumping. FREE except for camping. Second largest lake in Colorado!

Dolores River – FREE. There are beach areas that are perfect for families. Swim, paddle board, kayak. 

Cortez Outdoor Pool – $3 youth, $5 adult. Open Swim 1-4:50 pm every day. 

Durango Rec Center – $6 youth, $7.50 adult. Climbing wall, gym, pool, outdoor splash pad, water slide, and racquetball courts. 

Durango Hot Springs – Youth $15, Adult $39. 32 natural hot springs mineral pools. Swimming pool, cold plunges, and more. 9am-10pm daily.

Lost Hiker, Ian O’Brien has a huge network searching for him. #findianobrienLost Hiker, Ian O’Brien has a huge network searching for him. #findianobrien

This is a picture of Twin Lakes, with Hesperus Mountain above. Please keep a lost hiker, Ian O’Brien in your prayers and the search party. If you are able to hike, join the team by meeting at Lucy Halls Park up Echo Basin. Ian, an avid outdoorsman went missing after climbing to top of Hesperus Mountain. Hundreds of friends, family and volunteers have been scouring the mountain. Our Mancos community, has been providing support with food, drones, horses, ATV’s, prayers, and boots on the ground. #findianobrien

How to Increase Curb AppealHow to Increase Curb Appeal

1. Replace Old Hardware – Replace the entry door hardware, outdoor light fixtures, and mailbox. Choose hardware that contrasts the exterior paint colors. 

2. Paint The Front Door – Make a statement with the front door. Paint it a bright color or install a custom wood door. Add a wreath or other door decoration for an added eye catcher. 

3. Add Porch Seating – Invite guests to pull up and stay awhile with cozy porch furniture. Rocking chairs or a bench are both great options. 

4. Install Outdoor Lighting – Light the walkway to your home with outdoor solar lighting. Hang porch string lights as well. 

5. Refresh Plant Beds – Remove old leaves, plant fresh flowers, and remove weeds. Use stones or concrete blocks to edge the planter. 

6. Install A New Gate – a charming and attractive new gate can welcome visitors into your yard. 

7. Renew Paint – Refresh the exterior paint, and replace any old or rotting siding. 

8. Upgrade House Numbers – Do you have worn house numbers? Replacing them is a cheap and quick fix, taking no more than 30 minutes. 

What a crazy Winter and Spring has sprung!What a crazy Winter and Spring has sprung!

Yowza, we got 194% more moisture this year than average. It was a long winter and nice weather has finally arrived! Last week we hit 62 degrees and it caused the snow to melt quickly. Here in town it’s all gone, at my home only 3 miles north there are a few piles on the north of buildings but only 6 miles north of town, Summit Lake is still frozen over and there is a lot of snow!! I’ve lived in Mancos for 32 years and have never seen a winter like this before. My red signed road flooded over Mud Creek. A red signed road means the county does not maintain the road. What a disaster! Cars were stranded on either side. Since being able to get emergency vehicles over Mud Creek, my son James and I plus a few friends fixed the road. What a chore. Several ponds up north are at capacity and we shall see if there dams break if our road holds. We are expecting a few colder days this week in the high 40’s which is welcomed since it will slow down the snow melt. There is also flooding around Dolores as well. Click here to see my road! So if you are buying a home on a red signed road, make sure there is a road agreement with the neighbors.