Ok, looks like I have to post to respond to a few things now :P

Palms: Yup. Well, separately. https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphot..._6559791_n.jpg

ColoAvs: On the other hand, I don't see nearly as many speed traps here as I do in the midwest. Then again, my experience is mostly a few runs on I-76 to the Nebraska border and a round trip to Glenwood Springs. And that's awesome that you were able to navigate from the planes like that. Personally, I'd use the sun as a backup :-P

Mig: Just say when and food preferences. I know an awesome (and cheap!) Mexican place around here that seems to be pretty well-received when I take guests there. Or beer made from bull testicles. Or both. And I have no idea if holding your breath through the tunnels is common. I suppose I vaguely remember something for tunnels in general in Minnesota, but I'm not yet used to all the quirks out here. That said, it's only a few hours where traffic is really bad from what I hear. Go a few hours earlier or later, and you're generally ok. I'll actually be skiing for the first time on Saturday, though I have been to Breckenridge several Saturdays ago for a snow sculpture competition.