Back from the mountains

We returned home yesterday and were exhausted. It was a long weekend with lots of work, but we had some fun as well. Thursday afternoon the four team families left Vienna and headed for the mountains for a retreat. This wasn't my first time to visit the cabin, so I had some idea of what to expect. I was actually prepared for the hour plus hike from the parking area, but fortunately I was one of the few who never had to make the hike.

When we arrived on Thursday, there was enough snow to use the snowmobiles. I got to ride on the back while Kari and three of the kids rode in a sleigh. Jake followed us on another snowmobile that carried most of our luggage and food. I snapped this photo during the ride and am still amazed that I got everyone in the shot. I don't think Abby enjoyed the ride too much.


After we were dropped off at the cabin, the snowmobiles had to head back to pick up the rest of the luggage and children. It was a lot of work getting everyone and everything up to the cabin!

Sharkdog got a lot of good use out of his coat. I think it really helped him stay warm, even though he still shivered sometimes.



The kids loved the snow. The guys took them sledding one day and helped them build this giant snow man. It's hard to tell how big it is in the photo since there's no one standing next to it, but I think it was pretty close to my height.


In addition to the fun and games, we also spent some time talking about where we are right now and where we would like to be in the coming year. It was a good time to set aside the stress and struggles of our daily life and Vienna and plan and dream together.