Weekend Away

Thanks to Susan's willingness to watch Claire, Nate and I were able to take advantage of the Valentine's Day-Long Weekend and go away for a night about two hours from here in an old mining town called Phillipsburg. I only took one picture the entire time--the attempt of being artistic with sepia coloring and trees below--so I'll explain what I didn't get on film:

• Getting to the trailhead to cross country ski and only taking minutes to get geared up instead of a half an hour.
• Being able to explore new trails without worrying that we'll cross the "one hour in the backpack without a meltdown" thresh hold.
• Nate skiing without an extra 35 pounds on his back.
• Eating dinner together, lingering over the meal, without any interruptions other than the waitress either bringing more food or drinks.
• Hanging out after dinner at the local watering hole, meeting some locals, playing pool and shuffleboard (!?), and listening to classics from the jukebox.
• Staying at a historic hotel, The Broadway Hotel, and NOT having to set up a pack 'n play.
• Sleeping in until 8 AM and waltzing into a cozy kitchen where coffee and breakfast were made and waiting for the guests.
• Not having to pack a purse or backpack full of snacks and amusements "just in case."
• Exploring a new ski area, Discovery Mountain, though I showed some reluctance to ski the back side (double black, expert only) because it's been a few years since I downhill skied and a broken leg wasn't part of my weekend plan.
• Watching other parents coax their cranky toddlers down the bunny hill.
• Most importantly...both of missing that little girl like crazy for the two days we were gone!

Valentine's Day morning before we headed out. Claire with Nema who kept her very happy and occupied while we were gone. Thanks for taking great care of her!