Labor Day

What a FUN weekend!!! This was our first "family" getaway. I have family in quotes because we still have not finalized Hazel's adoption, however, I can say family
because we felt like one.

We stayed in a tiny cabin and were "camping" with several other families. I was a little concerned how Hazel would be in a new environment with a TON of distractions, i.e. lots of kids, new people, wildlife, (can you say skunks, otters, llamas, chickens, goats, cats, and a horse or two- oh my!)Oh, and dogs of course. One (of the many) creatures that can make Hazel lose her marbles. Don't get me wrong, she LOVES dogs...a little too much. ;)

Hanging out on the patio overlooking the campers below

Creek side hike...loved this!


So, this trip was awesome on a lot of levels. Just the chance to to unplug completely, re-connect as a family, and enjoy nature. I was pleasantly surprised at how well Hazel did. She was nervous the first night we arrived, and for good reason. It was pitch black and were met by a ton of kids rushing around with flashilights looking for skunks and racoons. I wanted Hazel to feel safe so I removed her from all of the excitement, and went inside the cabin.

The very next day we got up at the crack of dawn, and Hazel and I explore the quiet grounds. We were able to explore all that we could not see the night before. As campers started stirring from their tents/cabins, she was able to meet people gradually. She was a hit!

The very BEST part of the weekend was that on the (LONG) drive up, we actualy said the words aloud that have been in our minds and hearts all along. It went something like this:

"Can we just agree that we are adopting Hazel?"

hubby: "I assumed we were!"

Yes, it was "assumed", but I cannot tell you the joy I felt to hear the words out loud. Hazel will be a part of our family.....Forever.