Out for a drive

Darrick works with someone that located here from Washington last year that said he likes to go to a place called Mt. Charleston because it looks and feels like he's back home in WA. So on Saturday we decided to set out on a drive to see this place for ourselves, because we are in the middle of a barren desert with cactus, not pine trees or green. A half hour into the drive we watch the elevation climb higher and higher from 3,000 ft. to 8,000 ft. and notice the temperature drop substantially from 70 degrees to below freezing.

We notice there are patches of snow, but see campsights full of campers, some hiking trails and picnicing sights and feel like we have stumbled on a treasure trove of fun and adventure. We realize we didn't bring ANY warm clothes or shoes, but we decide to let the kids get out and play outside for a little bit because they were so excited to see the snow outside and the babies were particularly tired of the car ride.

After some quick slips and bumps on the ice the babies were already crying for a retreat to the car and even the older girls were shivering and complaining. Darrick found some remains of a shattered sled and attempted a couple runs on the hill behind them, I even tried once. I made the mistake of using my un-gloved hands as brakes and the ice did as good a job as sandpaper would have done coming down. I got these 4 to stand just long enough for a quick picture and then we made a hasty exit. Here is a close up of them, particularly dear Katlyn.

So in the end, it wasn't a very successful trip, however, now we know where to retreat when it is 120 degrees for hikes or camping- AND we know where to find snow when we get properly prepared with snow attire and sleds. I've also been discovered some great ideas for fun with the kids (away from the glamour and attractions of the strip) like a local dairy farm that you can tour and get ice-cream samples, a bread making place where you can make your own bread, a chocolate factory, and other fun (FREE) places.

I promised to keep posted about our foster baby so I wanted to pass along that we've been told Kaleigh will have a home to go to at the beginning of March. It is nice to know so far in advance what the plans for her will be, sometimes it can be the same day. Hopefully it will help make her transition easier.