Lake Quinault Retreat

 Last weekend Annika and I drove out to the Olympic Peninsula to stay at a cabin on Lake Quinault.  The weekend was organized by the intern pastor at our church.  I had been seriously debating if bringing Annika along to an adult retreat would be okay for her and what kind of impact it would have on the other adults.  Everyone really encouraged me to come, so I packed our stuff and left Tacoma after work on Friday.  I decided that it would make life easier if I came home first after work to play with Annika and then hit the road around the time that she would normally be going to sleep.  My plan worked out nicely and she slept the entire 2 and a half hour drive.  She woke up when we got there and ended up staying awake quite late, but she was happy to play with everyone for a little while.  I especially enjoyed having some time with other adults.  The cabin we stayed in was really a huge house along the lake with an amazing view and nice hot tub.  It was great to have conversations and spend time with friends that I hadn't seen in a long time.  On Saturday we drove to the southern end of the Olympic National Park, walked along the beach, and soaked up the sun.  I'm happy that the weekend went smoothly and everyone seemed to enjoy having Annika there.  I'm thankful for friends that are so welcoming.

Our retreat at Lake Quinault

Annika enjoyed sitting in a high chair for the first time!  We put her next to the table with the adults and she was happy to play with her toys and be close to the rest of us.

A beautiful sun room and where we had our bible study and discussions.

Gorgeous view from the lake front.  So happy to have a sunny day!

We took a day trip to the Pacific coast at Olympic National Park.  Annika's first time at the Pacific!

Group shot on a giant piece of driftwood.

Walking out into the surf.  I'll dip her toes into the water another time when it's warmer.