Denali Weekend

Last weekend, Adam, Ben, Bandit and I made the drive north to the Denali area. Our friends from college, Jan and Chad are staying in a cabin a few miles outside the park for the winter. It's a beautiful spot right off the Parks Highway and overlooks the Nenana River and surrounding mountains. Bandit felt right at home and we all enjoyed tromping through the woods and eating low-bush cranberries (Bandit included!).

(Jan, Ben, & Bandit picking cranberries)

(Chad, Ben, Bandit, Jan, & Adam hiking on mushing trails near Jeff King's dog mushing compound)

(Chillin' outside the cabin)

For me it was a weekend of casual walks, berry picking, cooking, and eating fabulous food. Adam and Ben tried to get in a little more adventuring, but their Denali Park visit was thwarted when a ranger saw them with Bandit and politely kicked them out - no dogs allowed in national parks, which is why we never go to national parks anymore...too many rules. You can however bring firearms into national parks these days.

(Afternoon tea)

(Ben checking out the view after scrambling up park of Panorama Peak)

Adam and Ben were still able to get in some hiking and in typical fashion, they found not one but two opportunities to go swimming (quick swimming) in cold rivers/lakes.

(Ben)

(Adam)

(Take note of Ben's shirt)

(Lake jumping)

(My Boys!)

Baby Update:

I finished my 32nd week yesterday and am now into the 33rd - crazy! I've been sleeping a bit better than I was for a few weeks thanks to some pillows we borrowed from the Meyers and my trusty "noise machine" that makes constant wind noises. I've been trying to stay active by walking Bandit on the UAA trails everyday. We had our first natural birthing class last night with Maranda of Balli Birthing. We went over labor positions, breathing/relaxation techniques, etc. It was nice to finally share that learning experience with Adam. We will have two more sessions before I leave Anchorage next Thursday - less than a week away!