Leavenworth

One of my favorite things to get at auctions are getaways.  I live for the special getaway, the one you didn't plan and feels like you got a steal.  It gives you permission to take a little mini-vacation.  This year at the school auction we purchased a one night stay in Leavenworth.  I delayed opening the envelop that had all the details and was surprised to discover that our night away was at the end of June and it was already half way through June.  Whoops!

With some quick planning and hustling, Dave and I managed to sneak away.  With only one night, you can't do a whole lot in the surrounding area (by that I mean really take advantage of all the outdoor opportunities).  We stayed at the Blackbird Lodge (right across from the hospital and in the center of everything).  Dave and I walked along the waterfront while waiting for our room to be ready.  Once we checked into our room, Dave and I decided to taste our way through Leavenworth.

We didn't really have a plan.  We just start by our hotel and started walking.  There are so many wineries represented, a plethora of tasting rooms.  Our favorites (of the ones we visited) were Swakane Winery Tasting Room and Plains Cellars.  Swakane had the most amazing Glutwein (a mulled wine).  Both of these tasting rooms win points for ambiance, lovely staff, and friendly patrons.  We weren't the only moms and dads out away from the kids.  I would have liked to have visited a few more but time and a desire to drink responsibly got in the way.  We purchased two bottles on our trek.  Dave and I had a great time enjoying all the fun and food of Leavenworth.

Dave and I embarked on an adventure before heading back home.  We went white water rafting on the Wenatchee.  I have always wanted to do this but things like pregnancy, kids, and life seemed to get in the way.

We lucked out with our boat and guide.  We were with a really nice family with two teens boys and two of their teammates, visiting for a soccer tournament.  Our guide has been a river guide for 11 years.  When you are doing something considered at least mildly dangerous, you want to feel like you are in safe hands.  

Heading out and relatively dry.

We took on several class III rapids.

We got very wet and had an awesome time.

To my relief, I experienced zero motion sickness.  I found the whole experience exhilarating.   We used Osprey Rafting Company and I would definitely recommend them.  We saw a different rafting company lose a person and then another boat in our group went to rescue him.  The other rafting company seemed to have multiple issues along the way.  Our trip ended with a bbq and smores in a private area.

It might have only been a little over 24 hours, but it was so refreshing.  I love my husband.  Quick getaways like this are just small reminders of how much we truly enjoy each other's company.  I look forward to our next adventure, whatever it may be.