{ weekend getaway (part I) }

We took an impromptu road trip over the holiday weekend to visit my in-laws' at their weekend home just outside a quaint little town called Murphys, located in the Northern California gold country. (Thus, my unplanned absence from S.HOPtalk yesterday).

Their cozy, no frills home is the perfect escape for enjoying quality family time. It doesn't even have (gasp!) internet or cell phone access. We all go through technology withdrawal for the first 5 minutes or so and then quickly settle into a relaxed, unplugged mode...board games, reading and–this time–learning how to build a proper fire.

The highlight was the snow, snow and more snow.  Murphys sits just below the snow level and typically doesn't get snow, so on Sunday we decided to drive a few miles up Highway 4 to a spot where you can pull off the side of the road and play in the snow. 

We spent a lot of time building snowmen. (Actually, we can't take credit for this guy, but Bella thought he needed some accessorizing). 

First a scarf...

How about a hat too?


There...perfect!


It was hard to say goodbye...


We promised we'd visit the snow again later this winter. 

And then...much to our delight...we woke up Monday morning to an unexpected surprise...

Which meant more play time in the snow...

Then, it was time to pack up and head for home...

I find that some of my favorite memories are from unplanned adventures we've taken. It's fun to dive into something with no expectations and discover the surprises that await us.