Aspen Grove

The Utah Foster Care Foundation sponsors a retreat for many foster families every September up at Aspen Grove by Mt. Timpanogos.  This weekend gives these families a wonderful chance to bond and create fun memories. Thanks  to some wonderful babysitters (Dan's sister Brynn and one of our neighbors Friday afternoon, as well as Dan's bro Sam and wife Lara overnight and Saturday), I got to go with Dan so we could have a little overnighter get-away...free of charge!  

We enjoyed the beautiful scenery and kept things civil even though it was rivalry weekend. :) 

There was a fun magician Friday night.

Saturday, we went on a little 2 mile hike up to First Falls.  

The leaves hadn't quite changed to their full Fall glory as much as I had hoped, but it was still a breathtaking vista. :) 

The falls

A panoramic from Dan's phone. 

A little romance for ya. 

We kept seeing people come down the trail with soaking wet hair.  I guessed they had probably dunked their heads into the falls.  So Dan had to try it too.  

He said it felt like a bucket of ice water!  Brrr!

Refreshed!

We saw many of these little catterpillar guys around the camp.  

Here are some more beautiful shots of the valley.

It was really cool to see so many families who have taken in so many children in need and giving their all to them. We heard some heartbreaking stories while we were there and I now have a renewed appreciated for all they are able to accomplish. Even though Dan had to work some, it was a lovely weekend trip. I enjoyed napping when I wanted to and getting some good reading in.  So peaceful up there! Looking forward to next year.