Super Fabulous

The first weekend in August we initiated a hopeful annual tradition with Jon, Emily, and Ella in which we take a 4-day trip together. The twist on this getaway is that we alternate years planning and surprising the other couple with the location, agenda, etc. on a set budget. It was our year to be surprised. Coined the "First Annual Super Fabulous Wiebe-Benner Getaway," in similar fashion to all hopeful events, our weekend away lived up to its descriptor.

We traveled to the great state of Arkansas for one hot, sticky night camping under the stars at McIlroy Wildlife Management Area, followed by two refreshing, excellently air-conditioned nights at a cabin on Beaver Lake. I was concerned for stray bullets or an unwanted hunting encounter given McIlroy's name, but was assured we were camping during off-season. It was our first time taking Jack tent camping, an experience we'd been anticipating. Jack enjoyed his daylight hours, but we had a trying night to say the least. Poor Jack cried for hours which resulted in minimal sleep for all. We never deciphered the cause for his angst, but believe he was likely displeased with the high humidity and heat which glued us to our sheets. On the upside, we had ample time to take in the vibrant night sky which we rarely see living in the city.

We enjoyed a fire-cooked dinner of kabobs and corn-on-the-cob... yum!





In the morning, I snuggled an exhausted, over-tired Jack in the hammock. Thankfully we enjoyed cooler temperatures until the sun rose above the trees.



From our lovely cabin we enjoyed a few excursions out, but spent much welcomed time relaxing at the cabin. Hiking a nearby trail with a still exhausted Jack...



Jack and Ella enjoying a swim at Beaver Lake.



We had a great time and hope we can scheme up something equally enjoyable next year!