August 9-17 2008

Brian had a softball tourniment in Moses Lake on Saturday, the 9th, so on my way down to our family cabin on Mt. Hood, I took Brian and watched his first two games, then Hudson and I headed south. We stopped by Aunt Laurens house (my sister) so Hudson could meet her and his cousin, Axel in Hood River, Oregon.

Then we went on up the mountain to the cabin. The moment I layed my eyes on Rd. 35 my heart started to beat faster and my excitement grew, I couldn't wait to get there. As I pulled up to the cabin I saw that only uncle Aaron (my brother) and Brenna (his black lab mix) had arrived so far. Stepping into the garage/wood storage I took a deep breath of the familiar 'cabin' smell. A combination of woods, mustiness and a small hint of fresh air. Even the steps up into the old building creaked in a welcoming, familiar way. I couldn't wipe the smile off my face as I greeted Aaron in the kitchen. I felt instantly at home and at peace, the kind you get when you are wrapped by nature.

Aaron with Hudson in their flannels

Aaron was making some chili for dinner and about half way through our meal, Mom and her long time friend, Joi came in the door. We had a great evening visiting around the fire and catching up. The next morning we hiked up to 'the ridge', something that must be done every time when visiting the cabin. The trail leads out from the deck on the river and goes up from there with a beautiful view of Mt. Hood. (Not in this picture :( )

Joi, Mom (Sheryl), Hudson and I

Mom took Joi to a friend of theirs for Sunday night before Jois' flight home and then it was just Mom, Aaron, Hudson and I at the cabin. Monday we hiked to Veda Lake and had a great time enjoying the views and lake. I carried Hudson into the Lake and then Aaron carried him out, the elevation gain both ways was quite a bit!

Mt. Hood and Veda Lake

Aaron, Hudson and Brenna on the way back

Tuesday we worked around the cabin on some projects that needed to be done, relaxed some and enjoyed the cabin. Then Wednesday we decided to hike the Old Salmon River Trail. It was a beautiful 5 mile hike along the Old Salmon River with old growth trees, moss, and sour grass covering the area.

Old Salmon River

Thursday Uncle Randee (my brother) and his two daughters, Amelia and Maria arrived at the cabin. It was mostly another day around the cabin with a good balance of work and play. On Friday we all hiked the Pioneer Bridle trail. We had a good time, but after the first two hikes being so great, this one was a bit lacking in character and style.

Mom, Hudson and I, Amelia, Maria and Randee (Aaron is taking photo)

Saturday was our last full day to take in the cabin, zig zag river and all that we love. As I started to pack up for home, I was looking forward to seeing Brian and our animals again. I'm so glad that it worked out this year to spend a week at one of my favorite places!

Hudson and I watching everyone on the river and hangin' out

Aaron and Hudson swinging

Mom and Hudson swinging

Hudson sitting next to his Great Grandpa's initials in the cement from when he built the cabin (Horace Hudson Judd)

Here are some pictures of the cabin and Brenna, not wanting to leave on Sunday. She had a great time with all the hikes and even spent a night with Hudson and I on our bed!

We all had such a great time, I have many more pictures and can't wait to get this trip in a scrapbook! Hopefully it can work out to go next year, and maybe even Brian could join us!