L-R: Bill L, Barb K,

Dave L, Sally C,

Linda H, Joella W, Jan C

Photos by:

Karen Holmquist

L-R: Barb K, Dave L,

Joella W, Mary Ellen G,

Karen H, Linda H, Bill L

L to R:

Back Row: Joella W, David L,

Linda H, Jan C, Karen H, Bill L

Middle: Judy B

Front: Mary Ellen G, Barb K,

Sally C

Fortunately, we had a great weekend in February planned with 20 Ullrs to spent time skiing and snowshoeing two great parks, Jay Cooke and Banning.  Unfortunately, the parks had no snow for us to ski or snowshoe.

Fortunately, 10 of the group still wanted to go and hike the parks.  Unfortunately, a bit of chill was in the air as we drove up on Saturday.

Fortunately, the sun came out big and bright and the hike warmed us up on a beautiful two hour hike up and down through the woods.  Unfortunately, our little après hike snack with wine was not allowed in the state park visitor center.

Fortunately, Barb Kolbe convinced the park ranger to allow us to discreetly have our party in the visitor center.  Unfortuantely, it was time to leave the beautiful scenery and head to the Black Bear Casino.

Fortunately, the rooms were ready for us to change clothes and head to the hot tub with a glass of wine.  Unfortuantely, the hotel security made us put the wine on a table far away from our soaking bodies.

Fortunately, it was time to try our luck with the slots, or as David Lyon preferred the blackjack table.  Unfortuantely, more money was spent than won, except for Linda Heintz who came out ahead.

Fortunately, our table for a tasty buffet dinner was ready.  Unfortunately, more unsuccessful gambling followed our dinner.

Fortunately, Bob and the Beachcombers were playing in the lounge, and the music was great for dancing.   Unfortunately, the fresh air, exercise, good food and dancing caused an early night for most of us, except Barb and Jan Cady who just about closed down the dance floor.

Fortunately, we had free coupons for a hearty breakfast before we departed for Banning State Park.  Unfortunately, there was more than a chill in the morning air as we packed up our cars, and warmed the cars.

Fortunately, we made it to Banning and picked out a trail to hike.  Unfortunately, the visitor center closed as we headed for the trail.

Fortunately, the trail along the quarry was beautiful and peaceful as we spent over an hour hiking.  Unfortunately, our hike ended, but we needed a warm up.

Fortunately, we stopped at Banning Junction for a steamy hot chocolate piled with whipped cream.  Unfortunately, the weekend had come to an end.

Fortunately, we had a fun loving group who made the weekend so enjoyable. (We want to do it again!) 

Thanks to the 10 who made this weekend a success!

Karen Holmquist