Mountain Retreat

12.03.2007

For the first time in way too long we were able to get away for a kid-free weekend...thanks to the generous babysitting of some dear friends. We headed northwest about 5 hours (not including the times we were lost, which we choose to describe as "a lot of learning going on".

We spent the weekend in a mountain town known for its snow capped peaks, sweets, and humorous inhabitants. Here are some visuals that we hope will help you get a taste of what a lovely weekend we had...

Scenic shots from the road...

Mountain views...

Giant trees displayed on the backdrop of gorgeous mountains...

and fall foliage that was eye candy for us city dwellers!

Traffic Jams and other highway hazards...

Scenes from a mountain town...

Beautifully restored buildings...


and some wonderfully UNRESTORED alleyways...






An ancient king's palace...on the outside...

and inside...

some likewise ancient churches, one of which is believed to date back to the first century A.D. ...

and so many minarets we lost count...


Friends along the way...

Evidently the phrase, "Don't talk to strangers" transcends culture...these little ones fled from us as if we had suddenly sprouted horns!

These fellows were more than happy to talk to strangers, and insisted we take their picture.


These guys' friendly faces welcomed us when we strayed into a deserted courtyard.

Loaded Ladas and other oddities...

Let's play a guessing game...the one who guesses how many persimmons in this Lada gets to take the whole thing home!

Those dangerous "naked" lights!

Random Shots inspired by our "global nomad" friend (you know who you are and sorry there were no bugs!)...

In an ancient caravan saray...

rice warmers from the 14th century (Beth thought they were military helmets!)...



Samovars for our national drink, tea...







An intricate doorway into an ancient church...

Produce rather speaks for itself doesn't it?

Thanks for taking this little tour with us...come visit and we'll take you in person!

P.S. For those of you tenderhearts concerned about our dear kiddos, they didn't cry for us a bit, and were delighted we had returned. The best of both worlds!