J.U.Gs

August Girl's Night

Hosted by Julia

This girls night was one of the funnest we've had. Julia somewhat recently moved to Tahlequah and had the wonderful idea that we would all drive up there for a night and float the Illinois River. So Saturday morning we all met at Heather's house at 6:30am to head that way. We got there about 9:30am and met up with Julia and Janet. Julia chose Falcon Floats there to use, which ended up being really great. If you're ever interested please visit them at http://www.illinoisriver.net/. We chose to float the river on a raft rather than a canoe or kayak. It runs about $20 per person and you get a ride in an awesome blue bus up the river where they drop you off for your ride.

First of all the scenery is absolutely gorgeous! Trees everywhere and natural rock coming out of the sides of the "mountains" on both sides. The river is very clear and cold enough to keep you cool in the hot August sun. The current is not super strong or anything and even non existent in some spots but it made for a leisurely 5 hour ride to go the 6 miles. You can stop on the shore along the way to swim, have a snack, or just relax. Of course with us girls there were plenty of hilarious moments throughout.

 

After a long, hot trip we headed back to the hotel. We were all exhausted and sweaty and in desperate need of a shower. After not getting adjoining rooms, no A/C, no phones, and a toilet that wouldn't flush the hotel finally got us in rooms across from each other with everything in working order. The lobby of the hotel had a nice living space with tables and a TV so we all hung out in there and ordered pizza for dinner. We had every intention of having our infamous card game nights but like a lot of girl's nights we just ended up talking and cracking each other up. At about 9:00pm (yes thats right..9!) we were pretty pooped so we went to our rooms. And just before bed Leah had the bright idea to try and take a picture of ourselves with the flash on without closing our eyes. This is how that looks:

Heather and Leah



Brittany and Annette



After some much needed rest we woke up and ate breakfast at the hotel. Sadly after that we headed back home. We all agreed that we definitely have to make plans for another trip..maybe in early fall when all the leaves are changing colors.