Night Away

Last night we had the privilege of staying the night in Van.cou.ver. We attended B's work Christmas party and got to stay in this swanky hotel. I've always wanted to stay here but it's definitely never in the budget so when the invitation arrived I convinced him that we should go. :)
We had arranged for the boys to have a sleepover with their cousins but both Ethan and one of their cousins were sick on Friday so B's dear mom came to our place instead. I baked her a chocolate loaf. :)
We made our way (in the forever nasty traffic, but pretty views) to the hotel with time to relax, change and head down for cocktails before dinner.

I was forbidden to bring my camera into the dinner so unfortunately I can't share with you the delicious, succulent food and fantastic dessert tables complete with giant chocolate fountain that I could have happily just stuck my face under. :)
I also cannot share with you the random and strange conversations that one has when one doesn't know the people one is with. Including one man telling B that he would be quite happy to have me when/if B is ever done with me. Ugh. People are so stupid when they drink! Anyhow, we did sit with another couple who we have sat with before and the wife is lovely and sweet and we get along quite well so at least that part was fun!
It was so lovely to wake up to quiet and not an alarm or a little finger poking at me, although they have such sweet little faces, I don't really mind too much. The sun was trying to shine through the strange clouds and gave off such a filtered light it felt like looking at another world.

Our room was very pretty and had view of part of the harbour, and some of the downtown area.

These were the hugest pillows I've ever seen! And while the bed was very comfy, I don't think anything will ever compare to the Hi.lton in Whi.stle.r where we stayed one year. I still dream about that bed.

A few of us got to take home the center pieces that a couple of the ladies made.

We opted out of the insanely over priced brunch in the hotel restaurant and took a walk in the brisk morning air to find some food.
On our way back we noticed how low the snow line was. And that we were at the same spot that we had gone to during the Olympics. And it was very near the whole camera incident...but we won't talk about that.
These pictures don't do justice to the views but they sure look wintry!



Then it was time to go home and relieve Nana of her nursing.
These were the table favours that we brought home for the boys, which were all handmade by the same gals that did the centerpieces. What a crazy amount of work that must have been seeing as there were about 130 people there!

So it was a quick and enjoyable getaway complete with a couple stops at St.arb.ucks to make it even nicer! Now it feels like the Christmas season can begin. I may just do some decorating this week!