We spent a few days last week off with the staff for our annual retreat. We stayed on Mount Hood - up at Silcox Hut. This a building sitting above timberline at about 7000 feet.  The weather was insane. The winds were up to 80 mph, and the snow was falling so hard you sometimes couldn't see much more than 10 feet. The wind was the sort that steals the words from your mouth, along with your breath. To be heard by the peson next to you, yelling is required.

Steve, our host at Silcox did a fine job. He kept us well fed and warm by the fire. He dug out the windows and doors repeatedly, and manned the snowcat when we needed rides to and from Timberline Lodge. Best of all, he was entertaining and gracious.

Eleven staff and our two kids made the trip, which was one of our better retreats. Our meeting was typical: discussion followed by some resolution and some things unfinished. Of course, the most important part was the time spent together. Braving the weather to snowshoe, playing Taboo by the fire, and drinking Heath's crazy Mexican moonshine. It's amazing, though, how something so simple as being together in a different environment can solidify bonds and open communications.