However, I had some time today to finally post. And something post worthy. We went on a family vacation. The first one in over a year! Yay!
Some friends of ours have gone to Zion during Thanksgiving week for the past 3 years. They are always raving about it. So this year, we booked a trip. WELL WORTH IT! I have never been to Zion, so I was super excited. And honestly, it was something we could all look forward too. Zion did not disappoint. The only bummer (aside from leaving with a head cold), we could have used a few more days there.
The weather was absolutely perfect. This was the view from our lodge. Seriously, could it get any better? Talk about getting to witness God's amazing handiwork up close and personal! I am now wondering how we could get a job up there.
The mornings started out cool and crisp. Wonderful hiking weather. Our attempt at a multitude of family photos was in full swing. It's been a long time since the 5 of us were in a picture (and looking in the right direction, and smiling) at the same time.
My hiking gang did a fabulous job. So proud of them. The boys wore their own packs and carried most of their own gear. Lots of layers and then de-layering were required each day. Miss M was a trooper and never said a word. She had a friend with her and that definitely helped.
Can't tell in this photo, but we are kneeling at the edge of a cliff. Such an amazing view. There really wasn't a bad view to be had. I wish there was a way to capture it on camera.
"I just completed my 2nd hike of the day!!!"
"Mommy- chipmunks!!!! Can we have one?"
- If you know me at all, my answer would have totally been yes! But I am not sure where to put it. Already have a dog, a bird, 2 guinea pigs, and a frog.
Our second day gave us the greatest adventure. Due to my friend's fear of heights, she willingly watched 4 kids while the rest of us tackled Angel's Landing. So.Much.Fun! There is absolutely no way to capture it or explain it right. I'll just say this- almost a 1500 elevation gain, cables, lots of rocks, cliffs on both sides, crazy adrenaline pumping through my veins, and LOVED every minute of it!!!!
Our staged hanging on the side of a cliff photo op. Loved the views at the top of Angel's Landing.
Another family photo spot. Had a few more- those will actually make it into the Christmas card this year.
I cannot wait to get back out onto the trails again. I'm lucky that we have a good amount of open space and trails right outside our front door. But nothing compares to really getting away and visiting one of our National Parks.
So thank you to my friends for allowing us to come along on your yearly adventure. It just may become ours too. There is so much more to this park, that we didn't even get to see.
