Well, we finally did it! After 5 1/2 years, we took Taylee on a road trip longer than 2 hours. Aren't we brave?! No, really, this is a girl who has hated riding in the car since birth. She screamed as a baby every time we drove, And it has only gotten marginally better since. But, alas, we decided it was time to brave the open road, so we organized a trip down south... to St. George! This idea originated around taking Taylee to Tuacahn to see "Beauty and the Beast."
We did get to attend the show, but happily, our trip turned out to be so much more! A virtual smorgasborg of family togetherness! After driving down to St. George (which went better than expected!), we arrived at Red Cliffs Recreation Area for some hiking. Kent had picked out a fantastic hike for us that ended up at a little swimming hole. It seemed it was a popular destination! Taylee enjoyed the chance to go "rock climbing" up and around the trail and the swimming hole. I was a bit of a nervous nelly watching her go, but she and Kent had a fantastic time.
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Family Photo Op! |
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A little hiking diversion |
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Posing in a cave! |
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The swimming hole! |
We did get a chance to "relax" in the hotel pool before dinner that afternoon. Taylee made good use of her time, and practiced all the swimming skills she was learning. We may have a little fishy on our hands!
The next day we headed out for more hiking (by Taylee's choice!). This time we went to Sand Hollow State Park, and spent a couple of hours hiking the red cliffs. Our little "leader" developed a system of "earning badges" during our hike, and put Kent and I through our paces! We all had a good time. :)
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Me and my girl! |
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Hiking buddies :) |
After hiking and a little lunch, we were off for more fun in the sun! St. George townsquare has a fantastic splash pad available to one and all. It was wonderful getting our feet wet and cooling down a wee bit.
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Little poser |
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On Saturday evening it was showtime! The natural red rock amphitheater is a fantastic backdrop, but of course because it is outside, the show starts late. A tough dynamic for a busy 5 year old, but we made it work. She loved the show, although she was a little freaked out by the beast, and some of the special effects. During the show, Kent and I both had a little snuggle time with our girl.
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The beautiful grounds outside the theater |
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Posing! |
On our way home on Sunday we were able to make a little detour and check out my friend Adrienne's brand new house in Saratoga Springs. It was gorgeous! I am so happy for them!
All in all, a fantastic weekend!