ZIONS!

We went to Zion's National Park on July 5th to enjoy some swimming and hiking with family.  We stayed at the beautiful "Desert Pearl" in Springdale.  I would recommend it to anyone!  

Shellie and John playing like kids in the pool!

Grandma Barb sharing a refreshing ice cream snack with Lane. 

I was trying to capture how beautiful the scenery was at this motel.  You can see the awesome red cliffs in the background.  It was such a perfect Zion setting.

Miss Chloe, Maia, and Madison....just some cute girls hangin' by the pool!

Kristeen, Polly, and Joyce waiting for dinner at the "Spotted Dog" (which was delicious by the way!)

Two blind guys we saw eating together at the restaurant.  

The next morning  we all headed out for our big hike to the Emerald Pools. 

As we approached the trail head, we were met by the one and only "Ranger Bob".  You can see him here lecturing us about hiking safety.  He encouraged us to feed the animals and try to pet them.  He also informed us that the hike was long and hard, we did not want to carry heavy packs so we needed to dump all of our water and snacks....he even wanted Hayley to leave her baby under the tree so she wouldn't be burdened with the baby's weight on the hike.  Wow, Ranger Bob!  Thanks for the great hiking tips!!  
Here you can see Ranger Bob's attentive audience!

My Dad (Ranger Bob), myself, Lane, Wyatt, and Larry.  It was such beautiful scenery!

Ranger Bob helping a lost child on the hike.

Ranger Bob carrying the tired child.  What a good guy!  

The gang stopped for a rest next to a waterfall... cool huh?  

AJ, Maddie, and Riley climbing the red rocks.

We finally made it to one of the Emerald Pools.  There was some shade and shallow water to cool off our feet.

We hiked on up to the 3rd Emerald Pool.  It was well worth it.  There was a larger pool to walk and play in.  The kids loved it...as well as the adults!  There was soft sand under the water -- just what our hot and tired feet needed.

Jill and Kristeen

My little Lane was too small to make such a long hike.  I owe a huge Thanks  to Larry and Riley for carrying him on their shoulders.  Lane was so relaxed and happy to have a ride.  Riley saved me!  Thanks again!

Below you will see a short video clip.  I tried to post this with the swimming pictures but it didn't work.  So, here it is at the end.  To summarize...my dad was swimming and  splashing family members who were sitting out of the pool.  His sister Joyce (who never gets wet) had had enough!  She threw off her shoes and jewelry and went in for the attack!  It was a classic moment!  I happened to catch most of it on video --

We had a great time in Zions.  I want a longer stay next time.  It was definitely hot down there in July, but the swimming and hanging out by the pool is the perfect way to cool off.  Hope to see everyone there next year!