5.14.2008

Zion a.k.a. Paradise

We had a wonderful camping trip this past weekend! We go camping in Zion every year because we love it there...and it's close to home! Usually Patrick and his brother Damon hike the narrows but we went too early this year and the water level was still too high. I enjoyed the 80 degree weather more than the usual 95 degrees we have during the summer, so I didn't mind! We had fun on several other hikes and had a great time!






The best part of our site was the abundance of caterpillars. We found one at ever turn; on the tents, in our clothes, climbing our leg, falling from the trees, in our tents or squished under our shoes. We even found several packed with our stuff when we arrived home! It was bug heaven for the boys. Every time Justin or his cousin Bradley would find another they would announce their acquisition with excitement like it was the 1st they had laid eyes on. We also got to observe them going into their cocoons and Justin even used the word metamorphosis that his grandma Austin had taught him. Sadly, those not so gentle 4 year olds were also a form of caterpillar population control...They learned that caterpillars are not good swimmers and cannot withstand the pressures of even small hands. Poor little bugs!






We had a perfect site right along the river with lots of shade, great views and lots of caterpillars of course!














The highlight of the trip was at the top of the Emerald Pools Hike. It was more beautiful than I remember! There were wonderful views, a beautiful amber pool, streams, tons of mud, cool shade, tasty lunch, and some very happy wet kids! We hung out by the pool for over an hour but if I had my choice, it would have been longer!











Happy kids and a happy mommy! I found so much joy as I watched my kids, especially Justin enjoying the wonderful outdoors. So much learning and discovery! I love the picture of him playing in the stream. I would LOVE to add that feature in my backyard when we landscape... Well, I can at least fantasize, can't I?? In reality, I'm thankful to be able to visit such beautiful place that only God could create.











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If you are up to it!












16 comments:

Mansius Family said...

What fun! We have not tried to take the kids camping yet but we keep talking about it. One day!

Elizabeth Dover said...

I love your pictures from your trip. You are incredible! It is a fun hike, but I can't imagine it was easy with carrying the little one in your tummy and at times probably needing to help Anna.

Angie Larkin said...

Holy Catepillars Batman! What an amazing twist of fate for those boys! I can't imagine a more perfect situation for little guys to have fun in. That will be a life long memory for them.

Jill said...

How fun! We have not yet been there with the kids. Maybe Zion next year! What fun with the caterpillars.

Karen said...

It makes me want to take a trip. I can't believe you were hiking, pregnant as you are.

Larae Taylor Merritt said...

Julie you are such a good trooper to go camping PREGNANT! Way better sport than I. You guys look like you had so much fun, it made me want to go. I'll have to get all the details where you camped and stuff. My kids would have a blast.

i said...

6 mo. pregnant was no big deal...Last time I went when I was over 8 mo.I just did less hiking. I just feel fortunate that I feel so healthy. I wouldn't do it pregnant with out my mega mattress though! We camp at a place just outside the main entrance because the sites at our favorite campground, Watchman, were full. Anywhere near the river is fine with me! I love going with other families...if you go, Larae or anyone, we would love to go!

Lesley said...

It was a nice weekend, too bad we didn't know you were there too! Maybe another time!

Randi said...

Aye! I'm so jealous! I love Zion's. And it has the added advantage of being warm, unlike Colorado right now!

Audrey Taylor said...

Julie,
what a wonderful opportunity. I love your post on it. You glow with the pregnant and in love with life look. You're beautiful.

Audrey Taylor said...

oh, I just read larae's post. You see, there's another thing all of us gals cane do together- go camping cuz I want to go too!

Melissa said...

I love Zions! We've only been once, but we really enjoyed it!! I am hoping to go back again soon :) Looks like you had a wonderful trip!

Unknown said...

Looks like you guys had a wonderful family time! I remember the days...enjoy your kids while they are young...they grow up way too fast!

The Calvert Family said...

How fun, we are going to Zion for memorial day weekend, We are going to try to hike hte narrows, if the water is low enough then. I love camping.

Darrell and Alissa said...

Can i go too? But with out catapillars, and i need showers, and working normal toilets, and not too much smoke from the fire- hmmm, maybe I'll let you guys go and you can tell me aobut it!

Anonymous said...

Wow, it's so wonderful all the time you spend with your family making all of these great family memories and blogging it as a family history record!!!! This blogging is great for grandparents to see all the fun that their children and grandchildren are having!! Thanks!!! Love, Mom