Snowbird, 2017

Last week we got the chance to spend a few days at Snowbird resort.  It has been so hot, and we have all been so busy that a few days relaxing in the mountains sounded like the best idea ever.  We were especially lucky to have Brycen and Erika with us for part of the time.  There were plenty of activities and fun to be had, both for the big kids and the babies and I'm wishing we could go back already.

 The kids absolutely loved our room, they are easily pleased.

 

Nothing better than hanging with the big kids

The kids love the park,

The playground equipment is so much fun

 

Evenings in the mountain are just that much better...

Friday morning we slept in and when we finally were ready to ride the tram and go hiking, we discovered it was overcast and raining. For a minute I was a little bummed, but we decided to bundle up the best we could and head out in hopes of clear skies.  It rained off and on for a few hours, and we had to take refuge in the lodge at the top of the mountain for a little while, but eventually the clouds passed, the sun came out, and were able to g on our official hike.  The kids were so excited about the idea of hiking and really did great.  Ruby started to complain a little towards the end and told us her feet were so tired, but she did it.  By the time we got back to the room my Garmin showed that we had gone 4.miles which probably seems like at least 10 on their little legs.  I know I say this all of the time but I absolutely love showing the world to these little loves of mine.  

  

 They came up with this pose on their own

 

The wildflowers were in full bloom and so incredible. 

Everywhere we turned there were more activities

They are destined to be gold miners

There was soooo much swimming

Leaving the pool was the worst part of the day

Pioneer Day 2017

July is a great month for holidays, Independence Day leads right into Pioneer Day.  I always feel a little sad for people outside of Utah that don't get the double holiday.  I'm pretty sure the pioneers didn't necessarily think it was perfect timing to arrive in Utah in the middle of July, but I appreciate the convenience of the holiday.  This year the kids were able to go to a pioneer activity to learn more about what it would have been like to be.  They had so much fun, but came home hot and tired and happy that they didn't have to be real pioneers.

The kids thought it was so fun to churn their own butter...putting it on homemade scones made it even more delicious.

Luke and Ruby had so much fun playing traditional pioneer games

Such as Sack Races....

Three legged race...

And the Stick Pull.

The kids were pretty amazed to know that pioneer kids really didn't have toys, at least not like the toys they are used to.  The made humdingers out of a string and button and have been pretty excited to show them off to anyone who doesn't already know what a humdinger is (in other words, pretty much everyone).

Fiesta Days in Spanish Fork has become our traditional activity to celebrate Pioneer Day.  Sometime I wonder how much I really love a parade, and whether it is worth the effort to get there...but then I watch Luke and Ruby and the cousins and their joy at the whole experience and I'm of course glad that we made it.  Plus, there were a lot of Tootsie Rolls thrown so we wouldn't want to miss that.   

A karate school stopped and gave Luke a board to try to break.  They have for sure made a convert for life with that little stunt.  

The setup...

Success!

Really the best part of any celebration is the bonus family time

Ariel's sister Alona, the girls were in awe.

After the parade we found the free squirt guns and everyone (except me who tried to stay neutral) had way too much fun chasing down the enemy in a giant water fight.  No one was safe and by the time we finally left, nearly everyone was soaked.  It was a pretty great way to end the celebration