Moab with Hoosiers

We love Jonny's Aunt Barb and Uncle Dan. So when they told us they were making the trip from Indiana to Utah, we were thrilled! For at least a week Julia was planning what she'd do with "Uncle Dan and Daddy's aunt." She and Gabe took to them from the start. After staying the night at our place we all headed to my Grandma's condo in Moab to spend a few days in the red rocks. I don't know how many times I've been to Moab. It doesn't matter - I never tire of the rugged beauty. And hiking a few of our favorite trails was even more fun this time as we were able to be there with Barb and Dan as they experienced Arches for the first time.

On Friday afternoon we hiked Corona Arch, which is outside of the national park. It is a great 2 mile hike with a few challenging parts. Gabe was happy in the backpack and Julia was quite the trooper. She loved being the leader and I loved listening to all the songs she made up as we hiked.

The next morning we hiked Delicate Arch. I don't know that I've ever been to Moab and not hiked that one. This was Gabe's second time on that trail and Julia's third, but first time as a hiker. She remembers hiking it two years ago and has often mentioned the "big rock!" I always love coming around the bend and suddenly seeing the arch, so I was extra excited this time for Barb and Dan to take in the surprise.

We picnicked at Sand Dune Arch, another favorite. Then it was back to the condo to swim, relax, and meet up wit Jonny's Dad who drove up from Durango. It was great to see Dad and his sister Barb having a blast together. Reminds me of my siblings and me. Dan and Barb treated us all to a lovely dinner at the Sunset Grill - a restaurant set upon a cliff that I've always been interested in.

It was actually a perfect weekend. The kids were great sports and actually quite delightful. (This was a nice surprise after several tantrums earlier in the week.) Barb and Dan were the best of company, and of course we love any opportunity to see Dad. As fun as the hiking was, I believe what we loved most were the evenings when we all relaxed and talked. Just good conversations late into the night.

We already miss Barb and Dan, as do the kids. (Julia asks about them often! They were so fun with the kids.) Luckily we have tons of pictures to remember the trip by. Here they are for those who wish to see: