The day that Abbey thought would never get here arrived. Not only did she turn 12, graduate primary and join Young Womens but she actually got a phone!! I didn't think I'd cave in this early but I have to admit, I like being able to get a hold of her whenever I need to! Plus is great leverage when she decides to act nasty, which hardly ever happens right? So she's 12. I can't believe it. She's growing up to be such a beautiful Young Woman whom I adore and think is so funny and smart! I love my Abbey girl!
I didn't get very many pictures of Abbey's birthday because the phone was pretty much her birthday and a trip to her favorite restaurant which happens to be Chick-fil-a (my bank account thanks her). So now I'll begin the long list of pictures from our super fun Fall Break down at Arches National Park and Goblin Valley. There are a lot but be thankful that I didn't post all 600:).
Our first stop was at Delicate Arch. I have been there many times but this place never gets old, it was as breathtakingly stunning this time as it was the first time. I was so excited for my kids to round this corner and see the beauty for themselves (their first time seeing it).
Our first of many poses with the Arch.
But the Arch wasn't the only cool thing about the hike. Everywhere we went there were little areas like this to climb and explore, and my kids LOVE to explore and climb so this was heaven!
Ellie and I taking a break, she kept saying, "I'm getting sweaty but I'm going to keep going!" She's tough.
I love this shot of the skipping and the pony tail flipping. Pure joy.
We hiked over to the back side of the arch to get a different view and I have to say that was the best part for me. I'd never been over to that side (most people don't), but we found a way over and sat there just taking in the beauty and loving the adventure. We had some people tell us later that they were sure we were going to fall to our deaths but that grippy red rock is easier to climb on than they realize and it was worth the risk!
Our next stop was Double Arch. Very cool.
We ventured over to a big cave next to the arch and made our way up into it. (That was hard but we did it.) The kids were proud or their assent as you can see.
Abbey's so tough!
Climbing down from the cave!
On day two we got a little bit of rain but that didn't stop us!
Here's Ethan trying to push over Balanced Rock. So funny!
Balanced Rock was a favorite. From right underneath it when the clouds were moving it looked like the rock was going to fall on us!
I think I'm safe in here though!
The next few pics are of Sand Dune Arch.
More climbing!
On day three we headed to Goblin Valley State Park. This place is so much fun. We explored for hours and hours.
Miah said this one is an alligator mouth eating Ellie!
Help me up Mom!
We found a cool cave that was our secret spot. It was dark until you got to the end (shown here) where there was a little bit of light shining through. We sat in there and sang songs, good memories!
Looking out from our cave.
We actually found a way to the top of the white cliff which was no small feat. We were blown away by the views from up there.
Abbey and the Goblins!
Monkeys!
It was a really fun trip, the only thing that could have made it better would have been if Dallas could have come with us:(. He was traveling for work and visiting his brother in Baltimore. For the 2nd time in 6 months my Yukon broke down in the middle of nowhere on our way home but thanks to a tow truck and a really nice Papa we finally made it home. I'm trying to forget that part ever happened and just remembering the great memories we made before that point. We're already making plans to go back. We love that Red Rock! Natures playground is calling!
Lastly I have to post about this beautiful girl turning 6. Today was her birthday and she was just a little bit excited! Unfortunately she was sick and had to stay home from school but I think she still had a fun day. Here's her new bike!
I had so much fun re-doing the girls room for their birthdays (Miah's is in 2 weeks). Here's the finished product. It's such a happy place now! I think Ellie loved it!
Such a soft rug!
Happy Birthday my sweet Ellie! I'm so glad you came to our family, you complete us in so many ways. I love you more that words can say and every day you make me laugh. Stay little just a little bit longer!
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