No technology!

This is what the boys had to resort to when I said "no technology tonight!"  So glad to see them working together.  When they don't get their school done on time they have to give up the money they could have earned and don't get to play on the computer, wii or watch movies.  I'm beginning to think we should do that more often!

Moab Rim

Me, Trin, Alec, Kayley, Eric, Spencer, Aaron, Arthur and Jameson...Bri and Jimmy were taking pictures!

My beautiful city!

Jeepers coming up the Moab Rim Trail!

We love to hike and so does my sister's family.  So naturally, we went hiking!  This hike up the Moab Rim Trail was exhilirating!  and steep!  But we made it and enjoyed beautiful views.  Of course, the company was wonderful.  I'm so glad that my sister and her family chose to come to Moab for their UEA weekend!

Sadie's!

Tierra is actually old enough to go to the Sadie Hawkins dance this year.  She is a little excited.  She asked Terrance Farnsworth by putting a golden ticket in a candy bar.  He had to solve the "phone number"  which actually spelled out her name.  Today she got the reply.  The puzzle was an X, Y graph and she had to hole punch out the reply.  So cute!  She was excited that Terrance's reply was fun.

Rock show fun!

Whytney's treasures

Aaron's geodes.  They actually glow under black light!

Every year, we like to attend the Rock and Mineral show.  The kids love it so much!  It is held at the Spanish Trail Arena and there are numerous vendors.  Our favorite vendor gave a bag to each kid and let them take 1 shark's tooth, 1 marble, 1 seashell, 1pencil, 2 togs, 1 international coin and paper that allowed them to get a free item from the grab bag.  Whytney came away with a shark's tooth bracelet.  Arthur and Jameson got a speck of gold (worth $20?)  I got 2 rock necklaces for $5.  Aaron purchased a geode and got several for free.  Arthur purchaed a rock night light.  Jameson got a bag full of large magnets.  We love this event every year!

Delicate Arch

We hiked to Delicate Arch today and were surprised by how many people there were.  There was a steady stream of people going up and down the trail.  It was perfect weather for hiking!  And we had a great time.  Alas, we forgot our camera, so you get a view of the photo from Pam Burt.  When we arrived at the arch, a family approached us to take their picture.  They offered to return the favor and look stunned when we said we didn't even bring our camera.  I guess that is the luxury of hiking to Delicate Arch several times a year.

Negro Bill Canyon

Morning Glory Bridge at the end of the trail.

Eleven Year Old scouts and troop 802 and members of my family.

The natural spring was a BIG hit.

 

I mentioned earlier the awesome programs that Jimmy's work provides to motivate us to be healthy and to stay active.  This hike in Negro Bill Canyon was worth $30!  Gotta love that a hike is worth a dinner out!  And we love to hike.  We took our family and the 11 year old scouts and Troop 802.  It is parent-teacher conference so we were able to leave in the cool morning.  I love to hike!  I love this time with my family.  And the boys learned about plants and animals to pass off a requirement.  It is about 4 1/2 - 5 miles.  When we got to the Bridge at the end of the trail, there were people rappelling down.  What a treat to watch them!

All Natural

I am becoming a true hippy!  I'm trying to eat healthier (not as much processed food) and now I am experimenting with natural body cleansers.  I have extremely dry skin.  And I am tired of going thru tons of lotion (can you see the Lubriderm bottle in the background).  My skin is always itchy and dry and flaky.  While doing a little research on Pinterest (yes, I'm addicted to that site), I've discovered some natural body wash, natural facial cleanser, and natural moisturizer.  There is no alcohol (which I was surprised to learn, all commercial products have....weird).  The verdict:  so far I love it!  The facial cleanser is Castor Oil and Extra Virgin Olive Oil.  Yep, oil.  And I love it!  My face has never felt so good.  And oddly, there is no leftover greasy feel or sheen on my face.  I also love the body wash and moisturizer.  I have yet to apply lotion to my skin (which is a miracle in itself as I was applying it twice a day).   It has only been a few days, but I am delighted!

Whytney's fort

Whytney's fort in her room.  Picture taken by:  Whytney!





 

This is the current sleeping arrangements for Jameson, Arthur, and Whytney.  Whytney made this fort and the boys wanted to share in the fun.  I can't understand why they would want to sleep on the floor and not their comfortable beds, but nevertheless, they love sleeping here.

Everyone needs a fort!

I know it isn't much to look at, but my kids are very proud of this fort and spend HOURS here.  It is built of old rabbit hutches, leftover plywood, wood from the wood pile and the ever handy ladder!  It was so enjoyable for them to build it.  The ironic thing is that we have a beautiful playhouse for them!  I know there is joy in constructing and creating things.  Way to go kids!