Hiking and the Springs

The last day of vacation was very nice. After packing a picnic lunch, we headed to a local park for a short hike. We then sat down to eat and were immensely entertained by the various chipmunks and ground squirrels that clamored for our attention (and our food). After lunch, we continued on the path until we came to this:

It's beautiful, isn't it?

Kids got to play in the water a little. The Boy didn't much care for the really cold water, so there aren't any picture of him in the water. Another kid was there with her parents. My brother warned his daughter not to go too far. The other kid heard this and immediately headed out "too far." She fell in the water and didn't look very happy to be so wet. Lesson learned!

After the hike, we headed over to a rather nice city park that held several of their famous springs.

This one is Sulphur Spring. While rather lovely, it sure did stink to high heaven!

Soda Spring. Not that impressive. Apparently, nearby construction actually disturbed this several years ago and now not much flows. It's called Soda Spring because it was rather fizzy.

This lake is actually a collection of several springs.

And then there's us!

We took the kids back to the condo for naps and I tried getting a little rest, which is nearly impossible when both your kids find it soooo entertaining that you're in the room with them. I finally gave up and went out with the adults, where I finished reading Harry Potter: the Deathly Hallows. For dinner, we went to a local restaurant that had a 50s theme. )For those of you familiar with Provo, think Galaxy Diner.) My nephew and I ordered the same burger. He had entirely demolished his before I had taken more than a few bites! Teenagers.

After dinner, we strolled along the main street, peeking into stores and picking up a few bribes - I mean, souvenirs for the kids. Just when I was really getting into the window shopping, da Boo tripped and skinned her knee something fierce. We headed back to get her cleaned up and put the kids to bed. That night, we played Phase 10. Honestly, I hate the game. I've never made it past Phase 4 and it's no fun playing a game at which you are no good. But my gastrically-blessed nephew took pity on me and discarded a couple essential cards and I actually made it to Phase 10! But he ended up winning the game first. Hey, I'm just glad to make it out of my losing streak.