Ah! I don't know how many of you have ever spent Christmas in a warm place, but I think I got a taste of how it would feel in St. George this past weekend! Can you say, Total Relaxation and Rejuvenation?!?
We were able to spend our 'Christmas' in St. George, since during the actual holiday Peter works a lot of long, late evenings starting in November, so his boss gives everyone their days off months before the joys of the season begin. Thus, Christmas in September!
We had a wondrous four days in the sunny paradise of St. George, which was the perfect weekend escape as we were coolly introduced back to the Valley late Monday afternoon. Fall is definitely in the air! A season I am completely in love with! The changing of the leaves from green to golden tones of yellow, red, and brown; the smells of pumpkin spice, trick-or-treaters, carving pumpkins, and bundling up in blankets with a good book and a cup of hot apple cider!
However, I wasn't quite ready for summer to end, so I was grateful we were able to bask in the sunlight for a few extra days! :)
We stayed in the cozy, little Temple Apartments almost touching the St. George Temple. Only a stop sign and twenty paces away from entrance gates and an unbelievable $30/night to boot!
With a fridge, stove, and microwave we ate good while we were away, too. Heating the soup and pasta Dad made for us, just as he did for me when I was in college. Thanks Dad! We enjoyed every drop!!!
Friday, we spent the night at the gorgeous outdoor theater, the notorious and beautiful Tuacahn where we watched the fun production of Annie. How amazing it was to watch these animated young girls get so enveloped in their characters! We couldn't stop singing "It's a hard knock life!" and "Easy Street!" for days!
Saturday morning we were able to spend visiting the temple, enjoying all of the beautiful grounds and flowers. While we were there we met an amazing sister missionary and learned of the rich history of the area.
We went to the Tuacahn Farmer's Market and Zions as well. Zions is such a majestic place! There were rich red rock cliffs surrounding us on either side as we bravely hiked up Angel's Landing--holding on to only a thick silver chain as we tried to keep our gaze straight, as the trail had steep drop-offs on both sides of us. Next, was a hike purely done wading through water-- The Narrows! And although we had not made it in very far, there sure were some breathtaking views seen with every turn we made. Now, two of my favorite hikes I've ever done!
We watched Notting Hill, visited cute little shops, and enjoyed the peace and serenity felt by the light of the temple illuminating the night sky and directing us back home from our daily adventures.
With the novel, The Last Apprentice: The Curse of the Witch completed, an end to the squeaky cheese bought in Beaver, and a spoonful of homemade ice cream from the Red Barn in Santaquin we were content to come back to reality and face the winds of fall.
Hey, with the coming of a new season, there are lots of fun plans in store!
Ash! I just love your posts. Your writing is so animated and sometimes it feels like I'm there with you! I loved reading the post about you with your young women, and how they were telling themselves how they can do hard things. What a great example you are. I miss you! Maybe sometime I can come down to Lehi and we can do something. Love ya!
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