Moab

We are currently in the middle of a week off between our two Mission Training Institute classes, and have taken the opportunity to vacation!  First, Eric's parents came to town for the big birthday.  Then, we headed west...to Utah!  My best friend from med school and her family live in Salt Lake City, and they met us for a long weekend in Moab, near Arches National Park.  It has been great so far.  Maggie was especially excited to see "My buddy.  Wilson." 

On the way, we decided to take the scenic route from Colorado Springs west and then borth to Breckenridge.  Our state highway took us past TONS of beautiful mountains and an area that looked just like Rohan (think Edoras and the Golden Hall, LOTR fans).  Below is a view from the car.

 Then, after we got onto I-70, the highway went right through a beautiful canyon west of Vail.  There were points where we were literally driving at the base of a narrow canyon, just the highway and the Colorado river at the bottom and sheer walls on either side.  I hung the camera out the window and tried to get some shots.

 We arrived in Moab on Thursday night and spent the morning on Friday in Arches National Park.  It is beautiful! (in a fascinating but no desire to live here sort of way)

 Balancing rock, featured below:

 We were able to take a few short "hikes"...the Balancing Rock loop was about 0.25 miles, perfect for our family. :)

 Maggie showing off some mini-balancing rocks.

 The other hike we were able to do was to a formation called North Window.  It was huge!  So pretty.

 Eric walked to Landscape rock, a very thin arch, while I stayed in the car with a sleeping Ben.

Such a beautiful park!  Some day we will have to return when the kids are older and we can do some more hiking.