Monday, April 26, 2010

Zion


Yes, we got away for weekend! It was a last minute decision. Soccer games were wrapped up by 2:00 PM Saturday. As I was driving home from the last game I coached, something inside said call our favorite Motel in St. George, Utah. Just in time! I got the last suite for our family for the night.

So a quick throw things in the back of the family hauler. Called my nephew to feed the kittens and fish - and we were off! The kids had fun splashing about the Motel Pool once we got there. Found a great place for ice cream, shakes, and fries at the Iceberg Drive-in. Then back for a great nights sleep.

The next AM off to the above pix and posting title. Zions National Park is a family favorite. Perfect hikes for the ages of our kids. They love seeing the canyon, the river and all the wildlife. It was very green with some wildflowers here and there. Not crowded at all, but just enough people for some people watching as well. It was a very refreshing get out of the urban/suburban jungle of Vegas for something "real" and natural. Plus, it was FREE. At least the Park admission. We capped a day of hiking with a viewing of Avatar at the IMAX theater near the Park entrance. Perfect weekend! I even came home with lots of Red Sand in my shoes, socks, hiking clothes and hair. Perfect!

Oh, running? I got in a 6.5 mile run this past Friday night. Tired run. Legs were heavy and I left at 9:45 PM for it. NO run Saturday. Early Sunday AM a short 3.5 miler in St. George. Nice run up to the LDS Temple with a beautiful walk around the grounds there. Then back to the Motel. That plus, hiking in Zion.

Is my inspiration back on the run? YES! It came in the Park, but from my 6 year old daughter. She loves running. As we sat eating some Zion Park treats at the Zion Lodge's green field, my wife turned to my little Runner Girl and said, "Go for a run around the field." Without hesitation, she said "Sure! - Just like Daddy." After hiking 3-4 miles, and a little break she was OFF! My wife turned to me and said, "See what you have done to her :)." Inspiration! It was all I needed.

The above picture was from last Junes trip there. For some silly reason, in our haste getting out the door - we forgot the camera this weekend. :( Next weekend Ironman and women hit St. George and near Zion. I will be in Newport Beach, Ca. trying to get my sorry behind across the finish at the OC HM. Fun.

Have a great week!

7 comments:

Unknown said...

I love ZION and your little runner girl is inspiring! So cute!

HappyTrails said...

How Slomo got his groove back .... awesome! Have a great week. Some time we'll have to pick your brain about Zion - on our To-Do list for sure. Good luck at the half!

Tina @GottaRunNow said...

Utah is a beautiful state! I enjoyed hiking in Zion and Bryce Canyon with my family a few years ago. Wonderful that your little girl likes to run! Good luck at your half!

Glenn Jones said...

Glad to see the motivation is returning. We all go through highs and lows. I'm just starting to come off a low myself...

I'll be watching for you this Sunday. I'll be on a bike. I'll post a picture of my getup before the weekend. Keep an eye peeled for me!

Tara said...

Oh wow, I've always wanted to go to Zion. I hope to make it there one of these days, it's on my "to do" list.

That is so cute about your 6 year old, I wish my kiddo liked to run! What an inspiration! :)

Jill said...

Gorgeous country, that's so great you spent some time there over the weekend! Good luck this weekend with the half - you're going to do great!!

Julie said...

Hi Slomo,
I want to go to Zion and hike or run:) I am glad that everyone had a good time!! Take care Slomo!