Things we learned on the trip to Utah

(Departing Washington)

Hyrum loves Red Vines. Red Vines are kind of a traveling treat in our family and so this was a new discovery. We also discovered that when he starts screeching at about 9 hours in a a car seat straight jacket, we're pretty willing to keep handing him the red ropes.


He also learned up close and personal what sheep and chickens say.


Sariah learned how fun it is to be around girls (since that has so rarely occurred in her little life of BOYS, BOYS, BOYS). And not just girls---but lots and lots of girls.

Bryant learned what it feels like to be going up a water slide when everyone else is going down.

Talmage learned he wears a size 5, not size 3. Time for new school shoes, poor kid with crunched toes.

I learned that watermelon isn't just a water fruit but actually one of the most nutritious fruits out there, and that it is most nutritious when stored at room temperature prior to cutting. I was also able to visit dear friends made during my time in Santaquin. True friendship lasts forever.

James remembered what it is like to be with all of his brothers and sisters (almost all at the same time).
With Grandpa and Grandma Hales

Naptime on the road.

Lunchtime on the road - Almost literally.

The Traveling Store was replaced by The Traveling Bank. In years previous, the kids earned pennies for each half hour traveled without whining, teasing, or arguing. With their pennies they were able to purchase items from the Traveling Store (crayons, coloring books, travel toys, movie time, snacks...things to make the trip more fun). I really didn't want more "stuff" so we decided that for every half hour they could earn a quarter to save for things they really wanted (like a lego Harry Potter horntail). It worked the same magic. The kids did great, and now we are $36 poorer...worth every penny.

A visit with Great Grandpa and Grandma Webb.