Sabins On The Block

Friday, April 5, 2013

Spring Break Day 3: YOLO

Spring Break Day 3: we met up with the Reich's and headed out for a favorite hike that we discovered a few years ago. This hike begins in the Red Cliffs Campground, near Leeds. In the beginning, the trail seems much like any other trail in Southern Utah.

But, before long, you discover what makes it so special: lots of cool, deep pools of water along the way. Some have small waterfalls that you can slide down. Some are surrounded by large rocks and small cliffs that you can jump from. In the past, we have been content to mostly wade. Not this time!

Hayden was eager to get the water party started,

and Austin was right behind him.

Ashleigh then turned to me and said, "YOLO, Mom!" (translation: "You only live once!")

Much to her surprise, I decided she was right, and in we went. Did I mention that the water is cold?

It is actually freezing!

Ellie really wanted a turn and Austin agreed to help her.

She was so happy and excited!

And then she wasn't.

And then she was downright furious! She kept screaming "I don't like it! I don't like it! I am soaked!" We laughed and laughed which only made her madder and madder. And then Hadley started to cry that she "didn't even get a chance!" It really was quite the scene.

Next, it was time for the big jumps; no sissies allowed!

We were happy and drenched and so glad we took this girl's advice: You only live once!

We ended the day with one more trip to Swig. It really is insane to wait in this line for slushies and cookies, but we weren't sorry that we did. Yum!

Thursday, April 4, 2013

Spring Break Day 2

We decided to surprise the kids with a jet-ski for day #2. Cameron left to pick it up. I told the kids to get their swimsuits on and help me pack a picnic lunch. They wanted to know where we were going and what we were doing. I wasn't telling.

Then, this showed up in front of the house:

I tried to capture the kids reactions:

Hayden was eager for any adventure,

and over-the-moon when he saw the jet-ski.

Ashleigh was floored that Mom and Dad could actually be cool enough to plan this for the day.

Hadley wasn't excited at all. She got really nervous and wanted to know, "Do I have to ride on that?" The poor girl is still traumatized from being forced to ride the log ride at Knotts Berry Farm last summer.

Austin refused to be photographed because he hadn't done his hair yet (for reals).

Ellie was M.I.A. for the big reveal; no pictures of her.

We had so much fun in the sun and sand and water. Even Hadley decided that she liked riding on the jet-ski. We will definitely be doing this again someday soon.

Pretty much a perfect day.

Wednesday, April 3, 2013

Spring Break Day 1

We officially began Spring Break 2013 on top of the old water tower overlooking St. George. The view was beautiful. The weather was amazing. Good signs of good things to come.

Next, we explored the Red Hills above the city in Pioneer Park. There were so many neat rock formations and caves, and even a slot canyon that Hadley and Ashleigh shimmied through. So cool.

I love this next series of pictures because it perfectly demonstrates the sweet relationship that Hayden and Hadley have. Hadley tripped and hurt herself along the trail. Within seconds, Hayden was there, hugging her and asking her if she was o.k. He just hates to see her upset or hear her cry. He is her fiercest defender when she is in trouble and the first to respond when she is in need of help. He is ultra-protective of her needs and wants. If she is disciplined, her punishment usually makes him as miserable as it does her. It really is sweet... and sometimes entertaining.

To cool off, we stopped by the water fountains in Town Square near the Tabernacle.

It's easy to see why I love this guy...

We had heard about Swig and decided to stop on our way home and find out what all the fuss was about. We found out. Super yum shaved ice, avalanche style (with ice cream and cream) and the best sugar cookie. ever.

Sunday, March 31, 2013

Hoops With Papa

Hayden challenged Papa to a game of Horse today. He was nothing-but-business and kept taking crazy shots from all over the yard. Amazingly, he made enough of them to win and now has claim to some serious bragging rights. I'm not sure if Papa wants a rematch, but I know Hayden does!