A whole lot of Dinosaurs
Our initial itinerary lead us straight from Wyoming down into northern Colorado where we were excited to show the kids where Adam and I went to college, got married, bought our first home, and laid our first roots as a family. However, due to the devastating fires in the area, we decided it best to save that trip for another time when we could enjoy the clear Rocky Mountain air that we so lovingly remember.
Our first sights of the stunning geology greeted us just as we passed the ‘Welcome to Utah’ sign. We had never been to the state before, and it is so incredibly diverse!!
Unfortunately, the smoke from Colorado was never far away. The pink hues of the smog-like skies were a constant reminder of our friends to the east. We continue to send prayers of rain!
A now self proclaimed wildlife spotter, I saw something dash alongside the road as we signaled to pull off at the next rest stop. Closer look revealed a Mama and baby moose!! We watched them move briskly through the brush before crossing the road.
Our first stop was Dinosaur National Monument. Just as spotting a moose was top on my bucket list, visiting this place was top on Adam’s, and I was so happy to make it happen due to the detour in our schedule.
The rigid sandstone terrain made way to hues of oranges and reds against the blue sky. We explored until we were all too hungry to explore any more! The boys loved the rock caves and cliffs, and even found crystals hiding inside the rocks. This was a highlight for Merill, who is our family rock collector.
No matter where we’ve been, or what activity we’ve been doing, one of the best parts of this trip has been making it all happen with Him. A lot of blood, sweat and tears has happened behind the scenes this year, but our foundation is solid, and as our family values and goals become more and more apparent with each day, there is no one that I would rather be creating this new life alongside of.
And yes, there is a Woodie in my pocket and I am also happy to see him. haha! Dixon insists on bringing him everywhere. Not much has changed!
We visited the Rock Quarry, which is accessible only by pre-registered ticket through the USGS website. The ticket was $1 per person and included access to the wall of over 1,800 actual dinosaur bones! Such a cool experience!
We stayed in a simple hotel in Vernal, Utah and enjoyed the most delicious dinner at the town brewery (best brussel sprouts I’ve ever had) before swimming the evening away. Adam and I enjoyed meeting a very interesting family from Alaska, of who we became fast friends. We were once again reminded that kindness outshines darkness in this world, and THAT is something that will never change.
Thanks for following along! Next stop: Moab, Utah!
