Spring Break Part 1: Manti, Little Wild Horse, Easter, Deer Valley and more

Anyone who knows our family knows that we do a pretty good job of packing a lot of excitement into a short time.  We've had some pretty action-packed spring breaks in the past.  However, I'm not sure that any surpass Spring Break 2024.  We squeezed in a LOT.

As soon as school/work let out on Friday, we hopped in the car and headed straight to the Manti Temple Open House.  We didn't have any reservations, but wanted to see the historic remodel while we had the chance.

The three hour wait was chilly, but gracious volunteers passed out warm blankets to everyone who wanted to bundle up.

This was the line for those who HAD reservations.  The line was much longer for those of us without.

We made our way to the front of the line just as night fell.  I think all would agree that it was worth the wait to see the beautiful spiral staircase and restored Minerva Teichert frescoes.  Unlike most of the other remodels, this historic temple has been preserved with few modifications, making it extra special.

That night we stayed at a Quality Inn in Richfield.  Nothing like sharing a bed for sisterly snuggles.

Indulging in a plate of whipped cream with waffle for breakfast.

Our destination?  A nine mile loop through Little Wild Horse and Bell Canyons.  Just outside of Goblin Valley, these canyons are scenic and fun without having too much elevation change.  Nine miles is a long way, especially for Annika, but we felt fairly confident that she'd do okay if it was flat.

Good news: she did great!  This hike felt very reassuring that our decision to hold off on listing for transplant is appropriate.

As you can see, Annika was full of energy and eager to climb every tree, at least at the beginning.

Racing along the canyon walls.  The sandstone is fun because it grips, even when the slope is steep.

Our photographer Eli borrowed my phone to take some great close-ups of the rock.

Little Wild Horse becomes increasingly beautiful and fun as the canyon walls narrow.

Echo!  Talia and Eli seem highly amused.

With water up ahead, it was time to change our footwear.

Our budding canyoneers practice their stemming and bridging and lounging.

In the happiest of places with the very best of people.  Truly, this is my dream come true.

As the canyon opened up, we broke out the frisbee to encourage everyone down the trail.

I know Utah is known for its red rock, but occasionally it's green.  In fact, you can find an entire rainbow of colors!

Sisterly love!  Both Talia and Eli were so supportive, especially as the miles passed and we hit a tough, steep section.

Heading back through Bell Canyon.  The canyon is wider here, but still beautiful.

Annie wanted to peer in the holes.  Good thing her Daddy loves her!

A few final goofy shots.

On the way home we picked up Brooklyn in Provo, then stopped in Orem at Maria Bonita's for chilaquiles.  I think the family would hike twice as far for food that tasty.  Definitely a good choice!

The next morning we celebrated Easter at home.  Inspired by the super imaginative clues Brooklyn designed to hide her boyfriend Henry's Easter basket, Talia likewise created a cute basket scavenger hunt.

Looks like the Easter bunny found Ginny after all.

After church we headed to Hyde Park to celebrate some more with Grandma Susie and Grandpa Charles.

A lovely church service, amazing food, an egg hunt, and several rounds of the Great Dalmuti.  What a happy Easter!

Jason had to work the next day, but the rest of us still vacationed hard.   Our destination?  Deer Valley Ski Resort.  We had to make sure that we used our Wasatch Benefit while we had the chance.  Talia and Eli were hilarious as they perfected their mid-slope two-person spiraling spin.

Hot chocolate goes a long way for happy smiles.

Next it was home to get packed for our cross-country drive to Omaha and beyond.  Stay tuned for more Spring Break fun!