We Love Arches

As torturous as it is to travel with a child, we've been itching to get away.  Part was to be a treat for me since Brian's been so busy lately, plus we have to have some fun while we have only one child, a relatively easy to manage toddler.  Zion's is always an option, but the long, boring drive down the middle of the state (like unto the 5 in California) depressed me just thinking about it.  Besides, we hadn't been to Arches since before Eli was born. 

We made up our minds to go last minute when I found what must be the cheapest apartment in Moab.  It was perfect for us though, full kitchen, a couple blocks from the noise of Main St., and two extra futons-which Brian and Eli used to have a slumber party.  Aparently the porta-crib is suddenly scary.  

Arches in May.  It was so perfect we know why it is high season there- mid 70's and the desert in bloom.  We're not super outdoorsy or athletic, but we did tone down our activities since Brian and I were both carrying children.  I was disappointed that to take a boat ride on the Colorado river children must be at least 4. Instead of the Slickrock bike trail, we meandered along the river on a paved bike path that took us through town and ended at a huge playground.  As far as hiking trails, we avoided the rugged path to Delicate Arch and took shorter, safer walks, Double Arch (bottom left) being our new second favorite.  While there we noticed a light rainbow around the sun, like a halo (top left).  Eli was quite agreeable, even when we kept putting him back in the car, especially if promised we'd find another lizard at the next stop.  It was such a perfect day I'd like to think Saturday was mother's day, especially since the boys took me out to a nice dinner at a restaurant over-looking the valley.