Our Trip to the Desert

We changed things up this year and decided to travel out West to Scottsdale instead of doing a beach trip for spring break.  I was hesitant about traveling with everything that is going on but I'm glad we took the time to relax and recharge before all the real craziness began with the move.

The weather was perfect.  Cool in the morning, hot in the afternoon, and cool in the evening.  We spent most of our afternoons at the pool but did a few hikes, visited a cute little train park, went to an Indian's game, visited with the O'Briens, and tried a handful of restaurants.  We all loved the hiking and were surprised at how well the kids did uphill.  And, of course, it was amazing to meet baby Declan.  Eric and Meredith are doing great as first time parents.  It was fun to watch the kids interact with a tiny baby too.  They seem very excited about having one of their own.

We made it!

The hotel we stayed at was nice.  The rooms were standard but the pool was nice and they had breakfast and a happy hour/dinner included.  The kids loved all of the "free" stuff.

The kids eyed this dolphin while grocery shopping so he came home with us.

This little train park was too cute.  They had train rides, a train museum, a playground, and a carousel.  The kids had a great time.

Old  Town Scottsdale.  Such a cute area in Scottsdale.  We had fun strolling the streets and window shopping.

Indians game.  They played Cincinnati and won!

Pinnacle Peak.

They conquered the peak!

Lazy pool days.

Back in Old Town Scottsdale for some dinner and ice cream at this cute, retro ice cream shop.

Our second hike was the hardest.  It was over 4 miles and was mostly uphill.  Nolan did awesome and walked almost the entire thing.  Quinn did okay but was carried most of the time.

At the top!

Meeting baby Declan for the first time.  He was such a good baby.

Hike #3 was a smaller one but the kids loved hiking up to this hole and playing around on the rocks.

Poor kid was exhausted most days before dinner.

She also chose to sleep during dinner as well.

Nolan ate his first burger and loved it.

The O'Briens had us over on our last night.  It was great to see their new house and spend more time with them.  We love our visits with the O'Briens and can't wait to see them again.  Declan and Baby Girl Holick will only be a few months apart so it will be fun to watch them together over the years.

We wound down each night all cuddled up on the pull out watching "Diners, Drive Ins, and Dives."  The kids love cooking shows and especially love Guy (the host).  

One last dip in the hot tub.

Headed home.  It was a great trip and we made a lot of good memories!!