Southern Utah

 A few days before Christmas, Ben's maternal grandfather passed away in Southern Utah. So two days after Christmas we took off on a short road-trip. 6 hours seemed like nothing after all the driving we did this summer. Ben's aunt arranged for the family to stay in some condos there (it was nearly as big as our current apartment). It was nice to see all of our family. 

 Ben brought his bike to ride the Virgin River Trail, and it was his first real experience riding in cold weather. It gave him a good idea of what gear he needs to ride more comfortably in temps below 40 degrees F. He was literally numb when he came back to the condo. 

 A view of the local mountain range (and Gordon asleep after the funeral). 

We had to bring a few toys to keep the kids entertained, Gordon now hoards his own small toys just like his older sister. 

 Ben's mom took us on a tour of the city (she's quite familiar with it), and we visited the St. George city center park complex, which was really fun. That family dressed in white tees in the background ended up throwing bright-colored paint all over each other while having a photographer record the scene. 

A nice picture of Ben and I. They don't happen very often. 

The water feature in the park was very cool. Most of us, including the adults took their shoes off. The water was just as cold as the Pacific. I really don't need to mention Gordon got super wet. 

Then we drove over to the Sugarloaf (a big red loaf-shaped rock on the hill) and climbed on top of it. We also visited the historical homes of notable Church and St. George civic leaders. 

 The pool at the complex was nice and warm (or just warmer than the ambient air temperature). The girls enjoyed swimming with Aunt Michelle here. 

 Gordon and I hung out in the hot tub mostly. He's my brave kid when it comes to hot stuff. 

 Visiting the Nativity at the St. George Temple. 

This picture is here just because he's so silly.