Dave has called it Capitol Wreath as a joke so many times that I second guessed myself writing “Reef” in the title.
For the 4th of July weekend we headed down to one of Utah’s state parks that we hadn’t been to before. Well, actually, I realized I had been to it with my family as a kid once. Since it was such a last minute trip and I was 32 weeks pregnant, we decided to stay in a hotel in Torrey, just right outside the park. It was a nice surprise finding out it was Torrey’s Apple Days! Unfortunately we missed the morning parade (I’m sure it would have been as good as the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Paradeš). But we were able to catch the small town’s firework show, which was preceded by a not-so-great musical performance. A minute or so into the fireworks, a large chunk of firework came flying down and almost hit us and I was scared the whole rest of the time. Honestly though, it couldn’t have been a better, random 4th of July in Capitol Reef and Torrey, Utah!
It’s been a high temperature, record-breaking summer and of course we chose the hottest part of the day to hike to Hickman Bridge. But I did it, and I didn’t even get swollen ankles!
After the hike we waded in the river at the bottom and it felt unbelievably good. If I had my swim suit on, I would have completely jumped ināand that’s saying something.
Chimney Rock^
Okay I need to take a second to talk about this huckleberry ice cream cone of Dave’s. He took a few licks and said it was the “most romantic” ice cream cone experience he had ever hadāand I’d have to agree. It was absolutely delicious, it was so pleasant outside, the ice cream was melting in just the right way and the cone was actually good. I was and am still jealous of his ice cream choice that day.
Most of my shirts don’t fully cover my bump these days, so I just let it hang out. Plus I was giving the baby some sunlight.
We watched the sunset at Sunset Point. 32 for 32 weeks!
The following day we hiked to Cassidy Arch. It was a longer hike, but we started early and brought some gatorade so it wasn’t too bad for my pregnant self.
Us on top of Cassidy Arch! Maybe this photo doesn’t make it look all that scary, but in real life it looked terrifying to stand on top of the bridge from where the photo was being taken. But then again when standing on top of the bridge the other side looked scary!
After the hike we made some PB & H’s and stopped by the Gifford Homestead for some of their famous handmade pies made from the local fruit. There was a long line but luckily we were able to grab one before they were sold out. We got a strawberry rhubarb and it was heavenly.
We also picked some apricots from the orchard inside the park. It was $1 per pound and an on-your-honor payment system. I’d never been fruit picking before, but it was fun and I kept thinking I want to come back with our little boy to let him pick some fruit.
We’ll definitely see you again Capitol Wreath!
