Zion-Who Knew?

After we dropped the kids off at their camp we drove back into Springdale-a place we have never visited as a family even though it is so close.  It was a lovely place and we stopped at one of the many rock shops.  There was a particular turquoise/aqua glass "rock" that we told the kids we would find out what it is.  It was just that-glass.  It was pretty cool although it was like $3 a pound to buy and they were huge pieces.  We bought some very small rocks that were 4/$1.  We ate lunch and Oscar's, a very fine dining establishment, where they served sweet potato fries and $15 fish tacos.  Had we known how expensive it was going to be we probably would have chosen differently but it was nice.  After lunch we went to the visitor's center and then rode the shuttle up through the parts that you can't drive a car.  Did you know that Zion's National Park does not sell bottled water but you can buy refillable water bottles.  They also do not sell gum.  The reasons are obvious of course but quite an inconvenience.  Don and I had no intention when we set out for the day that we were going to be tourists so we wore flip flops.  I took a jacket simply because I always do and I grabbed one for Cayden but Don was in short sleeves and no jacket.  We had a fun time seeing what was up there, buying some books and hike guides and we plan on going back but next time fully prepared.