Treasures are found in the rock, dirt, and hills. There is no price tag- A deep breath of fresh mountain air with a destination that is unknown because it is all about the JOURNEY.

I am a storyteller and their is my favorite one to write. They have carved in my heart memories I shall not trade

memories I shall relish

memories I shall savor.

Each Spring break, we tell the world good bye and head for the mountain tops. We have experienced some of the most incredible beauty. This year our destination by choice we Tuweep in Grand Canyon National Park. It is to the edge of no where and then.... literally a 3,000 foot drop which the might Colorado River has carved over the centuries. The view is breathtaking- for me it is religious!

We enjoy "unplugging" ourselves from the rest of the world... we hike, 4 wheel, explore. This year the boys went shed hunting and coyote hunting. They loved it.

I loved being free from distraction. The memories made are delicious.

Best daddy award goes to Rigby!

This place... being with them- I wouldn't trade it for anything! #lovemyfamily

Tuweep is a destination few have heard of and even fewer will visit. The drive is on a dusty road... few landmarks, but it is definitely worth the troubl.

Maleck is the heartbeat of our family. At 6, he makes us smile, giggle, and appreciate life. We love him!

My grandfather showed me how to find the beauty of life.... Rigby taught me how to enjoy it!

Emma adores her little brother. The two are quite the duo!

I love the way Rigby sees the world- I love how he has shared it with me!

COOL IN CAMO

DEER CAMP 2014

MUZZLE LOADER ADVENTURE

Congrats Stockton

Friday night we stole the evening and headed up "deer mountain." The Rigbys have hunted this mountain for decades. Grandpa Eldro Rigby used to come here when he worked the college farm. In those days harvesting a deer meant that the family would have meat all winter. It was a must. For us, it has become a family tradition. While we have found others hills to wander and other mountains to climb, we always come home to "deer mountain."

While Stockton was the one to harvest this beautiful 6x7 buck, it was most definitely a family affair. Our Friday evening hunt proved to be a wet one as we sought shelter under a tarp while Maleck and Emma prayed we would not be hit by lightning- the thunder created the most incredible music. Boy, was it loud. Just as the sun was dipping in the western horizon Travis spotted this deer from the "buck nook." He and Madsen headed down and back up through the big pass while we stayed with Stockton in the "Buck Nook." Stockton was the spotter.

However, it was a little to late and so we had to end the day's hunt sopping wet, but hopeful that tomorrow would yield a better return on our adventure! The rain continued all night, but Travis and Stockton were determined to find that buck again. So they woke early and then waited in the jeep hoping the storm would pass...... and they waited and waited some more. Seleck, Madsen, and Maleck had plans to join them, but the rain halted their plans.
The wait proved advantageous for Stockton... at about 8:30 I received a phone call from Rigby saying they had landed this 6x7 buck. Diligence paid off-

Sunday morning after church meetings, we all joined Stockton on the Mountain to bring home his trophy deer. It was a great family memory as we cut across the "Big Pass" and proceeded to cut a trail to retrieve the buck- This one is a keeper and an irreplaceable memory to boot!

Enjoy the following pics from the photo gallery

When they posed for this pic, I couldn't help but remember their first buck from 2005--- nine years later- look how they have grown

Deer Mountain September 2005

Rigby and Stockton will share this moment for the rest of their lives!

After retrieving the buck from the mountain, and the anatomy lesson which comes with such an experience, we enjoyed dinner at "deer camp." It was fun to listen to Travis share stories from his many experiences of hunting with his dad, brother, uncles, cousins, and grandpa and then camping in this very spot. Markings in the trees showed evidence of this camp's many visitors. For the Rigby family this place is sacred.

Seleck enjoyed a nap while dinner cooked...

Emma and Maleck explored camp....

And then we all gathered around the fire for dinner-- Yummy memories!

See you next year at Deer Camp....

Family traditions of any kind are so important. They bind a family together. I am so grateful to Travis for welcoming Emma and I to Deer Camp-- you know hunting is no longer just for men!

So grateful for my family and for days like this- a little bit of heaven!

We will be back--- this tree needs three more names....

Maleck and I glass on deer Mountain- Fall 2013

Had I not married Rigby, I would have probably pursued a graduate degree in English and spent all of my extra time cooped up in a library studying the works of Frost, William Carlos Williams and Shakespeare- just to name a few. But thankfully, Rigby captured my heart- it is in this heart that I write our own words of poetry while the rhythm of the outdoors writes each verse.

Deer Mountain September 2005

We have had many years of adventure. However, "Buck Fever" did not find our doorstep until 2005 when he landed a big two point buck with Seleck and Stockton.

This is the buck that started it all... To be truthful, I don' mind it. The outdoors bring such joy to him that it makes me happy. We all need that one thing in life that we are passionate about. He says I have many- he has one!

Hunters never tell their "Buck secrets" Needless to say, I am sworn to secrecy as to his favorite hunting spot. However, I will say that in the Rigby clan it is referred to as "Deer Mountain." The Rigbys have been congregating there for for generations now. It is their religion.

While Deer Mountain is our favorite place to hunt, Travis has hunted in various states and locations including Nevada, New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, and next year Alaska.

With gramps, in Buffalo Wyoming

My three little boys have grown much taller now and one day they will leave our home. I am sure this will occur much sooner than later. But I pray, come fall the memories made in the mountains will call them home...

2009 five point buck with Chris

Rigby is our resident Mountain Goat. He has his favorite spots and his favorite hunting pals. His boys, brother Chris, and Dad Floyd are his best comrades. As the children are now older, I hope to join these ranks.

I always joke with Rigby about our tombstone... there will be a temple and a mountain--- both which are most sacred to us.

Elk hunt with his dad Floyd

For now, Emma and I are content to wander the Mountain terrain with our Rigby "fellas" but watch out- next year Emma joins the ranks boys...Hunters Safety at age 10. she is sure to be the next Rigby "Huntin' Fool."

Our Last Summer Wander....

We like to wander just about anywhere. In fact, that is what we do best. Trail or no trail we are up for an adventure. Our time as an entire family in Park City was short due to football practice for Seleck and Stockton, but we made the most of it.

Catching the town chair lift in historic Park City, we were bent on adventure so we took the long way down... by foot. The view from the lift was amazing and the trek down was Fun!

And of course, every old building I see I had to take a picture--- there is always a story waiting to be told!

Park City is an amazing place to for a summer rendezvous. There is history, dining, shopping, adventure and of course the clean mountain air. It was so refreshing to be there.

My brother Chris and his family joined us at Marriott's Mountainside after Seleck and Stockton left. These cousins enjoyed being together. I enjoyed finally the fact the girls outnumbered the boys!

This time we decided to hike to the top and then catch a ride down the chair lift-- best thing about it was that it was FREE!

Can't wait for the next outdoor adventure...

Cedar Breaks- Spectra Point

No summer is complete without a visit to Cedar Breaks Spectra Point. Wild flowers dot the Mountain side in July making it the perfect time to visit this Southern Utah treasure. While we come to Cedar Breaks every summer, today marked more than a decade since I had made the trek to "Grandpa's Bristlecone pine Tree."

This Bristlecone has seen thousands of years of wind and weather - seasons of wildflowers.... rainstorms.... sunshine-

This little treasure marks the path to Spectra Point. Its story marks a story long gone.

For these hikers it was their first pilgrimage to "Grandpa's tree."

The "AWE" of this moment never changes.

Thanks grandpa for this tree- for your eyes that saw beauty in God's creations--- his mark is everywhere.....

And these are my four of my treasures.... their limbs too will stretch for generations....

Outdoor Adventures

Boating at Quail Creek Reservoir- 24th of July!

Some days you just get lucky enough to put a perfect memory into your pocket. Boating at Quail Creek on the 24th of July was one such spontaneous moment. After spending the morning at Cedar Breaks, Rigby treated the nieces and nephews to an afternoon at the lake... you will notice I didn't even get a pic of him (brain freeze) but I have to say these nieces and nephews are pretty lucky to have such a fun uncle! Love you Rigby

Thanks Chris and Jen, Mike and Ember, and Wendy for sharing your kids and this memory with us--- I have never seen so many smiles nor heard so many giggles--- It was definitely summer time at its best!

Javlyn, Dream, Japrix and Jennifer

Savana ,Kate, and Solomon

Chris and Dream

Taylor, Wendy, and Sydnee

Stockton, Dream, and Seleck

Me, Emma, Maleck, and Seleck

Well that's its.. the 24th of July with Barnwood and Tulips

Outdoor adventures at the Baseball Diamond

My life story could be told here- As a child, baseball was my only outdoor adventure. It seems funny that my children are being raised here too! Not much has changed... sno cones however were once 40 cents- today they run a buck. However, countless memories are still being made on the "all American" diamond!

Seleck's grandslam 2010

Last Night, I sat once again at the ball park. The sky was turning dark, crickets were singing, the diamond was lit with lights. Madsen was playing. Our third son has reaped the reward of watching his brothers compete on the baseball field. His is our happy child. In the midst of a very competitive game. I turned to look at the crowd and I realized that they were perhaps where the greater story was.... How grateful I am for these people, the victories and defeats both on and off the field. They have become our "dear" friends- our baseball family!

Seleck and his cute all player cousins...

I always chuckle a little bit when my mom would sits down next to a baseball "mom" from her days at the diamond. They instantly click as if no time has passed since the days they would watch their own children play ball from these same bleachers- today, they watch their grand kids.

Jayden, Seleck and Joey

Nope, there is nothing much more american than baseball--it truly is right u there with the 4th of July and Uncle Sam. Tonight, I return to the field to cheer on our team. I will watch our son play ball and yes, when he is up to bat, I am sure I will say a quick silent prayer and cross my fingers. I am sure when Saturday rolls around I will be somewhat grateful that yet another All Star Season has drawn to a close, but when the Spring air softens, I will be ready for the sound of the ball hitting the bat, the red dirt, and that beautiful diamond.

Maleck

Emma, Japrix, Dream, and Javlyn

I grew up watching my brother Chris play ball...

2008 baseball tourney- Uncle Chris Coached

Caleb, Dream, Bosten, and Stockton- cousins

cousin Caleb

Dream and Chris

Maleck, Japrix, and Dream

Maleck could run the bases as soon as he could walk

You can't beat this baseball smile

Cousin Hunter Reber, Maleck, and Madsen

Rigby has coached everyone or our oldest somewhere along the line in their baseball career. It has been so fun to see them on the field together. Rigby is my favorite coach!

Maleck's first outing was to a baseball game- feb 2009

Seleck and Maleck

Old Bud catches a baseball game

In 2008, the Weaver/Hofheins family won the Panguitch icebreaker- yeah baseball runs in the family

love my ball players....

Baseball 2012

I loved watching Seleck run the bases...

Happy Madsen

Maleck and Van

Seleck and Zak

Dailey Builders 2012- a perfect season

Dan and Travis

Stockton and Nationals head to San Bernardino

Yep, I gave Stock his first black eye at the baseball field...

Stockton, Joey, and Kasen

Outlaw Trucking Days

KB Oil Days... Seleck and Stockton grew up at the baseball field....

If you can't find us at home--- head to the ball park! Happy Summer!

Outdoor Adventures
Panguitch Balloon Rally

Check- I crossed this one off my Summer Bucket list--- I was so glad we had a minute to hit the Panguitch Balloon Festival while we were at Hatch at the Family Reunion. It was so much fun to see the balloons inflated and watch all the colors dance in downtown Panguitch--- it was really breathtaking to say the least!

Thanks to my sweet Rigby for these great pics--- xo xo!

Sno cones, family, friends---the cool night air- the perfect backdrop for the Balloon Fest--- if you haven't ever had the chance to go, put it on your "Summer Bucket List" for next year-- its always the last weekend in June!

Stockton, Seleck, Christina, Emma, and Madsen

Grandma and Maleck

Adelaide, Aunt Heather, Seleck, Grandma, Jack, and Stockton

Emma and Adelaide

And then of course the night was even better because I got to spend time with my sister- I LOVE IT WHEN WE FIND EACH OTHER!

Happy Summer Bucket list to all of you!

Calf Creek Falls

-destination adventure

We love to hike as a family. In 2010, we crossed Calf Creek Falls off our bucket list. We even got some fishing in at Lake Posey, and camped near a Civilian Conservation Corps site. I love it when we get a little history in the mix of our adventure.

As a family we love to make memories in the outdoors. Camping and hiking provide a great venue for family bonding. Its's great way collect endless giggles!

Maleck is so intrigued by the wiggly fish...

Calf Creek Falls- the journey begins. The trails to the lower falls is 5 1/2 miles in sand. The sand can be somewhat difficult for tiny or older feet. While we went in June, I don't highly recommend this time of year although it makes the falls absolutely delightful at the end of the trail.

This daddy can pack anything!

Navajo Sandstone is found throughout the hike

This water felt so GOOD! These falls measure 126 feet!

Lots of fun but beware levi's are hard to walk in when wet- huh Seleck!

Me, Madsen and Emma

Maleck and Seleck cool off...

This little guy was so hot and tired... Travis headed back with Maleck early so as to get him out of the heat... I roughed it with the other four trying to keep them motivated to the end.

I can't seem to get over the rugged beauty of this land. The colors are immense and terrain diverse. It's layers upon layers of sediment carved by weathering and time's hand.

Just a little more fishing!

No doubt there will be tall tales told!

Thanks Southern Utah for the memories, the fun, and the fish.

Emma and Stockton reel one in...

Kolob Canyons

A Kaleidoscope of Color

It's the way the light dances upon mountains that brings ever changing beauty to each landscape. My grandpa taught me that- I have been following his artist's eyes since I was just a tot. He used to make designs in his bowl of cheerios, paint his bread with mustard and mayonnaise, and paint his Easter Eggs like Monet.

Yes, Easter picnics always took longer because at every turn he was determined to catch yet another vantage point- The day we took him for a drive through Kolob Canyon was no different. Every turn, every shift of a shadow demanded yet another picture to be taken. Stockton was so patient this day as took the photographs for grandpa- me I was relishing in the experience and grateful that our children would have this memory with their great grandfather.

The Red Rock of Southern Utah is truly magical. These time eroded canyons hum the melody of the ages. These mountains are steadfast- they are warriors!

The traveler here, comes to define beauty by what is played before them- Heavenly Father certainly was the greatest architect, artist, and perhaps magician ever.

My grandfather spent nearly 10 decades as the Master's student. He captured his art work on his canvas. The Master's work captivated him. The world of art took him away... I enjoyed my tutor sessions with my grandfather. He told me I painted pictures with words...

Now he is gone, continue to study, to learn, and to write!

I love the day we spent with him in Kolob looking across the horizon and falling captive to the light.

There is great joy near the mountains- adventures and experiences waiting to be had!

The mountains are wise and beautiful- their foundation is Firm!

So we took the journey with grandpa- it was one of my final ones as his student. As his granddaughter, I stuck this memory in my heart to warm me later.

I am grateful my grandfather shared his gift with me and that he always encouraged me to keep painting my pictures with words- I think my grandfather and I sing a great duet!

Don't be afraid of the shadows- dance in them, grow in them, and then laugh in them- the light is never far away!

Just wishin' I was Fishin'- For Memorial Day weekend, Travis took Madsen and Seleck fishing at Pine Lake and on Boulder Mountain. I spent the weekend in St. George with Stockton, Emma and Maleck at Stockton's basketball tournament. They promised to take pictures for me.

When I saw them and heard of their great adventures, I couldn't help but feel a little envious- We missed out!

There is something so alluring about being out on the water with a rod in hand waiting for the right moment when you will hook that big one. I myself don't ever catch many, but I sure do enjoy watching everyone reel theirs in- besides someone has to take the photos!

16 and still a little boy at heart- love this kid- this kid loves fishing!

So, since I didn't get to go with them on Memorial Day, I relived our fishing trip on Easter Break at Pine Lake- Check out the pics from our fishing photo gallery below!

Life done right!

It would be hard to find a better daddy than this one-- Love you Rigby!

Finally the boys are old enough to enjoy these pontoon boats we have packed around all of these years!

Tell me life doesn't get better than this.......

This was quite the jewel we found in Capitol Reef- Cassidy Arch was the perfect morning hike for our crew. We loved our ascent to the top and were blow away by the vistas- each angle offered unsurpassed beauty. Cassidy Arch is named for the infamous Butch Cassidy- legend has it that this is one of his southern Utah hide outs- If so, what a beautiful place to "hide"

We were surrounded by immense beauty. The colors were thrilling to the eye.

One of our amazing views along the way- we loved immersing ourselves in this one of a kind beauty. While Capitol Reef is off the I-15 corridor, it certainly is worth the "side trip."

Five of our favorite hikers- These cutie pies were quite the "goers," and yes- they LOVE BEEF!

Candy to the eye-- Heavenly Father is the grandest of all artists!

Up the trail- "J" took such great care of our caboose Maleck."

Petrified wood- doesn't it look like a frog?

Watch out Below!

Emma, Weston and Mckaeli- always the ladies man

Fern's nipple

I am in love with this land!

Love these guys!

Team Rigby

Cassidy Arch

The Crew take a break to observe this

Yep, we arrived just in time

It was amazing!

Madsen and Austin

So happy Together!

Me and my little guy!

Cutie Pie!

Don't try this at home!

We finally got them to pose...

Camera shot from above....

Our "Aussie" Friends Kim and Martin joined us for the hike... we are so glad we met them!

I love it when spring break arrives-- for team Rigby that means camping, fishing, hiking- adventure, and don't forget the s'mores

For Easter 2014, our dear friends and neighbors joined us on our adventure in Capitol Reef. It was so fun to have them a long. Our first stop was Sulphur Creek Trail in the beautiful rustic landscape of Capitol Reef!

These kiddos have grown up together- it was fun to see how they took care of one another.

There is nothing better than a fun hike that involves water!

We hiked and laughed, swapped stories, and caught up on one another's lives

Maleck loved to be with "J!"

I found serenity here as we hiked. The brilliant colors and captivating vistas brought peace to my heart!

This is such a HAPPY tree!

So of course we had to climb it!

Check out these chicks--- When we found out that that baby number 4 for the Adams family was a girls, Madsen replied with great gratitude. "Wasn't it so nice for the Adams family to have another baby so Emma had someone to play with?" We all love Mckaylie!

If everyone could be like Michelle! She has been such a hero to our family- in moments of crisis and otherwise she has always been there... legoes up the nose, strokes, heart "attack," lost can opener- you name it she's got it covered!

Rippling water stirred the senses and created a memory never to be forgotten!

And of course they had to build a dam!

It was an adventure worth taking-- get your feet wet, take old friends, and open your heart---feel the energy of this magnificent land!

Thanks Adams family! Where are we going next?

Moab Utah, American Southwest

One stop, 3 destinations

A Easter Break paradise!

In 2010, Rigby made a great investment- a travel trailer. It began the first of many Easter Break adventures. It is the one time we simply call a halt to all of our sporting activities and go AWOL. Our first adventure was to Moab with the Clark Family- It was amazing!

The read rock of this land is captivating- thrilling to the eye. It is rugged land carved by the wind and the Colorado River. Its rich majesty is unmatcheD

The land screams adventure! On my first visit here I was dumbfounded. Everywhere I turned I was awestruck. I could not believe that my parents had not brought me here as a child.

Team Rigby

" The Snaking meanders of the Colorado River"

Dead Horse Point State Park

Arches National Park

You have to add this to your bucket list!

"Snips and Snails and puppy dog tails
that's what little boys are made of..."

"Sugar and Spice and everything nice...That's what little girls are made of."

Take a moment and join the locals at" Potato Salad hill." It's worth the thrill.

Rigby and Clark rendezvous!
Canyonlands National Park

Our Fab Five have grown much since 2010... I miss those days! I am so glad we take Easter Break to freeze time!

I can't wait to go back!

Experience Kodachrome State Park

Kodachrome Basin State Park is located in Southern Utah Kane County 20 miles southeast of Bryce Canyon near the small town of Cannonville.

While Kodachrome is a lesser known state park, it most certainly warrants a visit. This state Park takes its name from the 1949 feature which appeared in National Geographic. The film they used for this piece was the relatively new brand of "Kodak" film.

We loved our hike of Panorama Trail and only wished we had time to explore the other hikes offered at this state park. Our Easter stop here was brief but memorable!

Kodachrome definitely captures the grandeur of Southern Utah.... we call the red rock of this breathtaking state our little playground. We love our "Rigby walk abouts!"

Camping in Zion's Kolob Terrace

Off the beaten path of Zion's Main Canyon is Kolob Terrace. This is what I consider to be the hidden gem of Zion National Park. To find this jewel head to Virgin near the main entrance of Zion National Park. Just after entering the town of Virgin is the sign for Kolob Terrace road- TURN HERE!

We love to hike in Zion's Back country. There is so much to discover. Easter has brought us here often. We love to gather with family and Friends and celebrate the Spring season!

The Clark Family

One of our favorite Easter Picnic Activities is kite flying!

And then of course there is the Easter Egg hunt with the traditional basket on your head family photo!

Emma

Maleck

The Hunt

Cute kids- Paige, Alyssa, Seleck, Stockton Christian, Maleck and Emma

Its a girl thing

A short hike to a slot canyon

The Rigby Family brought to my life the "true" art of egg dyeing

Grandpa Rigby, Paige and Jocelyn

More egg dyeing

Easton

And then of course the grand finale of the Easter picnic event is the EGG TOSS

Adelaide

Christian

Poor Grandpa Jake!

Jennifer

Javlyn

Seleck

I can't wait for our 2014 camp out- location is yet to be determined....

Easter 2013 Adventure

Spring is here.! While its been a mild winter here in Southern Utah, the daffodils and tulips are bursting in the sunshine. Team Rigby is ready for an adventure. With the first smell of the Spring air, we begin discussing where we will camp for Spring break and that conversation turns to memories of past Easter campouts.

Last year, we were ambitious and chose a 13 mile hike that began at the Kolob Canyon Arch Trail head and finished in Zion's back country at the Hop Valley Trail Head. It was magnificent and proved to be a great "bonding" experience!

Both Maleck and Emma walked most of the journey, but they were thankful daddy brought is pack used for hunting to give their little feet a break!

The views on our hike were breathtaking and incredibly beautiful!

Halfway through our journey, we stopped for lunch at the "perfect spot" picked by Rigby.

Yep, he found a tree!

We call the red rock of Southern Utah home.....

We love the beauty and serenity we find in the outdoors.... if only , I could meander with Rigby everyday

Seleck Strikes a pose

The canyons carved by erosion and weathering mark the march of time

Our "Neverland"

Maleck was a trooper!

A Brief stop to bandage Emma's feet

Seleck

Stockton

Madsen

After hiking up out of Kolob we were greeted by this pleasant point of our journey... It would be a great camping spot!

Zion's back country is often overlooked by the novice hiker. However, it is truly a gem worth experiencing!

Hurrah... We did it!

13 miles later we reach the Valley Trail Head!

Ice Fishing Fun

I love to be hugged by the mountains when the air is crisp and the sun is shining. I take a deep breath and it seems like all my worries fade into yesterday. I simply feel invigorated. Rigby gave this gift to me... his love of outdoors and the matchless beauty it offers. It is a gift I treasure and one I enjoy with he and our five kiddos.

The sun screeched its melody on the ice this day- it clamored in a thundering motion striking fear in my heart. My ice fishing comrades assured me that we were fine and that the ice was more than thick enough. Yet, still my frame shuddered and my little ones drew near every time the ice rippled in its cracking motion. Equally unnerving was that with only a little skiff of snow s a top the ice, in some spots, the ice was translucent... a little creepy and more than slippery!

These two cute cousins were born just 3 months apart. I am sure they were playing in heaven and planning the torment they would cast up their 7 brothers, collectively. To each other, they are the only sister they will ever know.

Emma and Adelaide

My Rigby sets the hook and hollers to Maleck to come

reel it in.

Camden and Maleck

Electric auger work best-- thanks Markay!

Madsen doesn't think so?

Yippee!

A sled full of fun!

Yes, we caught fish. In fact a few of our fishermen are not found in any pictures here because they never left their fishing hole inside their warm ice fishing tent...

Meander with us Ice Fishing

We traditionally go every Martin Luther King Day and President's Day. That means This Monday we are heading out on the ice... we can hardly wait!

There is nothing quite like the winter sun reflecting off the cold ice as a fish dances atop the frozen water. Ice fishing is not a sport for the faint of heart nor the cold of toes, but it is a past time that many southern Utah residents enjoy.

If you have not been one of the lucky ones to participate in this sport so far in your life, now is the time. The basic materials needed for such an outing include:
an ice fishing pole with reel

Ice auger – manual or motor powered (this is the device which drills the small hole in the ice).

Scooper (looks like a ladle- used to scoop ice out of hole)
worms (meal worms or night crawlers) and/or power bait, jigs and/or hooks, a bucket, sunscreen ( it is a must as the sun will reflect off the ice), and warm clothing- layered clothing is preferable.
Of course, a small grill is enjoyable to cook yourself a hot dog or two. While on the ice, you could even grill up some fresh trout, perch, or other tasty varieties of fish. Don’t forget a little salt and lemon pepper and a filet knife.

Upon reaching your ice fishing destination, do not be alarmed when first stepping upon the frozen lake or pond. Remember, however, the ice should be at least 6 inches thick before selecting your fishing destination. If your destination is covered in snow, you may sink as you walk and water may have pooled on the ice leaving you with an alarming sinking sensation. In contrast, if your frozen destination is not covered in snow the ice may make a cracking noises as the heat of the sun enters the day just as an ice cube is dropped in a glass of water. Don’t worry you are not going to fall through the ice. You are simply experiencing one of the great thrills of ice fishing!
For the diehard ice fishermen, there are ice-fishing tents and propane heaters. These are not a necessity, but a luxury and very helpful in colder temperatures or windy days. For the amateur, all that is needed is a desire for adventure and the ability to drill your hole and “wet a line.”

Frequently asked questions by the beginning ice fisherman:

How big is the ice fishing hole? Am I going to fall through the hole?
The hole is made by the ice auger and is typically no wider than an eight inch pizza.
How do you know ahead of time if a lake is safe for ice fishing? Typically ice fishing season begins mid December and runs through mid March. However, it just depends upon the severity of the winter. Your local sporting goods store is a great resource for this information, or the fellas at the barber shop always seem to have the latest updates.
Where can I go ice fishing in Southern Utah?

Typically, Panguitich Lake, Navajo Lake, Piute Reservoir, Fish Lake, Red Creek, or Otter Creek are ice fishing hot spots. Kolob, Minersville, and New Castle Reservoirs are also well known, however with these and all fishing destinations, educate yourself on standard and special fishing regulations found in Utah Fishing Guidebook, found at any sporting goods store. Most success in average sized and smaller waters occurs when fishing between 5-15 feet of water. Fish close to the bottom by dropping your line to the bottom and make one or two rotations of the reel.
What kind of fish are most often caught while ice fishing?

This depends on your location. The majority of fish found in So. Utah are trout (i.e. Rainbow, brown, cutthroat, splake, or lake trout). Perch are also very tasty, but are typically smaller and should be filleted and grilled or battered and fried. All fish can be as tasty as jumbo shrimp if prepared and cooked correctly.
Can I use a regular fishing pole?
Yes, however, an ice fishing pole is inexpensive and easier to use when navigating the small hole as you hook your fish. A word of warning—fish have been known to take the pole with them under the ice. Keep a sharp lookout!
Remember the best time to fish is first thing in the morning and late afternoons. Go early, fish hard and then let the kids play during the slower time of the day while dad prepares lunch.

A Few pics from our fishing photo gallery

We'll see you on the ice....

Birthday Adventure

Destination- Jeep Ride

It's funny how one week we are in Cancun immersing ourselves in the beauty of the crystal blue waters and the immense jungle and the next we are in the dessert of Southern Utah equally in awe. At our house "birthdays" become "birthday weeks" Rigby's was no different. Partly we do this out of necessity- partly because we love to celebrate. For his actual birthday, it was Maleck's turn to spoil daddy. The two of them decided on a jeep ride. When we began there was no real destination. But where we ended up was absolutely beautiful.

Honey comb rocks adjacent to Enterprise Reservoir

A picturesque little spot

These rocks screamed for climbing

Two of my favorite things

Of course, we had to stop for birthday pie!

Page's Ranch

We love our "beater" jeep. It takes us on so many adventures. Now, I have had to acquire a taste for these "rides." I have been a list maker most of my life. The beauty of the jeep ride is that you don't cross anything off you just sit back and enjoy the memory and the "meandering" together. Rigby taught me that!

By: Amyanne Rigby

Photos by Stockton Rigby

For most, Zion Canyon is merely a summer or spring destination. However, to truly experience this amazing scenic destination the fall and winter seasons warrant a visit. Opting out of the traditional Thanksgiving, we chose Zion National Park as the rendezvous for our family. Zion mountain Ranch on the eastside was our base camp. Our Thanksgiving was simply amazing.
The majestic mountains, breathtaking vistas, and panoramic views made our visit unforgettable. Zion adorned in winter’s wear makes it truly unique.

Entering via the east side we were delighted by the the Desert Big Horn Sheep clamoring on the red sandstone.

We chose two short hikes: Weeping rock and Canyon Overlook. While we have hiked to weeping rock several times, we had never experienced it quite like this. Colored leaves crackled underfoot against the white blanket of snow as we carefully traversed the somewhat icy pathway. The fresh air and the trickling water provided the perfect backdrop for this hike. Evidence of growth in freezing temperatures

was found as moss clung to the rocks. As we neared our destination, we were overcome by the icicles hanging in masses from weeping rock. While they were a rare gem at which to gaze, they created an unimaginable melodic echo as they fell to the ground. All five of my senses danced as this music sounded.

We chose the Canyon Overlook trail as our 2nd hike. Since we normally do not enter through the east side, I had never taken this trail. Although quite a bit longer than the hike to weeping rock, it was not difficult although it was exposed to some cliffs which are guarded by railings. In the safe areas, our two year old toddled on his on two feet. Throughout the hike, we enjoyed seeing the various types of vegetation including the beautiful bristle cone pine trees. However, the grand finale was the final destination- the view. It was simply a Thanksgiving feast for the eyes. It looked as if powdered sugar had gently dusted the mountaintops against the bright blue sky.

We returned to enjoy a fabulous Thanksgiving feast at the Buffalo Grill at Zion Mountain Ranch. We enjoyed the traditional Thanksgiving dishes along with buffalo prime rib. The Grill was encased by windows on all sides providing us with picturesque vantage points. The food and the scenery made for an unforgettable meal.

Hiking The “C” Trail

Posted by: admin Posted date: August 14, 2012 In: Archives 2011

By: Amyanne Rigby

Photo by Curt Snarr
It is a Utah tradition to mark neighboring mountains or hills by the first letter of the town’s name. Cedar city’s “C” is one of the most beautiful letters found in the state.
The “C’ has long been a part of Cedar City’s history. In fact, in years past, Cedar High School has cleaned, maintained, and whitewashed the “C” traditionally. And on graduations past, it was the responsibility of the junior class to light the “C” so it would be aflame when the seniors exited graduation. The “C” has been an integral part of Cedar City’s history. “Old timers” have even planted their crops using the “C” as a agricultural sign. Planting in the spring was never to be done until the snow was melted from the “C”

A drive up Cedar Canyon taking the fork to Kolob Reservoir via right hand canyon warrants a visit. It is at the “ C” overlook that an amazing panoramic view of Cedar City is obtained. Some have even called this spot “inspiration point” for more than one reason.
At the “C” overlook a quick lesson of Cedar City’s history is given as signs mark the passage of time. It is the people that have changed the scape of the land and written chapters in Cedar City’s history. One picture at the overlook depicts SUU’s Old Main as the only building on campus and at the city’s edge. Another photo taken in 1923 shows the first train to come to Cedar City. This was a monumental moment as the railroad transformed the way business would be conducted in Cedar City as it allowed the transportation of gold and particularly the iron ore mined from the local hills which could now be shipped to faraway mills.
In 1986 as part of the Utah’s Centennial Project the “C” trail was established. This trail allows hiking from the “C” to the city below. The 4.2 mile descent takes the hiker down 2200 feet along the Markagunt Plateau. Hikers may be lucky enough to view some of the local habitants of the area including mule deer, lizards, birds, snakes, hawks, golden eagle, hawks, and even mountain lions.

Kanarra Creek Creek Falls, (Exit I-15 at the small town of Kanarraville just south of Cedar City and proceed to the middle of town-- watch for the signs)

Kanarra Creek Falls was the perfect backdrop for our son's 11th birthday. We grabbed a few of his favorite buddies and headed on an adventure. These buddies are the adventuresome type and they certainly weren't afraid to get wet. While they are most accustomed to the sports arena, they really let their true colors shine... I mean a kaleidoscope of personalities. It was a picturesque August morning as we meandered this slot canyon. It is a moderate hike located just outside of the Kolob Canyonssection of Zion National Park. The improvements made at the two waterfalls make this an easier hike for those seeking adventure. The water level reached my thigh at a few points but nothing that got my heart beating ( I am not exactly Michael Phelps to say the least).

The red rocks bounced the sun rays from shadow to shadow as the blue sky peeked its way high above. The rocks were great for tip toeing across the water, but most of these hiker embraced the cold temperature and plunged right into the water.

An 11th birthday... simply delicious with plenty of laughter and chatter to take the place of all the gadgets. I know I had an amazing day!

Paul heads up the first falls