Down In Dixie

 When St. George was founded 150 years ago-on January 17-it became a magnet for folks tired of the snow and cold of Salt Lake City and points north.   In fact, it was Brigham Young's winter home.   The climate is so mild here that the people discovered they could grow many crops that were grown in the southern United States.   It got the nickname "Dixie" because of it.   As you can see,  it is still called Dixie by many of the locals.   The word Dixie is a part of many streets, businesses, and schools. 

We headed out on this beautiful day to do some hiking .   The trail we took is another that is literally on the edge of the city.   But if you just look the right direction, you would think you are in the middle of nowhere!    In the distance beyond Bob, you can see the mammoth rock formations of Zion National Park which is about 30 miles east of St. George.

 As is the case everywhere you go, there is the red rock and the evidence of millions of years of erosion on the rocks.   It surely makes for such interesting structures!  These last pictures are taken right in a city park called Pioneer Park.   It is sort of a "make your own trail" affair here.   People were climbing up, around, over and on all these rocks and ridges.

 If you look carefully behind me you can see the city of St. George and the ever-present temple in the center.   The view is to the south, so beyond the city you can see Arizona and points south.   It was once again in the 60's and we were pretty warm by the time we finished our hike.  

 We are looking forward to the end of the month when our grandkids will be down to visit us for a while.   Scott and Sam will come get them and spend a few days here as well.


Hope everyone following along is doing well.   We know it is still snowy and cold in Wisconsin so we send you some virtual warmth and sunshine.

It's wine and Old Fashioned time and then grilled salmon for supper.


Hugs to All,

Bob and Deb