July 1st--Great Salt Lake and Zion National Park

Today we got up and drove to Antelope Island State Park just outside of Salt Lake City.  We had been warned ahead of time that the lake might be smelly and covered in flies, but we weren't about to pass up an opportunity to float in water 13 times more salty than the ocean.  The smell was actually not bad at all, and the tiny flies were a little gross but they didn't bite and they moved in swarms on the ground when you walked through them.  We spent about an hour swimming and floating before we showered and got ready for a long drive to Springdale, Utah (7 hours).  We only stopped for a quick lunch and one scenic drive to see Kolob canyon before getting to our motel in Springdale at about 8:00.  The outdoor pool was only open until 8:45 so we quickly got in our suits to cool off a little.  It is in the 90s here with projected temps in the 100s for the next few days.  Then we went to a really cute outdoor restaurant for a late dinner.  We were surrounded by beautiful red mountains on all sides and stopped for ice cream on the way home.  This is by far one of the most charming little towns and motel we've stayed at so far.  I think we would be happy to stay here for a few days but after touring Zion National Park tomorrow, we are planning to drive an hour and a half to Bryce Canyon to find a camping spot for the night.  The girls are enjoying the pools and the ice cream.  They do miss all of you.  We haven't had an opportunity to send postcards yet, but they are thinking of you all and looking forward to seeing you soon