family is always there – part II

Now on to the active part of the trip and the Vegas no one really thinks about!!  It only costs $5 to get into the Red Rock conservation area and there are tons of hikes and beautiful views at your disposal.  There are also many rock climbing opportunities, along with camping, horse back riding, cycling, mountain biking, and picnicking just to name a few. 

As a kid we used to always come up here and hike for hours with our doggie.  We just did a short hike and drove the loop around to take some pictures. 

The day was absolutely beautiful . . .

    

Did you know this was in Las Vegas?  When many think of Vegas they think of the Strip along with the crazy nightlife, club hopping, gambling and drunkenness, but this is what I think of.  It’s funny, one time someone asked if I lived in a casino!   

After visiting Red Rock we made our way to the Fashion Show Mall to do some window shopping.  I found a few good sales and I couldn’t resist a couple shirts for work.

I hadn’t been to the Hoover Dam for at least 10 years I would say and I was amazed at the new bridge they are building.  I was also amazed at how low the water level is now.  I am so afraid of heights like that and just couldn’t imagine working way up there!  

I could hardly make it to the edge of the wall and my tummy was getting that weird height sensation.

How are there not higher walls or something to prevent people from toppling over?!

So scary!  But wow, what an amazing feat of mankind, how does someone build such a thing?

 

 

Here is a great view of Lake Mead . . .

Another great part of the visit was getting to take walks with my mom.  Most nights after dinner my mom and I would always take a walk around the neighborhood or nearby park and just chat about the day and such.  I always enjoyed that and miss having a walking buddy. 

There is a great path by our house that’s fun to walk and cycle on.  There are always tons of people utilizing it which is nice to see.  We got some great sunset shots on her last night here . . .

I sure had a good time with my mom and I’m looking forward to the holidays when Chris and I both get to visit her :)

On another note, I can hardly believe it’s already going to be Halloween!  I don’t have a costume and still have to get some goodies for the kiddies.  I’m not much of a candy person, but every now and again I love Reese’s and Good & Plenty!  Not really sure if we are going to do anything, but I really need to work on school and get a good bike ride in.

My favorite new product I found at TJ’s is the Lite Kettle Corn mini bags.  I’m trying not to eat the whole package!  I really like this variety because it’s only slightly salty and sweet, not overpowering like their regular kettle corn.  It’s only 110 kcals per bag too and provides lots of munching, yum!

   

My friend Kristen, and fellow dietitian, also started her own blog called The Swanky Dietitian.  She’s just getting started and I encourage if you have a little time to stop by and welcome her to this great blogging community!  I just really think the world of you guys, and it’s so wonderful to connect with all of you personally.  I appreciate your kindness, insight and inspiration.

Any plans for Halloween?  What’s your favorite candy?  

WARNING:  My twitter account got hacked into today and you may have received a weird message supposedly from me.  Please DO NOT click the link!  Make sure you secure your passwords.  I feel terrible about this and I’m so sorry if you received one :(