How two families made it from Los Angeles to Utah’s Zion National Park and back, unscathed.

The adults took turns escaping to the casino floor for dinner, cocktails, and craps.

Then, it was time for bed and back in the car at sunup.

Two related families on a group trip to Zion National Park

Credit:Courtesy of Chelsee Lowe

Andthat’show you keep everyone happy.

The weather again became part of the experience, snowing the whole second half of our trek.

The toddlers were absolute troopers, making it to the top pool before asking for any assistance.

5 children who are related and age between toddler and pre-teen age standing in front of the Paris Eiffel Tower in Las Vegas on family vacation

Courtesy of Chelsee Lowe

Turns out that time in the great outdoors may be the greatest way to tamper pinball energy.

Next year, hopefully, this band of nine will be off to Paris.

Exterior view of Star Seeker Tent at Open Sky near Zion

Courtesy of Chelsee Lowe

Two toddlers on a hike and a larger group photo of the family on the Watchman Trail in Zion National Park

Courtesy of Chelsee Lowe

Three young children hike along path way to the Emerald Pools in Zion National Park

Courtesy of Chelsee Lowe