Weekend in Utah

Ever since Alyanna left for college a few years ago, it was no question that at some point I would need to fly out to visit her. Last Thursday, we finally made it happen and I took a trip to Provo, Utah for the weekend. After the longest flight of my life (cause I was SO EXCITED) Alyanna and her roommate Desiree picked me up from the airport and our fun-filled weekend started with some super delicious pizza at Pizzeria Limone followed by donuts at Art City Donut Food Truck. Later that night, I experienced my first IDP (iPod Dance Party) which I’m convinced is a trend that needs to start in Lancaster because who doesn’t love a good dance party?

Friday I got a chance to see my childhood friend Rachel (who I haven't seen in years!) and meet her sweet little boy! It was the happiest and it worked out perfectly since she only lives 5 minutes from Alyanna's house. I also took a little run around Provo while Alyanna was in class. Trying to blend in with the college kidz is hard if you’re stopping to take pics of all the mountains cause they’re so cool and they’re EVERYWHERE. Friday night we ate dinner at a cute little place called Cubby’s where I got the most delicious Apple Chicken Pecan Salad with even better sweet potato fries. Really though, I still think about those fries. 

sweet little Bennett, so squeezy.

Saturday may have been my favorite day. We went to brunch at the greatest resturaunt in Provo (from what I’ve experienced) called Communal. You order a bunch of plates then share everything and it was the best brunch of my life. Alyanna raved about this place and it lived up to all my hopes and dreams. Have you ever had Stuffed French Toast? I'll never be the same. Not to mention the atmosphere and decor was so cute. I loved it all. 

After Communal, Drew, Alyanna and I went to Mona Lake where we hung out for the afternoon. Swimming in a lake with the most breathtaking mountains in the background... I could not get over it and I’m still mad my phone could not capture just how beautiful it really was. I LOVE UTAH. Dinner @ Cafe Rio which I had been told was similar to Chipotle so there’s no way it could disappoint. And later that night we went to the Utah State Fair! How touristy. 

On my last day, we took a hike to Stewart Falls which is beautiful in every way and just so much NATURE all around. Ended our hike with a trip to In-N-Out which I learned you cannot visit the West Coast without experiencing. I’m not a huge burger person but these were YUM. And cheap too so... win win. My favorite part of the trip was hanging out with my sweetest friend and the BEST tour guide, meeting lots of new friendz and of course all the food, food, food (how do you pick a favorite?) It was such a fun weekend and I’m so thankful that I had the chance to see such a beautiful state and finally be reunited with one of my best friends! Pics and vids don't do this state justice. UTAH IS SO BEAUTIFUL and I definitely plan to visit again! 

Utah from Vanessa Shenk on Vimeo.