This was our second time to the Grand Canyon...it keeps getting better!
Again we only hiked less than an hour down, but things change so quickly that it creates a myriad of stunning views as you walk. The kids did not get the chance to encounter mules on the trail like we did, unfortunately...although they did encounter what they leave behind.
Before I pass, I truly would like to hike all the way down (and perhaps be flown out by helicopter).
Our drive to the canyon was long, starting from Durango, CO, but the scenery could go from desert to mountain to grassy. In addition to passing a closed Four Corners Monument, their were tremendously long patches without civilization. We always buy enormous sodas before these stretches and soon come to regret it. There was a desperate stretch where I explained how my dad wouldn't stop on a trip for anything and would even bring an empty coffee can - luckily a Medical Center popped up in the middle of nowhere and saved us.
Sedona has gotten so much more touristy since our last visit. We ate at the same restaurant we did 13 years ago but now it is surrounded by blocks and blocks of other restaurants and shops.
Still so beautiful.
Take the time to find more trails to hike and cliffs and valleys to explore than we did. That's how I remember Sedona from 13 years ago. Even the drive on the main byways are still gorgeous, though.
If you've been following us, you've heard us rave about Fountain Hills (east of Phoenix). On of my requirements when we settle again is to be near a good hospital (many hospitals can mess up a transplant patient due to inexperience) and Mayo Clinic is right there.
It was there we met the owner of La Scala Creamery. We each had about 5 $1 cups of Gelato in 3 days so we got to know the people there. The owner sat down and talked to us about business, our dreams, our faith, and our families. We have similar dreams as we would like to open a restaurant as a family - she is just further along than us. What was fantastic was her willingness to help us not make the same mistakes and benefit from what they have been through. So great to meet good people on the road!
The drive to Vegas was relatively uneventful. We regretted not making it down to Tuscon, but time was not on our side and we found Phoenix to have everything you could need...including hot weather.
We did technically hit Hoover Dam in Arizona since it is in both states. We at least got to stand in two states at once - believe it or not, that Dam area wasn't closed for construction.
...but we'll leave that for Nevada.
Best Hotel: Holiday Inn, Grand Canyon - free upgrade to a kids suite. Great view, great room.
Worst Hotel: Kokopelli Suites, Sedona - Very nice, clean and spacious rooms...BUT breakfast, fitness center, and pool left much to be desired.Best Restaurant: Euro Cafe in Fountain Hills, food - good, outdoor seating - excellent
Best Memory: Eating gelato in Fountain Hills on a cool summer night.
Worst Memory: Again the car acting up with the warning light coming on as we hit the Grand Canyon.
Mini-Golf Winner: Levi
Possible state to live in: Yes, perhaps a community like Fountain Hills for the Gelato
By the way, the Doante Life people in AZ are awesome! Great to work with and so passionate about saving lives! You guys are great!
- Dad
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