Just a couple more ‘short’ trips to close out the year. First up was friend Cyndi’s 70th birthday celebration in St. George. She ordered up spectacular weather for all – so everyone was out to enjoy the scenery of the red cliff surroundings and a hike to the petroglyphs. A BIG thank you to our hosts, Marge and John;-)
Our hike outside of Ivins, Utah. Thanks to Marge and John for leading the way.
Then it was time for the annual trek to Beaver Creek, CO for the World Cup Ski races where we cheer on Ted to the finish line. 13 years and counting – –
Ted’s loyal fans.
Ted Ligety – not overjoyed with his run;-(
But his parents, Cyndi and Bill, were having a great time with grandson Jax.
Finally – the holidays. The first celebration was in Ridgecrest with Heather and family;-)
Granddaughters – Hailey, Kira and Olivia are ready for Santa.
We built a gingerbread village – –
– – Attended Haley’s volleyball practice – –
– – and took a day trip to Death Valley National Park!
Took the opportunity of a ‘down day’ and being just 60 miles from another NP to get the girls more park experiences. How fun to experience the lowest point in the US and all the beauty of Death Valley (at this time of year!!). Our hike to Darwin Falls was most interesting as we forded streams, climbed over rocks and under trees;-)
Yes, there really was a waterfall in Death Valley.
Interesting to see such ‘lush’ plant life in Death Valley!
The Stovepipe Wells sand dunes also provided a few laughs;-) The cardboard sleds were NOT all that efficient;-(
Sliding down these sand dunes was challenging.
The dunes went on and on.
The wildlife here was not quite the same as seen in the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone – but fun to see, just the same.
Two of many burrows in Death Valley that clearly thought they owned the road.
And then it was time to bid farewell to Death Valley NP and the Shoe Crew and for us to head back to Scottsdale for more Christmas celebrations.
Christmas morning was spent at Barb’s after a nice Christmas dinner on Christmas Eve at our house.
Back in Scottsdale for a Christmas celebration with the Biaett clan.
A beautiful Christmas plant from the Clarke’s;-)
Of course, the last few months of the year saw many mornings on the golf course, many evenings spent at MIM concerts and many days volunteering at MIM!
One of many concert at the beautiful MIM theater.
A great morning for E with 5th graders.
E guiding the newest tour type – Dementia tours partnering with Banner Health;-)
And so, another year comes to a close. How grateful we are to be able to do all the things we do, enjoy all the family and friends we have and live to see another day!
Here’s to you all – and hope your 2019 was as wonderful as ours;-) Elizabeth & Gary
Elizabeth & Gary's Magic Bus Tour 
How exciting to see another vlog… always fun. Often feel like one of Elizabeth’ s 5th grades, soaking up your stories and enthusiasm. Happy New Year. Cheers 😃🍷
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What great a Christmas you had! Two of them! We enjoyed your travels. we can be there with your pictures. Your volunteer work looks very interesting, I would love to tour the museum with you as guides. I love stories behind the story and I bet you’re full of fun facts. When we come back to the valley? Right now we are slowly putting the boxes together for our move to Sun City Hilton Head. We have the house, spent our first night there with a bed, table, chairs and a cooler. Please keep traveling and posting. Love, Betty ________________________________
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