Our conclusion – It’s a Grandparents duty to be sure the grandchildren experience all our wonderful National Parks (NP) have to offer. So, each summer we set out with the Shoe Crew (daughter Heather, son-in-law Christian and the three granddaughters – Haley, Kira and Olivia) to ‘hit’ as many NP’s as possible in the area to be traveled. All done in our two RV’s. The summer of 2019 was a wonderful experience in the Grand Tetons NP and Yellowstone NP, 2020 was lost – but, we are back at it June of 2021. Here we go – – –

The first stop is Lassen Volcanic NP – but first a planning session at the Shoe house (In case you are wondering – their last name is Schusler. Try saying and writing that all the time!) – –

Then it was time to be on our way. Our route took us north on CA 89 past Lake Almanor, which is HUGE and in a beautiful area. So – it was perfect for that mid-morning stop to make coffee/tea and have a little vanilla scone –

Lassen Volcanic NP shows Earth’s powerful forces, as every rock originated from volcanoes! Lassen Peak is one of the largest plug dome volcanoes in the world. (A plug dome volcano forms when lava is too thick to flow great distances. A steam blast shattered Lassen’s plug, creating an avalanche of melted snow and rock.) The last eruptions here were between 1914 and 1921, with the largest explosion on May 22, 1915. A local businessman, Benjamin Loomis, photographed these eruptions and was instrumental in getting the area designated a NP on August 9, 1916. Thank you Mr. Loomis!

If one enters from the south through the Yah-man-nee visitor center, there is easy access to the best known hydrothermal areas in the park – Sulphur Works and Bumpass Hell;-) Continuing north there are stunning lakes – Summit Lakes, North and South – and amazing views of Lassen Peak. Eventually one winds up at the northwest corner of the park in the Manzanita Lake area. This is actually where we started our adventure with the Shoe Crew.

After entering the park from this northwest corner, the first stop was the Loomis Museum and Ranger Station. Here the girls picked up their Junior Ranger activity booklet to learn about the park and earn a badge. (Gramma was sworn in to give the badges once all activities were completed;-)) The Lassen Volcanic Guide was also obtained to to give us hints on activities for our short stay. And we were off to find the Devastated Area and its self guided walk. On the way we passed Hot Rock! This several ton rock was ejected from the crater of Lassen Peak in 1915 and photographed by Mr. Loomis, who reported the rock – “too Hot to touch”;-)

The Devastated Area is a fantastic, short self-guided walk where one learns the story of devastation and the forest recovery following Lassen Peak’s 1915 eruption. It is also a great place for Junior Rangers to accomplish many of the activities in their booklet.

Now we were off to find Paradise Meadow via a trail that follows a creek up a narrow ravine through a beautiful forest of pine. The elevation change proved a little steep for some of our crew, so some just made it to the falls and a little patch of snow just right for a snowball fight;-)

On the way down, this rock was spotted – which definitely reminded us of a bear. Thought Grumps would make a good snack – –

The stay was short. But, the girls had one more NP under their belt and another Junior Ranger badge. (They did complete all the activities required and Gramma gave them the oath and the badge.) And, we had the pleasure of showing them one more national treasure.

Off to the coast and the Redwoods State & NP.

E & G – loving nature

Weather was heating up in Scottsdale – which means time to hook up the Magic Carpet (MC), hop into Mini Magic (MM) and head to a higher elevation. This year Williams, AZ was the first stop. We know – not a long drive, but staying along Route 66 is a favorite. The Grand Canyon RR RV Park served as the ‘base’ the last couple of stays. This is great as it is easy access to Route 66 and the Daily Queen;-) But, this year something new was in the offing – Railside RV Ranch. It is a little farther out, but still a perfect walk into town and all the restaurants. Also, it is on the Grand Canyon RR route – so every day at 7AM and 5PM everyone waves at the train passengers as they pass by on their way to and from the Canyon. Still makes me smile to think about it. And – we had a great spot for the ‘train viewing’ as well as a perfect arrangement for MM and MC;-)

There was even a perfect sky for the viewing of one of those ‘Super Moons’ – –

Another gem was discovered in this little town of Williams – Elephant Rock Golf Course! A very nice course and a delightful local couple to play with. Even got a good dinner recommendation – Western Steak House! Right up my alley. There was also a side trip to Flagstaff to meet up with friends – the Stinson’s – for a round of golf at Continental and to see their new townhouse.

Our attempt to find a good hike around Williams, yielded the Keyhole Sink Trail. This proved to be a very easy 2 mile roundtrip pathway through the ponderosa pines to a box canyon. Here, roughly 1,000 years ago, the residents of the area left petroglyphs detailing their daily life. One of the petroglyphs is a dramatic depiction of a deer herd entering the canyon – definitely a hunting area for these ancients.

After a great few days in Williams, it was time to move on. Clio, CA would be home for the next week. Had never heard of this area before some friends (the Sampson’s) recommended it – and when discussed with other friends (the Clarke’s), they alerted us to 4-5 golf courses in the area! What a treat. MM and MC found another nice home at Clio’s Rivers Edge RV Park in the pines. (Our particular space was a bit small – but, have a better spot picked out for the next visit!)

After getting settled in, we were off to investigate – especially all those golf courses we were told about. First up was Graeagle Meadows – nice course, but a little long. On the back nine G moved up to E’s tees and E moved up to the Jr. tees!!! All was good as the views were terrific.

Graeagle came with all the necessities – –

They also had a wonderful deck for lunch where a bluejay feeding her young in the nest provided our mealtime entertainment;-) Next course was Whitehawk, which was just as beautiful and a bit more friendly on length. Of the two, it was our favorite. Next time we will tackle Plumas Pines and the Grizzly Courses. Too many courses and not enough time.

The area had some stunning scenery, especially the road to Gold and Snag Lakes.

Driving a BIG loop road took one past the alpine lakes, the gorgeous ‘Alps’ and into Truckee, one of our favorites. There is one of the best ACE hardware stores, a cute little main street with lots of good shops (including a kitchen shop we love) and a favorite Italian restaurant – Pinetta’s. All in all – a very nice day;-)

Another day – another drive. This particular day it was decided to head over and take a look at the Grizzly golf course (which looked fabulous). Another course was discovered on the way – The Dragon course at the Nakoma Resort. Sometimes one just discovers gems by accident. The drive into the course was most interesting, as was the Lodge with an iconic roofline. Turns out this building in the middle of the forrest 75 miles from the closest bigger town is an original Frank Lloyd Wright design! It was beautiful. Definitely a place to consider for a future escape – –

So happy to have such wonderful friends who share their knowledge of places to visit, parks to stay in and golf courses to play. A BIG thank you to the Sampson’s and the Clarke’s for telling us about Clio and its many attractions! (Forgot to mention one more place to eat – The Iron Door in Johnsonville.)

Now it was time for the ‘Main Event’ before heading to Park City in a few weeks – meeting up with the Shoe Crew and our three granddaughters;-) Wait ’till you read about these adventures!

So grateful for friends who share – E & G on our way

Life was now back at full swing, so it was time for a couple more trial runs with MM and the Airstream (Magic Carpet). Since several friends were in the Indio/La Quinta area – and that was a good distance for a drive – we were off in that direction. Our first visit was with the Giss’s and a very interesting day with lots of new experiences;-) Our drive out to Borrego Springs in search of desert sculptures led us by Font’s Point – a 4-wheel diversion off the main road. Twenty miles wide by fifteen miles long, Borrego Badlands stretch across a potion of the enormous Anza-Borrego State Park. This parched landscape was shaped by water documented by the fossilized seashells found in the region. And, Font’s Point gives the best view of the area.

Back on the main road and headed in the direction of Anza Borrego again, we encounter the Galleta Meadows Sculptures! These massive metal sculptures overrun the bleak desert landscape with fun and fantasy. There are over 130 and they just seem to pop out at you as you drive through this desert property, free of charge! Off the beaten path of Palm Springs, etc., and so much fun. Even found a little cafe – Kendall’s Cafe – with very good Mexican food. Don’t miss either;-)

Our next two days were spent with the Bolton’s at their new ‘digs’ in Indio at Desert Shores. It is a shame that we have NO pictures of these two days, as the grounds around this facility are gorgeous!! Besides lounging on their patio, there was a round of golf, several meals and an introduction for them to Quiddler;-)

We are again grateful to have such wonderful friends to open their homes and spend time entertaining us with new and exciting adventures. THANK YOU!

Next trial run was an AZ State Park – Lyman Lake. Even after all the years living in Arizona, E had never heard of this lake or state park. But, it was at a higher elevation and thought to be a good escape as the valley weather was heating up. Did not expect snow and hail, though. But, didn’t let that damper our plans – and all that actually proved to be a very good trial for MM and the MC. The park was wonderful with full hookups (meaning we had electric and sewer – yeah), a ramada at every site, a nice lake and a great hike in the rocks with petroglyphs. How much more could be asked for?!?!

In researching the area, a prehistoric ceremonial site that has been made a National Historic Landmark – Casa Malpais – was about 30 minutes from the campground. Springerville (the closet town to the Casa and our campground) has a museum explaining the site and that also provides tours daily at 9AM and 1PM. We were fortunate to fit a tour in between the snow storms of this prehistoric Mogollon community occupied between AD1240 and AD1350. The site encompasses over 16 acres and rests atop five volcanic terraces which overlook the Little Colorado River. The Great Kiva is the centerpiece of the site – –

We love investigating these Old Puebloan cities and wondering what life was back in the 1100’s – 1300’s here in our deserts?!?! Especially when America wasn’t discovered until 1492 – really, we still teach this?????

The next day it was snowing, so a drive was in order – perhaps to Fort Apache. Unfortunately, the museum was closed but there were extensive signs around the grounds to inform. In the early 1900’s the Fort was turned into one of those wonderful (sarcasm) schools for the Indians. In a better vain, it remains that today.

Another interesting day on the road. And, as always, we spend a good bit of time looking up to see what there is to see in the trees or atop buildings. And, finally, the saguaro are in bloom;-)

Mini Magic and the Magic Carpet both performed well on their trial runs – or at least we were able to determine any items that needed attention and tend to them. So – we are ready to pack up and head out of the Valley in about 2 weeks.

It has been an emotional, interesting, challenging, healing and still exciting 4 months so far in 2021. Family and friends are great support and we are grateful for that.

On to the next chapter – E & G

March was ‘ruled’ by cataract surgery for G. While the results are awesome – the getting there was nerve racking, to say the least. A new implant lens (introduced last June) was the chosen product (for both eyes), which entailed procedures much different from the ‘up ’til now’ norms. This included 2 weeks of limited activity (walking but NO golf) and an additional 2 weeks of ultraviolet adjustments to the implants – all of which required the wearing of industrial looking safety glasses;-( During most of this time we continued our normal neighborhood walks, Vi hikes and dinners – all interspersed with MANY eye doctor visits. The good news after all of this (as said before) – G is really happy with the results!! (He would be happy to discuss all the details with anyone interested!)

Thank goodness for the Malones – as they came for a visit just as E was about to go crazy with all of the above. By this time, G was cleared to play golf, so we had 2 days back on the course along with a great hike around Granite Mountain and several nice dinners;-)

Just that quick, it was April and G’s birthday. He was whisked away for a week of fun and visits. First stop was Rancho De Los Caballeros in Wickenburg – a real oasis in the middle of the desert. It provided a nice round of golf on a beautiful course, superb massages at their spa, good meals AND a hayride to a chuckwagon dinner;-) What more could a 70+ year old kid ask for??

After a fun, relaxing three days Mini Magic took us to St. George, UT where we met up with lots of ‘old’ friends. Our route took us through the colorful Valley of Fire just west of Las Vegas (much better than driving through LV on I15), where we stopped for an afternoon snack;-)

Once in St. George our hosts were Rheta and Tom at a spacious Marriott condo at The Ledges. First up was a round of golf with them at The Ledges course right out our front door. While they played in a golf tournament the next two days, we hiked with the Budd’s in the red cliffs of Ivins, which are right out their back door. It is awesome to have such wonderful friends that share so much with us – a BIG thank you to all!!

Not to let any grass grow, MM was moving again. This time back to Las Vegas to friends – the Raney’s – to visit with them in their new home. Another new sight was waiting for us here – the Historic Railroad Trail overlooking Lake Mead leading to Hoover Dam. This was originally the railroad bed, built in the early 1930’s, utilized to haul the materials and equipment used in the construction of the dam and includes 5 tunnels. At the height of construction, trains ran 24-hours a day. The last trip was in 1961. Never knew this trail existed – so another new adventure added to our list of all new adventures on this trip;-)

It was a great week and much needed diversion after the month of ‘eye care’. Hard to believe so much was packed into it! A BIG thank you, again, to all our friends who shared their homes and time so freely with us;-)

AND – thank goodness for all our Vi friends, who kept us busy through the month with hikes in the beautiful, ‘blooming’ desert, neighborhood walks and dinners.

It was time for March to march on. While a quiet month – there was activity and good friends saw us through.

OH – forgot to mention that we became fully vaccinated during this time!! YEAH!! As this gave us a great sense of relief and freedom. Why wouldn’t anyone get these shots?!?!?!?

Happy to be free – E & G

January 18th, Mom (Dorthy) took a few deep breaths and went to meet her husband, parents, brother, sister and many friends who were waiting to greet her at those pearly gates.  It was a fairly quick 5 days – but COVID did complicate things, as it did for many this last year.  We will miss her quick wit, that smirky little smile of hers and her love.

February 27th would have been Mom’s 89th birthday.  On that day, our little family celebrated by doing what she requested.  Dorthy and Kenneth’s ashes were spread together in the desert where they could view the McDowell Mountains and the fabulous Arizona sunsets.  We had a little toast to them using some Vodka Mom had kept for almost 60 years!!  (She and Kenneth bought it down in Nogales very early in their lives together and she would never get rid of it even though neither of them drank Vodka!!).  It was a beautiful, clear day appropriate for a glorious send-off.

Barb and I thought her picture in the Sierra Pointe calendar 5 years ago was so “Her”!  It’s the way we like to remember her – and hope you do the same;-)

God Bless you Mom.  We love you and will miss you.

FINALLY – a little good news in 2021!!  It’s been almost a year and a half since a search was started for a new “Mini Magic” that would be the ideal van for our travels (as they are today).  Last August the new Mercedes ‘bare bones chassis’ was delivered to us.  The previous 3 months had been spent with Off Highway Vans (OHV) – a van up-fitter in Salt Lake City – planning the layout of the interior, as well as determining all the materials that would be used.  The first of October, the van was delivered to OHV for them to build out and implement all the planning.  January 5th a rental car delivered us to SLC to pick up the new, and improved, Mini Magic;-)  We loved it from first sight!!  Kudos to OHV.

The VERY Proud and Excited owners of the NEW Mini Magic.👏🎉

Kitchen, Seating, Plenty of Storage AND Toilet in the Rear;-)

AND – A Special Perch for the Golf Clubs!!

It was sooooo exciting to have our new ride, it HAD to be put through some paces.  So – our adventure home was through Valley of Fire State Park in NV.

Mini Magic looked beautiful against the Red Rock.

The BIG question everyone asked was – “Where will you sleep?”  MM does NOT have a bed, as it is meant to get us from VRBO/hotel to VRBO/hotel and for day trips.  However, we have missed camping and would like to be able to have such a trip to the National Parks, etc.  So – a ‘Magic Carpet’ was acquired for the ‘here and there’ camping trips – –

This 20 foot Airstream Caravel will be towed behind Mini Magic when we want to”camp”.

Our “Magic Carpet”!

Not being able to sit still for even a minute, we were off to Willcox, AZ to test out MM and to see the migrating Sandhill Cranes.  Every winter (October – March), more than 20,000 Sandhills flock to the Willcox Playa – an ancient lake bed formed from sedimentary deposits of gravel, sand and silt.  We spent hours (even cooked dinner in MM!!) at Cochise Lake watching these migratory birds.

The perfect vehicle for spending the afternoon at Cochise Lake watching the birds.

Cranes galore. These are just a few of the 800+ shots taken by the mad photographer.🤪🤪

Of course, we can’t be on the road every week – so the desert hikes (and golf) were back on the agenda.  For about three weeks, several of us from our “Sr. Community” prepared for a hike to Tom’s Thumb and the ‘Lookout’ just beyond it.  When the day finally arrived for our trek, there were 6 hardy souls (ages 84, 82, 80, 79 – and us at 73 and 69 (the youngsters)) that made the 6.5 mile round trip with a 1500′ assent!!  The day was absolutely beautiful and it couldn’t have been more fun;-)

What a happy crew!

Some interesting rock formations along the way.

We made it!  Beautiful views of Phoenix, Scottsdale and Fountain Hills.

It was time for us to tackle some new areas on our weekly hikes.  With our Vi crew it was off to Scorpion Point – a hike just written up in the Arizona Republic.  The trail provided very interesting rock formations, an Ocotillo forest and even some mule deer – –

Off to Scorpion Point.

We thought this looked a lot like a puppy.

The ocotillo were leafing and beginning to bloom.

We ran into a family of deer.

Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area provided a fabulous hike with friend, Silvia.  Starting on the Metate Trail (named for the remnants of metates – a ground stone tool used for processing grain and seeds) to Spur Cross and finishing on Dragonfly, another beautiful morning was had by all.

The indentations in the rock (matate) were used for grinding grain in centuries past.

With our recent rains the creeks had water and the desert plants were quite green.

Our friend Silvia led the way.

It was about time for Magic Carpet to be tried out.  Cave Creek Regional Park was an ideal spot, especially since we could meet up with friends Linda and Chuck;-)  The spaces were very nice and wide, which allowed the two vehicles to be parked side by side creating a great shaded area for our chairs and table.  Everything was checked out to be sure it worked.  What fun!!

A couple of nights were spent in the nearby Cave Creek to “shakedown” the new equipment.

Another new hike – Clay Mine Trail – with our friends Chuck and Linda.

Beautiful desert sunrise. Nice to wake up to in the morning.

The desert hikes provide LOTS of Harris Hawk sightings (which we love!) AND – we have two resident owls just out our balcony door that have a HOOTING GOOD time every evening;-)

One of many Harris hawks we have spotted on our recent hikes.

This handsome creature spends quite a bit of time in the trees around our neighborhood.

The past two months have provided some very good times, which we hope get even better now that we have had our two vaccinations.

Stay well and safe – E & G in sunny AZ

Barb and Demi (our two allowed visitors!) joined us in our apartment for a simple Christmas dinner followed by a walk to the local park for a “friendly” game of frisbee;-)

A quiet Biaett family Christmas dinner….

…followed by frisbee at the park.

The car was loaded for a trip to Ridgecrest and a little celebration with the “Shoe Crew”.  There were several days of movies, cookie decorating, games, puzzles, dinners – AND PRESENTS!!!!

Presents galore.

Hats and a ‘throw’ compliments of Kira ….

…and “UGLY SWEATER” cookies.

2020 was a difficult year for all – but, family and friends got us through it.  Our hope was that 2021 would be better – if only we knew.

Much Love to All – Elizabeth & Gary

Who would have ever thought that a disease that rocked our world in March would still be plaguing us in December?!?! Unfortunately it is – and has – for the last six months just as it did for March – June. But – never being ones to surrender, we continued on as best we could. Attempting to do as much outside as possible, wearing a face mask at all times inside when others were around, always maintaining the appropriate social distance and – one of the hardest parts – no hugs or shaking hands;-( BAH HUMBUG!!!

Resigning ourselves to the fact things were not changing as summer approached, and the Arizona heat was becoming unbearable, the original summer plans were put into play. The Lexus was loaded to capacity on May 20th as a VRBO townhouse on the Aspen Valley Golf Course in Flagstaff, AZ was calling. Upon arrival G wiped down every square inch with the Clorex wipes while E threw all bedding and towels in the washer and all dishes in the dishwasher. Upon feeling duly sanitized the views and serenity of our home for the next month began to sink in. There was a lovely deck with a giant size grill with the golf course just beyond some protecting pines that provided fantastic shade and a pond just off to the left. What more could we ask for?!?!

The activities really didn’t change much, just the venues were different. The agenda still included golf twice a week, a weekly drive and Zoom calls with friends. But, the first order of business was to commemorate Keith’s birthday by sending a balloon up to him from our back deck – –

Launching a Birthday balloon for Keith who would have been 45 this year.

A heron on the Flagstaff, Az welcoming committee and a resident on ‘our’ pond.

Our first day trip was to the Grand Canyon – our 17th National Park (1919).  One of the very few good things about COVID – NO crowds.  Even though it was the first week of June, at 7,000′ the temperature was beautiful for ‘strolling’ along the rim and we encountered VERY few other people.  One can see the full 18 miles from one rim to the other and the one mile to the floor.  Only a small portion of the 277 miles of length can be seen from any one spot.  The views are stunning!

The grandeur of the Grand Canyon. The parking lots were almost empty. Kinda nice!

The obligatory mask – as there were a few people out on this overlook point.

The next week a BIG circular drive around Lake Mary and Mormon Lake called.  And what would we stumble upon but the Rainbow Camp that Mom helped get off the ground.  AND – the big bell that belonged to my grandparents that was donated to the camp is still there right by the dining area where it belongs.

Grandma & Grandpa Stahl’s bell at the Rainbow camp south of Flagstaff.

Hiking also kept us sane and provided exercise.  A favorite was to Jenks Cabin on a 160 acre tract of land homesteaded in 1892.  The property includes two springs marked by Indian petroglyphs – and just beautiful scenery.

Our hike to Jenks Cabin…

…took us by several petroglyphs, this just one example.

Time seemed to pass all too quickly – as it always does.  As mid-June approached, it was time to repack the Lexus and head to Park City.  Driving through the greater Salt Lake valley, familiar sights came into view and it was like being home again – –  

Arriving in the Salt Lake City area in mid-June there was still a little snow on Mt. Timpanogos.

After sanitizing another VRBO condo – this one adjacent to Main Street in Park City, UT – we were off to check out the scene ‘downtown’.  There was a mandatory mask requirement – and it seemed to apply to all – – – 

Masks everywhere – a sign of the times.

The routine here was much the same.  Any activity that could be done outdoors kept us busy.  Golfing, hiking, walking, eating al fresco (on many a friends’ deck with plenty of ribs and bourbon slush or at a restaurant) and neighborhood concerts were all on the agenda.  A new Thai restaurant with great outdoor, well distanced seating quickly became our once a week go to.  As did our friend Sally’s remodel adventure. 

Lots of al fresco dining whether at our new favorite Thai restaurant…

…or celebrating Sally’s birthday in the midst of her remodeling. A picnic in her bedroom – so to speak.

A socially distanced live music event in our old Park Meadows neighborhood with friend and former next door neighbor Jane.

Again, golf was a mainstay and almost every Monday we played with Rheta and Tom on various courses around Salt Lake, Park City and Midway.  Early on there was even snow on the surrounding mountains and always plenty of wildlife!!

Wasatch Golf Course with Rheta and Tom.

Lots of wildlife sightings during rounds of golf. This red tail hawk was keeping its eyes on us.

This guy was more interested in the ground squirrels than us.

This sand hill crane family was making some spectacular noise in the middle of our back swings.

Many new hiking trails were discovered this year with several becoming new favorites.  Trails around all the old mines just above Old Town were quite interesting, informative and educational about the beginnings of Park City.  Jenni’s Trail to Loose Moose on the Park City Mountain was visited often which allowed very different sights as the leaves began to turn when autumn approached. But, perhaps our favorite of all was the discovery of the Wall Lake hike out in the Uintas.  This one was done every time someone new visited.  Both the Bolton’s and the Clarke’s were drug out to experience our new find – always with a stop at The Notch for lunch after.  Our first time out to this hike we spent quite a bit of time watching water drops on a forest fire just over the next ridge from the hike.  All in all – the hiking was fantastic!!

Hikes galore. This one headed up Daly Canyon to see some old mine sites.

On a hike in the Uintas we watched helicopters dropping water on a very stubborn forest fire.

Provo Falls in the background (site of drowning my drone a couple of years ago).

Wall Lake with Larry and Jane Bolton.

Then on to the trails in the Park City Ski Resort.

Another hike to Wall Lake with Rick and Suzy Clarke.

Beautiful fall colors on the ski area trail – AND a bit colder.

A summer in Park City would NOT be complete without the moose sightings – – 

This young moose was dining on the trees in the area where we rented our summer condo near the Racket Club.

Evidently this cow and calf were regular visitors to our friend’s back yard water feature.

They seemed very at home.

Unfortunately, all the ‘normal’ 4th of July activities were cancelled;-(  Instead of a parade, there was a street painting done and NO fireworks in Park City.  We had to drive to Midway to see those.

4th of July brought no Main Street Park City parade this year, but there was lots of street art.

Yeah Midway!

Oh Yes!  The BIG Magic Bus is being replaced by a Mini Magic.  The first step in that process was to acquire a new van from Mercedes.  Ordered in June – picked up in August.  A few day trips to try it out before it went to the ‘upfitter’ in October.  Discovered Cedar Breaks NM, which was beautiful.  Also put it thru its paces on the Bonneville Salt Flats!  What a fun day that was.  

We took delivery of our new Sprinter van knowing that we had a long wait until the upfitter could start the build out in October.

Time to see what this van was going to be like.

Then off to the Bonneville Salt flats.

No speed records were broken – but had a good lunch;-)

Again – all  good things must come to an end.  As the first snow flew, it was getting close to time to pack up again and head home.  But, the car would take a circuitous route via Ridgecrest, CA to see the Shoe crew;-)

A random September snowfall in Park City.

In the continuing quest to get the Shoe crew to National Parks and Monuments, we drug them out to the Pinnacles.  What is more fun than climbing on rocks????

Heather, Christian and granddaughters Kira, Olivia and Haley with us at Pinnacles National Monument…

…resulted in some goofy behavior.

It seems that dancing to videos has become the new at home PE class – – 

Also a little dancing.

Believe it or not, by mid-October that Lexus found its way back to Scottsdale, AZ.  This time we did NOT have to sanitize a thing – YEAH!!  And good thing, as there was little time until the schedule was full again with hiking, golf and a little MIM (although no volunteering yet).

Back home in Scottsdale we got back to our hiking.

Listening to singing cowboys.

Seeing a new exhibit at MIM.

As always, the animals are a plenty on the golf courses.  Although there are also resident owls in our community – – 

Love seeing these two.  What a hoot;-)!!!!

A HUGE squadron of javelina that greeted us on the 2nd tee at the Boulders Golf Club.

A rare bobcat sighting!

It was also great to see family again.  The middle of October, Mom Dorthy’s facility began allowing essential visitors inside if they obtained a negative COVID test.  So – after 7 months E could finally give Mom a hug!  And get her ready for Halloween – – 

Dorthy is all set for Halloween.

Niece Demi also arrived home from U of A, and got to put on that cap and gown she didn’t get to wear to the high school graduation that never occurred;-(  We played Pomp and Circumstance and she marched through the room just for us!

The extent of niece Demi’s graduation celebration.

News Flash!  Pictures of the beginning of Mini Magic’s ‘upfitting’.  How long will it be until she is done??  Can’t wait.

Whew!  A year to remember – AND forget.  We have managed to stay sane figuring out a way to enjoy life while being safe and distanced.  Our wish and hope for the new year is that you all stay well and healthy and have a fantastic 2021!

With much love – E & G looking forward to 2021

The new decade began with a great deal of joy and friendship, which provided lots of pleasurable memories;-)  Thank goodness we didn’t know what was in store for us!

Days and evenings were spent with lots of hikes, dinners, golf and concerts with friends – as well as many hours of volunteer work at MIM.

Between friends (the Miller’s) and us – we managed to coerce the Raney’s to visit for a few days and take in a Booker T concert at MIM, along with several evenings of dinners and an afternoon at MIM.  This was followed up with a Herb Albert concert with the Miller’s and many other concerts before the walls came tumbling down;-(

There was also a quick trip to Tubac (just south of Tucson) for a much anticipated golf outing with the Bolton’s.  Unfortunately, Tubac did not live up to the hype – so no pictures.

The Giss’s surprised us with the acquisition of a new coach, which needed a ‘shake down’ trip.   So, they spent a few days with us to show off the coach, visit MIM and have several dinners to regale each other with coach stories;-)  While in town, they contacted another retired Deloitte partner who had just recently relocated to the Scottsdale area (the Murray’s).  Turns out Don Murray has QUITE a car collection, which he moved into a warehouse building near the Deer Valley airport.  Of course we had to see this – and maybe even pretend to be a race driver of a magnificent Porsche?!?!?!

While enjoying the car collection of a former partner of ours at Deloitte…

…Elizabeth tried out the driver’s compartment.

Before the walls came crashing down, we also got to attend a couple of Haley’s volleyball tournaments in California.  In order to make the drives to and from interesting, stops were made along the way to see sights often heard of but never visited.  One such stop was the Annenberg Estate, which included a special exhibit on totem poles and masks by master carvers from Canada (the Hunt family) as well as interpretive totem poles by Herb Albert!  This special exhibit of Albert’s work came to our attention at a concert of his at MIM – and, well we just had to see it.  This stop was well worth it, and we will return for a tour of the inside of the home.

The Annenberg Estate in Rancho Mirage, CA.

Hosting an exhibit of art by renown Canadian First Nations artists – the Hunt’s.

Totem pole created by the Sr. Hunt and installed at the Estate in 1976.

Herb Alpert’s interpretive Totem.

Then – on to the main attraction.  After 10 years of every winter weekend spent at niece Deme’s games – it was Haley’s (No. 33) turn;-)

Granddaughter Haley’s first season playing volleyball.

Break time – Haley, Gramma and sisters Olivia and Kira.

The February birthdays also got to be celebrated before the brakes were put on gatherings.  First up sister Barb, then Demi (who got a new computer from Auntie & Unclie!!), and finally Mom Dorthy;-)  Happy celebrations all around.

Niece Demi’s 18th and Barb’s ???? birthday gathering.

Happy Birthday, Demi!

Happy 88th Dorthy.

There was golf before AND after the shut down.  Including a beautiful morning with the Clarke’s at Mountain Shadows – –

Even have Camelback Mountain in the background.

Thank goodness the greater Phoenix valley is home to 1/2 the major league teams for Spring training – so we got to see all but one of our games before sports went away;-(  This was opening night for the Dodger’s – and it was still cold!!!

GO DODGERS!!

St. Patrick’s Day was the beginning of the end.  Just a few more activities before we said good-bye to everything.  One of those included this little leprechaun – Mom.

Dapper Dorthy. Happy St. Pats.

The week before St.  Patrick’s Day, there were several Celtic/Irish concerts at MIM.  These are always lively and happy.  Would love to have them back now;-)

Irish dancers performing with Cherish the Ladies at MIM.

Since MIM is very much a part of our lives, it was only fitting that we orchestrate a visit with various of our Vi friends.  Again, quite grateful this took place before the museum was closed.

A Vi field trip to The Musical Instrument.

Since mid-March, the world has been quite different and very challenging.  Our saving grace was that golf courses were not closed, nor were hiking trails.  We continued to play golf two days a week and hike a day or two a week.  When the trails became too crowded, the neighborhood sidewalks became our outing.  There are many different streets and pathways around our home to walk our 4-5 miles a day!

Hiking the Granite Mountain trails of Scottsdale just as the wildflowers began to bloom.

The wildflowers were showing off.

Socially distanced, of course.

Visits to Mom took a new look – Mom inside and us outside with phones in hand.  At least we could see each other and enjoy our Starbucks together.

A visit with Elizabeth’s Mom, pandemic style.

Thank you Arizona for deeming golf an essential service!  It certainly was for us.  Don’t know what we would have done without this ‘break’ twice a week;-)

We frequented The Phoenician throughout this period.

A birdie celebration. Whoop whoop!

Even spent our anniversary on the course;-)

More socially distanced hiking.

This time with a large gila monster sighting.

The time finally came when there had to be something else to take our mind off quarantines, new cases and deaths.  It was decided that a weekly drive should provide a diversion for the better part of one day a week.  A friend suggested Arizona Highways as a source for out-of-the-way, interesting day long drives.  This made us sooo happy.  These trips were always quite interesting – sometimes fording creeks – and always including miles of dirt roads.  The good news is that social distancing was not a problem as rarely did we encounter others on these outings;-)  A lunch was packed and a good spot with a view was found for tailgating.

The first week the destination was the Agua Fria National Monument and Pueblo La Plata, an ancient pueblo from about 750 years ago.  The journey here took us through cow pastures!

Our goal was to take a drive once a week where we would not be likely to run into crowds.

We succeeded. We had the Aqua Fria National Monument to ourselves, other than the cows.

And lots of puebloan ruins

Tailgating became our norm.

The next week the destination was Mt. Ord – only about 12 miles of dirt road this week.  And, the views were fabulous!

That is our access road out in the distance.

Our views from our lunch spot at the top.

The next week the end of Cave Creek Road was calling.  And – we had company this week.  The Bolton’s joined us – traveling in their car and keeping distance during stops.  Today’s journey took us through creeks, around horses and into a cattle round-up;-)  How fun – –

Beautiful, cool area.

We encountered horses – –

Lots of horses!

“Real” Cowboys working the cattle.

A few that needed to be rounded up.

And another lunch spot in the middle of nowhere.

Next up – Crown King.  The trip there was much more interesting than the destination itself.  Tucked away was the original “Cordes Station”.  So much different than Cordes Junction today.  And then the little town of Cleator.  The pictures speak for themselves – –

Cordes Junction of yore.

And another beautiful view for our socially distanced lunch.

Next off to the Verde Valley and the Salt Mine Road.  After passing an old Salt Mine, the end of the road took us to ancient Pueblo dwellings (about 300-400 years old) and an excellent lunch spot.  The long way home – through Payson – was in order.  This would allow us to visit the Tonto Natural Bridge AND the DQ;-)

Great views of ancient Pueblo dwellings.  Nice condos – yes??

Another quiet lunch spot along a river.

Appropriate distancing;-)

A walk over the Tonto Natural Bridge.

The next week we were on our own again.  So – off to Prescott via Wickenburg and Yarnell Hill.  First stop was Iron Springs, where we spent lots of summers growing up, to take a walk down memory lane.  Humpty Dumpty has been a landmark on the road for over 70 years – he always let us know we were there!

E revisited an old childhopd pal, Humpty Dumpty.

Unfortunately, Gary celebrated his birthday during quarantine time.  We managed to find a pizza and take it to a nice park setting to enjoy the outdoors – without people;-(

Happy Birthday in Old Town Scottsdale.

Easter was also unusual.  No brunches or gatherings.  Since Mom was in lockdown, her facility had a drive-by celebration.  The residents’ families were very creative in their decorations and the residents, as well as staff, enjoyed the day.  They were also quite surprised that almost 100 cars showed up for the event!!  Happy Easter!

All decorated for the “drive by” Easter celebration at Dorthy’s.

Finally – there was a fly-over to thank all the first responders – –

A thank you flyover for the Phoenix/Scottsdale area first responders by the USAF.

Friends out to see the fly-over (it was HOT).

Thank goodness – through all the quarantining and social distancing, the animals continued to be about and the desert plants continued with their ‘life cycles’ providing beautiful sights on our walks and hikes.

Spotted this hawk on a hike.

The neighborhood owls. We believe this is the parent…

…and this the youngster.

Mother nature put on a show with springtime cactus flowers …

… and a beautiful sunset.

The past two and a half months have been difficult, but there has been much to keep us busy and beauty wherever we went.  Some friends have also been enjoyed and ‘visited’ on a much more frequent basis through FaceTime and Zoom.  There was also a lot of activity during the months prior to ‘covid’ where we enjoyed family and friends.  Bottom line – even though things have not been ‘normal’ – the first six months of this year have been pretty good.  ALL our family and friends are well and we have them in our lives;-)

Much Love to All – E & G – healthy and happy!!

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