For anyone who wanted an update, the hurting loved one I wrote about recently is out of the hospital and working hard to heal. Praise God! He sustained a few injuries that will take time to heal completely, but we are grateful that he is smiling and walking and still here with us.

Excursion deep into the AZ hills to Crown King

Sunset views from Aunt Dori and Uncle Mike’s backyard

More of Nic’s extended family welcomed us into their home this week, and boy, did we ever feel welcomed. We hadn’t planned to stay a night, but the company was just too sweet and good to leave so quickly. Aunt Dori and Uncle Mike filled our stomachs with their famous red gravy (pasta, red sauce, and garlic bread), and Grandma Hendrychs made pound cake. We hiked through some beautiful granite rock formations with Uncle Mike on a lovely spring afternoon. The dogs even got special treatment with playtime in the backyard with friendly little Jack (hope he’s not permanently scarred by their antics). Although it wasn’t one of our darker nights, Uncle Mike set up his telescope, and we gazed in awe at the texture of the moon and Jupiter’s visible moons and swirling layers of gas. They sent us off the next morning after a hearty breakfast of Grandma’s crepes and many mugs of good, strong coffee. We left with full hearts and bellies, and we are so thankful to have been welcomed so warmly. We love being on our own, completely free to follow every whim, but quality time with loved ones can feel like an oasis in a vast desert.

Campsite views of red cliffs

Sun-kissed hour

Humphreys Peak in the distance

Views from the summit of Bear Mountain

First live snake sighting in AZ

Moving north on some spectacular scenic roads, Sedona also welcomed us warmly…literally. We basked and then began to wilt under the strong sunshine as we explored Red Rock territory. We were overwhelmed by the sprawl and traffic of Sedona, but its natural wonders made our stop worthwhile. Throughout our day of touring, we heard the constant hum of small aircraft and helicopters. Jeep tours and aggressive drivers churned up dust on every dirt road. I did not even find peace and quiet at the summit of Bear Mountain, since I had been closely followed by some foreigners pumping euro pop from their cell phone. We shook the fine red dust off our feet and left Sedona on the scenic route north through Oak Creek Canyon, supposedly the most beautiful drive in Arizona according to our guidebook. The sun glinted off the windshields of the long line of cars edging forward into town on the other side of the road. A very relaxed Arizona driver passed us on a double yellow, honked, and gestured rather unkindly. Nice touch, man.

Red Rock Crossing

Luna takes a dip

Sedona overlook

Curvy climb out of Oak Creek Canyon

We are in prime tourist territory and will experience much more of the crowds today as we head to the Grand Canyon. We are looking forward to gazing into the expanse of the canyon, but we are also looking forward to the solitude we will find after we leave.