Grandma (Jeff's sister,) and Papa (Grandpa) Stangl enabled their get-away by tending their three girls (5 1/2, almost 4 and 6 ½ months). Our weather was sunny and in the 70’s. Minnesota had snow and 7 degrees! Thursday was our first adventure…a tasting at a winery.
After that, we ate a late lunch……at Velvet Elvis (# 1 pizza in Arizona as deemed by a travel writer).
Friday morning we toured the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum (hiking, botany garden and zoo).
Friday afternoon, we visited Old Tuscon Studios – the Hollywood of the West. It has been used for more than 170 films, TV shows, commercials and music videos.
Friday evening, Gina introduced us to Farkle. This is a pretty casual game played with a minimum of setup. All you need are six dice, paper/pen to record scores and a willingness to laugh...a lot..when you farkle!
Saturday, after eating cinnamon rolls, Brian, Gina and Jeff headed out to Sabino Canyon. They took the tram up the mountain, hiked to the summit and then walked 5.3 miles down the mountain. Despite warnings for mountain lions, the ONLY critter they saw was a tiny little lizard.
Jeff with his nephew and godson, Brian.
This is the trail they hiked down!
You altered your routine that day. Amazing. I too am saddened by all the events and persons involved.
ReplyDeleteLoved reading this post. What a great way to keep up with both of you. We have thought of you guys (and prayed for you) more days than not since the shooting.
For our son Alexander's 10th birthday last week, his one request was to go see his grandparents (Dick & Karen Nelson) in Surprise, AZ this winter with mom. I am happy to announce we said yes & the two of us will be making the trip out in the next couple of months. We have not solidified any dates as of yet, but would LOVE LOVE LOVE to see you both.
- Paula
LOVE THAT YOU POSTED ABOUT US! I would like to add that on our hike, Brian tried to hug and Agave plant and the plant bit him. I highly recommend this hike, but it isn't just the critters you should watch out for. ;)
ReplyDeleteNeither one of us had visited AZ in the past, but we can say that we can't wait to get back. It was the perfect January getaway for MN folks.
Great Latte's and meals provided by an amazing chef. We had a great time!
Wow! Can't wait till we get to see you in Arizona. Looks fabulous. Hate that kind of evil exists in the world, glad to know an answer has been provided. Love, Sheila
ReplyDeleteThanks for the update. It is good to see all the pictures. Looks like you have made a good recovery from your knee surgery. So thankful that God altered your weekend plans when the shooting took place. Of course, everyone involved has been in my prayers every day. So sad that such a young man can become so mentally unbalanced that he would do such a thing, and even sadder that no one took steps to help him before it went this far. His life in also ruined, along with so many of his victims.
ReplyDeleteHope you and Jeff had a good Christmas and New Year with your family.
Ricki
I want a bite of that pizza!
ReplyDeleteOn a more serious note, you guys and the rest of the people of Tucson, are in our thoughts and prayers.
Julie :)