Dear Isaac, Maia and Virtual Wanderers,
Only 8 months until Christmas Eve! Lol. Today started in our budget motel in Payson, Arizona. The day was warm, but not low desert hot. It was a “free day” as far as adventure plans.
We started the day at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park. We were here only one other trip 3 years ago and didn’t stay long. Today, we had time to linger and savor.
Then, we stopped at Standing On The Corner park in Winslow, because why not? We have driven by but never stopped.
After that, it was on to Homolovi State Park north on Winslow. By the time we got there it was pretty windy. Big storm pushing in – which will likely impact the remainder of our trip. It was an interesting place. I love the Ancient Pueblo history, so new sites always add a little piece to my understanding of the times and culture.
Then into Holbrook– another budget motel. But dinner at one of my favorite road trip restaurants. I’m stuffed. It’s about my only steak all year. So not eating Blue Zones this trip! Way too much ice cream!
So, I wanted to see favorites but get out of my but. Last year was all repeat. New this year:
Things I’ve missed to make room for the new stuff:
- Time at Salt River Canyon
- Mogollon Rim Views/Photos
Not bad – the extra day helped a lot. Next year, I’d like to plan an extra day coming down, too. The first 2 days felt rushed. Prefer days with more hiking.
Scored some new AZ State Park tee shirts this trip. Tomorrow, our old favorite Petrified Forest. I fear a windstorm is at hand, however. So common on our trips in this region – because it’s 8 months until Christmas Eve! It could delay us a day. We’ll see.
Love ya’all, GM ❤️ (Cathy)
Traveling Grandma and Her Pup Crew 