Last fall, my parents said to hell with winter and purchased a place in Apache Junction, AZ. While they were apprehensive about buying place on the way bottom of the States, it’s proven to be the best decision they’ve made in a long time. The weather, the new friends, the daily hikes in the mountains – they are having a blast and every text, photo, and phone call they send my way makes me happier by the minute.
Rach and I wanted to make it down to visit them this year, but with ever busy schedules, we could only squeeze in a short three day trip. Still, we made the best of it, and dad and Stoob showed us the best time. One week out, we’re trying to find ANY excuse to go back. Thanks guys for a wonderful few days and your superb hospitality.
DAY 1
A brief introduction hike in the desert (edit: HOT 85° desert. We boarded our plane about 5 hours earlier in sub 20°. One hour hike = one hour nap back at the house), dinner and a show at Organ Pizza.
Day 2
An early morning hike at First Waters, exploring a ghost town, and a trip out Highway 88 to Tortilla Flats.
Day 3
A scenic drive out to Tonto National Monument to see the Cliff Dwellers, Roosevelt Dam, a stroll through the Desert Botanical Garden, and an evening experiencing Sonoran Light, and exhibit by Bruce Munro.
SEPTASTIC! 
So glad you could fit in the trip here to see us and enjoy a little bit of AZ! Love you both, happy to have made many more good memories and spent such good times together! Thanks for the beautiful pictures to enjoy it all over again!