Arizona

Christmas in Arizona 2010

How it is strange to celebrate Christmas without snow on the ground. We opened our gift on the patio in our shorts enjoying the warm weather. Oh how I miss that warm sun right now just thinking of it. My in-law winter in Mesa, Arizona and it is hard for them to drive to Utah for Christmas. So this year we traveled to see them for Christmas. We checked out places around Phoenix, seeing what Arizona had to offer. We hiked Lost Dutchman's trail and could see for miles and miles. Not like home.


Since we were in Arizona why not check out the Grand Canyon. First day was wonderful. Checking each stop to see all the different views of the canyon. I see a trip in my future back to the Grand Canyon staying at the El Tovar Hotel and hiking down the 8 mile trail to the bottom. And yes staying at the Phantom Ranch lodging at the bottom of Grand Canyon.


When we were leaving the Grand Canyon we know it was going to Snow/rain but, it snow harder than what the weatherman predicted. We know now when it snows not to be on Hwy 17... The roads weren't that bad for us, but it was for must of the drives. It turned into a parking lot for 4 hours and only traveling 2 miles. Lesson learned.


One of my favorite shows is Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives with Guy Fieri. When we are traveling we try to check out one of the triple D restaurants. On our way back to Phoenix we stop at Brandy's Restaurant & Bakery in Flagstaff, AZ. We enjoyed the Southwest Chutney Melt and Grilled Portabello Mushroom sandwich that was so tasty and filling. This helped us get though those hours stuck on the highway.

On one our days in Phoenix we had to stop at Over Easy Restaurant. Best Breakfast ever....Caramelized banana & pecan brioche French toast.. It just melted in my mouth.


Again I see another trip back to Arizona. Grand Canyon, Over Easy and who know what other places to find.