Brent, the kids, and I visited our lovely friends Albert and Krista Gutierrez and their kiddos in Scottsdale, AZ last week. It was an absolutely wonderful time catching up, relaxing, and exploring together.
Tuesday - We flew out of MSP at 6:30pm and arrived in PHX at 10:30pm. The lovely Krista picked us up at the airport and had cozy beds ready for all of us:)
 |
| Nora's first plane ride! Can you see the snow on the wing as we left MSP? |
 |
| Warmly welcomed to this lovely home |
Wednesday - We played outside and explored the cul-de-sac and community amenities in the neighborhood including a pool and tennis court in their backyard! Later in the afternoon, we went to the "train park" (aka McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park) in Scottsdale for a train ride and some ice cream. On our way home, we stopped at Chaparral Park for some fishing with hot dogs. (This was a first for me, but apparently they've found that they work well:)) We rounded out the day with some amazing tacos compliments of Krista and the opportunity to see Albert for the first time when we got home from work.
 |
| Luke and Jacob = Friends reunited |
Thursday - We spent a beautiful, sunny, 70 degree day at the Phoenix Zoo. Doesn't get any better than that!
Friday - We drove to Saguaro Lake Marina (about 30 mins) to explore more Arizona landscape. It was a beautiful area with bluffs, cactus, water, and great views. On the way home, we stopped in Fountain Hills, another suburb, to take in the Fountain Park. The kids played on the variety of jungle gyms as we waited for the fountain to spray (which is does on the hour for 15 mins). It was the most adorable park with walking trails, beautiful views of homes on hills surrounding it, and the impressive fountain. I told Krista that they should move to that suburb when they buy a house, but she said that they have more snakes and scorpions there...I guess it might not be a great move after all:( Friday night Albert and Krista treated us to grilled steaks and brats. It tasted so good after not having it in MN for several cold months.
Saturday - The men (Albert finally got a day off) and big kids (Bella, Jacob, and Luke) hiked Sunrise Trail in Scottsdale. We had lunch together and made our final goodbyes as Desert Ridge Marketplace which is kind of on the border of Phoenix and Scottsdale.
 |
| Friends say goodbye for now |
 |
| Amazing sunset as we departed PHX |
After a rather long flight home wrestling Nora, and a snowy drive home from MSP, we were in our beds by 12:30am.
As I'm sure you expected, I took LOTS of pictures:) Check them out on Shutterfly.
We've readjusted to the cold, wind, and snow, but our hearts continue to be warmed from a wonderful time with special friends:)
No comments:
Post a Comment