The sixty miles from Williams to the Grand Canyon was a bit chilly and cloudy. Par for the course on this trip. But I was too excited to let it bother me.
I made it to the South Rim entrance, parked and went to the check out the visitors center. Knowing that the actual canyon was so close, I couldn't concetrate on anything in the visitor's center, and quickly left to see what I came to see. As I approached to view point, wow, just wow. Words cannot describe it, nor can pictures. You have to see it in person. I stood and just let it all soak in.
I drove along the south rim and stopped at several view points absolutely amazed at what I saw every time!
In awe, I pointed south and head for Phoenix to meet up with another friend I had made in Korea! The drive leaving the Grand Canyon was stunning, and aside from strong winds, it was a great drive. Near Flagstaff it was a little chilly, but the chilly mountain scenery gave way to desert the further I went south. Luckily, I-17 south is in better condition than the rest of the Arizona roads I'd traveled so far.
I arrived at Karen's house in the evening! Great to see another friend that I'd met in a far off land!
Phoenix is hot and sunny! Off to the pool.
On Wednesday I met two friends from high school I hadn't seen since college. We went out to old town Scottsdale, which I really liked. Good times with old friends!
Thursday I went to a Harley dealership to get the first oil change of the trip, and after relaxed by the pool.
Phoenix was great and I could see myself building a life there some day. Thanks to Karen, her brother and his family for their above and beyond hospitality! And Lara and Kathleen for showing me Scottsdale!
The Grand Canyon! I was there in the summer of 1993. You are so right, words and pictures just can't describe it adequately! The view makes the cold wind feel like a warm breeze.
ReplyDeleteTrue story I drank beers with former Oakland A's outfielder. Dave Henderson in Scottsdale in 1998.
ReplyDeleteI tazed him too. He asked me to. On the forearm.