Our first day in Arizona was so exciting. We were in our 9th state of the trip and the kids awoke in a Wigwam (or Cozy Cone, for the Cars fans). They had been looking forward to the Teepee Motel for weeks. They had fun walking around the parking lot, looking at the antique automobiles and naming which Cars character they resembled.
We backtracked about 20 miles down I-40 to the Petrified National Forest (which includes the Painted Desert) because we had not arrived in Arizona Monday until after dark. The extra miles were absolutely worth it. The landscapes were incredible. We spent several hours exploring and the kids each completed a National Parks Junior Ranger workbook and activites so they could earn a Junior Ranger Badge. They were so proud. When they presented their work to the Ranger, they were complimented and seriously took the Junior Range oath. Maybe I should clarify that the girls were serious.
John was wearing his prized Five & Dime Store handcuffs when he met the Ranger. The Ranger said, "Well, this is the first time I have had a Junior Ranger in handcuffs."
Guided by our three Rangers, we drove toward Grand Canyon National Park. We arrived just as the sun was setting. We even sighted an elk just after entering the gate. We briefly previewed the Canyon before check-in and dinner. The views were truly breath-taking.
When we were at the Painted Desert, we said it was hard to imagine anything more beautiful. In the past few days, David and I have had many conversations about the variety and majesty of God's Creation that we have been able to witness on this trip. What a privilege.
.jpg)
No comments:
Post a Comment