Kristin took the day off from work. Max is a children's book author/illustrator, and he works from home anyway. By the way, Max has a great website at www.maxwelleaton.com. My grandchildren have his books and just love them. After leisurely coffee and making a plan for the day, we were off.
First stop was the historic Spanish mission Mission San Xavier, built in 1783. It was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1960. The Mission still holds services. We arrived early, and had the place to ourselves. By the time we left an hour later, the parking lot was starting to fill.
Next we drove up into the mountains to Tucson Mountain Park, a County Park that borders Saguaro National Park West. We stopped at Grant's pass Overlook to enjoy the views. In the first photo below, near the center of the picture, you can see the Old Tucson Studios. The original buildings were built as movie set by Columbia Pictures for the movie Arizona, stating William Holden and Jean Arthur. The facility is now open to the public as a theme park.
By now, it was lunch time and Max and Kristin took us for a quick tour of the old, historic part of Tucson, including the courtyard where they were married.
Then lunch at the Barrio Brewing Company, a local micro brew company. After lunch, we made a quick grocery stop at The 17th Street Market and a stop at Maynards Market for some local Arizona wine. Then back to the house for afternoon naps, drinks and conversation. Their housing development has a Bocce Ball court, so we went and played a few games.
Later we sat around the fire in the warm breeze and watched the sun set, followed by light dinner and drinks and conversation on the porch.
It was a great day!! Tuesday Karen, Zoey and I leave Tucson and head north. We plan to see the Grand Canyon on wednesday.
That smile of yours speaks VOLUMES. Retirement seems to fit just fine so far. Thanks again for sharing your story and the wonderful photos.
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