#Sedona climbing

[kay-no-lies]

tell me you know nothing about woso without telling meeeeeee.

can we not bring the caitlin clark toxicity into woso 😭

[proasailor]

The Kachina column and site of a spiritual energy vortex. Near the trailhead for the Boynton Canyon Trail. Just outside of the Enchantment Resort, Sedona, AZ.

On the other sidem there are pitons or something near the top so people climb this thing.

I like the way the right angled, rectangular blocks seemed to be breaking out from underneath the organic looking rock, about two thirds of the way up. It's as if an ancient Egyptian edifice has been encased in natural rock.

HDR reconstruction using Canon DPP4.17.10 freeware as well as for denoise, sharpening and color adjust - Canon SL3 on tripod, 2s timer release, f/9, ISO 100, 50mm; 1/50, 1/160 and 1/500s exposures.Cheers!

[lastoneout]

@dittolicous I'm slapping these tags into a new post bcs it made me realize I might be weird and wanted to know of anyone else is weird in the same way.

Because like my fear of heights only seems to manifest on man-made structures? Before my disabilities got bad enough that I couldn't hike I used to climb up on top of really tall stuff all the time, like I would hang out on the Devil's Bridge in Sedona and not feel even a little bit scared, but like climbing up say the stairs to go down a water slide is enough to make me shake and have to not look down/get too close to the railing at the edge. The idea of going to the top of a skyscraper—and I mean like just the top floor inside, not like an observation deck or anything—makes my hands sweat(did you know they SWAY in the wind?????) but I've hung out right at the very edge of the Grand Canyon several times and I've never felt more at peace.

The only man-made structures that don't bother me are roller coasters(kinda), airplanes, and weirdly some playground equipment? Roller coasters are only fine if we stay moving tho, if the thing broke when we were really high up and we had to get rescued I would be a complete mess, but like, as long as we stay moving I love them. Carnival rides are a mixed bag, I enjoy going on ferris wheels but they do scare the shit out of me, and I just won't get on most other rides that go super high up in the air. Airplanes are okay because I understand the science behind it?? It makes sense(and when you take off you can feel the air catch the plane) so I just don't get scared, though if I was in like a skydiving plane that's open I would probably freak out. The logic behind playground equipment is a mystery to me, maybe bcs it's literally made for climbing?? No clue.

And like, I watch a lot of videos of people climbing cellphone towers and skyscrapers specifically bcs they scare me SO much that it works to get rid of my anxiety if I'm freaking out about something. All of my problems seem so small because at least I'm not on top of one of those fucking things. But I do actually really like watching The Walk, idk it makes me scared so bad but I love it.

The only natural structure that scares me is trees. Idk what it is about trees, especially bcs I do like climbing them, but I usually struggle to get down without help.

This also made me remember I used to have vhs tapes with episodes of the Madeline cartoon and in one episode she and her friend get stuck at the top of the Eiffel Tower and despite the fact that I have actually BEEN TO PARIS and WENT UP TO THE TOP OF THAT VERY STRUCTURE and it didn't bother me so much, that episode made me so scared I couldn't watch it. Like wtf is that about??

I've also always wanted to be able to fly or be a witch like in Kiki's Delivery Service. Idk how my brain would react to that tho since it's impossible, but I assume it would land in the "it makes sense so it doesn't bother me" category.

So yeah idk man-made structures are bad and scary because I guess I just don't trust humans to make sturdy things that won't fall down(aside from airplanes and playground equipment bcs those make sense)?? But mountains and cliffs and stuff have been there for like millions of years so I trust that they will stay under my feet and thus I don't get scared by them at all.

And like I know it's weird that I'm like this because my fiancé is ALSO scared of heights(which I find hilarious because he's 6'3" and when he picks me up so my head is level with his it makes me scared because "the ground is too far away") but he doesn't like going up on top of anything. Airplanes, rollercoasters that go upside down, tall buildings, mountains and other rock structures, it ALL triggers his phobia. He won't even let me open the window shade when we fly together, it's that bad. Idk why I'm not like that.

Anyway @ anyone else who's scared of heights:

[omegaremix]

Omega Radio for July 22, 2024; #381.

Abrams: “Pale Moonlight”

Burn It Down: “A Ghost Untied”

Bleed: “Killing Time”

Navre: “Late Night Drive”

Frail Body: “Devotion”

Sedona Crystal Bitch: “Smoke And Mirrors”

Monolord: “Bastard Sun”

Belzebong: “Goat Smoking Blues”

Wormsand: “Carrions”Smote: “The Opinion Of The Lamb”

Mascara: “Eleven The Fair”

Swarmer: “Foremast”

Tribunal: “Without Answer”

Seizures: “Of Indigo And Seven Crows”

Sect: “Lovers Of Live”

Eternal Red: “Recreate / Mutate”

Killer, The: “Holy Mother Of Street Wars”

Henret: “Funeral Pyre”

Rile: “Climb Out” + “Stone Tapes”

Locrian: “Utopias”

Hangman’s Chair: “An Ode To Breakdown”

Rosetta: “So Warm A Solitude”

Imminence: “Continuum”

So Hideous: “Yesteryear”

Sunrot & Bryan Funck & Emily McWilliams: “Gutter”

Emma Ruth Rundle & Thou: “The Valley”

Seasons Worn: “The Rose Chamber”

Deluxe metalcore, sludge, doom, and stoner.

[imhereonthekitchenfloor]

So how was the Sedona trip did u face any rocks

We walked to Bell Rock and we thought we were just walking to a view point but no I was actually using rock climbing skills to get up this thing

All these layers had to be walked up and they often had a foot or 2 in between. Sometimes it was vertical but there were good hand holds. But I will say my dad was NOT ready and kept being like "This is so dangerous!" (It wasn't.) I said "I know someone who went rock climbing here and had to be saved by a helicopter" and they were like "that's not happening to us" so I brought you up actually 😌

[aestheticvoyage2023]

Day 137: Wednesday May 17, 2023 - “Gigi Becky”

I always admired the injection of inspiration and affirmation that I got from Becky, and while William will never know or understand he has an actual Aunt Becky, I’ll be very sure that he has the blessing of having his Gigi Becky in his life - my road mama, who did then and still today, inspires the idea that we can have a life with a view.  One of those people that gave my soul permission to keep stepping out and in so many ways helped lead me down this road to Tucson where she now set some roots of her own, upstate in Cottonwood.   We climbed up into the neighborhood to see her view out that backyard looking out on the Sedona backdrop to the north, and meet her friend Jim and share stories and connect.  When Becky lost saw little William, was in his pudgy immoblie phase and so it was fun to see him run and laugh and talk and give affection as I shared about the ups and downs of fatherhood and how we’re ready for whatever is next.   We had dinner at the market at Strada with custom craft cocktails, pizza, and gelato.   The evening went by fast, but we made commitments about seeing each more this summer and we drove away already looking forward to it and reflected on how Becky, and now Jim too, are the important kind of people to weave into William’s life.  And how that investment in our family is so good for him.   The real gift is that William will grow up with role models that burn for life and step out take it - Nepal, Base Camp, Mt Kili - there is no limit.  Thats the kind of people I want William to look up to and be influenced by.  A couple hours of drive to have anything rub off onto him is well worth it.  Though I imagine all William will really remember from this night is the Jeep in the garage!

Song: Zach Bryan - Twenty So

Quote: "It doesn't matter how sensitive you are or how damn smart and educated you are, if you're not both at the same time, if your heart and your brain aren't connected, aren't working together harmoniously, well, you're just hopping through life on one leg. You may think you're walking, you may think you're running a damn marathon, but you're only on a hop trip. The connections gotta be maintained." ~Tom Robbins

[traveler-emma99]

The Top Outdoor Sports in the USA: A Guide for Adventure Enthusiasts

Ever wonder which outdoor sports can push your limits and let you experience the USA’s wild beauty firsthand

The United States is a vast playground for outdoor sports, with landscapes so diverse they feel like stepping into different worlds. Whether you’re exploring lush forests, towering mountains, or sweeping deserts, the USA has endless ways to connect with nature. Let’s dive into some of the top outdoor sports, perfect for adventure enthusiasts looking to embrace the wild.

1. Hiking and Backpacking

Hiking offers an immersive experience in nature, and with more than 57 million Americans taking to the trails each year, it’s clear this activity is a favorite. With trails that vary from short, scenic routes to multi-day treks, there’s something for everyone.

Where to Go: The Pacific Crest Trail spans over 2,650 miles, crossing through states like California and Oregon, offering scenic and challenging paths for serious hikers. For those looking for shorter yet memorable trails, Zion and Bryce Canyon in Utah offer some of the best. A modular backpack, especially one with options for both day hikes and multi-day setups, makes transitioning between different types of trails seamless without overloading your pack.

2. Mountain Biking

For adrenaline seekers, mountain biking is all about speed and skill. Studies show over 8 million Americans enjoy mountain biking, tackling terrain that ranges from smooth singletracks to rugged, rocky paths. The sport has gained a steady following, with dedicated trails popping up across the country.

Where to Go: Sedona, Arizona, is a top spot for its red rock trails, and Moab, Utah, is known for its unique desert landscapes. If you’re looking for varied terrain, try Whistler, BC, just across the northern border—it’s a mountain biking haven with tracks for all levels. To make life easier on technical trails, a biking-specific modular pack, with compartments for tools and snacks, lets riders keep essentials close at hand without weighing them down.

3. Rock Climbing

Climbing challenges the body and mind, and with over 9 million climbers in the USA, it’s a sport that’s grown significantly in recent years. With climbing gyms popping up in cities nationwide, more people are getting into outdoor climbing as well, testing their limits against cliffs, boulders, and even ice.

Where to Go: Yosemite is a dream destination for climbers, known for its granite walls and challenging routes. The Red River Gorge in Kentucky is also popular for its sandstone cliffs, while Joshua Tree in California offers climbs for all skill levels. For serious climbers, having a modular backpack with a zip-off system is helpful, making it easy to grab gear without digging through everything packed for the day.

4. Skiing and Snowboarding

From the Rockies to the Sierra Nevada, the USA’s snowy peaks offer some of the best slopes in the world. With roughly 470 ski resorts across the nation, skiing and snowboarding are beloved winter sports that draw millions of enthusiasts each season.

Where to Go: Aspen and Breckenridge in Colorado are classics, while Jackson Hole in Wyoming is a paradise for more advanced skiers. Utah’s Park City also boasts wide-open slopes and varied terrain for all levels. Skiers know the importance of weatherproof gear, and a well-made backpack that handles snow and keeps gear dry can make or break a day on the slopes.

5. Whitewater Rafting and Kayaking

Rivers like the Colorado and the Snake provide thrilling opportunities for whitewater rafting and kayaking, sports that get you up close with nature while working your endurance. Whitewater sports are especially popular, with over 16 million Americans hitting the rivers every year.

Where to Go: The Colorado River, winding through the Grand Canyon, offers legendary rapids that draw adventure seekers from around the world. The Gauley River in West Virginia is another top destination, known for its intense Class V rapids. When you’re out on the water, having durable, water-resistant gear is essential to keep essentials safe and dry, especially during unpredictable river conditions.

6. Trail Running

For those who crave speed and endurance, trail running combines the thrill of running with the beauty of the great outdoors. Running on trails presents different challenges from road running, with shifting terrains and elevations that keep things interesting. Trail running has surged in popularity, with more Americans trading pavement for scenic paths through forests and mountains.

Where to Go: Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park and California’s Big Sur coastline are incredible places for trail running, also you can check top trail location in Colorado  A lightweight, snug backpack that won’t shift as you run can make all the difference on these rugged paths, helping you stay hydrated and prepared.

Ready to Take on the Outdoors? Outdoor sports in the USA aren’t just a way to stay active—they’re an experience. With breathtaking landscapes and diverse activities, there’s always something new to explore. Whether you’re gearing up for a weekend hike, a mountain bike ride, or an extended trek, having reliable, adaptable gear lets you focus on the adventure. So, take that first step, hit the trail, and discover the USA’s wild beauty.

[the-blackorchid1]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: STITCHDROP BLACK & CREAM GREY HOODIE TUNIC dune sci-fi futuristic.

[sedonaoffroadcenter22]

Explore Sedona Like Never Before: Off-Road Vehicle Rentals 🚙🌵

Sedona, Arizona, is renowned for its stunning red rock formations, vibrant canyons, and awe-inspiring landscapes.

To fully appreciate the rugged beauty and hidden treasures of this enchanting destination, off-road vehicle rentals offer an exhilarating way to explore its less-traveled paths.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a nature lover, Sedona’s off-road adventures promise an unforgettable experience.

Why Opt for Off-Road Vehicle Rentals? 🛻

Unmatched Access 🚧

Thrilling Experiences 🎢

The thrill of driving an off-road vehicle across Sedona’s varied terrain is hard to match. From conquering steep inclines to maneuvering over rocky paths, the excitement of an off-road adventure adds a dose of adrenaline to your journey. Perfect for adventure enthusiasts, these rentals offer a chance to experience Sedona’s wild side firsthand.

Tailored Adventures 🎯

Types of Off-Road Vehicles Available 🚜

ATVs (All-Terrain Vehicles) 🏍️

ATVs are perfect for solo explorers or small groups. These agile vehicles are designed to handle tight trails and rocky surfaces, making them ideal for navigating Sedona’s diverse terrain. Their compact size also allows for easy maneuverability through narrow paths.

UTVs (Utility Task Vehicles) 🚑

For families or groups looking to enjoy the adventure together, UTVs offer spacious seating and a smooth ride. With room for up to six passengers, these vehicles provide a comfortable and sturdy option for tackling rough trails and lengthy excursions.

Jeeps 🚙

Renting a Jeep provides a classic off-road experience. Known for their durability and off-road capabilities, Jeeps are well-suited for tackling Sedona’s challenging trails. With ample space for passengers and gear, they’re a great choice for those planning a day-long adventure.

Top Off-Road Trails in Sedona 🌄

Broken Arrow Trail 🚩

One of Sedona’s most famous trails, Broken Arrow offers a mix of thrilling terrain and breathtaking views. The trail features rocky obstacles, steep climbs, and panoramic vistas, making it a must-visit for off-road enthusiasts seeking an adrenaline rush.

Schnebly Hill Road 🛤️

Schnebly Hill Road is renowned for its scenic beauty and challenging sections. This trail takes you from Sedona’s vibrant town up to the Mogollon Rim, showcasing stunning views of the red rocks and the Verde Valley. It’s a perfect choice for those who want a blend of scenic beauty and off-road excitement.

Outlaw Trail 🌵

The Outlaw Trail provides a longer adventure through Sedona’s diverse landscapes. Along this route, you’ll encounter historic sites, ancient Native American ruins, and a variety of terrains, from dense forests to open desert plains.

Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Off-Road Experience 🦺

Plan Your Trip 📅

Research the trails you plan to explore and check current conditions. Some trails may be closed during certain times of the year or after heavy rains.

Gear Up Appropriately 🧢

Wear suitable clothing, including sturdy shoes and a hat, and don’t forget sunscreen and plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Respect Nature 🌍

Conclusion 🌟

Sedona’s off-road vehicle rentals offer a thrilling and immersive way to explore the region’s stunning landscapes. With various vehicle options and trail choices, you can tailor your adventure to match your interests and skill level. Whether you’re seeking heart-pounding excitement or peaceful exploration, Sedona’s off-road trails provide a unique and unforgettable experience in the heart of Arizona’s red rock country.

[omegaradiowusb]

JULY 22, 2024 (#381)

Abrams: "Pale Moonlight" Burn It Down: "A Ghost Untied" Bleed: "Killing Time" Navre: "Late Night Drive" Frail Body: "Devotion" (***NEW) Sedona Crystal Bitch: "Smoke And Mirrors" Monolord: "Bastard Sun" Belzebong: "Goat Smoking Blues" Wormsand: "Carrions" Smote: "The Opinion Of The Lamb" (***NEW) Mascara: "Eleven The Fair" Swarmer: "Foremast" Tribunal: "Without Answer" Seizures: "Of Indigo And Seven Crows" Sect: "Lovers Of Life" (***NEW) Eternal Red: "Recreate / Mutate" Killer, The: "Holy Mother Of Street Wars" Henret: "Funeral Pyre" Rile: "Climb Out" + "Stone Tapes" Locrian: "Utopias" (***NEW) Hangman's Chair: "An Ode To Breakdown" Rosetta: "So Warm A Solitude" Imminence: "Continuum" (***NEW) So Hideous: "Yesteryear" Sunrot & Bryan Funck & Emily McWilliams: "Gutter" Emma Ruth Rundle & Thou: "The Valley" Seasons Worn: "The Rose Chamber"

Metalcore, sludge, doom, stoner, and heavy riffs. It's all here for this new Summer deluxe edition of Omega. There's no quit in the amount of new, current, and favorite sounds we showcase to all of our listeners, and this edition's selections are more than season-appropriate.

In two weeks, it's the show of all shows. For the entire month of August, Omega goes overtime for what will be the biggest event it's ever broadcast. Nothing of its scale has ever done before, and we want our followers and listeners to join us for something amazing.

Thanks to all tuning in to Omega and WUSB. See you in two weeks.

August 5, 2024 (Midnight-5AM EST): ???

August 19, 2024 (Midnight-5AM EST): ???

[petyupp]

Best Dog-Friendly Hikes

States like Arkansas, Colorado, Arizona, Georgia, and Missouri have the best dog-friendly hikes where you can go with your furry friend for an adventure.

Exploring the great outdoors with your furry friend is one of the most rewarding experiences for any dog owner. The United States offers an abundance of trails that welcome both humans and their canine companions. From the rugged landscapes of Arizona to the lush forests of Georgia, here are some of the best dog-friendly hikes in the United States, featuring top spots in Arkansas, Colorado, Arizona, Georgia, Missouri, and California.

Whitaker Point (Hawksbill Crag) - Arkansas

Location: Ozark National Forest, Arkansas  

Trail Length: 3 miles round trip  

Difficulty: Moderate

Whitaker Point, also known as Hawksbill Crag, is one of Arkansas' most iconic hiking destinations. The trail offers stunning views of the Ozark National Forest and a breathtaking overlook that juts out like a hawk's beak. The trail is well-marked and relatively short, making it perfect for dogs. Just ensure your pup is leashed and keep an eye on them near the edges.

Chautauqua Trail - Colorado

Location: Boulder, Colorado  

Trail Length: 3.6 miles round trip  

Difficulty: Moderate

Nestled in the foothills of the Rockies, the Chautauqua Trail provides a mix of meadow and forest scenery with incredible views of the Flatirons. This trail is a favorite among dog owners in Colorado. Dogs must be on a leash, but they will love the wide-open spaces and fresh mountain air. It is undoubtedly one of the best dog-friendly hikes in the United States.

Cathedral Rock Trail - Arizona

Location: Sedona, Arizona  

Trail Length: 1.2 miles round trip  

Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

Sedona's red rock formations are a sight to behold, and the Cathedral Rock Trail is a fantastic way to experience them. The trail is steep and can be challenging, but the views from the top are worth every step. Dogs are allowed on the trail but should be well-prepared for a rocky climb.

Amicalola Falls State Park - Georgia

Location: Dawsonville, Georgia  

Trail Length: Varies (Multiple trails available)  

Difficulty: Easy to Difficult

Home to Georgia’s tallest waterfall, Amicalola Falls State Park offers a variety of trails suitable for all levels. The Amicalola Falls Loop Trail is a favorite, offering stunning waterfall views and lush forest scenery. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash.

Dogwood Canyon Nature Park - Missouri

Location: Lampe, Missouri  

Trail Length: Varies (Multiple trails available)  

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Dogwood Canyon Nature Park is a pet-friendly paradise with crystal-clear streams, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. There are several trails to choose from, all of which are dog-friendly. This park is perfect for a leisurely stroll with your dog.

Runyon Canyon Park - California

Location: Los Angeles, California  

Trail Length: 3 miles round trip  

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

What do dogs like the most? Of Course running off-leash! This trail allows them to do so. Runyon Canyon Park is one of the most popular dog-friendly hikes in Los Angeles. With off-leash areas and panoramic views of the city and the Hollywood Sign, this trail is a hit among local dog owners. The trail can get busy, so it’s best to go early in the morning.

Tips for Hiking with Your Dog

Always carry plenty of water for both you and your dog, especially on hot days.

Keep your dog on a leash unless you're in a designated off-leash area. Ensure your dog’s collar has up-to-date pet ID tags.

Be mindful of other hikers and wildlife. Keep your dog under control and clean up after them.

Make sure your dog is in good health and up for the hike. Watch for signs of fatigue or overheating.

Exploring these trails with your dog will undoubtedly create lasting memories and strengthen your bond. So pack your gear, leash up your pup, and hit the trails for an adventure you both will cherish. Do not forget the important pet supplies on the way.

[duncantraveldiary]

Day 7 (Wednesday)

Today was a big day.

We woke up early and headed out to go hiking all day around Sedona.

First hike was actually more of a climb up Bell Rock. Magnificent views from up there.

We then took a connector trail which took us to the Courthouse Butte loop trail. This was a long hike all the way around one of the major rock formations near Sedona.

We had lunch atop a cliff, just off of the Courthouse Butte trail. The views from here we magnificent, across the whole Sedona area.

After this we were pretty tired, so we drove to the Chapel of the Holy Cross, which is an architectural marvel built in 1957.

Having regained a bit of energy, we then went on another hike/climb up Cathedral Rocks. Marie-Anne made it further than me to the bottom of the towers you’ll see in the pictures.

An exhausting but marvelous day!

[shdwtouch]

Whats aomething your pet(s) do? Are they smart?

so, I have a cat, my emotional support animal, Gambit ! and then we / my mom has dogs, siblings Bruin and Sedona, and a corgi named Sir Ulrich von Lichtenstein. my sister also has cats, Purrlock Holmes and Meowdame Leota. I'm just gonna list off some facts about all of them, because I love all of them. XD

facts about Leota !

she adores her brother, Purrlock. she literally has a shrine dedicated to him under my sisters desk. like. his old collars, his favorite toys, a little drawing of him (I'm not fucking joking, it's a drawing on a wine cork my sister got at an art faire).

she is the sweetest, quietest, most polite cat I have ever met

facts about Purrlock !

he looks like a little cow. he eats like one too XD

he would sell you to satan for one (1) treat

facts about Ulrich !

he is the BIGGEST diva. sometimes he refuses to eat unless he is spoon fed. he refuses to jump down from locations he jumped onto and acts like he can't get down without help. thinks hes bigger than he is and tries to act like it. he sometimes refuses to climb the back stairs and must be carried indoors like a baby. he is also very judgmental.

he is terrified of Leota, but fine with the other cats XD

one time he got stuck on our porch because his way was blocked and he couldn't back up. after saving his sorry little butt, he did it again.

facts about Sedona !

she hates my guts. why ? because she doesn't like leashes, medication, or going places she does not want to go... and I was responsible for doing all that. now my sister handles it, thankfully. I love the dog, she just hates me. :c

acts stupid, is actually very smart

she would sell you to satan for one (1) ear rub

gassy. poor baby has some digestion issues unfortunately :c but we do what we can for her. we can always tell she isn't feeling good because she gets grumpy, but then I get grumpy too when my stomach doesn't feel good so.

facts about Bruin !

my favoritest boy (don't tell Gambit XD)

he is the sweetest, most stupid dog you will ever meet. we live in the country and are surrounded by cow fields. one time, when he was still pretty young, he got out and came back with a gash in his head. vet says a cow most likely kicked him. :c even though he was already pretty sweet and derpy before that, I like to joke that everything changed after "the accident". poor guy.

he thinks cows are his friends. "cows" is his trigger word I s2g. you say cows and his ears perk up, he gets so excited, its adorable. he just sits outside and watches them. also ? every day, around 6 pm, he goes out to the side yard and barks at the cows in our neighbors field. idk why, I think that's when they get fed so they move to that side of the field ? but without fail, he's out there barking.

he has excited tail syndrome. the kind of dog that wags their tail and their whole body just starts wiggling and shaking. he's adorable.

facts about Gambit !

is literally screaming at me right now

only drinks cold water, but he does not like ice

a cuddle baby. he's literally such a loving baby boy, I love him.

thinks hes tough. is not actually tough.

thinks he's gonna inherit my stuff when I die, so he keeps trying to kill me (joking)

thinks he's cute (he is cute) but he needs to be constantly reminded

does NOT !! like kisses

is in a situationship with Purrlock, thinks its Leota

and now to answer the "are they smart" portion of this question. Sedona and Ulrich ? they act stupid but we know they are smart. Bruin is as dumb as they come, unfortunately, but he makes up for it by being incredibly sweet. Purrlock and Gambit have a single brain cell each, and fight over the third to make fire. Leota has all the cat brain cells but dedicates them solely to loving on her brother.

[letree]

Arizona Baby Moon

Feb 20, 2024- Kaine, Jennifer and Cletus the foetus hopped on a plane to Pheonix, AZ. We arrived late at night and went to our room to sleep and noticed ear plugs on both the night stands.. We soon realized that our room backed onto a 24hr train stop, and every time the train pulled up it tooted its horn. I know this because the sliding door to our balcony didn't close properly so we didn't miss one toot. The next morning we hopped in our dented up RAV4 (aka- the ravioli) and drove to a town just outside of Sedona and got lunch at Tortas de Fuego. Kaine had some tacos and baby had churros and ice cream.

All fuelled up on meat and sugar, we found some hikes nearby and climbed up and around the large red rock until the skies decided opened up and made us turn back. The next day (Kaine's 34h birthday) we had breakfast at the home of the 3lb cinnamon bun. We probably would have considered trying the 3lb bun, but it had raisins in it. bleh.

Fuel'd up on more meat and sugar, we went on a 10km hike to the Devils Bridge. It was flat desert filled with cactus and lizards most of the way, and close to the end we climbed some rocks to reach the bridge. We had burned off our breakfast and needed more meat and sugar, so we brought along a turkey sandwich and the most neon green muffin you've ever seen. We needed something other than meat and sugar for dinner, so we went to an Italian restaurant called Padres. While waiting for our food, our table neighbour brought to our attention that God had been telling him to talk to us all night. He recited a bible verse to us followed by some words of wisdom, then we indulged in giant bowls of thick & creamy pasta. But what's a birthday without DESSERT?! We stopped at the grocery store and got some chocolate cheesecake to eat in bed and were asleep by 9 PM. Is this what 34 looks like?

Our next destination was Tusayan, a town right beside the Grand Canyon. After driving there, we went and watched the sunset at a viewpoint in the canyon then had dinner at a Mexican restaurant. Each table at the restaurant had painted animals or scenery on it and the wooden chairs were all a colourful hand painted display of animals characters and flowers.

We'd been eating too much and needed to burn some calories! We headed to the Grand Canyon and took a shuttle bus to the South Kaibab trailhead, which has an elevation of 7460ft. From there we hiked down into the canyon to Skelton point, which is an elevation of 5200ft.

Descending is the easy part, signs of a man on all fours vomiting warned you not to try hiking the whole trail in one day or that would be your fate. I was the only pregnant person on the trail but still managed to pass a few people! A lot of the views you can see the red rock, but apparently the rock isn’t actually red, it’s just stained red from the water washing rust down it and staining it that color.

The canyon is so deep that when you look down it, depending on where you are, you can’t even see the bottom. From the odd corner you can get a glimpse of the bottom where you can see the Colorado river passing through. We hiked out of there just in time to watch another sunset and ate leftovers in the hotel after a nice dip in the hot tub.

Next, we drove to Page where we saw the Glen Canyon Dam. Just down the from the dam we hiked around the ‘bee hives’ which were tall layered red sandstone in tower formations.

It was getting hot hiking through the desert in jeans and long sleeves, so we drove over to another hike called the hanging garden. They call it the hanging garden because amidst the dry sandy landscape, there’s one random rock in the middle of the desert that has a cool moist overhang which houses moss and hanging greens growing from the lower portion of it. We climbed up the rock and ended up at a cliff where a view into the canyon emerged and you could look out to lake Powell and across the desert.

That evening we went to a local brewery for dinner where I ordered a Mac cheese, but they forgot the macaroni and just gave me a bowl or cheese sauce lol.

Before leaving Page we stopped at Horse Shoe Bend, which is another extension of the Grand Canyon that wraps around a big rock formation. We then headed out towards Prescott, home of the first ever rodeo in 1888. We stayed in Hotel StMichael, built in 1864, and rode up the original elevator with its sliding accordion doors to our room where the walls still hold the smoke smell from years ago. Unfortunately the time of year we went, pretty much everything was closed, but Kaine still managed to get some brisket!

[one-coming-is-enough]

Cathedral Rock in Sedona!

I intended to pray in this gorgeous natural cathedral, but I got too scared climbing up and had to come back down. Turns out I should have brought non-slip hiking boots instead of sandals.

[hikeofthemonth]

March 2024 Mangum Dental Hike of the Month Hyde Mountain Trail #6 Fire Lookout Tower Prescott, Arizona

Distance: 4.4 miles round trip

Elevation Gain:  1500 feet ( The elevation of Hyde Mountain is 7,272 feet and the highest point in the Santa Maria range)

Difficulty: Moderate to High

Parking: No fee

Directions:  From Outer Loop Road and Williamson Valley Road, head North on Williamson Valley Road for 13 miles. Turn left on Camp Wood Road, continue for 15.4 miles to FR95, and turn right. Continue for 0.2 miles to FR95C, turn left, and continue 2 miles to the trailhead.

This hike combines a full-day adventure to parts less traveled and a breathtaking 360-degree view of our beautiful surroundings including Sedona, Humphreys Peak, and Granite Mt. However, it is not for the faint of heart, less experienced, or pavement-only drivers! It has a consistent vertical grade, many loose rocks along the trail, and is best accessed with a crossover, SUV, or pickup truck. Nonetheless, for those up to the challenge, the rewards are abundant: a beautiful drive, incredible views, and a huge sense of accomplishment!

The start of this hike is at the end of FR9825C. The trailhead is well marked but may take a moment to find it at the beginning. Once on the trail, it is well-worn and is shared by off-road motorcycles so watch the ruts. The trail is an uphill climb and maintains a steady upward grade throughout the hike.  Keep an eye out for interesting geology and past efforts to supply the lookout tower. At about the 1-mile mark, you will come to a livestock gate followed by a trail crossroads. After passing through the gate we encountered several cattle during the rest of the hike. The next half-mile is under the tree canopy and crosses a seasonal creek that may pose a hazard during heavy inclement weather. As we emerged from the trees, the views continued to astound and spurred us to the top.  Communication antennas came into our view and eventually the lookout tower. After the upper saddle sign, the trail is not as well-defined and wide, but still distinguishable.  Once at the top, the rewards were both an emotional sense of triumph as well as a circumferential view that was stunning and magnificent.

Mangum Dental has been serving the Prescott-area dental needs since 1978. We strive to provide exceptional patient care while rendering outstanding compassionate service.