BATCHIN' IT

RON'S OFF TO MINNESOTA!

A DAILY JOURNAL

FRIDAY-DAY 1

This is what time we got up this morning to take Ron to catch the van shuttle to Phoenix Sky Harbor, from where he will fly to Minneapolis via Denver to visit his identical twin brother Don and family.  He'll be gone 11 days, during which time, I'll be BATCHIN' IT.  Over the years Ron's been gone varying amounts of time for both work and visits, but this is the first time he's been gone and I haven't been working.  I'm thinking it's going to be a lot easier.

I had the day already planned, and since now Ron's chores must be completed in addition to my own, this is what time I got up the second time in order to meet former co-worker and still outdoor adventure friend Lea in Williams for hike in time to beat the 40% chance of monsoon predicted by the NWS. 

Lea and I have had numerous hiking and biking adventures over the years.  She's an excellent companion, always up for a challenge and some good conversation.  

We chose to hike Benham Trail, the "easier" of the two trails up Bill Williams Mountain.  Easier is a relative term, because Benham is only easier than the Bill Williams Trail, which is steep enough on the upper half to make a person think about losing their cookies, even when they're in decent shape. 

I'm thinking my hiking look needs a make over--could someone get ahold of Stacy and Clinton on "What Not To Wear" and nominate me?  Please??  Gypsy was our only canine companion today.  Maggie has a lingering shoulder injury incurred in an encounter with another dog awhile ago that has not been improved by her rigorous play with Gypsy, including flying leaps off the deck, and full bore runs up the hill after little ground squirrels living in stumps.  And runs & hikes with me. And hikes with Ron.  Okay, okay, she needs some time to heal, and today was the day.

The hike and conversation were excellent as usual, and we beat the monsoon as hoped.  Here are a couple of views:

Ron called while we were hiking and left a message he was delayed in Denver for a plane repair.  We only exchanged messages; I'll assume no further news is good news!
 

The rest of my plans for the day included the free pizza I "earned" from my favorite pizza joint (buy 12 get one free-a screamin' deal right there)

a bit of reading, and this bedtime:

Ron's arrival in Minnesota includes a rather elaborate plan to surprise Don, including costuming.  He has been abetted by Don's wife & son.  Don has access to this blog, and though I don't know how often he checks it, I'll not take the chance of spoiling the surprise and so post it on Saturday.