One Hundred Eighty-Six Miles of Cool Sunshine

Took a run to Bartlett Lake with six of my usual suspects; then back to Cave Creek for lunch and home. I hope all will soon be enjoying days like this if they are not already.

Flatiron

Ever since we first viewed the Superstition Mts (2005), which are just east of our Arizona winter hide-out I've wondered is I would ever get to see the view from the top. Well today with my faithful Canadian guide and I made the trek to Flatiron. If you look closely in the first two photos to the most distant rock, that is Flatiron. We stepped off from the 2000' trail head about 7:30 AM and reached the 4861' Flatiron at 10:00 AM. I had made one prior attempt a couple years ago and learned that I was not ready for the full effort. I am glad to say this year was different. It was still a tough climb and descent for me. Enjoy the pictures.

The Siphon Draw trail ahead.

A view back with the mountain's shadow covering the valley.

Siphon Draw and the Smooth Rocks. This is were I turned back the first time.

Near the end of the serious climb.

Looking south and then north from the top.

From the top the valley now in full sun.

My faithful Canadian guide and the Hoodoos at the summit.

More of the summit and the view south.

A final look south and the WAY DOWN! (it is a pun either way).

All is well again

The weather as turned around with valley temperatures in the 70s, so today nine of us (on eight bikes) rolled out for Payson AZ with the return via SR-188 through Globe and Superior, for a sunny 203 miles.

Another Day in the Saddle

A sunny but cool days ride to San Manuel AZ. It is a sleepy little town, which was built in, the late 50s as a mining town but the mine closed a while back and it shows. The streets and housing was done by Del Web who is/was a major player in the retirement community development industry. San Manuel looks like it needs some revitalization. There is a diner on Main St, which bares no sign; serves basic burgers, fries, tacos and ice cream. According to the menu posted on the wall it is called Mel's Drive In. We (seven of us) made the 200 mile round trip with ease.

Catchup

Since our return to AZ from Maryland we have been busy doing the usual winter activities for the most part. Gypsy had another episode with a "foreign body" and another (second) surgery but is going very well. Can't thank our daughter-in-law enough for all her selfless help with Gypsy. Paige is making beads, knitting and spinning when she isn't planning happy hour with our neighbors and themed pot-lucks. I've been hiking a couple of times, riding the motorcycle nearly every week and watercolor painting with the painting group here in the park. One of my motorcycle riding friends had his son visit from Ohio last week; with the loan of a bike there was a series of group rides each day except Wednesday. I missed Monday's ride due to another commitment. There is enough going on to make the days pass quickly.