On the way to the Grand Canyon, we visited Montezuma's Castle and Well. Both we pretty neat to see. After eating lunch at the 101 Omelet restaurant, we explored Sedona. The red rocks are amazingly beautiful. We drove north to Flagstaff and reached 7000 ft. Lots of snow from about 5000 feet and up still in the trees and places the sun doesn't hit for long. (If anyone wants to help identify the little gray bird below, please try, we're not sure).
Went to church with Leo and had a great lunch provided by Janet. Visited with Jason and his girls at lunch and then a quick trip to the airport. Saw my last new bird - pictured below.
Friday morning walked the trails on the mountain close to Leo's. Took Tyson to the airport after exploring South Mountain Park in southern Phoenix. Found a couple more new birds to finish off Tyson's time in AZ.
Got up early, before sunrise. Papa decided to sleep in - good decision. Temp was only 28 degrees and we weren't quite prepared for that. No gloves, was really the only problem, as we had layered up to be comfortable. Sunrise is a hard time to take good pictures, haven't gotten the hang of that yet. Went back to get papa and have breakfast. Had a good day exploring the park and found about 7 new birds for ourselves. Tyson has been really liking his Tilley hat and many people complimented him on his hat. The canyon sure is a big hole in the ground. Beautiful views around every new turn.
Our day started with 40 degree weather at Benson. Naturally we went swimming in the outdoor pool - 82 degrees. Arrived at Sierra Vista and got lost on the army base trying to find a certain canyon. Finally found it and hiked up the side of a mountain. Found a few new birds here but not like we had hoped. Drove over to Tombstone after a late lunch and spent the afternoon browsing in the shops. Tyson visited with 'Wyatt Earp' about their show. Got some great sunset pictures at another state park north of Tucson along the interstate.