Surprise

Not only was this trip our first time to Arizona, but Dave & Judy's as well.  We had already seen the Scottsdale (central Phoenix)  and Mesa (southern Phoenix) areas, so on Saturday, Feb. 26, they came west to see where we had been spending our time in Surprise.   Surprise in an area that has seen a lot of growth in the last 10 years.  The neighborhoods show a modern mindset in that the subdivisions are planned with families and a healthy, outdoor lifestyle in mind.  There are many parks with playgrounds and picnic areas, green belts, walking paths and schools.   Our sister, Linda, would have loved it.  Her life's passion was developing this type of lifestyle, and she worked hard in Colorado and California to help develope communities like this.  I thought of her often when we were out for walks or driving in different neighborhoods.

We went to Westgate in Glendale, which is home to a shopping area, apartments, hotels, restaurants, the Jobing.com Arena where the NHL Coyotes hockey team plays, and also the NFL Cardinals stadium.  The football stadium features a retractable field of natural grass playing surface that is moved outdoors for sunshine.  The Fiesta Bowl is also played here.  The shopping area was fun, with a favorite being the RideMakerZ store.  Think Build A Bear for boys.  They have all kinds of cars and pickups, trucks, and kids can add accessories to build the vehicle/ride of their dreams.  There was a dad with his two boys there, and it was fun to watch the little boy build his car.

We went to Abuelo's for lunch and before we knew it, Dave & Judy had to leave for the airport.  It was good to see them.  Thanks for sharing your vacation with us, you guys!