Grand Canyon, Arizona

Black Bean Soup. Look how beautiful it is. You're scratching your head and wondering why I'm showing you a picture of black bean soup, with a post title of Grand Canyon, right? We had the advantage of being there in winter. In winter, it's far less crowded. Not many people want to bundle up like we did. No, I'm not in the picture of the 3 bundles of coats, hats, hoods, scarves etc. As usual, I'm behind the camera, with a cold hand pushing the shutter. lol Since we were there during non season we were able stay at Kachina Lodge and walk to the main lodge for dinner in the fine dining room. It's my understanding reservations must be made way way in advance to stay on property during peak season and eat at The Lodge. And since we were there during the winter, we saw sites a little differently than most summer visitors do.
Hopi Point noted for it's sunsets is on the West Rim. We made it just a few minutes before the sun set. The first picture is just before, while the 2nd one is as it's setting. It doesn't take long, and is unbelievably dark and cold in a flash. No camera captures the feel of The Grand Canyons. They really are just mammoth, so much more than the lens can see. Much of area is closed in winter, as the trails become very slippery and dangerous with ice and snow, so we hiked less than we had planned. But, we did tromp quite a bit in the snow and loved every minute of it; freezing wind being quite a problem.

Yes, I still recommend you go; just bring your long johns!

Desert Botanical Gardens, Phoenix Arizona

Monarch Butterflies, trying to catch them in flight was a challenge. They're so beautiful. When I was a child they were abundant, now they are protected and we can see them in various Butterfly Gardens around the states. These are in The Desert Botanical Gardens in Phoenix.
It was extremely hot the day we were there, thus the sunglasses and hat pulled way down on my eyes. I did have on lots of sun screen and we walked slowly throughout the 50 acres enjoying over 130 rare desert plants. You often don't see me, The Traveling Suitcase; because I'm the one behind the camera; but this is me showing you the sign indicating we're in The Sonora Desert.
These are HUGE, one was large enough hubby could stand in the middle of it. I wanted you though to see the whole exhibit by Patrick Dougherty, titled Childhood Dreams. These are constructed with tree saplings. To date, Patrick has made over 200 massive sculptures globally.
Look at the detail and color in this one cactus! It's awesome. There were so many, I took 100 photo's the day I was there and everyone was interesting and unique. The gardens has a 63 year history of conservation and research of rare desert plants throughout the world.
There are many educational programs open to adults and children, a garden shop, gift shop, and patio cafe. Something for everyone. Through out the year many special events take place, such as Music in the Gardens on Sunday from noon til 2pm.