Cary and I spent the first weekend of October soaking up some sunshine, connecting with old music friends, and indulging in local brews and tasty eats in the Grand Canyon State. He played a Friday night set at O’Connors, and the tunes were rockin’ full throttle! Two fiddlers, a banjo, an accordian, and Cary’s guitar all vying to push the tempo.

We stayed at the Crown Plaza in Chandler, and I took full advantage of the fitness center and resort-like swimming pool. It felt like a genuine, albeit mini, vacation!

The high each day was mid-90s and the sun was boundless in its glory – such a contrast from the cool, cloudy conditions we escaped from Portland. Saturday, Cary and his band played a private, corporate event at the hotel, and the attendees loved the music! Kids danced, parents whooped, and the whole space was elevated with energy and joy.

The trip wound down (too soon!) sitting in the courtyard, watching birds soar and dash overhead beneath the darkening desert sky.

I woke up back in Portland this morning with Neve as my warm, little snuggle buddy, and it is back to reality with school, work, and the rest of it. Wishing you all a great week!