Arizona Dreamin’

It was mid-January, and we were in the midst of the coldest, snowiest winter I’d experienced since moving away from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan 18 years ago. The frigid temperatures and sunless days were taking their toll.  The conversation went something like this:

Me:  We need to get away.  Even if it’s just for a long weekend.  We just need to go someplace warm.

Tim:  We can’t.  Not this year.

The reality of his statement settles in and I’m quiet for a minute. 

Me:  Miles!  Do we have enough for plane tickets?  We could stay with friends in Arizona.

Tim:  We have enough for one ticket.

I’m quiet again.

Tim:  You can go.

Me: No, I can’t go alone.

Tim:  Yes, you can.  Do it.  Go.

Let me tell you, Tim most definitely gets the award for Husband of the Year.  I’m on my flight on the way back from a long weekend in Phoenix, by myself, and it was the most fantastic trip.

The year after I graduated college, I convinced one of my best friends to move to Arizona with me.  We packed up everything we owned and drove across the country, ready for new adventures and more sunshine.

It was in Arizona that I met Tim and eventually had Meghan. When it was time for us to move, I left behind seven years of memories and a group of amazing girlfriends–the kind of friends you will be forever friends with.

So yes, this trip was about the sunshine and escaping the gray, cold Ohio days.  But I also got to reconnect with my girls and even meet some of their babies for the first time.

I’ll let the pictures tell the story of my weekend.  I’m refreshed and more ready for spring than ever!  Forget that snow’s in the forecast this week. I’m pretending that isn’t happening and looking forward to warmer, sunnier days.  Stay tuned for new recipes coming soon!