Arizona Cousin Visit

I have 5 first cousins that live in Arizona and I managed to be able to see 4 of them this week. 

My cousin, Mary, and her husband, Craig, hosted me in their very relaxing and warm home in Green Valley. We also visited some Scottsdale cousins, Cynthia and R. Kirk, and had coffee with Mary's brother, John. These are all Dunbar relatives, my Mother's side of the family.

I had a guest suite that was originally built for Mary's

mom who lived with them for 3 years.

My painting, Applegate Barn, hangs on the wall with some

colorful wooden flowers. I love seeing

the two together and being reminded

of my time out in the country in Southern Oregon.

You can see how much Mary and I look alike!

We look more like sisters than first cousins.

Cynthia's son, Scott, took this photo.

We tower over our more petite cousin.

Not only do Mary and I look alike but

we are so similar in so many ways.

Mary meets her brother, John, for coffee once a week.

I joined the party over an Ethiopian coffee

at Starbucks. They announced their new Ethiopian 

blend over the loud speaker and I had to taste in honor of Elsabet!

A wonderful surprise was to discover that a good 

friend from Hillside Church days had moved into 

the area. Karen Whitten and I were in a small 

group that met in my home weekly for several years.

It had been 15 years since we have seen one

another. We talked non stop for a long time!

It was so good to catch up. We found one another

on Facebook. She lives in the next town.

Craig is a masterful and cheerful cook. He whistles as he

chops and stirs. He was able to come up with creative 

and delicious dishes that fit my vegan lifestyle as well

as accommodating Mary's avoidance of all legumes.

It was a challenge to which he rose cheerfully.

Here he is drying spinach ready for a dip.

It is such a treat to hear some one cook for you and

actually really enjoy the process.

We drove down to Tubac, an artists' colony, for a walk

and a look see. I love cows, so I had to get a photo.

Maybe a new card will grow out of this?

I wear a hat and sunglasses when ever the sun is out.

Not very glamorous but necessary to protect my

skin these days. I loved this old wagon.

Mary and Craig's patio faces south and has a 

wonderful view of the mountains beyond. 

They have a fountain that gurgles and gives

a little moisture to the air.

I did a page with this fun wooden sculpture, St. Pasqual, the

patron saint of food. This is so perfect for Craig who loves 

others with his wonderful gifts from the kitchen.

I managed to get a nice photo out of the plane's window

on my way home. Travel is very stressful these days.

It was a very long day to get home.

 I am glad I went AND, I am very pleased to be home once again.