Arizona brought about many new adventures on our roadtrip out West. We tried some new foods, cruised along old Route 66, and experienced the majesty of the Grand Canyon.
Soon after we crossed the Arizona state line, we were itching to get out and stretch our legs. We happened upon a Frybread stand and a cool souvenir/snack shop owned by some local Native Americans.
After that refreshing popsicle and Frybread stop, we were back to driving and exploring. We happened upon old Route 66 and cruised it for awhile, settling in for a lunch stop in Holbrook. Jet was pretty stoked when we found the Wigwam Motel that inspired the Cozy Cone Motel in the first Cars movie!
Right down from the Wigwam Motel is Joe & Aggie’s Cafe, where we grabbed lunch. We drove past it, looked up some quick reviews on our phones and went right in. But, we were in for some fun surprises when we got inside. Inside, the cafe was filled with Route 66 nostalgia and Cars memorabilia. Jet was enamored, taking it all in. We were all hungry, so we grabbed a table, and ate lunch, planning to look at every last Cars collectible before we left. On our way out, a different gentleman was sitting at the counter than the woman who had been there before. Stanley, the super-friendly owner and inspiration for Stanley from Cars, was there to talk about the movie and tell us all about how the writers would come into the restaurant for ideas and inspiration and chat with the locals and write. It’s always a joy to meet friendly people who take time out of their day to share a small part of their lives with some crazy Georgia folks. This boy was pretty stoked.
Arizona didn’t end with Joe & Aggie’s. Our Arizona adventures were far from over. After getting fueled up from lunch, we were off to Grand Canyon National Park. You guys. The natural beauty this place contains. I just can’t even explain it. I was at a complete loss for words. I think all that I remember blubbering is “Wow.”
It was late afternoon by the time we made it to the park. We entered at the South Rim and went straight to the easiest access point to get some nice views before the sun went down. It was pure glorious.
That evening, after our first views of the Canyon, we went back to our campsite for some rest. And by rest, I mean I listened to wolves (or coyotes) howling for some portion of the night. I mean, that’s wilderness life, right?
The next morning, we were up bright and early and back to the Canyon for some adventuring (after I chugged ALL THE COFFEE). The afternoon before, we heard about the Junior Ranger program and the kids wanted to give it a whirl. So, we checked in, got their booklets, and went straight to a class where the kids learned how the Canyon was formed. After the class, the kids had to do a certain number of activities in the booklet, and search for items along the Canyon trails to earn their badges. Badges?! We don’t need no stinking badges! Oh, but they did. So, off we went exploring…
Did I mention it was HOT? These kids sure know how to find some nice shade.
This man, the sweet adventurer I love, living life on the edge.
Our time at the Grand Canyon is a time we will always remember. We explored and walked and talked and just stared at the wonder of it all. It was Elle’s absolute favorite stop on our trip. She talks about it weekly (no exaggeration), asking to go back.
It’s a place where I found myself in complete awe. It’s a place where I felt small and free and important all at the same time.
xo | Brooke
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BE KIND. LOVE BIG. CHOOSE HOPE.