Editor puts me on a pedestal—nice for a change
With the abnormally high temperatures in Arizona and frenzy in the world financial markets, we were trapped. An early hike was not possible for work reasons and a long climb would be dangerous at over 100 degrees. It looked like we would be heading up the creek, in a manner of speaking. That is in fact what we did. We hiked to the creek and then along it before we rested on the rocks positioned in the water. Once again, the views of Sedona keep us in awe. Interestingly, we heard that FDR intended to make Sedona a national park. We’re pleased it did not occur.
Hmm! Looks a little high. Did you bring the ladder, Jen?
Feeling on top of the world and then some
How is it possible that water travels in air temperatures of 100 degrees and to the touch, it feels just above freezing. We reached a milestone today when we were able to sing Volare in the highest key. Jonny Borok would have been most envious. That occurred as our foot submerged into the icy water. The only thing missing in this town is a lake or large river—well you can’t have everything.
Pretty as a picture
On Sunday, we headed out very early for two reasons: The mornings are gorgeous anywhere in the world and of course, the temperatures here are moderate. In fact, at the trailhead, Jenni wore a jacket at 55 degrees; some three hours later, we carried the jacket when the gauge reached 30 degrees higher and climbing. We considered ourselves fortunate to receive an invitation to Carol and Michael Dean—to visit them in their beautiful home in Sedona that afternoon. Without going into detail, (we met Michael on a hike on Thursday (9.23). That’s the hike number not the time, by the way. They are a force for Jewish values and education in parts of the state and probably elsewhere, too.
Tefillah on the boat. The early hikes afford these opportunities!
Sights to cause the spirits to soar
The morning hike provided excitement as we climbed on the slick rocks while confronting incredible views. This area, of course, just like many others, never ceases to amaze us. We find that the deeper we look, the more pleasure and knowledge we derive. As we have mentioned in the past, we believe many experience the same feeling, too: True joy comes from the basic and simple things. Following strenuous exertion of the body and hopefully the mind, the period that follows a shower and contemplation of the day’s activities brings about tremendous satisfaction. That’s what seems to work for us.
Still moving up—the only direction to go
An important facet of ‘hike-about’ is to keep moving. It is with regret that we are leaving Sedona, which has always been a special place for us. The month spent in this area was exceptional. We have big plans coming up soon which means that we are on the road again as we head north-west. Phew! This is indeed a vast country.
“Vrystaat”—excuse the lapse but a bit of nostalgia goes a long way as we bid farewell to Sedona.
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
Look Ma, no hands
Our custom is to sit for 'shema'
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