Visiting Tucson

The trip from Sedona to Tucson was nice, with the exception of that place they call Phoenix. I've just never been a fan of Phoenix, too much concrete and grass. The first high-point of the trip was just north of Bumble Bee, AZ. I came over a hill and suddenly saw saguaros. I don't know what it is about these majestic cacti but they just speak to me in some weird way. They line the hills like guardians of the land. I love seeing them. Of course, not long after that, I hit Phoenix and traffic. I made my way through it and got to Tucson. My thermometer hit 105 degrees at one point! Hit hung around the 102 mark all the way to Teri and Roman's house. What a treat to see them twice in a couple of months. They are one of the things I really miss in Tucson. We just hung out and chatted for a long time, then headed to dinner at La Parrilla Suiza! A nice big order of Queso and fresh tortillas was a perfect start. I just love that stuff. It's served with a business card of a local cardiologist, but it's totally worth it.
I got another treat beyond seeing Teri, Roman, and Alexis. Bria and Devilan are in Tucson as well, and they have their new baby Devilan Jr. with them. He's 5-months old, and a pretty cute little guy. It's great to see all of them. I got a chance to run around town a little in the afternoon and hit some of my favorite old spots: Summit hut, Performance Bike, drive through campus, etc.
One thing that occurred to me as I drove around was how fortunate I am and how happy I am with where my life has taken me. While I have fond memories of living in Tucson, and some not so fond ones, I am truly happy in South Bend. I have a job I love, a wonderful and beautiful wife, great friends, and so much more. I know, that's sappy to say, but it just became so clear as I drove around. I miss many things in Tucson, but I have so much in South Bend. If we could just get some mountains near by, a great breakfast burrito, and a Trader Joe's I think it would be nearly perfect!
In any case, this trip has been wonderful so far, but I'm happy to be heading toward home. I have lots of visits to make over the next week, and I'm looking forward to all of them, but I'm also looking forward to getting home. I think that means this trip has been outstanding.