Escape To Arizona

Jackie Kunkel, above, entertaining plans for a 40-mile ATV ride ... plans she decided to abandon.

By Jackie Kunkel

We all know that it has been a very difficult winter in Connecticut, and I must admit I don’t enjoy this weather very much at all.

Thank goodness I have a place to escape to this time of year. My parents live in Arizona during these harsh winter months (a very smart thing), so I couldn’t wait to hop on that plane for a weeklong visit.

After arriving early last week, we were treated to sun-filled days and temperatures in the mid-60s. Absolutely glorious! We did something wonderful every day, and I’d like to share those things with you.

Jackie and "Mesquite," right, out riding with her son in Arizona.

One day we were able to go horseback riding at Saguaro Lake Ranch in Mesa, a beautiful respite not far from where my parents live. We did a 90-minute tour with the horses, and to be honest, I don’t think I could have sat on the horse any longer than that.

My horse was quite large, and his name was Mesquite. The horses were incredibly easy to guide around the rough terrain that we wandered through. We saw some beautiful vistas along the way, and off in the distance were mountains with snow-capped peaks. I was so happy we weren’t very close to the snow.

The ranch was interesting itself. I loved some of the decor: a beautiful, four-sided stone fireplace, a very old (dead) saguaro cactus that was built into the center of the room, and a “cow”-covered chair. Fun!

Four-sided stone fireplace at Saguaro Lake Ranch in Mesa, Ariz.

Another day, we went on an ATV tour. Well, I say we, but I use that term loosely. I went with good intentions of going on the 40-mile ride, and then graciously copped out after getting very nervous. But my son did go and had a great time. He took some beautiful photos, too.

We also did a little hiking, and a lot of visiting with friends and relatives — in addition to enjoying the warmth of the sun! You realize just how much you miss that warmth when you’ve had such a long and grueling winter.

I hope this post has brought a little of that warmth and sun back to you.

Jackie

For a closer look at a few more photos from Jackie Kunkel’s trip to Arizona, click on any of the images below and use the arrow left or arrow right button at the bottom of the larger image that pops up. To return to this page, click on the full image you are viewing.