When I went to school and lived in Prescott, I'd often hitchhike over the mountain to the red rocks of Sedona. The canyons and creeks were wonderful places to hike, play and do sacred rituals. Back then, there were no fees to get into certain areas, parking was easy and it was low key, not so much of a tourist destination or an over priced place to live. Right before I moved back to New York, I had a caretaking job at a cattle ranch in next door Cornville. By then I had a car, the drive not so long and each time I'd see those red rocks, a smile would come over my face.
Over time, as it occurs in too many places, things change. Even the ten years since our family last visited, it seems Sedona has shifted. While the human population has dramatically increased, the land has thankfully remained the same. The vibrant red hues still make up the landscape, the cool crisp waters make for good way to spend time communing with nature and the trees that reach towards the sky provide a grounded feeling that is reassuring. There is something special and magical about Sedona.
During our weekend visit, our family enjoyed the natural wonders of Sedona as well as a visit to the chapel in the rocks, where we lit a candle for Grandma Ruth. It was warm in Sedona but the creek was a refreshing refuge. Amara quickly discovered how to make red paint from rocks. Havana settled in on a blanket to enjoy reading Harry Potter, although she did make time to do her own explorations. Don and I found ourselves relaxing, exploring and just breathing in the crisp, fresh air, when not being painted by Amara.
We also got to visit with and break bread with my dear friend Joann. She and her sister Domenica and I go back a few decades (starting in Miami & Jamaica). After I moved away, Joann moved to Arizona and settled in Cottonwood (just down the road from Sedona). Enrolled in Prescott's distant learning program, I would always make sure I'd stop and visit when I'd return to Arizona. Ten years ago, was the last in person visit with the family in tow but social media, texting and phone calls have kept our connection going. We had a lovely visit with her family and some new friends she had over for her famous Sunday night dinner. I could not think of a better way to spend a weekend; out in nature with loved ones and then sharing food and laughter.
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