Week 31 - Ski Lessons

Not a great picture since it was taken with a throw away camera - but my friend Margaret Ann and I got free lessons from an old pro at Vail last week. His name was Bob Martin and he was a professional ski racing instructor for 20 years. He now volunteers his time at Vail as one of those information folks on the slopes. We must have looked like we needed help, because he took us all over the mountain for about three hours. It was a glorious day and we got in about 13 runs - perfect for the last day of the trip.

Week 30 - ASU Art Exhibit

Went to the Herberger College of Fine Art at ASU (where my son Jack attends school) to see their most recent exhibit. They had a reception for this artist - Kurt Weiser- who did all these wonderful painted ceremic pieces. They were mostly global shapes with nature and people mixed - I think the exhibit was called Eden Revisted. He was originally from Michigan, so of course I liked it! Went to House of Tricks after and had the salmon (again) - it was great.

Week 29 - Out Dancing

Went to some old Phoenix jazz clubs last Friday - Chez Nous and Chars - no pictures, but we had fun. It seemed just like I was in Chicago!

Week 28 - Writing Seminar - Diana Gabaldon

My friend Vicki B and I attended a writing seminar featuring Diana Gabaldon (Outlander, Firefly in Amber) today. We rode there in style in Vicki's new Corvette.

Gabaldon was very witty and inspirational. She talked about her writing process and gave us some pointers on researching for historical fiction writing. She recommended looking for random things and to not be afraid to stray off your path when doing research. "Turn over a rock and see what crawls out."

She is coming out with a new book this fall-- the seventh in the Outlander series. I believe she said the title will be An Echo of the Bone. She also said Outlander has been optioned out for a movie. She graciously agreed to let me have my picture taken with her. Horrible photo of me, but she is very lovely.

Week 27 - The Mission Restaurant

Went to eat at The Mission restaurant in Scottsdale on Brown Ave. It was a very happening spot on Saturday night. We had homemade quacamole, mahi mahi tacos and some spicy chicken dish (Pollo de Braso or something like that). I liked the Sangria the best! The food has a trendy mexican/spanish influence with lots of speciality drinks and tequilas. It also has a nice cozy patio in front with a fire place. I highly recommend The Mission!

Week 26- Chihuly Exhibit at Desert Botanical Gardens

Here are some pictures I took when I went to the Arizona Desert Botanical Gardens Chihuly art exhibit last night. The glass sculptures were really unique and beautiful. I will put a whole series of these on my flicker photo page if you want to see more.

Week 26 - Scottsdale Farmers Market

I rode my bike over to the Scottsdale Farmers Market this weekend. It was small, but had some very interesting specialty food items. It was really easy taking the bikes along the canal, so I think I will do this more often. I snapped a picture of this cool old mission across the street. It is next to the restaurant, The Mission, which is owned by my friend's son, so that will be one of my next new things, trying it out. It looked very cozy and fun.