I figured it would be a good idea to give an overview of the trip.

On Saturday we will leave for Phoenix – and despite the offer, I am not riding in first class while everyone else sits in coach.  It is tempting, and likely a decision I will regret, but it is a family trip.

First, the definition of “we.”  So it is my family, four neighbors, and my mother in law.  That’s a lot of people to travel together without using a tour bus (which we did consider).

The main purpose of the trip is to visit family, specifically, a new family member, living in Scottsdale.  So, when we land on Saturday, that will likely be one of our first stops after feeding the troops.

On Sunday, we are planning to spend some time in Sedona and relax a little, whether by the pool or on a hike near where we are staying, The Scottsdale Links Resort.  There was brief discussion about playing golf.  Very brief.  I whined like a little kid and complained about playing in the heat – forecast is over a 100 everyday.  Too hot for this boy from Maine.

One Monday, it will likely be another most relaxing day.  Monday night Tim and I are going to the Diamondbacks-Brewers game at Chase Field.  We got some great club level seats on eBay, and I am going to do my best to keep the big fella from falling over the railing that will be in front of us.

Tuesday we will leave for Page, Arizona, up by Lake Powell, driving past the Grand Canyon on the way.  We are considering making our stop at the Grand Canyon around sunset, but that will depend on how the kids are doing. It is about a four hour drive and we are hoping that the “Upchuck Kid” keeps it down for the duration of the trip.

Wednesday morning we leave on a float trip down the Colorado River with Colorado River Discovery.  The trip will take all morning and we will be back to our hotel in Page by early afternoon, hopefully giving us a chance to enjoy Lake Powell.

On Thursday morning we leave on a guided tour of Antelope Canyon, a slot canyon located on the Navajo Reservation not far from Page.  Historically, I haven’t been a huge fan of caves, and this is pretty close, but some of the pictures are too amazing to not take this trip.  By early afternoon we should be tired, dirty, and on our way back to Scottsdale.

Friday will likely be the say to go looking for cave dwellings and/or another hike, but will likely be a little less busy than the prior two days.

Saturday I will be boarding a plane to head back to Pittsburgh and the nice humidity.