I was reunited with a friend from my childhood this summer. We shared a lot of things in common growing up but the one love that cemented our bond was photography. When Mary invited me to visit her in Arizona over the winter, I didn't need much encouragement. This was my first visit to the state and I was looking forward to not only the photography opportunities but to once again get out hiking.

Here are the hiking highlights - a combined total of 20 miles.

(Click on image to go to the next slide)

First stop - Poppies blooming in Tonto National Forest outside of Phoenix. This area was the biggest display and the largest poppies we would see during my visit.

Late day light at Lost Dog Trail in Phoenix

Arcosanti Windbells

Learn more about their urban laboratory based on the tenets of compact city design here. The windbells are a main source of income for the community

Brass pour

We took the tour which included watching them pour melted brass into the sand molds they use to form the windbells.

Mesquite Flat along the Apache Highway

Courthouse Bluff in Red Rocks, Sedona, Arizona

Classic Desert scene along the Bell Rock Loop Trail

West Fork Trail in Sedona

Now on to some highlights of our restaurant stops

This was the view from Mariposa Latin Grill in Sedona

Mary had the Cobb-oy salad and I had the Neptuno Salad both delicious. I think we will try the tapas offerings on our next visit.

Tres Leches Torte at Mariposa

You didn't want us to go on our 5 mile hike without dessert did you?

Indian Gardens Cafe, Sedona after our West Fork hike

The colorful hummus plate at the restaurant.

Back in Phoenix at the Welcome Diner

I had the delectable green tomato sandwich and we shared their famous biscuits covered in goat cheese and topped with preserves, now that's a dessert! Visit them at welcomediner.net

The Kentucky Thorough Bred from Welcome Diner

My vacation would not have been complete without sampling a local craft cocktail...or two.

This one featured Kentucky Bourbon, House Ginger Beer, Fresh Lemon Juice and Basil

Final Stop at Gertrude's at the Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix

The only thing I had left to do that day was hop on the plane home, a cocktail was in order. This one was called Tombstone Tea - Vodka, Gin, Rum and Triple Sec, Prickly Pear Nectar, Fresh Lime and house simple syrup