SUNNY ARIZONA

I hate to rub it in to all those folks back in Nashville where it has rained for several days, but it is beautiful out here in Phoenix. The temperatures are in the 80's, the sun is out, and there's a wonderful breeze. What a great place to be!!

I flew out on Friday, not a great flight until we got over Oklahoma, but the rest of the way was very smooth. It was a whirlwind from the time I arrived until today mostly because of Jordan's graduation, but also had a birthday celebration for my son-in-law's uncle. So I have seen all of his family as well as a few others.

The graduation was held in the Arizona Diamond Back baseball stadium, which is covered and cool thanks to the AC. Very pleasant. Plus there was the big screen so we could see each person clearly as he or she received the diploma. I've been to a lot of graduations, but this one was the best one ever. Of course, I took a book to read for the moments when things were a little "draggy."

I love Ashley's new house!! It is very roomy and comfortable even when there were thirty people here like on Saturday night. This morning I was able to spend an hour or two sunning by the pool which is set in a beautiful back yard. And then Ash and I went to a great lunch place called The Wildflower. Yummmm!

Ashley has two big labs, one chocolate and one Marley, named after two Mexican drinks. The former is Kahlua, and Marley is really named Horchata (a white drink and the "H" is silent). This morning Horchata lay down on his back for me to rub his tummy so I obliged with my bare foot. He promptly thanked me by peeing all over both feet. What a nice dog!!

They also have two cats who for some reason are very attached to me. One of them, Misty, leaves her usual place in Bailey's room and jumps in my lap. Everyone is very surprised to see her do that, and I am too when I look down at the fur she leaves behind on my lap. Oh well, there's plenty of room for all as long as they stay out of my room.

I'll keep you posted on my fun time here and maybe even put some pictures on!!