Amy's AZ Visit 2009

Amy and I had the luxury of being in the same city for once and took the time to be as productive as possible. Not only did we work on our website, potential partnerships and get a game plan ready to hit the ground running in 2010, but we also took as much free time as we could hiking.

I live about 5 minutes from the South Mountain Park and Preserve in Tempe, AZ. At over 16,000 acres, South Mountain is often referred to as the largest municipal park in the country. There are about 51 miles of trails for all sorts of activities...hiking, mountain biking and even horseback riding.

Over the 10 days Amy was here we hiked over 26 miles...and so did our dogs! Here are Jackson (black) and China (brindle) resting post hike...


We hit Ridgeline (3 times), Javelina (2 times), Pima Wash, Desert Classic, National, Mormon, Beverly Cannon and a few other connecting trails. Here is a picture from the top of Ridgeline...


I've been hiking at South Mountain for about 9 years now, but if you want to check it out and need some guidance, check out Cosmic Ray's Guide to Arizona Trails. Each one page trail description contains a rating, description and mileage log (where to turn at mile five, what you’ll encounter at mile six, etc.). Each trail is also paired with a hand-drawn map and elevation chart. Great for any outdoor enthusiast!

We also got to see Grace Potter and the Nocturnals and Brett Dennen at the Marquee Theater in Tempe. We work with Ben Erickson of the Elysian Artist Group, who is also Grace's tour manager. Ben hooked us up with tickets, along with a peek inside the tour bus and a paella dinner, courtesy of Grace herself!

Ben and I post show...

Grace serving up paella...


Much more to come as I am headed to Fiji for FijiNewYears.com (a client of ours) and Amy will be spending the first part of 2010 in Australia. Happy holidays!!!