Hey hey! Annie says it's her birthday!

She's having a good time, and refuses to feel bad about it.

I was prepared to get a shot of this earnest evangelist. He wasn't there. We heard he's serving time in the repentitentiary. So, here's a picture of Jac, who seems much happier than the preacher:

She let me take her picture if I promised not to publish it. I am untrustworthy.

I "met" Jac online three years ago, when Annie and I began figuring out how to get to the Southwest. She has been my Verde Valley mentor ever since. She's an artist and a scientist - my favorite combination - and a quick wit. If I were half the wit ... nevermind.

The weather forecast has gone south on us, so we're going north, maybe into some piney woods.

Part of my birthday gift to Annie has been to leave her alone and give her some peace.
 

Beaver Creek. Those toes creeped me out, so I left my shoes on and walked away.

V-V (say "vee bar vee") Ranch

 

V-V Ranch Heritage Site is the largest collection of petroglyphs in the area. They were used as a sun calendar.

I guess it is. I'm just mad that I didn't do it.

This is a must-see in the Sedona area. Use your Interagency Pass to park.

If you're cruising through Sedona looking for some local art, try the Art Mart.  You can find more expensive boutiques, but you won't find more beautiful work. It's a collective of artists who don't have to pay crazy overhead. You'll get something beautiful that's locally-made and reasonably priced, and the artists can make a meager living. If I had money to spare, this is where I'd drop it.

When you're done shopping, walk over to Java Love café. They'll let you sit there for hours over your iced coffee, soaking up the vibes and chatting about nothing. When you're done with your coffee but not your conversation, they'll give you a refill for $1. And, if you're still not convinced, they put fresh water out on the patio for passing pups.

Happy Birthday, Annie! And Happy Mother's Day, all you mothers.