Sedona

OK, since I keep bringing up various roadsigns, I thought I'd start with yet another littering sign:



And here I was with no idea that the Shakespearean influence was so strong in the Southwest...

Redrum! Redrum! ...I mean Red ROCKS! I should apologize to all those who were just struck with sudden images of Jack Nicholson and his axe proclaiming "Heeere's Johnny!" but I couldn't resist. Maybe it came to mind because of that commercial Verizon has with the freaky kids and their "dead zone," spoofing the movie. Anyway, sorry if I've pushed anyone over the edge due to repressed memories from a movie seen 30 years ago.



Unfortunately, for our visit to Sedona it was pretty much overcast, so I didn't get the warm, glowing red rock photos I was hoping for. Oh, well- I guess we'll just have to come back again...







Sedona has really exploded since my last time here about 20 years ago, but the natural beauty is much as I remembered. I just wish I had appreciated it as much then as now. One warning if you're planning a visit soon: all of the main roads seem to be under construction, and while I'm sure it'll be real nice when it's done, right about then I was hoping for one of those Pink Jeeps to off-road us around the congestion. Good thing the scenery is so spectacular.

While in Sedona, we did make it to the lone microbrewery, Oak Creek Brewery and Grill. While their ales were pretty good, they seemed to lack the punch or depth that I prefer. I have a feeling that they've toned down their beer a bit to appeal to the more sophisticated clientele of the shopping plaza in which they are located. This sophistication was reinforced for me personally when I was informed that I was purchasing a turquoise bracelet for Laura as a Christmas gift at one of those upscale shops. I had no idea I had such refined taste. Anyway, back to the beer... I don't want to give the impression that their brews were not good: they actually were, as was the food (the quesadilla on the appetizer menu was great). A few years ago I probably would have fawned over them, but at this point, I guess I just enjoy a bit more robust ale. Worth a stop, just not at the top of my personal brewery list. I guess I've been spoiled by the Pacific Northwest and those hopped-up IPAs.

Oak Creek Canyon, between Sedona and Flagstaff:



Now THAT'S a motorcycle road!