CATHOLICS, CATALINA, AND CATHY

Feb. 24 - 25

Moving to north Tucson today, we stopped at the National Historic Landmark of San Xavier Mission located on the Tohono O'odham Indian Reservation.  The building was constructed in 1783-1797 and is a unique and beautiful example of Spanish Colonial architecture.  The interior has been restored to its original state with brilliant colored murals of complex designs, and original statuary.  Mass is held every day, actively serving the Native community.

San Xavier Mission - White Dove of the Desert

Taco and Indian Fry Bread stands around the courtyard of the mission.  Fry bread with honey, cinnamon and sugar - YUM!

We were able to score reservations for two nights at the popular Catalina State Park.  Our friends, Cathy and Bob Yach have a winter home in the Saddlebrook community, about 10 miles from the Park.  Monday, the four of us went hiking on the Romero Canyon Trail.  The views were spectacular.

Catalina State Park.  The white stuff on the mountains is snow!

The first challenge of our hike...crossing the stream without slipping off the rocks.

Stopping to take in the scenic vistas.

"You guys follow me, I'll bushwhack any rattlers"

On the way to Cathy and Bob's for dinner that night, we drove past Miraval Luxury Resort and Spa -- one of Oprah's favorite things.  Up the road from Miraval is another "resort", the Sierra Tucson Treatment Facility -- where Lindsey Lohan has stayed a couple of times.  Probably not one of her favorite things.

Bob & Cathy's back yard.  Javelina (they look like wild pigs...but don't like to be called pigs) come here to play.

Cathy snapping beans for dinner; I'm helping. The saying here is "if the mountains are pink, it's time to drink!"