Arizona day 4

It was an early wake up by choice.  Part of the reason for going to Phoenix in August was to do some morning hiking in preparation for a super long hike later this year.  We pulled into the Gateway Loop Trail parking lot at 6:20am and were quickly on the trail.

Oh look at me . . . the sun caught up with us . . .

I just love all the desert plants . . .

It was hot but shaded most of the way which was really nice!  When then sun came up at least it was to our back but man was it blazing hot!  The hike got me . . . I am so out of shape but it is hot too so that sort of zaps you.  As we ended there is something about feeling accomplished even if it was difficult.  We quickly headed to the car for some cold air and off to find our reward for our 4.2 mile hike . . .

. . . Dunkin' Donuts . . . oh that frozen hot chocolate was amazing too!  We picked up some extra donuts and delivered them back to the kids who had not been up very long!  We were out of the room and poolside at 10:30 am and would stay there until 5:00pm!  On the way back to the room Colin discovered the pond . . .

We arrived back to our room, and it had not been cleaned.  I was a bit annoyed so found one of the housekeepers to inquire.  I was told they were not going to clean our room so grabbed a few clean towels and went on my way.  We relaxed and got ready for dinner  After dinner we headed to the Desert Botanical Gardens for a special flashlight tour.  The kids had a blast!

. . . the dessert is really dark at night and thankfully the only critters we found were frogs!  It was back to the hotel where my bed was calling!