More Fun In Arizona

While Richie and Gabriella's wedding was the main event of our Arizona travel, we went out a week early so we could spend time with Todd's wonderful cousins, the Churchills. Above, Henry and Loretta out enjoying a morning rowboat ride.Holding the coozie (an Arizona necessity) is Todd's Aunt Ellen and in red is Todd's cousin Alane. Alane and her husband Mark very graciously hosted us at their fab home for the week. It couldn't have been more comfortable or fun. Here's Eric and Nicko, who were messing with Alex about whether or not they would hold the boat steady so she could get in.

Todd's Uncle Bill and Grill Master Mark (his official hip hop name when he raps on the mic). Todd's cousin Paul the forest firefighter. He was good enough to stop by straight from the airport after a 3-week stint fighting fires in the Oregon forest. Sporting glasses is Todd's beautiful cousin Jackie, and on the left Sharon, a dear family friend and a kindred funky-mama spirit.

Can you spot the Washingtonians? From left, Alex, Jackie, Henry, Todd, Nicko, and Todd's Aunt Jean.

Thumbs up from Todd's cousin, Mark.

Jackie just about made Henry's life when she gave him Nicko's old Spiderman costume.

Mark and his special air-conditioned shorts, (a must in the Arizona heat).We also met up with my friend Jennifer, a cherished friend of mine from Cleveland advertising days. Above, Loretta plays with Jen's sweet daughters Alex and Maya.
Me and Jen, a friend I think the world of.
Here's Jen's husband Ron grinning for the camera. Ron and Jen up and relocated to AZ without knowing a soul, really. They started their own ad agency in Cleveland which they transported to Arizona, and now it -- and they -- are flourishing. I wish I had some pictures of their back yard and town. It was Wile E. Coyote territory for sure. An area with a real rugged beauty and sense of place. I hope this is the first of many reunions between our families.