Day 9 - 0 miles - Chandler, AZ

I am very fortunate to be able to take a second rest day today. I thought I was going to be hitting the road today but when my friend Rick mentioned to me about staying another day, well it didn't take much convincing. Today is going to be a relaxing day. After breakfast, Rick did some homework for the classes he is taking and I did my blog and map work for upcoming stops. Then we cleaned to pool so we could go for a swim later in the day. Rick drove me around downtown Chandler and Gilbert before going to lunch at the "Farm Stand Cafe". It was very tasty and has a neat atmosphere. It's called Farm Stand because they grow most of their own vegetables out behind the restaurant. We took a walk through their gardens and Rick pointed out everything that was growing. We did a few errands on the way back and decided on getting Pizza for dinner tonight. We had just enough time to go for a dip in the pool before it was time to order the pizza. By the time Denise got home from her third 12 hour shift in a row at the hospital, we were back with our dinner. Every night we were able to eat dinner on the patio next to the pool. It's comfortable once the sun goes down. We sat outside and talked the night away before realizing that I am getting up early to hit the road. Staying with Rick and Denise has been amazing. I can't put into words how much I appreciate their hospitality. There is no question that these last few days will go down as my favorite of this whole trip. To Rick and Denise: Thank you, Thank you, Thank You. I am going to miss you both, more than you know.

Photos: Peanut on the bar stools - Denise and Rick during dinner on their patio - Dion Family ( Denise and Popcorn and Rick and Peanut ) - Denise and Rick