Sedonna

Montezuma's Castle

As we were driving toward Sedona to see Luke, we saw this sign for 

Montezuma's Castle.  We had to stop and explore.

In the 1800's, European Americans were fascinated with Inca, Maya, and Aztec 

civilization and gave southwestern sites exotic names, in this case for Emperor 

Motecuhzoma II- who lived long after the "Castle" was constructed.

The Yavapai call this place "the home of the protectors of the Yuvapai."  

The Hopi refer to it as both Sakataytaka, "the place where the step ladders 

are going up," and Wupat'pela, for "long, high walls." (from a sign along the path)

Hieroglyphics from the residents of this place.

It is amazing how they lived and that some of their homes are still here today.

More hieroglyphics

The homes wee built in the cliffs beside a river.

It was really amazing to see these dwellings and to imagine how they lived when they were occupied.

When we stopped at a rest area, we happened upon this little girl.  She was too cute!

Some more scenes from the rest area, giving us a taste of what beauty we are about to encounter.

Just too cute!

We finally arrive at Luke's home and cannot shut our mouths, we are awed by such beauty.  Here is a picture from Luke's backyard.  What wonders to have just out your back door!

Luke was an incredible host.  He showed us where on the map various trails were.
So the next day, we explore!

He also encouraged us to visit the
Chapel.  here are views of, and from the Chapel.

And then we took a scenic drive!

This beauty of a redbud is across the street from Luke's house.

Luke's Home

And then we get that rare picture of Luke in his natural habitat!

He was truly the host with the most.  We had such a great time catching up with Luke and discovering the fantastic place he has called home.