Arizona Opry

Gary and Nancy left to go stay with Gary's Aunt Audrey in Mesa for a couple of weeks.  We followed right behind them and met the three of them at the Arizona Opry for their Rock 'n Roll Show.  It was an excellent show with music from the 60's - I knew almost every song they performed.  Dad and I went with a group from Wagon's West (48 in all) and the Wood's had their own little group of three not far from us.  It was a luncheon show - food was excellent - roast beef, mashed potatoes, chicken breast, rice, vegetables and a HUGE piece of chocolate cake along with lemonade and coffee.  It's a little pricey but well worth it!!!

 

 Barney Fife was there also letting us know the "rules of the parking lot."

 Willie Nelson (minus the pigtails) was also there to entertain us.  All of the musicans perform multiple tasks other than singing.  Most of them are very accomplished musicians and play all sorts of brass as well as other instruments.

 This is called a "keytar"

 and this is one huge saxophone - there was one larger sitting there but he didn't play it during this particular show.  They also have a couple of "Swiss Alp" long horns that they play during their variety show.

 

 

 

 

While at the show, Dad told me to turn around and take a picture of the guy behind me. I thought he was "off his rocker" a bit but when I turned around, here was a couple from our church in Brandon. Last year we "ran into" them at the organ pizza restaurant in Mesa. They purchased a home on the west side of Phoenix. We've decided that next season, we're just going to have to plan a get-together so we can visit.

 

 

We stayed overnight at Aunt Audrey's with Gary and Nancy and the next day went to the Mesa Swap Meet.  It's a huge flea market/swap meet - lots of t-shirts and other clothing, wall hangings, rugs, games, floral decorations, dried fruit and nuts, the "dawgs" sandals I buy every year - anything you can imagine.  I didn't get much for myself but Dad can always find something he can't live without.  It's four long rows of booths.  There are also eating stands and live music - only open on weekends and we usually try to go once a season.

 

After working up an appetite shopping and walking, we headed to In & Out Burger.  There the Wood party persuaded us to stay an extra night.  We sat up playing dominoes and just having a wonderful time.  Next morning we headed home by way of the fruit market.  Good way to spend a weekend!!

Have a great week.  Think I'll go out and lay in my swing and read my book for a while - 76 degrees out with brilliant sunshine.  Promises to be a good day.  Goff's are on their way and will be here tomorrow night for dinner.  What more could we wish for.

Love to all,
Gramma and MOM