Escape the heat and head up north for cooler weather, tall pines, and family fun. From parades to fireworks, our long weekend was packed with memories and side quests.
“Let the journey be part of the vacation.”
Thursday, July 3rd – the start of our long weekend up north. The day began with a half workday at home while Grandma helped get everything and everyone packed. Around noon, we left to pick up Sammy and Payton at GiGi’s house and headed north on AZ-87. Traffic through Payson was slower than expected, and the original lunch plan—Smashburger—wasn’t an option (it had closed: see post). So we pulled into Burger King instead, which worked out just great. ...
We’re heading up north to the pines for the 4th of July weekend. A chance to cool down, unplug, and let the days shape themselves. With a rough idea of events and a few favorite stops in mind, we’re leaving room for discovery — because the best memories don’t always come from a schedule. 🌤️ Weather Outlook (July 3–6) Looks like we’ll be trading desert heat for mountain air: Thursday (Phoenix → Heber): ~104°F in the Valley, but just ~77°F once we’re up in Heber. Friday (Heber & Show Low): Sunny, ~85°F, light breeze Saturday (Heber): Warm mid-80s, some late-day clouds Sunday (Heber → Phoenix): Mostly sunny, high ~86°F on return 🎇 Plans in Motion We’ll roll out from the Valley and make our way up the mountain with cousins in tow. The cabin’s calling, and the fresh air is already working its magic. ...