This is looking west from the Saguaro National Park East. On a clear day you can see all the way to L.A. Well, OK, maybe not that far but you can see the Tucson Mountains to the west. They have been made famous by the many fabulous photos of Tucson's gorgeous, legendary sunsets.
This is an extraordinary example of imaginative real estate. The Immaculate Heart of Mary Convent and its adjacent school have been converted to residential lofts. This effort saved a circa 1886 building from destruction and provided airy urban living in the heart of downtown Tucson. This photo was taken from a friend's loft that is located in the adjacent "Dorm" building.
Here is a dramatic contrast to yesterday's posting. A fallen, decaying saguaro is utterly fascinating to examine up close. On this saguaro cactus "skeleton" you can see the ribs that support the massive tall cacus in life. These ribs are used throughout the southwest as building elements for fences, ceilings, gates, and furniture.
This group of saguaros guard one of the entrances to Saguaro National Park East. Notice that only one saguaro in this photo has arms. The saguaros without arms are still youngsters (still under 70 years old!).
Tucson's barrio district (also called Barrio Historico or Barrio Libre) is a treasure trove of charming adobe homes - many date from the 1800's. Adjacent to Tucson's downtown, this small area is now a mix of private residences and offices for lawyers & other professionals.
This is a tiny park that you can easily miss - Felix Lucero Park (otherwise known as the Garden of Gethsemane). Felix Lucero was a soldier who was badly wounded in WWI and he prayed to create religious sculpture celebrating Jesus if his life was spared. This amazing park is filled with his lifesize depictions of the Last Supper, Jesus on the cross, and others. 
Here's the road to Tucson's Saguaro National Park East. Notice the road sign that alerts drivers to "Congested Area." Beautiful monsoon storm coming in fast...
