Closing out the year in style ~

Looks like one of the private party areas at the Arizona Inn is being readied for a New Year's eve celebration. What a lovely way to ring in 2013! Have a wonderful evening everyone and drive safely! Tonight is definitely "Amateur Night" on the roadways. Did you make any New Year's resolutions?

Cat nap ~

If you look closely at the upper photo you'll see George, the beloved Desert Museum mountain lion, napping on his rock. And if you walk around the back of the enclosure you'll come upon another window that is just inches away from him! Very exciting to be so close to such a magnificent wild creature...

Mouse on the move ~

Here's one of the famous Truly Nolen pest control company's "Mouse Cars" that can be seen around town. The ears flap in the wind! Note the mouse tail, too!

Beautiful layered sky ~

A big storm front is moving into Tucson. Rain/drizzle is expected but if the temperatures drop we may get hail! The clouds over the Catalina Mountains are just awesome!

An Ark in the Desert ~

In the 1950's Tucson children were mesmerized by Hal Gras and his "Desert Ark." In his station wagon, Gras would transport live animals to visit local schools as an innovative outreach program by the Desert Museum. Gras was part educator and part entertainer and touched the lives of thousands of children and adults with his "hands on" approach to showcasing the natural world around us. Here the Ark has a place of honor at the Museum's entrance. 

Is this how you feel today?

For any of you who may have eaten a wee too much yesterday or maybe were "toasting" just a little too often, take some advice from the magnificent bear at the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum - REST! Hope your holiday was wonderful!

Ho Ho Ho! Merry Christmas, everyone!

This mighty Santa now waves goodbye to Tucson until next year. Hope your day is magical and fun!