Was raised in AZ. Coronado HS. '72. My father was a wonderful "enviromentalist"..that just so happened to be an avid hunter and fisherman. Used to be a wonderful uninhabitated expanse. Mom still lives there.
When you say upstairs do you mean above deck? Downstairs must mean below deck? :^)
This corner of Arizona isn't as wide open as it used to be, but there are still lots of places to get out where you see nobody but your shadow. My son and I are headed to Parker Canyon Lake in an hour or so to wet a line. They have 3 nesting pairs of bald eagles there, and I'm taking the digital camera on the off chance that we get to see one.
There's a bond here in the Canteen that transcends what we traditionally think of as family, a bond that comes from shared service and values. You said your Mom still lives down here. Well, here's an offer I hope you never have to accept, but it's here anyway. If you ever need anything for your Mother, and I can help, call on me. I will do whatever I can...
HJ
We hope you'll visit us often.