Flagstaff, AZ

It’s not often that the Mainos have time during the school year to travel, but Pat had time off from the Golden Knights so we ventured to Flagstaff. We were hoping to be surrounded by a winter wonderland, but we didn’t have much snow.

The kids (with the exception of Mason) were able to sleep together in a room with two sets of bunkbeds. It was so fun listening to their wild antics throughout the weekend.

Although there wasn’t a ton of snow, we were able to enjoy some of it at the AirBnB, a nearby park, and by driving up to the Lowell Observatory. The Observatory was impressive; we were able to view the sun through a solar telescope, the kids were able to play in a wonderful science focused area and we learned a lot about our solar system and beyond. Did you know, based on some fancy equation, there are an estimated 349 other planets home to intelligent life?

The next day we visited Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument. This park is home to the remnants of a volcanic eruption 1,000 years ago. The landscape around the lava flow areas was beautiful with contrast of the black lava rocks, green trees, and snow capped mountains.

It wouldn’t be a Lautzenheiser-Maino trip without a visit to a couple breweries. Mother Road Brewing Company was a hit. They had great customer service, excellent beer, and unique tater tot dishes that were so delicious! There is no better way to spend Valentine’s Day weekend than with a family we love.