HIKE ARIZONA: Valley View Overlook Trail

Valley View Overlook Trail

Length: 0.8 miles Type: Out & Back Elevation Gain: 49ft

Difficulty: Easy What a great way to get the kids out into the fresh air. We are so very lucky to live in Arizona, especially Southern Arizona. During our winter months we can spend all day outside. It’s not too hot or cold. There is a pretty simple hike located in the Tucson Mountains just west of Saguaro National Park. This hike is great for all ages. Once you reach the end of the trail, you will have great views of Avra Valley and Picacho Peak. This is a fairly quick hike, so pack a lunch and spend some time taking in the views of our beautiful state. This trail is located off of Bajada Loop Drive, 3.5 miles north of the visitor center on the west side of Saguaro National Park. You’ll see a sign that says ‘View Trail’ next to a parking area which marks the trailhead.

History of Garnets

Garnets are the modern birthstone for January. The word garnet comes from the Greek word "granatum" which means "pomegranate seed", reflecting the shape and color of the crystals. Like many other stones, garnets come in many colors, however, the most common colors are those of a reddish orange. It is said that the blue garnet is a very rare stone that up until the late 1900s was only found in Bekily, Madagascar. The odds of finding a Crystallized blue garnet is 1,000 to one.

During the Middle Ages, garnet was used as a remedy for the plague, or the Black Death, and inflammatory disease. Like the Ruby, the garnet warned its owner of approaching danger and trouble by changing color. Garnets are given on the 2nd and 6th anniversary. Next time you browse a jewelry store take a look at the garnet section and take note of the different colors that are available.

Health & Beauty

PAPAYA-CUCUMBER TONER

This toner is extremely beneficial for the extra nourishment required during the winter months. While the enzyme papain in papaya prevents sun damage and photoaging, honey nourishes and moisturizes the skin. Additionally, cucumber soothes inflamed and irritated skin, whereas rose water lightens the skin and reduces blemishes.

INGREDIENTS

1 cup diced papaya, ½ cup cucumber zest, 3 tbsp honey, ½ cup rose water

DIRECTIONS

Put all the ingredients in a blender and make a smooth mixture of it. Pour it in a spray container. Spritz it on washed face thrice a day and refrigerate the remaining for future use. Use your fingertips to gradually tap the facial muscles and neck muscles and rub the toner into the skin.

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