the afternoon started with me picking up one of my best bati's (brown in color), and a green khaki jacket to wear on top, and add a simple brownish, green hijab. my mood had already improved. i didn't know where to head to after i had gotten into the car, so i remembered that i had been totally craving some ice cream and told my friend that i would go try ben n jerry's. i knew the drive was a bit far from home, but i had gas filled n energy to pick up. destination: ✓ ; time: 2 hours back and forth. ive done this before- going to a random place, so this shouldnnt be as bad, seeing that this time- my phone would actually work, if i had gotten lost.
On the road: the sun was out, but there were clouds and the most nicest breeze ever. its been a long time coming since last fall. i also realized that fall would probably be my most favorite season, if we actually had more than a few days of it here in AZ. during my journey i saw soo many cacti that i had never before seen in my entire life. the streets were lined with them and dessert trees and boulders.
i had actually never seen the dessert in this light- i was starting to think, arizona has some beauty after all. soo i finally get to the location of ben n jerry's after an hour of having my hand out the window, trying to grasp the cool wind, and singing to my fav tunes on my ipod. Ben n Jerry's was in this plaza named el pedregal. never even knew this place existed. but it happened to be in a quiet, but pretty neighborhood. there was shopping boutiques, restaurants, and even 2 galleries.
there were also statues/sculptures everywhere and around every corner. i was intrigued and giddy to find more.
i then walk on over to ben n jerry's and order the ny super fudge chunk ice cream. too much chocolate but it was delicious. i decided to get a pint to make it last, since i totally wont be driving out here on a daily basis. :) i then see this "out of africa" gallery. WHAT??!! we actually have an african gallery here? Yes!!! although, i wasnt able to spend as much time as i wouldve liked there, because i was trying to get back home before sunset. i did get to see some beautiful sculptures, and paintings, and jewelry. *noted: definitely coming back here. all in all, the day was beautiful; i was able to clear my mind; discover a new part of AZ; enjoy the scenery and the weather; get my ice cream; and come back home relaxed and in one piece. I'm soo gonna do this more often in the short time i have left in this state.
Next destination: Musical Instrument Museum.
*Next time definitely making sure to not forget my camera.