Seven Days at Boulder Crest Arizona
In the latter part of July 2025, my family and I escaped to the breathtaking Sonoita Region of Arizona, spending a restorative week at the Boulder Crest Retreat. This 130-acre haven, once home to legendary figures Geronimo and Cochise, now offers solace and healing to combat veterans and their families. Boulder Creek Arizona provides 2-7 night stays for combat veterans and their families completely free of charge on a space-available basis. Guests who stay at Boulder Crest Arizona are invited to hike, fish, and explore their grounds unimpeded; or simply relax in and around one of their completely furnished cabin which come fully equipped with everything except for the groceries. The Boulder Crest Foundation is a nationally-recognized charity organization serving members of the military, veterans, and first-responders with a focus on post-traumatic growth.
Words can not express the gratitude I have for the Boulder Crest Foundation and their welcoming and friendly staff. While participating in some long overdue family R&R on the property, I managed to capture some memorable snapshots of our stay. We had an amazing time where were able to fully relax, unwind, and spend quality time away from the hustle and bustle of every day life.
Upon entering our beautiful abode, we were greeted with a wonderful gift basket, a smores kit, and a sign welcoming us home.
Arie was more than pleased to find a playground right outside our front door.
Selah has never met a swing she didn’t like.
Old Glory flies high at the center of the property, honoring all those who have served bravely in our armed forces.
A solemn place to remember those who have paid the ultimate price.
The tranquility of the Hero’s Garden offered a welcome respite from the desert heat.
I took my lucky fishing buddy to the pond and it really paid off!
Big John finally caught one that didn’t get away… In full disclosure, I released the bass after taking this snapshot.
This old barn was part of the original homestead. It is now used for hosting special events on the property.
She rarely embarks on any adventures without her pink unicorn hat and “Wolfie” in tow.
This just reinforces the idea that life in a hammock is always good!
As the evening begins to cool, Mommy and Liza are taking the opportunity to rest on a seat overlooking the canyon.
There are several hiking trails in and around the property offering stunning views of the Arizona landscape.
There is also no shortage of grills, ovens, and fire pits all about the property. This is a good thing because food just tastes better in the great outdoors!
Arie wanted to add more wood but I really didn’t want a bonfire.
Selah just wanted to eat smores.
I may be biased, but those are some good lookin’ kids!
Time to feed the horses!
Arie wasn’t afraid to climb the corral rails to get eye-to eye with his new-found friends.
One does not have to venture far to see some pretty historical places in the area. The Old West Town of Tombstone is only a 40 minute drive from Boulder Crest Arizona….well, it may be a bit longer if you’re hitchin’ up this wagon to drive into town.
“A man travels the world over in search of what he needs, and returns home to find it.” – George Moore
On behalf of myself and my family, thank you Boulder Crest Arizona for all that you do! The Boulder Crest Foundation’s commitment to our returning warriors is truly inspiring. I highly recommend this extraordinary retreat for veterans and their families as it will be be a life changing experience that will solidify, renew, and set them on a path towards wholeness.
Happy travels,
Big John
Posted in Adventurous Places, North America and tagged Boulder Crest Arizona, Sonoita Region by Big John with no comments yet.
The Paumalu Bunker Hiking Trail on Oahu’s North Shore
For the most part, only locals with intimate knowledge of the North Shore are familiar with the Paumalu Bunker that overlooks the Banzai pipeline on Sunset Beach. However, most mainlanders can easily describe the legendary conditions out on the Banzai Pipeline of Sunset Beach. The Banzai Pipeline is a famous surf reef break off of Ehukai Beach Park in Pupukea. The pipeline hosts some off the most gnarly surfing competitions in all of North America. With waves reaching as high as 20 feet in the winter months, it is no wonder that surfers and non-surfers alike flock to this sandy shore to see surfing professionals risk life and limb for the glory of the sport.
Since I am by no means a serious surfer, and I did not wish to go to my watery grave on any Pacific Island, I chose to participate in a much-lesser known excursion in the area involving dry land – the Paumalu Bunker Hiking Trail.
The island of Oahu is littered with numerous bunkers and pillboxes which defended her coastlines during WWII. Most of these defensive positions, if not all, have become popular hiking spots on the island.
Posted in Adventure Fitness, Adventurous Places, North America and tagged Banyan trees, Hawaii, North Shore, Oahu, Paumalu Bunker by Big John with no comments yet.
Toddlers with Tantrums Raze the Deadwood Hills
Venturing through the Black Hills in early April often involves encountering snow, alongside navigating the challenges and joys of parenting young children. Amidst unexpected blizzards and the whirlwind of family life, we eventually found ourselves in need of a break from our vacation. Despite the hurdles, the Cutler family embraced an unforgettable journey exploring the stunning landscapes of South Dakota and Wyoming. Deadwood, a historic town, served as the central hub of our western adventure, offering a glimpse into the past amidst our present-day escapades.
Gold was found in the Black Hills in 1874, leading to a major gold rush that attracted thousands of miners in search of wealth and recognition. Named after a significant gulch filled with fallen trees, Deadwood gained fame for its colorful residents like Wild Bill Hickok, Poker Alice, and Calamity Jane. Living in Deadwood for two years during my childhood holds a special place in my heart.
(more…)Posted in Adventurous Places, Historical Journeys, North America and tagged Black Hills by Big John with 2 comments.
Hiking Up the Lanikai Pillbox Trail with Precious Cargo
The precious little girl you see pictured below is Selah and, not unlike her daddy, she loves a good adventure. Selah has completed many hikes in the Aloha State, most of which she did while perched high on her daddy’s back. As with most hikes, the Lanikai Pillbox trail being no exception, I like keeping her up high where she can navigate the terrain. Her daddy has a habit of sometimes stumbling off the designated path and getting lost.
The Lanikai Pillbox hike on Kaiwa Ridge is one of the most popular hikes on all of Oahu and well worth the effort despite it being heavily trafficked. This moderate hike, located near the beautiful community of Kailua, is 2.9 kilometers long and offers hikers an abundance of wild flowers and spectacular views. The Lanikai Pillbox hike trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, running, and nature trips. Aside for the rare occurrence, the hike is easily accessible 365 days a year.
(more…)Posted in Adventure Fitness, Adventurous Places, North America by Big John with no comments yet.
The Historic Royal Hawaiian Hotel
In all of Oahu, there is perhaps nothing more iconic than the luxurious Royal Hawaiian Hotel on Waikiki Beach. Opening its doors on February 1, 1927, the “Pink Palace of the Pacific” has been receiving guests for close to a century now. Patrons of the hotel have included everybody from military personnel on R&R during the Second World War, to glamourous Hollywood stars looking for some Hawaiian fun under the sun. In my eyes, there have been no visitors more noteworthy than my very own daughter, Selah Mattie. She had a ball exploring the hotel’s grand halls and corridors while creating a small bit of mischief along the way. Luckily, that rambunctious two-year-old had her daddy close by to help navigate her path.
The iconic Royal Hawaiian Hotel is one of the most recognizable man-made features on Oahu.
(more…)Posted in Adventurous Places, Historical Journeys, North America and tagged Hawaii, Oahu, pink hotel, Pink Palace of the Pacific, Royal Hawaiian hotel, Waikiki by Big John with 1 comment.