READY COMICS delivers a MIRACLE!!

There I was, 3am Thursday morning, barely keeping myself together, making the last minute (to say the least) touches on my 2nd Sketchbook... I kept asking myself, "why I am I even doing this? I mean, even if I do complete this, it would be a flippin miracle if I somehow got them printed in time...especially considering comic con is literally JUST 13 HOURS AWAY. UGH!" 

That's right, comic con was HOURS away, and yet...I kept pushing. Er well, that is till I passed out on my desk...again. But, as soon as I woke back up around 5am, I managed to complete the book!!

Without any hesitation, I reached out for a miracle. You never know unless you try right? I certainly didn't come this far just to quite...but to be 100% honest, I didn't think there was any chance of having them in time; MAYBE by Sunday, but most likely Monday. I sent the email to Ready Comics anyway, whom did a lovely job printing my previous sketchbooks.

I wasn't sure what to say, so I went with the most honest wording I could think of.
Email subject; "Sketchbook/Miracle Request"

I explained my situation, then waited... after some time passed I got anxious and gave them a call. The phone was answered immediately & before I knew it I transferred to the right people, who were incredibly kind, and even told me what I thought was impossible...
I was in luck!!!! 
HAAALLLEELLUJAH!!! <--- This seriously started to play in my head! 

I was told to send my files in immediately for review and to my delight and surprise we got the proofs done in just a couples hours. I was finally able to take a deep breathe, and felt my shoulders soften for the first time in several weeks. I found myself in an exhausted state of disbelief & bliss. I couldn't have been more thankful. 

Flash Forward to Friday afternoon and HOLY WOW YOU GUYZ!! THEY ARRIVED AT MY BOOTH AT COMIC CON!! ISN'T THAT AH-MAZING!! Ready Comics blew my mind!! The people working there were fast, attentive, and legitimately care about their customers! They were able to go above and beyond for me and I will forever be thankful! I seriously cannot recommend them enough! They make flipping miracles happen you guyz!! 

Check them out & use code: friend2017
to receive 10% off your next order!! 
http://readycomics.com
https://www.facebook.com/ReadyComics/

 

P.S. To pick up your copy of Aurora's limited edition (numbered) sketchbook, visit;
http://aurorart.storenvy.com

GET THEM WHILE YOU CAN! ONCE THEY ARE GONE, THEY ARE GONE! 

Embracing Change

Change... it's scary, exciting, character building, & as long as you remain true to yourself, well worth the struggle! ;-)  #SeizeTheDay 

Parsons Trail Adventure!

AURORA THE EXPLORER DOES PARSONS TRAIL TO SYCAMORE CANYON

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Length: 8 miles round-trip approx: 3.5-5 hrs
Difficulty:  Easy  2.5/5
Elevation: Approx: 3,700 feet
Directions: Head to Cottonwood, Arizona. Follow the signs to Tuzigoot National Monument and Clarkdale, Arizona. At Clarkdale, turn right (east) at the Tuzigoot turnoff and cross the bridge over the Verde River. Then immediately turn left on Sycamore Canyon Road (FR 131). Follow the road about 11 miles to Parsons Trail Trailhead. The road is passable by sedan when dry but the last two miles can be rough. It is best suited for high-clearance vehicles.
Dogs Allowed: Yes (on a leash)
Best Times. Apri-May and September-November
Horses Allowed: Yes. Only to the 3-mile mark at the third crossing of Sycamore Creek.
Camping. Prohibited during first 4 miles. Only permitted 200 feet north of Parsons Springs. There are no developed campgrounds.

My lil Ryo and I had an amazing time exploring together!&nbsp;

My lil Ryo and I had an amazing time exploring together! 

Parsons Trail is the perfect day trip for those who aren't looking for an extreme hike, more of just a relaxing adventure with friends and family.
It starts with an absolutely gorgeous view, as pictured above, before you make your descent down a fairly steep drop of about 200 feet from the rim to the canyon floor. If you brought your furry friend with you, please be sure to check the sand because there isn't much shade to start with and let me tell you, that sand gets HOT. Don't worry though, once you reach the bottom, the terrain is mostly level and well worth the hike.
After just over a mile, you will find yourself completely surrounded by lush nature thanks to the natural springs that feed into the creek. The first spring you will come upon is "Summers Spring". Be sure to do some exploring in this area as there is a lovely little waterfall nearby. There is also a variety of wildlife to see so always keep an eye out.  I saw a few wild turkey, millipede, fox, elk, fish, and crawdads, but there are apparently golden eagles, mountain lions, bobcats, badgers, great blue herons and even black bears. How awesome is that?!

The Datura Flower, also known as devils trumpets.&nbsp;&nbsp;Keep away from pets.&nbsp;

The Datura Flower, also known as devils trumpets.  Keep away from pets. 

As you continue on your journey, you will feel less and less like you are standing in the middle of a desert, and more like a fairy tale forrest! It's flippin magical! There are butterflies, a beautiful array of flowers running along the path, woodland creatures...Oh! Quick reality check, there is also Poison Ivy and the strikingly beautiful yet poisonous datura flowers growing all over, as well as a few species of rattle snake so keep that in mind while you are wandering about. We are out in the wild after all! 
While I am on the subject, you will come upon a HUGE black rock while strolling, DO NOT TOUCH THE BIG BLACK ROCK! This is home to a plethora of spiders who just wish to be left alone. So let's do them a favor and just ignore the big black rock all together. There is plenty more to be seen after all!

You will need to cross over the crystal clear waters of the creek several times, but you won't get too wet if you are pretty good at rock hopping. The water is shallow so simply walking across is always an option, no swimming necessary. That is until you get to the canyon. That is where you will want to shimey off your hiking clothes and get ready for some play time! 

Before you even reach the canyon, you will likely hear fellow hikers splashing about and having a grand time. Once you see it for yourself though, I hope you are just as awe inspired as I was! Several small caves line the rich red canyon walls and at the base, the perfect swimming hole. The ledges are great for climbing and jumping off from!

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I spent all day here, swimming, jumping, exploring and just feeling completely rejuvenated. All my senses were heightened, I took the time to appreciate the small things, and my troubles felt small and oh so far away. It was so refreshing and inspiring. I feel as though all of my fellow creatives would benefit the most from such an experience. Of course everyone needs to get out from time to time to get back in touch with nature and what really matters.
This trail is an excellent one to start off with! Not too long, not to short, and quite a site to see!  Bring your art supplies, camera, writing book, swimsuit, and most importantly, an open mind! 
Now get out there and experience it for yourself! 

Art created to commemorate the experience. Please support my work on Patreon! www.patreon.com/aurorart &nbsp;

Art created to commemorate the experience. Please support my work on Patreon! www.patreon.com/aurorart  

HAPPY ADVENTURING!! 
PM ME FOR ANY QUESTIONS OR RECOMMENDATIONS!! 

Let's GET NAKED!!

NAKED BBQ

Because everything is better NAKED right?! 

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AZ Central calls it the best BBQ in AZ, and I have to agree! This outstanding establishment has been cleverly named not only for your endless entertainment, but to inform you that their meats are not slathered with sauce to mask the decadent flavor of this tasty selection of proteins, but are instead naked and al natural; baring it all just for you! ;-) 

Everyday Naked BBQ opens their at 11am and closes when the meat is gone! Get it while you can! 
They offer a lunch "Special of the Day' for just $10 that comes with a side and drink. This makes it especially easy for someone like me who has difficulty making any sort of decision what-so-ever! Honestly though, you really can't go wrong no matter what you try! The juicy pulled pork and brisket are a MUST and if you happen to get SUPER UBER LUCKY & walk in when they have the "Grand Canyon Sandwich', order two, then call me immediately. *DROOLS* 

They also offer simple, yet oh so tasty sides! The mac and cheese, garlic broccoli/green beans, and cornbread are definitely my favorites. OH! DO NOT forget to order their house pickled onions too! I don't even like onions, but these are delicious!
Also the maple bacon donut...GET IT. No regrets! 
MmmmmmMmmmmMmmmm......Yes...
That's what I am talking about! <3

Now let's get to the staff. I have been so fortunate to have met the owner on several occasions and let me tell you, he and everyone working there are very attentive, polite, and seem to possess a genuine pride in what they offer. I seriously cannot recommend this place highly enough folks!!!

You need Naked BBQ in your life. 
GET NAKED TODAY!! Grab your friends, grab your wife, and grab your neighbor too cause ever'y body's gettin Naked up in here! :-P

P.S. They have some BOMB watermelon tea! 

https://www.thenakedbbq.com
2340 W Bell Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85023

Also coming to Scottsdale! Read all about it below! 
http://www.azcentral.com/story/entertainment/dining/2017/01/20/naked-bbq-obon-sushi-bar-ramen-new-scottsdale-restaurants/96497242/

Pictured above is the mouth watering Prime Rib sandwich &nbsp;with carmalized onions &amp;&nbsp;horsey sauce on a hella tasty bun.&nbsp;

Pictured above is the mouth watering Prime Rib sandwich  with carmalized onions & horsey sauce on a hella tasty bun.