This morning as we were loading up in Cottonwood and we said goodbye to a few of our neighbors. The guy behind was shaving his Australasian Shepard "Morgan" - he lives off of renting three condos that he owns in  Phoenix. He comes from a long line of German bookbinders and he showed us an 1880's bible that he was rebinding (on contract for $300). He claimed he has a thousand historic books in his trailer that he markets on Ebay. We loved the campground and all the "quirky" people that live there. We want to go back next year!

Today we moved to the Grand Canyon/Williams KOA just north of Williams, AZ.

We pulled into our KOA site, hooked up, and low-and-behold, a tire was flat on the Tahoe. It must have deflated quickly because we didn't have any problems driving on the highway (lucky it didn't happen out on the freeway).

We put on the spare tire and took the flat to "Eddie's Tire" in Williams. It turned out to be a faulty valve stem - not a nail or puncture. Not too sure how that happened.

Eddie is an Hispanic and was super efficient with the tire repair. Because of his prompt and friendly service we tipped him $5 and he was very gracious. We have been surprised how folks respond to tips when they are not anticipated. We learned how important tipping was from Nick when he worked at the Portneuf Valley Brewery. From wine stewards at tasting rooms to Eddie it is really gratifying to see their appreciation.

Tonight we barbecued kabobs on the the Cuisinart - thanks again to the Schowengerdt family for the gift!

Tomorrow we tour Walnut Canyon, Sunset Crater, and Wupatki Ruins near Flagstaff - then off to the south rim of the Grand Canyon.

To Steve: Sharon thanks you for the compliment!!!!!!!!!!!!! She says it is great to no longer huff and puff on the hikes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!