First, I’d like to offer my sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Hive account@onceuponatime. He was a generous supporter of my work (and I was a fan of his) here on Steemit in the early days of the platform. I was lucky enough to meet this crypto pioneer and visionary in Amsterdam at the first SteemFest. Judging by the outpouring of posts in the past few days, he will be missed by many.

Our trip to Sedona has been very relaxing and centering. Our time here has reminded us both of how much we connect with this place and how important it is to live with a wide open heart. In fact my, wife and I began our journey as a married couple here. I proposed to her here over a decade ago in the Amithabha Stupa and Peace Park.

The Stupa is one of the most peaceful places I've ever visited. It radiates with the most wonderful energy. I hope we managed to capture some of that in the photo montage below.

”The most valuable possession you can own is an open heart. The most powerful weapon you can be is an instrument of peace.” - Carlos Santana

Amithabha Stupa and Peace Park

Next up is the Cathedral Rock Trail. It's one of my favorite hikes in Sedona. The trail is rated as only a “moderate” hike but it’s still a decent workout. I closed my entire exercise ring on the Apple Watch from just one forty-five minute hike and as you can see from the sideshow, the views are stunning.

Cathedral Rock Trail

The next slideshow is of an old copper mining town about twenty minutes outside of Sedona called Jerome. This town is steeped in wild history and some believe much of the town is haunted by ghosts. If you find yourself in Sedona the side trip to Jerome is worth the journey. Most of the town can be seen in four or five hours and the drive into the Black Hills is scenic from departure to arrival.

I hope your Monday was a good one.

With Gratitude,
~Eric Vance Walton~

*I am an American novelist, poet, traveler, and crypto-enthusiast. If you’ve enjoyed my work please sign up for my author newsletter at my website. Newsletter subscribers will receive exclusive updates and special offers and your information will never be sold or shared.

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