Arriving in Arizona I am in awe of all the desert like features and abundant sunshine. Taking a long weekend to visit my parents is something I am happy to do during the deep cold days of winter in Wisconsin. A couple years ago I arrived towards the end of January and was able to take in a few sights along with relaxing. I am missing this opportunity this year but plan to return soon. Always a time for A Lasting Impression.

Finding the Wrigley Mansion

A little background history…William Wrigley Jr. was an entrepreneur from a young age, starting his own business selling soap and baking powder at age 29.  At that time, he would give his customers 2 packages of chewing gum as an incentive with each can of baking powder they purchased.  Wrigley’s chewing gum soon became more popular than any of his other products, and the rest was history.  Wrigley went on to hold a controlling interest in several other companies, own the Biltmore Hotel in Phoenix, and build 5 residences. 

Wrigley’s mansion in Phoenix, is set atop a 100-foot-tall knoll with views of the Biltmore and the community below.  Construction was completed in 1931, only a year before Wrigley died at age 70.  The mansion went on to be owned by another big wig in the food industry: Geordie Hormel, known for creating Spam.  Hormel bought the Wrigley mansion as a $2.6 million 50th wedding anniversary for his wife, and restored it to his former glory.   He passed away in 2006 but the facility lives on as a private club for Sunday brunch, fancy weddings, and other special events. We enjoyed brunch and a nice tour.

Waste Management Phoenix Open

Each year, thousands of spectators from around the country are drawn to a Scottsdale, Arizona golf course for what has been called the Greatest Show on Grass. Unlike any other golf tournament around, this event has a lively crowd and features plenty of celebrities, fundraising, music performances and of course…golf. This year, only a select few are present due to the pandemic. If you have the opportunity and the time, the Waste Management Phoenix Open is a fun venue!

Dessert Beauties

I loved walking in the neighborhood with my parents and catching some pretty impressive cactus blooms.

As well as soaking in some awesome sunsets!