Your Hosts

Gary and his wife, Marian Carol, invite you to join us in our home for a week's vacation of adventurous fun and activities in beautiful Arizona. We have passionately followed our vision by establishing Western Spirit as a means of sharing our knowledge and immense love of Arizona's enriching outdoors.

Gary is a passionate and experienced outdoorsman and adventurer who enjoys running, rock and mountain climbing, wilderness camping, mountain biking, kayaking, rollerblading, scuba diving, flying gliders, and western dancing. He has competed in hundreds of 10k races, marathons, and triathlons. He is also an accomplished skier, horseback rider and trainer. He has traveled extensively but has been drawn to the west all his life and moved to Arizona in 1987 from St. Louis to enjoy the extensive outdoor opportunities available here. He possesses a broad knowledge of the rich history and incredible beauty of Arizona and has been guiding people on adventurous activites in the state for many years.

He has over thirty years of experience in the business world and has founded several successful companies, including an adventurous activities tourist business in Arizona in 1987. Gary also spent many years as a successful financial consultant and investment manager for several major Wall Street firms.

Marian Carol grew up in the Chicago area where she worked as an actor, director, and teacher. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Theater Arts from Loyola University, a Master's Degree in Education, and successfully completed the summer program at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. Her extensive European travels, and past residences in Rome and London, aid her in bringing a wealth of knowledge and life experience to her work. Her varied experiences as an actor and director, motivational speaker and trainer, have taught her interpersonal skills that have become invaluable in her life. Her rapport with people and her ability to listen with her heart have drawn people to her from many walks of life.

In 1997, she moved to Arizona to follow her dream of living the "western lifestyle". She has since enjoyed sharing her love of Arizona, its colorful history and incredible beauty with hundreds of visitors. Marian considers the balance of mind, body, and spirit of the utmost importance and enjoys leading guests on adventurous outdoor activities. She enjoys horseback riding, hiking, biking, rock and mountain climbing, camping, kayaking, rollerblading, swimming, and dancing.