Desert Life - Tucson

   

Beautiful Mosaic at Catalina State Park

    I recently saw a map of the United States with labels like "on fire" (California), "covered in ice" (northeast), "hurricanes" (Florida), and "escaping seasonal depression" (desert southwest). The last one resonated with me. That is precisely what I am doing here in Arizona: escaping the winter doldrums and enjoying endless days of sunshine.

    We arrived in Tucson in mid-January with about a week to settle in before my job started at a local hospital. We enjoyed time exploring the area, going for walks/hikes/runs, and eating delicious food. Unfortunately, after the first week in my new travel nurse position, I realized that the job was not a good fit and I chose to cancel the rest of my contract due to safety concerns. This was a difficult decision, but I had the support of my darling Charles before he left for South America. Ultimately, I knew it was the right decision, which continues to be affirmed as more opportunities and experiences come to fruition. 

    Charles is off and away on his longest expedition with NOLS yet, exploring the southern reaches of Chilean Patagonia. I heard from him yesterday. He told me there are dolphins and penguins galore and the weather has been unusually sunny: sounds like a dream. While he explores the southern hemisphere, I have been picking up contracts with NOLS here. I got the opportunity to work a few days in Florida, allowing me to spend some time with good friends I hadn't seen in a long time. The NOLS course was a blast, I met some lovely people and got to see some GATORS! I spent days relaxing by the pool, and evenings hanging with my favorite savage sisters (Claire and Nora).

Teaching alien CPR

WFR Recert :)

Back in Tucson....

    Back in Tucson, I have been spending time watching my resident hummingbirds at my window, going to crafting groups, knitting a sweater for my niece, riding my bike, going to the Tucson Gem Show, exploring local trails, joining a women's creative writing group, going to the gym, and attending guided bird walks. It seems like quitting my job is working out well so far. 

    Chuck returns in about a month. Until then, you can find me doing all of the above and spending a week in Ohio (ew, cold) teaching a NOLS course (and longing to return to Tucson). From there... you'll have to wait and see.

xoxo until soon

Sabino Canyon

Moon Rock at Tucson Gem Show

Bike ride in Tucson Mountain Park - bike right from the camper to the trails :)

Knitting project... just needs sleeves!

Magical outdoor shower where I am living - looking up at the moon and stars

The Lil' Home being cute

Adventuring 

Francesca

Siesta after a hike

Morteros - grinding stones/grinding holes. Ancient holes used by people to grind grains and other foods/medicines.

Bird walk with the local retirees

Sunsets out the window

Crafting group

It has rained one time since our arrival.