We recently returned from a visit to friends who winter north of Tuscon, Arizona--the first time I had seen any part of that state south of the Grand Canyon. It would be difficult to imagine a more radical change of scenery from our lush, water-rich coastal North Florida home than this area. Stately Saguaro cacti, every one branching differently, tower over most of the dry vegetation (at least it was very dry in early March). Prickly pear flourish, with paddles in yellow and even purple as well as green. Rough mountain ranges rise several thousand feet above the already high desert landscape.Our friends treated us to some of their favorite sights, including a drive up Mount Lemmon and a visit to a local park that featured native plants in a natural setting. The photos represent a small sample of the interesting vistas in these two attractions. Later, I will post photos of a visit to a beautiful old mission.
Although I love the ocean, rivers, creeks, swamps, and salt marshes in our home area, the desert has always fascinated me. The unique life forms that adapt to conditions in all the various types of deserts I have visited are amazing--though it requires patience and deep quiet to spot the animals. However, I must confess that it is difficult for me to imagine living or staying long-term in this arid land. We happily drank in the green, green sights of home after our journey.
Question of the day: Do you also return home from travel more grateful for home than ever?
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Mary I lived in Tucson for two years ('83 - '85) and I loved it there too. I think what makes us grateful to be home is that we are once again amongst our own things and have comfortable and easy access to everything. No packing, no unpacking, no hotels, etc. I've got severe wanderlust though and I could be happy anywhere (as long as my kids were nearby).
ReplyDeleteYou have had so many interesting experiences in various parts of the country, Sherry--never knew you had lived in Tuscon. Your response is very on-target for me; it is just so much simpler and more comfortable to be home. You are the queen of practical wisdom! I love to travel and wander, too, but the older I get (a good bit older than you), the harder all the travel inconveniences seem :>).
ReplyDeleteExactly. We visited my sister in law in Sun City. It was awful for too many reason to enumerate. Still I've heard nice things about Tuscon. Still one week of beautiful desert flowers won't make up for 51 of dry, brown and ugly. I need trees, blue sky and water and green things growing. Even a few month of white and ice is better than...... :)
ReplyDeleteHey, TB--fun to hear your view. And I agree; I can visit there, but also need trees, blue sky, water, and all the other growing things that make me feel at home. All my best to you--spring is coming!
ReplyDeleteI always enjoy coming home even when I've just been to work that night. Since I work in the city and live in the mountains when I go home it still feels like I am on vacation, nestled in the woods with little traffic, and nature all around me. I've lived her for 7 years now and it have not become disenchanted with the area.
ReplyDeleteHow lovely that your home feels like a getaway for you, Carol! Thank you for sharing the view from Maine.
ReplyDeleteI love to visit this type of landscape, also. So different from Hawaii. The cacti are the palm trees of the desert! I have to admit, though, I am always glad to be able to come back home. I do think it would be difficult to live in an area like that all the time.
ReplyDeleteYou and I think alike about these landscapes, Lisa. Yet, some people, like our friends, absolutely love living in this area (at least for the winter and early spring) and deeply appreciate its unique beauty. Vive la difference!
ReplyDeletei can't imagine myself living permanently in desert too! there are some places that are only great to visit once in a while. :)
ReplyDeletebtw, i have a special thanks for you in my pregnancy update post. grateful for the friendship, Mary! :)
Cher, thank you for the personal shout-out on your blog; it's so wonderful of you to think of others (like your blogging friends) when your life is so full. I am thrilled to read of your special joy in this long-awaited pregnancy and will keep you and yours in my thoughts and prayers from halfway around the world. We'll have you circled with love!
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