TUCSON

Loews Ventana Canyon

Westin La Paloma

Canyon Ranch Resort

Hacienda del Sol

Today I have decided to enlighten you all with some facts about where I will be living for the next 2 1/2 years.

Tucson is located 118 miles southeast of Phoenix and 60 miles north of the Mexican border. Therefore, Rosetta stone is a must. I have it on my computer but now I need to start using! There are about 550,000 people here making it the 52nd largest metropolitan area in the US. The city is home to the University of Arizona. There are 4 major mountain ranges in the city. I live near the northern range in the Catalina foothills. Most of Tucson's major resorts are located here including Hacienda del Sol, Westin La Poloma Resort, Loews Ventana Canyon Resort and Canyon Ranch. The city was developed on a grid plan in the late 1800s so it is easy to get around. This is important for people like me so we don't get lost! Tucson is always cooler and wetter than Phoenix because of its higher elevation. The average temperature in January is 65F!

Now you all know some important facts about Tucson. Visitors are welcome anytime...sunny & 70's everyday!!!!

Run

Behind our apartments is what is considered Rillito River Park Trail. This is sure to become one of my favorite things about Tucson. It is a really neat trail and has made me want to spend even more time outside in the daily gorgeous weather. The only problem with the name is that the huge river bed is dried up. It is sad to think that at one time the river was full of flowing water. Now it is nothing more than sand, shrubs, and a small stream every now and then when it has rained. It did rain the other day so there was a small stream (maybe more like a puddle) of water left.

On my run/walk I stopped to watch 2 kids playing in this water with their dog. It was kind of sad the think this is the only natural water these kids encounter out here in the desert. No building forts by a creek or roping swinging into a river for these desert children.

Sumo is sure to love the Rillito River when he gets here!

Rillito River Trail description: This trail winds through the city along the Rillito riverbed. The asphalt trail on the north side of the river is a favorite for walkers, joggers, skaters, and cyclists. The path is designed so you never have to cross any streets, and distance is marked. A fun, easy hike for all ages.

The Jump

The above quote is from a picture I bought at the straw market in Charleston my last weekend in the Carolinas. Mary Anne is a writer whose writings reflect philosophies inherent to her being. These include: a commitment to passionate, intentional living; valuing wellness; and embracing the moment. I loved all her quotes and they were all inspiring but I felt this quote was so perfect for my life right now as I begin day #7 in Tucson, Arizona. It's hard to believe I have been in my new city for an entire week. I think I'm adjusting nicely to the daily warm & sunny weather! This city is beautiful and it's hard to believe everyday I go outside that I'm not looking a postcard.

The NEW HOME