Tucson Snowbird

On Hiatus

2009-05-26T08:35:00.003-07:00

Isn't that what all the really cool people do? Or maybe sabbatical? Anyway, later.

Spring and ARt in in the Air!

2009-03-13T15:51:00.004-07:00

Finally we're in to more normal spring temperatures. Although those who come here from the northern climes revel in the high 90s, it's a little scary for those of us who will still be here in June. This weekend is the University of Tucson Festival of Books and the organizers have drawn some pretty big names. If you're a writer or a reader, you should find something or someone in the lineup to suit you. My pick would be Billy Collins, former US Poet Laureate and if you're one of those people who just doesn't "get" poetry, consider this Collins poem, Introduction to Poetry

I ask them to take a poem
and hold it up to the light
like a color slide

or press an ear against its hive.

I say drop a mouse into a poem
and watch him probe his way out,

or walk inside the poem's room
and feel the walls for a light switch.

I want them to waterski
across the surface of a poem
waving at the author's name on the shore.

But all they want to do
is tie the poem to a chair with rope
and torture a confession out of it.

They begin beating it with a hose
to find out what it really means.

There's too much going on there to list here but you can find it all here.

Tucson artists will be opening their studios this weekend. These are all over the greater Tucson area (a few in my neck of the woods) so your best bet would be to download the map, choose an area and hit the road or look through the listing and visit those that catch your eye. Either way you can't go wrong. Tucson Open Studio

Oro Valley on the far NW side of Tucson will be hosting the Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Festival with music, food and art at the PCC Northwest Campus.

Attendees will be treated to live music and performing arts entertainment including jazz guitarist Dan Griffin, the Amelia Dahl Jazz Quartet, the Tucson Chinese Council performing the Lion Dance, American standards with Joe Bourne, bluegrass and fiddle with Peter 'Doc' Rolland, Latin and Irish music from the Street Minstrels, folk music with Amber Norgaard, flamenco guitar with Jon Banuelos and blues and boogie woogie with internationally acclaimed Mr. Boogie Woogie

Singing Winds Bookstore is having a quilt class on Sunday. Now, the quilt class is probably full or you may not be into quilts but tuck away the name Singing Winds Bookstore and visit there sometime. If you appreciate unique, this is a place for you.

Patagonia is also having an art walk this weekend. The thing about an art walk in Patagonia is, you could actually walk to most of the galleries. And if you've never visited Patagonia, this would be a good excuse and a beautiful drive.

Patagonia is one of my most favorite places in SEAZ, another is Arivaca-and this is the weekend for the Arivaca Chili Cook-Off. It's Saturday and the info is here. Again it's a good excuse for a beautiful drive-if you need that.

Whatever you do, have a great weekend.

Wildflowers and other Beauties of Arizona

2009-03-07T07:02:00.003-07:00

Fiesta de Saguaro is TODAY at Saguaro National Park East. It's a celebration of Hispanic culture complete with food, music and dance. Looks like a great day to get out and enjoy the park.

Another beauty of living in Tucson is our access to the University for many different opportunities. The UA operates telescopes on Mt Lemmon and this month you can take part in one of their Sky Nights. Bundle up though, cause it will be chilly up there. In Tucson with have the Sweetwater Wetlands, in Sierra Vista there's the EOP which also attracts wildlife.

The Sierra Vista Environmental Operations Park (EOP), also known as the
waste water treatment plant, is open for bird walks each Sunday morning.
The walks take about 2 hours and are led by docents from Southeastern
Arizona Bird Observatory (SABO), Huachuca Audubon Society (HAS) and the
Friends of the San Pedro River (FSPR).

Info here.

Spring training has begun. If your year starts with the sounds of "Play Ball!" this is the place for you. Cactus League information can be found here.

But you could just spend the next week to 10 days driving around the desert and enjoying the wildflowers. Wildflowers bloom is such a big deal here that there are wildflower watches and day to day reports. Arizona State Parks provides Ranger Cam, but I think the best reports come from DesertUSA.

Now, I'm off for a walk.

State Park Closures

2009-02-26T08:54:00.003-07:00

A sign of the times.

State Parks Closing

Also, the annual reenactment of the battle at Picacho Peak has been canceled.

Tiger in Tucson

2009-02-20T09:08:00.006-07:00

It's official, Tiger will come back off his knee surgery to play in Tucson next week.

So if golf is your thing, check it out.

Missed a few!

2009-02-19T08:26:00.003-07:00

Some other folks enjoying the Baja!

Fautrever-Lance and Erin
Our Life on Wheels-Jerry, Suzy and Rocinante
Nick's Blog-Nick and Miss Terry are recovering from the Gypsy Journal Rally
2 On the Road-Hikin' and Bikin' in SoAZ
That Which Is Good-Marie and Honey making art in Arizona

Ft Lowell Update

2009-02-17T17:32:00.002-07:00

For a little more about Ft Lowell, go to my other blog, Straw Cottage.

Who's Hanging Out in the Baja (Baja Arizona, that is)?

2009-02-14T08:03:00.005-07:00

from Free Baja Arizona

Check out the fun these folks are having. If you know of RVer/Bloggers who are enjoying this fine southeastern Arizona winter, leave a comment and a link.

The Bayfield Bunch-Kelly and Al Ranch Sit
Artful RV Adventures-Mark and Bobbie are still Artin' Around
Camping and Travels-Adventures with Suzanne and Brad
Are We There Yet?-Currently in the NE (can you say Brrrr?) but will be back in SEAZ
Steve's RV Travelogue-He's having way too much fun with the pics to prove it!
Semi-True Tales of Our Life on the Road-Laurie and Odel are back!
Camping With Suzi-Suzi's getting a tune-up to be ready for the summer but she's still blogging (Suzi and Laurie both give high marks to the Bisbee Breakfast Club, so it must be great)
Two Scamps-deserted Baja Arizona for the red zone of Phoenix
Cid69-He's heading this way tomorrow
Sandcreek Travel-lotta photos of a lotta fun
live.work.dream-Jim and Rene, passing through

Who else is here-please check in!

Feb 9-15 Call in the Cavalry!

2009-02-09T09:42:00.004-07:00

If you've ever driven up Craycroft Rd, north of Grant, you may have looked to the right and seen some old adobe buildings sitting in what otherwise looks like a city park. You may have also noticed the name of the park, Fort Lowell and wondered who would put a Fort in the middle of the city? Well, Fort Lowell was not always a part of the big, bustling city but rather was miles from the village known as Tucson. They moved the soldiers out there due to the unhealthy conditions in Tucson proper. This Saturday is Ft Lowell Day and you can find out a bit what it was like to be a soldier in the US Army in the 1870s complete with cavalry drills. Another highlight is the walking tours through the surrounding neighborhood with its many preserved and restored adobe residences. More info here.

Tucson Presidio Trust is again recreating early Tucson through various activities. Join the soldiers and learn to drill. Cannon fire throughout the day. Docent tours of the Presidio. Listen to a story teller spin yarns about the Spanish West.

Visiting Patagonia is always high on my list of day trips. It's a different landscape and a much different pace. Any excuse to get down there is a good one but this one is exceptional if you are a reader. It's the Patagonia Writer's Round-Up hosted by the Friends of the Library. There will be writers of everything from children's books, to history, to mystery to poetry. Nancy Turner the author of one of my favortie Arizona books, These is My Words will be there along with 24 other authors including Philip Caputo, J.P.S. Brown, Susan Lowell, Elizabeth Gunn- so head on down and help support the library! And you might want to try one of the fabulous pizzas at Velvet Elvis. Also, see some great photos of Patagonia here.

A new event this year is the American Indian Music Fest at the Casa Grande Ruins near Florence, AZ. This concert is featuring some great musicians such as R. Carlos Nakai, Odell Borg and Gabriel Ayala. I'm sure all the musicians are worth seeing and in the setting of the ruins it should be an amazing show. Click here for the full info.

Forence is often only thought of in terms of the prison facilities located there but it has an interesting history and downtown. This history will be showcased on Satuday with the 24th Annual Tour of Historic Florence.

On the way to Florence you can also take a short break to stop and see the Tom Mix Memorial on Hwy 79. Mix, famous as a movie cowboy was killed here in 1940 while speeding along in his 1937 yellow Cord Phaeton convertible.

Speaking of movies, the Academy Awards are coming up and if you're like me, you've watched the show and when they get to the Live Action Shorts you have to ask: Where are these ever shown? Well, this year you can see them ALL at the Loft, both live action and animated.

And, there's still the Gem Show.

2009-02-08T06:55:00.007-07:00

Old Pima Co Courthouse

I had Jury Duty last week. It was great! A jury was seated by 11:30, I was dismissed and had an afternoon to spend, on my own, in downtown Tucson. The Tucson Museum of Art is about a block from where I parked (discounted due to jury duty) and I knew the Maynard Dixon exhibit was there until February 15, so off I went. It was a wonderful afternoon and if you love Arizona landscapes, go see this show. As I viewed landscape after landscape the Joni Mitchell song Both Sides Now kept popping into my head: It's clouds illusions I recall, I really don't know clouds, at all. That man could surely paint a cloud. If you miss this show, Medicine Man Gallery here in Tucson has a Maynard Dixon Museum.

Yesterday I went to the Tucson Electric Park Gem Show to assist in the economic recovery. All told, I spent about $15 and $5 of that was for food. Not bad for 6 hours of entertainment! My sister-in-law and I try to go together at least one day every year. She's a bellydancer (scroll down to Chaang) and also makes jewelry so she stocks up on supplies. I just go along for the show. My observations from yesterday: it was a good crowd, prices were great and people were spending. We used the Gem Ride shuttle to get to the Tucson Expo center show and it was hassle-free, the drivers were friendly and it gave us a chance to sit and rest our feet after 4 hours of walking and standing. We had such a good time we're going back on Friday!

Interesting, Very Interesting...

2009-02-03T18:30:00.005-07:00

CM Russell

I like western art. It's so ...romantic and possibly all those depictions of big skies and far horizons is what enticed me to make the move west. I remember as a kid going to the Whitney Gallery at the Buffalo Bill Historical Center and seeing all those Remingtons and Russells. Amazing art for a kid from a little tiny town in southern Ohio.

Just east of Tucson down the Sonoita Hwy sits the Empire Ranch. The Empire was owned by Walter Vail (where Vail, AZ gets its name) and was once part of a ranching operation comprising one million acres. Today the land still supports cattle and is under the management of the BLM. More history of the Ranch is here. The Empire Ranch Foundation helps to support the preservation of the ranch buildings and every year holds a Western Art Sale. You can view the works for sale weekdays from 8:30-4:00 through March 13th at Northern Trust. For more info see the Empire Ranch Foundation website.

CM Russell

Ted DeGrazia's Gallery in the Sun is celebrating the centennial of Ted's birth with a show entitled DeGrazia: 100 Years, 100 Works. If you only know DeGrazia by his works depicting the little children in brightly colored clothing, you owe it to yourself to visit the Gallery to see his other works.

Big doin's in Cochise County this weekend. It's the 17th Annual Cowboy Poetry and Music Gathering featuring lots of cowboy poetry, music and fun times. If you've never been to one of these gatherings, give it a try, especially if you're from the Roy Rogers, Lone Ranger, Gene Autry generation or you know all the words to Ghost Riders in the Sky.

An old cowboy went riding out one dark and windy day
Upon a ridge he rested as he went along his way
When all at once a mighty herd of red eyed cows he saw
A-plowing through the ragged sky and up the cloudy draw

The schedule is here and all shows will be at the Buena Performing Arts Center in Sierra Vista.

Tomorrow is the first day of the Tubac Festival of the Arts. This is a big event in a little village so I would suggest if you would like to go, do it tomorrow. This is a juried show so you will see things you may not see at other Art show and it;s always fun to be in Tubac. There is more info on the Tubac Chamber site.

Are You Ready for Some Football?????

2009-02-01T08:01:00.004-07:00

Now dated, but that just cracks me up every time I see it!

If you're into football and parties, it shouldn't be difficult to find a venue for those today in Arizona. You do know the Arizona Cardinals are in the SuperBowl and it is today? Right? And can you believe, I heard Al Roker say he'd never seen a cardinal in Arizona? What a goofball!! Anyway, football is the big story in AZ today and any bar, restaurant, activity center or appliance store with a big screen TV will draw a crowd today. Take your pick.

For the football-impaired there's always the Gem Show. For the beaders I want to highlight a couple of upcoming shows. Beads of Courage is having 2 special events during the Gem Show, more details are here. From their website,

Beads of Courage is a resilience-based intervention designed to support and strengthen the protective resources in children coping with serious illness. Through the program children tell their story using colorful beads as meaningful symbols of courage that commemorate milestones they have achieved along their unique treatment path.

The Gallery 801 event will feature glass bead artist Margaret Zinser, glass bead making demonstrations, and a silent auction featuring original artwork by Steven Derks, Carolyn Anne Anderson, Rebecca Thompson, Ann Tracy, Beth Jonquil, and Karen Sobel-Dombroski. Sounds like an opportunity to pick up some unique beads for your unique creations and help a great cause. And now, Go, Cards!

More Gem Show

2009-01-25T19:00:00.003-07:00

If you're planning to visit the Gem Shows over the next couple of weeks here are a few suggestions.

1) Look at a map of the shows and scope out the sites you're interested in before going. Parking will be scarce and people get pretty particular about their parking lots during the show. You may want to begin at a place that has plenty of parking, such as Tucson Electric Park. and go from there on one of the shuttles. Driving in Tucson can be a pain in the best of times but during big events, it's even worse. Taking the shuttle allows someone else to get the headache and the benefit of hand gestures. It looks as though the shuttles have everything covered and believe me, it's so much easier.

2) Remember where you park your car!

3) Wear comfortable, layered clothing and shoes made for walking.

4) Take snacks and water to drink. Food and drink will be priced as they usually are at these types of events, ridiculously high! Use the shopping bag you're bringing to carry home your treasures to carry water bottles; as you buy things you can drink the water which will decrease the weight in the bag, or not, depending on how much you buy.

5) Be aware, watch your purse or wallet. Make sure your cell phone is fully charged.

6) If you own a business, bring your business license. More info on that here.

7) If you hate crowds and/or shopping, do your partner a favor and STAY HOME!

8) Read this article: 5 Reasons to Go to Tucson

9) Have fun!

I Rob Banks fo a Living. What Do You Do?

2009-01-22T15:42:00.005-07:00

Apparently John Dillinger's pickup line. While most people think of Tucson bad guys as gun-totin', Stetson wearin' desperados, one of the most famous is the 1930's gangster John Dillinger. Dillinger and his gang were captured in Tucson in 1934 after a fire at the Hotel Congress. This weekend the Hotel Congress and downtown Tucson will be celebrating the capture with a variety of events. In addition to a 1930s-themed gala, re-enactments and historical presentations, the Fox Theatre has scheduled two showings of "The Gay Desperado," a 1936 black-and-white movie filmed Tucson about a Mexican bandit who kidnaps an opera singer and an heiress. The showings will be at 2:45 and 5:45 pm.
Just to make it more interesting, Johnny Depp is starring as Dillinger in a film to be releaseed later this year. For more info on the events go here.

There's also a collector car show in Tubac on Saturday, the 15th annual show put on by the Car Nuts.

Not a lot shakin' this weekend so, go have an ale. You might want to check out Nimbus, (warning, mute your speakers) a local brewery that's been around since 1996, growing every year. You can now find it in local stores and bars but it's fun to raise a glass right there where it's brewed. Try the Dirty Guera (now, now, I mean the ale but maybe that's what brought Dillenger to Tucson). This weekend talented singer-songwriter Amber Norgaard will be performing.

Hit the Dusty Trail

2009-01-19T10:05:00.007-07:00

If you've been around Tucson much, and are in the least outdoorsy, you've probably found the Summit Hut. It's a Tucson institution for hiking, camping, climbing, biking equipment. The owner and founder of Summit Hut, Dave Baker, has started a helpful blog about Tucson outdoors and things that might improve your outdoor experience. Hey, he sells stuff so he should have a good idea of what works and what doesn't. Bookmark this blog: Trail Talk

No matter where we are, I'm always attracted to these outdoors outfitters type stores. I especially like the home grown kind because they usually have folks working there who actually know about what they're selling and it keeps local money, local. There's a Babbitt's in Flagstaff, San Juan Sports in Creede, CO, Headwaters Outdoor Equipment in Salida, CO and Manzanita Outdoors in Prescott. You can find cool stuff you didn't know you needed and you can usually pick up a copy of the Mountain Gazette which has interesting writing from those who, when in doubt, go higher. I could spend hours in those stores but then, shouldn't I really be outside, actually doing something. Anyway, I digress. Check out Dave's blog and then actually get outside and DO SOMETHING and then DO MORE!

Wings

2009-01-14T17:06:00.006-07:00

Today was the official start of Wings Over Willcox. If you've never seen migrating birds in large numbers, check out the Sandhill Cranes on the Playa. There are tours, seminars, souvenirs and everything BIRD.

If you like quilts or fabric arts, don't miss the Quilt Fiesta at the TCC. The Tucson Quilters Guild puts on this fabulous show every year and it just gets better and better. If you haven't heard, quilts have gone from just something to keep you warm at night to high art. The Fiesta runs Fri, Sat and Sun so don't dawdle.

This is also the weekend for the Annual Indian Arts and Crafts Festival at the TCC.

When I see an interesting home I'm try every way possible to peek in windows just to get a glimpse. I'm not a voyeur and don't care to see the people, I just love to see the layout, the colors, the furniture, how it's all put together. If you're like me, get your self down to the Tubac Center of the Arts Home Tour. There will be 6 homes open from 10am to 4pm on Saturday.

And those of you searching for the Elegant Trogon, you're not alone. Check out this video.

Temps are supposed to hit the 70s all this week, don't tell your friends and family back east.

Track the (not so) Elusive Snowbird in SE Arizona

2009-01-13T17:49:00.003-07:00

Two Scamps
Artful RV Adventures
That Which Is Good
Wandrin
Pierre and Colleen
RV Dreams
Steve's RV Travelogue
Our Life on Wheels
2 On the Road
Fautrever

...ummmm it was 70 today with the most beautiful clear blue skies-perfect!
photo courtesy Webbaliah

What is this Thing You Call the Gem Show?

2009-01-11T07:35:00.004-07:00

This thing called The Gem Show is actually several shows. There are gems, fossils, rocks, minerals, beads, jewelry findings-if it has anything to do with gems and/or minerals, you can find it somewhere in Tucson during the weeks of The Gem Show.

This all started back in 1955 at a school where local rockhounds displayed their best finds. An immediate success due to the quality of specimens, the show has grown every year and is now held at the TCC Arena. Dealers from across the world bring their best to the show. A different mineral is showcased each year, this year being devoted to Mineral Oddities. The dates for this show are Feb 12-15. Most of the satellite show run from Jan 31-Feb 15.

Due to the success of the official Gem Show, small shows sprung up around the main show and for me that's the real fun. Driving around Tucson last weekend, I could see the tents going up and the signs of vendors coming to town. It's like a world flea market with the most interesting things at really great prices. Besides the gems, minerals and fossils, you can find rugs, furniture, clothing, jewelry, statuary, junk, junk and more junk. It's all here!

One of the most popular shows in recent years The Whole Bead Show at the Windmill Inn. This show boggles the mind at the variety of beads available. Here you will also find artists selling their wares as well as all the supplies needed to make your own art. This is a do not miss for the beading crowd.

And there are also beads available at the other shows so don't think this is the only venue with beads in town. Almost every show will have some beads; here's how to get a bead on beads during the show.

Strategy
ALERT-THERE IS CONSTRUCTION ALL ALONG I-10 THROUGH TUCSON
Anyone who's been to an event like this knows you must have a strategy or you will be easily overwhelmed. Let's face facts, this is major sensory overload. Study a map of the venues-here's one that may help. Some shows are only open to wholesale buyers and require credentials in order to enter. Registration for these shows can usually be done before or at the shows, but needs to be done separately with each show promoter. Bring your business license and some business cards.

Most of the gem and mineral shows around Tucson are free and hours vary. Google Tucson gem show or go to your favorite vendor's web site and you will get lots of info.

Parking can be a problem, so again know where you are going and where to park. In the downtown area there is a Gem Show Shuttle which is handy.

Take snacks, lots of water, maybe even pack a lunch but remember to pace yourself. Wear comfortable shoes and layer you clothing, it can be 35 degrees in the morning and 70 at 2pm; it could even rain. Bring a collapsible bag to carry your treasures home. Be careful with your money/purse, this is a perfect opportunity for opportunists.

Above all, have fun!

Volunteer Camp Host, Anyone??

2009-01-11T06:42:00.002-07:00

Suzi at Camping With Suzi has a post about volunteer positions in the National Forests of Arizona. If you think you might like to spend more time in our lovely and diverse state and get a free site in exchange for some work, check it out.
Volunteer Campground Hosts Needed
That post will link you to their other site with great information on National Forest Campgrounds.

Jan 5-Jan12 2009 Tucson Gem Show is Coming!

2009-01-06T08:28:00.008-07:00

OK, it's the after-holiday lull... but there's still plenty to do. On January 10th you can find out what it might have been like to live in Tucson in the 1700s at Presidio San Augustin de Tucson. There will be cannons firing-how can you resist? This is a free event and gets you into downtown Tucson, take one of the walking tours while you're there.

Both units (Rincon-east and Tucson Mtn-west) of Saguaro National Park are taking advantage of the full moon this week and leading evening walks. The desert looks much different in the dark and you can see animals and insects that only come out at night. And a brisk evening is always a good excuse to stop for coffee and pie on the way home (on the east side check out TTT Truck Stop). It looks like reservations are required for the walks, so get more information at the web sites: Rincon Tucson Mtn

If indoor evening activities are more to your liking, there are a couple of movie events coming up.The 18th Annual Tucson Jewish Film Festival begins Jan 10th. This has grown to be a huge event screening films from around the world. See the schedule here.
The Loft will present, Gentlemen Prefer Marilyn. As the add says, unbottle your inner blonde and speak to me Harry Winston!

Rincon Valley Farmer's Market happens every Saturday. Here you can find arts, crafts, dog food, produce, beef, coffee, plants. It makes for a fun morning with a drive through beautiful (but disappearing) desert.

Don't forget this is prime Sandhill crane and snow geese veiwing time. Get out to Whitewater Draw or check with Wings Over Willcox to find the best viewing areas. Also, check out the Sweetwater Wetlands, constructed from effluent from a wastewater treatment plant (gotta love the name). This is a place that you would never know was there but is worth the drive. Here's a flikr photo set by Lance and Erin (fulltime RVers), just to prove it. Also see their post about the Sweetwater Preserve and hiking there.

Wow, from Marilyn to effluent, to Jewish films to TTT Truck stop, now that's variety. I'm going to run a few posts on the upcoming Gem and Mineral Show from a Tucsonan perspective. In the meantime, have a great week.

Picacho Peak

2009-01-04T06:12:00.008-07:00

We attended our first camping rally! We have a 1987 23' Airstream Sovereign and belong to the WBCCI, (Wally Byam yadda-yadda). The rally was organized by the 4 Corners Unit. The event was fun and we met great people, but the real star was the campground at Picacho Peak State Park.

We've lived in Tucson over 20 years and have visited the park on day trips several times. We even drove through the campground one time and thought we'd be back, we just didn't know it would take so long. The Park has been undergoing improvements and currently a new visitor center is being built. The camper restrooms are large and very clean. The showers are huge with plenty of room for all the shower necessities and to keep your clothes dry. There was also plenty of hot water. Sites are large with both back-in and pull-through sites. Electric sites are $20/night, no h/u, $12. There is a pull-through dump station with water.

The beautiful views are the best thing about the park but there are also hiking trails and plenty of opportunity to just sit in your chair and watch the changing light on the volcanic rock that is Picacho.

The most unfortunate thing about the Park: I-10 is just a couple of miles away so there is freeway noise but not so much that it marred our stay. The railroad also runs along I-10 so occasionally the you can hear the train horns but I kinda like that.

Picacho Peak was the site of the most significant Civil War battle to take place in Arizona. This is re-enacted annually in March. Picacho is also one of the best places to see our beautiful wildflowers in the spring.

Dec 29-Jan 8 2009! Wow, 2009!

2008-12-29T07:23:00.006-07:00

Big Do'ins downtown for New Years Eve. First Night is being coordinated by the Downtown Tucson Partnership and looks to be the makings of a fun time.

FIRST NIGHT takes place at seven locations in Downtown Tucson; Leo Rich Theatre at TCC, Scottish Rite Temple, Beowulf Alley Theatre and Tucson Children’s Museum are ticketed venues featuring varied entertainment including Hispanic roots music and dance, bluegrass, jazz and world music, comedy, interactive fun for kids and more.

See the schedule here.
Some of the acts:
Leila Lopez
Amber Norgaard
Lisa Otey
DeGrazia Spanish Guitar
Mirror Image

Silver Thread Trio
Tim Wiedenkeller
Namoli Brennet
Los Cuatro Vientos
La Mezcla

Something for Everyone!
Looks to be a fun time and I hope it becomes an annual event.

Every restaurant and bar in Tucson will have some kind of New Years event. Even my fave, Feast, is having a "fancy-pants, prix fixe menu" (most likely booked up by now). So if you like to go out and have a big time on NYE, call your favorite place and see what's the haps.

I'm kind of in the "let's stay home and play a game or watch an old movie" crowd.

As a kid, I can remember my parents and grandparents talking about the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps) and what a boost it had been for the country in very trying economic times (sound familiar?). When traveling, we saw so many public works made possible by the CCC and I love searching out these pieces of history today. Saguaro West will have a slide show about this lasting legacy on Jan 2-details are here.

On Jan 3 at 3pm Saguaro East presents a talk on A Taste of the Desert and the uses of desert plants for food.

On Sunday in Tubac, you can get a bit of the early history of the Valley presented by los Tubaquenos. Come join the lives of the men, women and children who worked and played on the Spanish Frontier. Sample foods, see weavers in action, and learn about fashions and woodworking. These presentations continue through March.

Something to think about: Love those little hummers? Can't wait to get your feeders out whenever you set-up somewhere new? Donate some time and/or money to hummingbird monitoring and learn more about the little critters. Coming up in March are banding days which you can find out more about at Hummingbird Monitoring Network or Birchside Studios.

Snowbirds Flocking!

2008-12-27T07:33:00.002-07:00

Ideas for hikes, food for thought and candy for the eye can all be found in these blogs.
Artful RV Adventures
Wandrin
Are We There Yet?

More on the San Pedro

2008-12-24T05:34:00.004-07:00

Our 2 weeks of winter is here and there should be a white Christmas on Mt Lemmon! I read the forecast on azstarnet this morning and there were 3 comments: "Still beats Chicago!" "Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow" and "Ahhhhh - when are we gonna hit 80 again?" That pretty much sums it up. If you plan to be in Tucson during the spring, this rain will help to provide you a fantastic desert wildflower display.

On Monday, Howard from RV-Dreams posted about his hike along the San Pedro. His group visited Charleston, another ghost town a bit south of Fairbank and he has pictures posted. I also found an interesting site related to the Clantons (of OK Corral fame) that has maps and a short history of Charleston. As I look at the map and try to imagine a whole town that once existed but is no longer there, it causes me to wonder how the residents of Charleston or Fairbank celebrated Christmas.

Hope yours is Merry!

December 22-29

2008-12-22T20:17:00.008-07:00

I don't know about you, but after Christmas day I'm ready to get outside. All the extra food and time spent inside for various events makes me crave a hike in the fresh air. Luckily in Tucson, that's not difficult.

How about participating in the annual Christmas Bird Count? The first Christmas Bird Count was held on December 25th, 1900 and the long-term data collected through the years provides information on bird population trends. This in turn informs decisions made on protecting our feathered friends.

The San Pedro River is named by the Nature Conservancy as one of the Last Great Places. Walking along the river you may see coatimundi, javelina, beaver or over 100 bird species. The San Pedro flows north, out of Mexico. A river running north is not something you see every day, unless of course you live on the San Pedro. But, go see it for yourself. There are docent led walks this weekend or take a walk on your own. My kids and I have spent many happy hours on the banks of the San Pedro. While there be sure to visit the Fairbank townsite the remnants of a once thriving railroad town.

You might like to spend some time just wandering the Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Nature Conservancy Preserve. This is another riparian area that is counter to the desert environment most people associate with Arizona. The conservancy does great work protecting the fragile biodiversity of the watershed.

Did you know Arizona is becoming a respected wine region? There are many wineries scattered in the grassy hills of the Sonoita-Elgin area. A drive through wine country may be just the post-holiday respite you crave. A few years ago my family took part in the grape harvest at Charron Vineyards a little closer to Tucson. Leo produces a very fine white Merlot and tastings are held every weekend. You might also like to try Callaghan Vineyards producers of award winning wines which have been served at the White House. More information on area wineries can be found here.Sandhill cranes are reaching peak numbers of their migration and will be heading north in a couple of months. Wings Over Willcox provides information on spots that are favored by the cranes.

That's quite of variety to bring you our of your post-holiday stupor. Get up and get out!

A Book You Might Like

2008-12-22T07:12:00.002-07:00

On the heels of the previous post, I wanted to suggest one of my favorite books, Death Comes to the Archbishop by Willa Cather. It's a wonderful read for anyone, but especially those who want to understand more about the history of the Southwest. The main character is a French missionary priest who arrives, on horseback, in Santa Fe. The story takes place almost 100 years post Padre Kino and in a different area, but there are many similarities and it is a great story well-told. Cather is wonderful writer.

Father Kino and the Missions

2008-12-21T15:15:00.004-07:00

Marie of That Which Is Good and the artist responsible for some great RVer gifts (see sidebar), posted some beautiful photos of San Xavier del Bac on her site. If you haven't been to the Mission, please make time for it, I don't think you'll be disappointed.

Father Kino was an amazing man of many talents. Not only a missionary, but also a mathematician, astronomer and cartographer, he traversed the southwest from northern Mexico to Arizona and California. Imagine that trip on horseback in the 1680s. His order was to establish missions and that he did, founding over twenty, some of which are still standing. Several sites throughout Tucson and Arizona bear Kino's name, such as Kino Parkway and what was Kino Hospital, now UPH Hospital at Kino Campus. A statue of Padre Kino on horseback is located on the Parkway.

Whenever I visit San Xavier, I stand in awe of the art that was created by a primitive people with the most primitive of tools and supplies. Some of their primitive processes have withstood the test of time. In the last century, cement stucco was used to "preserve" the exterior of the mission. Anyone who has experience with cement stucco knows that once it cracks (which it always does) water begins to seep in and whatever is under is ruined and the stucco will spall. Because of this the mission could have deteriorated beyond repair. The answer: remove the cement stucco and replace with lime plaster with a binder boiled prickly pear!

San Xavier, another important part of Tucson history.

Where D'ya Wanna Eat?

2008-12-20T06:00:00.002-07:00

For some reason, Christmastime makes me crave Mexican food. Now, I can and do eat Mexican food year round but, I really want it as Christmas rolls around. Maybe it's because when we first moved to the southwest, I was fascinated by the number of people who made and sold tamales this time of year. In the hospital, signs would go up or the message would go out by word of mouth that a Nana or Tia was making and selling tamales. The tamales always made it to the Christmas table even for us Ohioans who never eaten a tamale until adulthood. An interesting thing about tamales is that everyone makes them a little different; there are those who put an olive in the center, others add raisins, some add nothing. It's a good thing to ask, as biting down on an olive with a pit can be dangerous.

Last week my younger son and I celebrated our December birthdays with dinner at El Charro, one of the oldest Mexican restaurants in Tucson. Over the years they have grown to have several locations around town but my favorite is still the original site downtown. There is nothing like a crisp night, the smell of woodsmoke and carne seca and a cold margarita. El Charro is known for Carne Seca and Birthday Boy had the CS burro, while I had Chicken Mole. Mmm-mm was it ever good. Mole poblano is a sauce made from dried peppers, nuts and chocolate and has a wonderful smoky flavor that is perfect with chicken. Try it if you haven't.

If you're looking for good, authentic Sonoran style food, you can't go wrong at El Charro.

Dec 15-21 Festivus!

2008-12-15T08:16:00.006-07:00

The flurry of events and activities is lessening a bit as most people begin to focus on family events, travel and last minute shopping. But, there is still plenty to do. Yes, the weather is a little rocky right now but stick around, it'll change.

Here's the premier event of the week-Festivus for the Rest of Us at the Loft. You can take part in all the important events made famous by Frank Costanza. "At the Festivus dinner, you gather your family around and tell them all the ways they have disappointed you over the past year."

If you like Flamenco, don't miss the Mercado San Augustin on Thursday. Adair Landborn and The Peña Flamenca de Tucson will perform a flamenco holiday show on Thursday December 18th at 4pm. I took flamenco lessons from Adair and she is an amazing talent. The performance kicks off the Las Posadas Party at 6pm, an important traditional event, celebrating “Las Posadas” with songs, whistles, candles and a piñata.

The Mercado San Agustín is Tucson’s first public open-air market (part of the Rio Nuevo project) and is located at 100 S. Avenida del Convento (West Congress St., west of I-10). The Holiday Bazaar runs Dec. 12-24 and is open to the public from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The Tucson Boys Choir, the Arizona Jazz Academy, various local Salsa and Tejano bands will perform.

Friday 12/19 you can take a night walk at Saguaro-East. There are many interesting things to see at night. The moon will be in the waning Gibbous phase, so should provide some light. You must call to reserve a spot on the walk. 733-5153 for info.

Need something fun to do for a Girls Afternoon Out? How about Holiday Tea at Ventana Canyon? It's a fabulous resort and during the holidays it's beautifully decorated. So enjoy the decadence of a 4 course tea fit for a queen! Ventana not quite your cuppa? Try Chantilly Tea Room for your special afternoon or the Tea Room at Tohono Chul Park. As I've said before, Tohono Chul is one of my favorite places in Tucson and there are lots of activities going on all the time including a Hawk Happening Dec. 17. Check the calendar here.

Looking for an Italian Christmas meal like Mama used to make? Roma Imports is the place. My mouth is watering just reading the menu, pork loin, gnocci, fennel and brussel sprouts. Call early!

And don't forget, Solstice is December 21, the longest day of the year. The sun will be returning.
Here Comes the Sun
Little darling
It's been a long, cold, lonely winter
Little darling
It seems like years since it's been here

Here comes the sun
Here comes the sun,
and I say
It's alright

Where D'ya Wanna Eat?

2008-12-13T07:23:00.003-07:00

We don't eat out a lot. We're of the LBYM persuasion, so try to keep those kinds of expenditures to a minimum. For that reason, when I do eat out, I like to go where I can get something delicious that I wouldn't make at home. Feast fits that bill perfectly as quail, skate wing and confit of pork belly are on the menu this month. I don't know about you, but I haven't done a good confit of pork belly in a long time. There are also more common items but something will always be uncommonly good about them.

Feast is located mid-Tucson, Speedway just east of Alvernon in a nondescript building that looks to have been a retail location of the 50s. The building has been beautifully redone inside, my only complaint being that at dinner it can get noisy due to all the hard surfaces. It has that urban vibe but is not impersonal. The chef/owner is always there and usually will make it by your table just to make sure your satisfied.

The menu changes often (monthly?) so I won't go into specific dishes that I've tried, other than to say I've never had anything I didn't like. However, the Feast Grilled Cheese is always on the menu and if you like grilled cheese, try it. I know, I know, what can be so special about grilled cheese? I felt the same way before I tried it but just do it, you won't be disappointed.

The website says Feast take-out because you can. The place actually started with just a few tables and glass cases displaying prepared dishes so people could stop by after work, pick up something and go home to a great meal. It was so popular that it's expanded to several tables and a robust and enthusiastic foodie following.

Feast also has an extensive wine list.

Luminaria Anyone?

2008-12-11T07:42:00.004-07:00

How many luminaria lightings does it take to threaten Dark Skies? I have no answer, but think of the candlepower used during this season across the Southwest. The little lights are beautiful and tomorrow night Dec. 12 will be the annual luminaria lighting at Tombstone Courthouse. The Courthouse is one of my favorite places to visit in Tombstone as it's not been commercialized and has an interesting museum. Many people might miss it because it's off the main drag. This is a free event and there will be finger foods and beverages along with Victorian-era music. Sounds cozy.

This sounds like a really cool (dress warmly) event. A campfire talk at the Red Hills Visitor Center at Saguaro N.P.-West on 12/12. This is a beautiful setting, and how fun to watch the moon rise with a roaring fire. Check out the details here. Scroll down on that page for some other interesting walks and talks.

A few more hiking opportunities this week. I know that many people don't like hiking with a group but these listings give you ideas on available hikes to do on your own along with some information on degree of difficulty. Sabino Canyon-Hike to Seven Falls on 12/12. Sabino is a fee area. More information on this hike and upcoming events here.

Birds!! Another chance to check out some of our flying friends. I still have hummers daily on my big purple sage and yesterday goldfinches were having a hayday on the gone-to-seed basil plants. You may see others at this Desert Birds Hike at Saguaro N.P.-East on Friday. This link will give you lots of information about ongoing programs at the park.

OK, that should keep you busy through the weekend. The weather looks great through the weekend (pssst, it's snowing back east). According to the weather map-we're in the best place possible this weekend.

More Tucson Hiking

2008-12-10T07:37:00.002-07:00

Doug and JoAnn from Living Our Dream have been hiking a bit at Catalina State Park this week. JoAnn's photos testify to the beauty of the desert at this time of year. With beauty like this and the moderate temperatures, who can resist?
Take a hike (or a dodder)!

12/8-12/14 Winter Hiking and More

2008-12-07T17:24:00.004-07:00

If you like hiking, this is the best season for it southern Arizona. Summer is hot and snaky and there are those pesky flash floods to worry about. Fall and spring can also be a little on the warm side but, winter is just right. The Sunday edition of the Arizona Daily Star has a great article about hiking trails for all levels, but most are geared to the more casual hiker. If you don't own a Arizona trail guide, check the sidebar for suggestions but this article is a good start. Take a hike!

Pima County Parks and Rec also has hikes this week. There's a Tucson Mountain Park birding walk on the 13th. Agua Caliente Park Historical events hosts a talk about Pima Co Sheriffs. Information is here.

Do you break into "Don't Cry for Me, Argentina" at the mere mention of that country, or Evita, or Madonna or anything? Or you can't help but do your best Julie Andrews at the site of the Rocky Mountains "The hills are alive..."? This may be your event. Head to the Loft Cinema for the Massive Movie Musical Sing-a-Long on the 13th at 7pm. What fun! ....One, singular sensation, Every little step she takes. One, thrilling combination.... OK, I'll shut up but I'm keeping the gold lame top hat!

One of the reasons many people come to Tucson is to learn more about the culture of the Southwest and this time of year is full of opportunites. Like attending a Pastorela. If you've never heard of a Pastorela, it's the Mexican version of the medieval miracle play or the journey of the shepherd's to see the Christ child. This is the 13th annual presentation of A Tucson Pastorela with the opening night celebration on 12/12 at the Leo Rich Theatre downtown. Visit the Borderlands Theatre website for more dates and ticket information.

Another beautiful tradion is Las Posadas which reenacts Mary and Joseph's search for lodging in Bethlehem. Carrillo School has presented a posada since 1936. Schoolchildren walk through Barrio Historico neighborhood reenacting the Christmas story. Music and food sales benefit school programs. The procession is December 12th this year. Call 520-225-1200 for more information. If you haven't enjoyed luminaria yet, Tucson Botanical Gardens will host Luminaria Nights Dec 12-14. The Botanical Gardens are another treasure hidden away in mid-town. Butterfly Magic at the Gardens continues through March 31.

Still looking for just the right gift? Maybe you'll find it at the Mercado San Agustin located in a huge tent, for one-stop holiday shopping and entertainment featuring performers and merchants from all over Tucson.

And if you STILL haven't found that certain gift there's still the 4th Avenue Winter Street Fair, the mother of all street fairs (at least in Arizona). I would advise you go on Friday! I love 4th Ave but the crowds during this event are huge so either go Fri or get there early!

The Tucson Artist Colony is having their grand opening this weekend! Perhaps someone you know would love art lessons for Christmas.

Organic, slow food, 100 mile diet-any of those ring your chimes? If so, check out the Local Harvest Marketplace this weekend. The event will be December 14 10 AM - 5 PM on E. Speedway. More informations and directions here.

Tumacacori 12/6 & 12/7

2008-12-06T12:15:00.007-07:00

NPS Photo

I almost missed a great event at one of my favorite Arizona sites-Tumacacori! One of the early missions founded by Father Kino and now a National Historical Park, I can remember taking day trips there in the heat of the summer because it always seems cooler with the trees and fountain in the courtyard. The Anza Trail which was blazed to connect New Spain with California passes through the park on its way to San Francisco. You can follow the trail along the section of the San Pedro River near Tumacacori and Tubac. (there are Geocaches in the area) La Fiesta de Tumacacori celebrates the cultures which have lived in the Santa Cruz Valley through the centuries. There is always good music, dancing, great food and interesting things to learn and do. One year we made adobes, another we used yarn and sticks to create Ojo de Dios for our Christmas tree and yet another year I got a great recipe for pinto bean soup. Sunday there will be a traditional Mariachi Mass in front of the mission. This is a beautiful service no matter your religious affiliation.

La Fiesta is free.

While you're there you can stop by the Santa Cruz Chili Company-we never miss this place to stock up on herbs and spices. When my SIL comes from Ohio, this is always on her "must do" list.

So if you're looking for something to do on this glorious weekend, take a drive to Tumacacori.

If you don't want to drive south, you can visit the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun for La Fiesta de Guadalupe on Sunday, 12/7. This is a free family festival with mariachis, ballet folklorico, Yaqui deer dance ceremony, Las Posadas procession, regional food vendors and piñatas for the kids. They are requesting a Community Food Bank donation.

If you don't make it to the Gallery on Sunday, please take the opportunity to visit before you leave the Tucson area. It is a little gem tucked away in the Catalina foothills that used to be outside Tucson. The city has developed around it but the gallery remains an island of peace and beauty.

Engage with Grace

2008-12-05T07:49:00.003-07:00

I've debated whether to post this here but will, as I know the message is an important one.
I've worked in healthcare as an RN for 30 years (wow)-95% of that time at the bedside. As you move up the hierarchy in healthcare facilities there is generally little to be inspired to greatness by. However, I found a blog (Running a Hospital) by a guy a few years ago who I think really gets it. Paul Levy is the President and CEO of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston and has at his core a burning desire for what is best for the patient! I am continually inspired by his blog and know others are too.
Running a Hospital is where I found out about Engage With Grace. Click on the slide above for a more in-depth discussion of this simple, but oh so important, project.

12/5 and 12/6 Arizona Historical Society Museum

2008-12-03T06:55:00.005-07:00

Arizona Historical Society Logo
If you like books about the southwest or books are on your Christmas list this year, check out the Holiday Bookfair at the Arizona Historical Society Museum downtown. Dozens of local and regional authors highlighting recent publications by the Arizona Historical Society, the University of Arizona Press, and Rio Nuevo Press, as well as other publishers of Southwestern books. This event is part of the Southwest Literature Project and is co-sponsored by the Arizona Historical Society, the Pima Public Library, and the Friends of the Tucson-Pima Public Library. Featured books will be 20% off, there will an Author's Reception and items in the Mercantile will be 10% off. Looks like a fun event. A list of the books is here; there are great authors on this list. More information on the event can be found here.

12/01-12/07 2008

2008-11-30T19:17:00.006-07:00

There's holiday music coming up this week. Desert Harmony, the award-winning women's a cappella chorus performs Singin' and Swingin' the Holidays a program of holiday and show tunes Saturday 12/6 at Rincon High. There will also be songs by the mens' choral group Tucson Barbershop eXperience. Call 790-1813 for more information.

If you like music, Pima Community College will host different concerts all week. Tonight it's jazz at the Center for Fine Arts Proscenium theater. This is a great venue on the west side of Tucson.

Academy Village will be the site for the Musica Sonora presentation of Christmas in the Sun King's Court on Tuesday at 7:30.

Luminaria or farolitos are the traditional Christmas lights of the Southwest. Made by putting sand in a paperbag and adding a candle, the lights are placed in rows along walkways to guide the Christ child. Tohono Chul Park in NW Tucson will begin the Christmas season with a half-million lights and luminarias, cookies and hot cider, live music, and an ornament sale. This is a beautiful park.

Tubac is also having Luminaria Nights 12/5 & 12/6.

On Tuesday you can learn about early inhabitants of the Tucson basin at Saguaro National Park West Unit. Join a park ranger as she reads some of the oral history surrounding the Mexican-American homesteaders' adventures in and around Saguaro National Park. Please call to confirm date and time.

Wake Up With the Birds at Agua Caliente Park on Tucson's northeast. Desert meets water at this unique oasis park, providing a unique crossroads for migratory and resident birds, some of which are unique to southeastern Arizona. Spot cardinals, thrashers, hummingbirds, songbirds and raptors nestled among the mesquites and palms. Binoculars are available for use during the walk or bring your own.

Saguaro National Park east hosts a Star Party Wednesday starting at 7pm. Join park naturalists for an introduction to astronomy and a look at the desert night sky. Telescopes and binoculars will be available. Advance registration is required and can be made by calling the visitor center at 520-733-5153. Program is wheelchair accessible

Pottery Sale-Once a year the UMC Cancer Center puts on a sale of ceramics---largely functional pots---made by four local artists. This year's event will be at the UMC Cancer Center on December 5th between 9:00 and 6:00 p.m. The proceeds go the Patients Assistance Fund and are made available to Cancer Center nurses for the special needs of their oncology patients. Funds are applied to a wide array of small and large benefits for patients. Ceramics are VERY reasonably priced.

On Sunday visit Cat Mountain Station in the Tucson Mtns for a Gala Holiday Art and Craft Fair. Featuring the work of many local artists, the fair will offer a wide selection of reasonably priced fine art and hand-crafted items for those hard-to-find gifts for your own home décor. Enjoy live music and freestyle dog dancing while browsing original paintings, pottery, stained glass, jewelry, photographs and much more.

Want to honor your inner Norwegian? Have a hankerin' for some lutefisk? Check out the 27th annual Nordic Guild Fair which will feature Danish, Finnish, Norwegian and Swedish clubs and individual vendors selling ethnic foods, baked goods and crafts. Folk dancers and musicians will entertain throughout the day. Saturday at Streams in the Desert Lutheran Church 9a-3p. Uff-da!

Feel like a drive?

December 5 - 6, 2008: Christmas Apple Festival
A country crafts fair featuring handcrafted arts and crafts and quality reproductions. Baking with apples contest, entertainment, door prizes and lots of fun. Held at the Willcox Community Center, 312 W Stewart St. For more information contact Willcox Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture at willcoxchamber@vtc.net or 520-384-2272.

December 6, 2008 : Christmas Lighted Parade
Kick off the Christmas season with a lighted parade in downtown Willcox. Music, free hot dogs for the kids, free hot chocolate and coffee for all. To enter the parade or for more information contact Willcox Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture at willcoxchamber@vtc.net or 520-384-2272

The Seventh Annual Sonoita By Starlight Holiday Shopping Event
Friday December 5, Shops open until 9pm
Come join in the one night a year that Sonoita keeps the sidewalks
unrolled until 9pm. Holiday goodies, lights, music and unique gifts can be found at Buffalo Gals, Many Horses Trading Company, Nizhoni Ranch Gallery, Square Top Alpacas, & More You'll find local artisans and their crafts sharing the brick and mortar space with local merchants. Rain or shine, moon or stars, the sidewalks are firmly planted down for this one special night in Sonoita!
Questions, call Buffalo Gals at 520-455-5523 or Many Horses Trading Company at 520-455-5545.

Sierra Vista Sunday Dec 7: Brown Parade Field, Ft. Huachuca. A uniformed soldier will greet you at the door of each turn-of-the-century officer's home, all beautifully decorated for the holiday season. Hours 1-5 p.m. Tickets $10 in advance, $12 day of the tour. For more details call (520) 417-6960 Note: Fort Huachuca is an active military installation and specific entrance requirements are enforced. U.S. citizens may enter the post with a Visitor pass, received from the guardhouse at the Main Gate. Required documentation includes: vehicle registration and insurance, as well as current and valid photo identification for driver and all passengers over 13.

And now for a real adventure-drive to Cascabel (5 miles beyond the pavement) a great little community of artists north of Benson. It's their annual Christmas Fair and it's never disappointing. It's my choice for my birthday!

And Jupiter Aligns with.....Venus

2008-11-30T09:49:00.006-07:00

Look up, look up! Skies should be clear Sunday and Monday nights in southern Arizona and viewing will be great in Tucson. Those of you farther out and away from city lights should have an even better vantage. The crescent moon, Venus and Jupiter will be in close proximity and very visible in the night sky. More details here: Venus, Jupiter After Sunset

Also check out The University of Arizona's Flandrau Planetarium site for sky events throughout the year.

Tucson Winter Weather

2008-11-29T06:40:00.008-07:00

Saguaro National Park photo

When most people think of Arizona, the first thing that comes to mind is often heat. Yes, it does get hot here! Ice break on the Santa Cruz river usually happens the end of May. What's that you say? You didn't know we had ice on our rivers. You didn't even know we had water in our rivers. You're right, no ice, sometimes no water. Calling the first day to reach 100F the Ice Break is a Tucson tradition promoted by local media with contests for guessing the actual day each year. According to records, it has happened as early as April 19. Lordy, that's a long summer!

People often ask, "How can you stand the heat in summer?" My response: It's like winter in other places, you hunker down and stay warm and dry, we try to stay cool.

Those 100F temperatures can stay with us until September and we sometimes even get a few in October. The rainy season, or monsoon, is late July, August and September. Tucson gets 12 inches of rain per year on average and may get 6 of those inches during the monsoon. The storms are quite dramatic with amazing lightening shows and sometimes damaging winds and flash floods.

Tucson boasts 350 days of sunshine a year and low humidity (you know, it's a DRY HEAT). Our most pleasant days, I think, are October and November and late February and March, into early April. These are the Chamber of Commerce days, blue skies, low humidity, temps in the 70s and beautiful sunsets. Ahhhh, this is what we came to Arizona for. But (you knew it was coming) we can have a few cold days and nights that sneak in there and we can get below freezing temperatures. We can even get snow! And December and January are the winter rainy season which is not as wet or dramatic as the summer monsoon. We natives always hope for good winter rains as that helps make an eye-popping spring wildflower show.

However, (always good when there's a however after a but) the cool and/or rainy never lasts long. When it snows, it's gone before afternoon. And we may have a week of what we think of as bad weather but the snowbirds from Minnesota will still be wearing shorts.

It's helpful to keep the latitude of southern Arizona in mind. Look at the NOAA weather map. In grade school we all learned that closer you are to the equator, the hotter it is, right? There are several places in the US closer to the equator, and not surprisingly they are also Snowbird habitat. In Texas, the Rio Grande Valley and Gulf of Mexico coastline will have warmer average temps through the winter. And of course, Florida will maintain 80F degree daytime temps throughout the winter save some cold snaps here and there. Tucson has cooler temperatures but less bugs, almost no humidity and a more diverse landscape. You can drive for 60 minutes from the center of Tucson up the Catalina Highway to Mt Lemmon and and pass through several climate zones. Mt Lemmon is one of the Sky Islands and there are other Sky Islands in southern Arizona. Visits for hiking or birding make great sidetrips.

So why does Phoenix, which is north of Tucson, usually have higher temperatures? Good question! Tucson has more elevation at 2400ft compared to Phoenix at 1100ft.

OK, that's the weather lesson. Today's weather: as I look out my window I see blue skies and no clouds with an ever so slight breeze ruffling the trees. My thermometer reads 50F at 0730, which tells me it will most likely get into the mid-70s today. Beautiful! There's lots going on so get out and enjoy it. This is what you came to Arizona for.

This Week 11/24-12/1 2008

2008-11-24T08:59:00.006-07:00

As the Holiday Shopping season begins, lots of art and craft fairs are happening. In Tucson the annual Parks and Recreation Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair is this weekend featuring over 75 vendors. It's always a great event and gives you the opportunity to visit Reid Park which feature a small lake, 2 golf courses and the very cool Reid Park Zoo. The Zoo is not just for kids and makes a fun and interesting morning or afternoon. The Fair is presented by Tucson Parks and Recreation Department, Nov 29-30, 9:30 AM-4 PM, Reid Park, 22nd and Country Club.
If seeing a presentation of The Nutcracker is part of your holiday tradition, you might like to attend A Southwest Nutcracker, the ballet with a southwestern kick. Three performances this weekend at the Tucson Convention Center Music Hall.

If you'd like to venture south a bit through the beautiful rolling grasslands of southern Arizona (Yes, grasslands-parts of the Movie Oklahoma! were filmed in this area) the little town of Patagonia is having a Holiday Walking Tour. I would go to Patagonia anytime for anything, this just adds a little extra.

Bisbee is a two-fer this weekend. If you are like me and walk by old houses thinking "I would love to see inside that house!" this is the weekend for you, my friend. Bisbee is hosting the Historic Bisbee Holiday Market and Historic Home Tour. Bisbee is also a great place to visit anytime, these events just make it more fun.

If you're not into the whole shopping scene and you enjoy folklore, cowboy songs and history you might like the Arizona Folklore Preserve Thanksgiving Celebration Nov 29 & 30. The Preserve also has shows going on throughout the year.

Wow, lots going on so don't eat too much or if you do, get out and move around, it should be a great weekend!

Welcome

2008-11-24T08:48:00.005-07:00

It's almost Thanksgiving and snowbirds will be descending on Tucson. The week following Thanksgiving has long been dubbed the beginning of the "Snowbird Season" and while this year may be a bit different due to the economy, some snowbirds will still make Tucson and Southern Arizona their winter home.

This bog will endeavor to give a Tucsonan's perspective on what there is to do here in the Old Pueblo. This will not be a compilation of everything that's happening but a sort of "Best Of". I will also focus on those activities or places that are not as heavily marketed. Many activities will be free or low-cost.

We are RVers but with 2 sons in college our trips are limited to weekends and vacations but someday we hope to join the ranks of part-timers or maybe even fulltimers.