A Splendid Lazy Monday

I indulged in exactly the kind of day I needed. For the first time in weeks and weeks I wasn’t on the go the entire day. After taking Bob to Pilar for his workshop I returned to the casita and didn’t leave until it was time for the critique session and picking him up. A leisurely late breakfast was followed by a bit of computer work, snapping photos inside and out, reading and even a midday nap. How marvelous it is to feel rested!

We had a short drink on the patio before meeting friends for dinner and capped the evening by chasing the sunset. Trying to find an open westward view we covered territory we’ve never seen before. We missed the peak color but enjoyed the adventure.

Historic Perspective

Sometimes age jumps up and smacks me in the face.

Heading south towards Colorado Springs as we neared the exit for the Air Force Academy I spotted a sign I’d never noticed before, “National Historic District.”

How could that be? I can remember a time before there was an Air Force Academy, now it’s historic. What does that make me?

Optimism

Grandma has her 100th birthday in April, the family party is planned for late July.  How’s that for optimism?

I had a wonderful lunch with my niece Janis today; a much needed respite from what I’ve been coping with concerning my 97-year-old mother. Janis’ husband’s grandmother celebrated her 100th birthday on April 6. There was a party but the big family gathering won’t be until the end of July. How many families dare wait that long to honor a centurian birthday?

The gift for the birthday girl was a day at a spa with four of her best friends, complete with limo transportation and champagne. I would love to see the pictures. This family obviously has a hearty dose of pizazz.

Family

My life would have been much simpler today if I were an only child orphan. But, I’m not, so tomorrow we’ll start all over and I’ll gladly be a daughter and sister again. Maybe!

Springtime in Rockies

We’re a week into spring and had the biggest snow storm of the season yesterday. Yes, we needed the moisture. Springtime in the Rockies always keeps us on our toes. Last weekend we were in the high 70s with lots of outdoor recreation. Tonight the forecast is 12°, I’m curling up under the blankets for hibernation.

My heart breaks to see the blooming tulips and daffodils covered with a mound of snow. Our plum tree has been in bloom for over a week. In the process of testing his camera, Bob snapped some beautiful close-ups. Temporarily frozen in place you know the blossoms will drop as soon as we warm up.

This certainly wasn’t a record setter but it wrecked havoc for several hours yesterday. Multi-, multi-car pileups, airport cancellations, road closings – even the malls closed at noon. You know it’s bad when the malls close. Today the sun began the meltdown, at least until the next front moves into the region. Bob’s favorite weatherman, Dave Fraser, projects Sunday.

Yes, it’s springtime in the Rockies and we need the moisture.

Local Incentives

The last couple of days we’ve seen a definite attitude in locally owned restaurants. At Judi’s Restaurant in Sedona – a place we had recommended as the place the locals go - the first page of the menu included a letter from the owner about the current economic situation. He notes, “It you watch too much CNN  you’ll begin to believe we’re in economic collapse…” He describes the cycle of being scared into not spending, not spending creating hardships on businesses – fear causing an acceleration of the crisis.

Judi’s has added a few new entrees with a lower price point to their menu. I had the bbq chicken half last night and absolutely got fair value for a delicious dinner.

Today in St. Johns, Arizona – population under 4,000 – I saw a sign on the door of Speedy – B’s. “Local Incentive Program” – the restaurant offers 10% off to city employees on Monday, county employees on Tuesday and school employees on Wednesday.

At El Pinto Restaurant in Albuquerque the nightly special reflected a $2 savings on the same regular menu entree.

Many hard working business people recognize the times and are doing their part to stay in business. Now, if we could only get the government and press to do theirs. What’s the chance?

Why Sedona?

Speaking with the Southwest Inn’s concierge I ask her opinion of what brings people to Sedona. Her answer surprises me.”I think they come to get away from the fast pace of their lives, to break their busy routine,” she says. “And, they find the people so nice.” Not a word about the scenery or outdoor recreation possibilities.

Perhaps taking time for a hike or bike ride among the red rocks or sitting on a bench viewing a Sedona sunset is the break we all need. Nice people is the bonus.

Never Ever

 If I ever decide Bob and I should have matching travel outfits it will be time to take away my passport. They were a cute, friendly couple from Alaska, visiting Casa Grande National Monument and on their way to the casino. Doesn’t it look like they should have swapped shirts for size?

Eavesdropping – Part II

A table of women were having breakfast in Stables Restaurant before their tee time at Tubac Golf Resort. They were of the age that their conversation was easily heard by everyone else breakfasting. The conversation centered on traffic in and around Tucson. “I took me 45 minutes to go from…, I never drive south of…, When we first moved here we could get to…, I never leave Oro Valley.” 

One of them pipes up, “I put more miles on my golf cart than my car.”

Eavesdropping

While relaxing with an ice tea in Tubac today I eavesdrop on a gentleman on the other side of the pillar. He and his wife are discussing the purchase of a $10,000 piece of  art from a local gallery. Sounds like it’s a done deal.

Soon he’s on his cell phone talking with someone about a small purchase at Home Depot, “I’ve got a coupon for 10% off.” Maybe that’s why he can buy the artwork.