Top Reasons Why I Live in Arizona

Location, location, location. It's a relatively short drive to the attractions of neighboring states - the Pacific Ocean, Disneyland, Las Vegas, etc. as well as Mexico. Within the state we have our own natural wonder in the Grand Canyon. Mountains and desert are bosom buddies here. We can always go where it's cooler or warmer.

Mother Nature. There are no earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes, tsunamis or other freaks of nature here. We do have (sometimes deadly) dust storms, however, but I've only been in one once.

Temperatures. Aside from the oven-on-clean-mode summer heat, our temperatures are quite moderate. I've had my patio door open all day every day for a month and haven't turned on heat or AC. Can't wait to see my bill!

Rainfall. No one is in danger of getting webbed feet due to excessive rain. We don't get drizzly day after drizzly day, but we do get some awesome thunderstorms.

Plenty to do. There's always a festival or a rodeo or a concert or a play or opera or ballet, as well as nearly every outdoor activity you can think of, including snow- and waterskiing.

Places to go. There are so many things to see here, whether its the Challenger Space Museum or the dusty streets of Tombstone. The red rock country of Sedona, the smooth blue expanse of the Colorado River, the quaint hillside town of Jerome, the depths of the Copper Queen mine in Bisbee. You'll never run out of day trips here. If you're a fan of the Old West, Arizona is paradise.

Plant life. Arizona boast two gardening seasons, and roses bloom nearly all year long. We are one of the few places where you'll find the mighty saguaro (suh war oh) cactus and few jillion other cacti as well. Bougainvillea, Mexican bird of paradise, and lantana thrive in the Valley of the Sun. Tall pines, junipers and cedars grace the higher elevations.

Family. I have a special perk for living in Arizona. My sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren are here. Not just here, mind you, but within easy walking distance (youngest son and three youngest grandchildren) or a short drive (east for oldest grandchildren and widowed daughter-in-law, and south for oldest son, daughter-in-law and grandpuppies.)

If you've never visited Arizona, you should try it some time. There's a lot to like here. (Might not want to come in July, though).

Till next time,