advertisement
23 September 2024
Back in 2015, I took the leap from my home state of Colorado to move to Arizona. Why, you ask? The long and short answer is I hate snow. Hate it. I hate driving in it, hate dealing with it, and I didn’t find the appeal in playing in it. All I wanted to do was escape the snow, and I happened to have family in Arizona, so it was a soft landing. Was Arizona my first choice? Honestly, no. But I was sold once I saw palm trees fluttering in the breeze.
I’ll be blunt: my opinion of Arizona was not favorable. Like so many folks living in the US, I thought it was just a desert full of snakes and scorpions. As I drove from Colorado down to Arizona through New Mexico, I was not expecting cities like Flagstaff, a town that reminded me of Boulder, Colorado. I had no idea Arizona contained multitudes.
One of the most surprising things I discovered about Arizona is the fantastic food here! I’m not just talking about Mexican food; I’m talking about almost every cuisine I’ve found. Now that I’ve lived here for nearly ten years, it’s no surprise considering Tucson is one of only two certified cities Of gastronomy in the US, and Sam Fox, the founder of Fox Restaurant Concepts, started growing his business in Phoenix. If you’re unfamiliar with Fox Restaurants, the short answer is that these people are the restaurant whisperers. From great food to a beautiful and cool restaurant atmosphere, these folks know what they’re doing.
Currently, I work in marketing as a Creative Director, but at the time, I was moving from a small ad agency as a graphic designer in Colorado, hunting for jobs in the Phoenix area. What I found in terms of the caliber of ad agencies here blew me away. I was hired as an Art Director at a local agency, and my first attendance at the American Advertising Awards was incredible. I was shocked by the amount of creativity I witnessed was akin to what you’d find in Hollywood. Nonetheless, I realize this story is very specific, but it gives you an idea of how wrong I was about my preconceived notions of Arizona.
I know I touched on this earlier, but my understanding of Arizona was laughably narrow for reasons I’ll never know. Since I moved here, I’ve mountain biked in Flagstaff and Sedona, some of the most breathtaking places I have ever seen. I have backpacked into the Havasupai Waterfalls — again, the most unreal experience you’ve ever thought possible. I’ve camped in the Lost Dutchman State Park in the Superstition Mountains, which has some of the most beautiful views a person can take in. Honestly, I could go on and on. This is such a fun state to explore, and that’s coming from someone from Colorado! Arguably one of the best states to be an outdoors person.
I admit, anecdotally, this is the state with the worst drivers outside of California (in my opinion, the worst). I was shocked the first time I was on the highway. Consequently, I turned on my turn signal, and the car wholly ignored it. Colorado isn’t perfect, but there was always an understanding that when you saw someone turn on their blinker, you gave them some space to merge. That being said, I was very surprised by how well-organized Arizona is. The streets have a precise grid pattern, and the roads and highways have a surprisingly thoughtful design.
I was fortunate enough to meet my husband and start a family with him in Gilbert, Arizona. I was nervous about starting this adventure in Arizona, where it so infamously has a bad reputation for schooling; however, my personal experience so far is the schools in Gilbert are pretty darn good! This is to say, as of this article, my oldest is 4 and in pre-school, but according to GreatSchools.org, our local elementary school is 9/10, so we’re optimistic!
If I were to summarize, moving away from Colorado was a heavy lift. I still love Colorado, and it will forever have my heart. If it wasn’t for the snow, I would still be there. That being said, I have no regrets about moving to Arizona after living in Colorado. Yes, it gets hot, and yes, that can be annoying, but like many burdens, you just get used to it.
advertisement
Research indicates that the likelihood of being diagnosed with dementia can be influenced by where individuals live. Insights from Researchers Dr. Julie Bynum, the lead researcher from the University of Michigan, stated that “the percentage of individuals over 65 diagnosed in Arizona is low compared to the national average.” She has dedicated years to examining the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia across the United States. Bynum further noted that “regardless of demographic factors such as race or age, where one lives plays a crucial role in their likelihood of receiving a diagnosis.” advertisement Contrasts in Diagnosis
The historic Highline Trail in the picturesque White Mountains of Arizona is undergoing colossal rehabilitation, potentially transforming Payson into a prominent bikepacking destination. This revitalization project aims to enhance accessibility and promote outdoor recreation while preserving the area’s natural beauty. The Trail’s History The Highline Trail has a rich history dating to its establishment in 1870. Initially utilized for travel between homesteads and livestock movement, it has witnessed significant changes. Today, it spans approximately 55 miles of non-motorized singletrack. However, many sections have fallen into disrepair due to erosion and neglect. In 2021, plans to rehabilitate and reroute parts of
Pacheta Falls, hidden in the beautiful White Mountains of Northeastern Arizona, is a hidden gem for adventurous souls seeking the beauty of nature away from the usual tourist crowds. Unlike the more popular waterfalls in the region, such as Havasu Falls or Cibecue Falls, Pacheta Falls is much harder to get to and thus has a more untouched beauty. advertisement Location and Access Pacheta Falls is located on the White Mountain Apache Tribal land and is known for its stunning landscape and serene environment. However, accessing this remote waterfall is no simple task. The journey begins with a drive that
Arizona Wildlife Experts Advise Against Using Real Pumpkins as Decor As Halloween approaches, Arizona wildlife officials urge residents to reconsider their outdoor decorations. They warn that festive pumpkins and gourds could attract more than just admiring neighbors. The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) reminds the public that Halloween pumpkins and fall decorations can lure wildlife into residential areas. This can potentially create dangerous situations for humans and animals. AZGFD Public Information Officer stated, “They don’t want to be the Grinch that stole Halloween, but they want to avoid nightmare scenarios.” Recent wildlife sightings, including a bear spotted in the
