Feeling at home in the desert
The last 10 days have flown by and I fall into bed each night exhausted and sore, but in a good way. I’ve been working hard to get my outside space set up and have been chipping away on a very long list which now only has one thing left (to wash the awnings) which should get done tomorrow. What started as a bare gravel spot is now my little oasis in the desert with pavers, potted local plants, a fountain, furniture and a storage shed. I need to get some better photos but here’s a quick view of the sitting area and my shed.
I especially love the rainbow lights on my palm tree
Kind of proud that I installed the solar lights (string and porch) all my myself
While the days have been filled with activity, there is also a restfulness in them. I am setting my own schedule and can do as much (or as little) as I’d like. I was able to get to the pool one afternoon and the days have settled into a consistent rhythm. It has been hot during the days (mid to high 80’s) so the mornings are for the outside projects, then I head out on errands or work on things inside. The evenings are spent with friends and neighbors, enjoying the weather on patios.
The best part of this resort is the people, I have met all of my immediate neighbors and they are so nice. It has been great to spent time with Tim’s sister Debbie and her husband, Dave. I’ve also gained new friends on our street. Melissa and her husband, Scott, are from Walla Walla and between those two couples, they have fed me more meals than I ever expected. I was able to reciprocate with a batch of pad thai, I could get used to this community dinner routine! I’m sure it will get even better once Tim arrives next week. Derek came out to have dinner and it was so great to hear about the exciting things he has going on in his life. Cindy’s spirit is strong in this valley that she loved.
Melissa and I walk our dogs every morning, Penny is in heaven with her new BFF Molly. To watch them play every morning makes me so happy, she is loving it here. Chewie is doing well, he’s just not as social with other dogs, so as long as he has my lap to seek refuge, he’s happy. I know that it has been good for all three of us to start the day with consistent exercise. They have gotten used to the jets, so that is a big relief. I have a different neighbor down the street who does triathlons and wants to connect to train. I’m sure that she will leave me in the dust, but it will be good to have someone to get me motived to train. I’m planning on my first bike ride this next week which will be a big milestone. I’m also going to get back into golf and start playing pickleball. So many fun things to do!
Chewie in the midst of a Molly-Penny sandwich
I really do love it here and I’m glad I made this leap of faith. With most of the physical work done, now I get to enjoy my space and the resort for the next month before I head back to Washington for the holidays. I’ve mapped out my route and will be taking the California route to avoid as much weather as possible. I've made my reservations for rental houses in Palm Springs, Fresno and Ashland, OR which I think will be better for the dogs. We’ve started a Facetime Friday tradition with the grandkids but it will be good to get home and see them all in person. In the meantime, you’ll find me soaking up the sun!