Desert Magic...

In just a few short hours, I'll be heading back home to Pennsylvania. I'll be leaving the desert behind, after having spent three months here. My time here has been magical. I do not know how else to describe it. I've grown to love it here and I know that part of me belongs in the land of blue skies and red earth. During my stay I have been really blessed. I have opened my heart to so many wonderful people, who I will cherish always. I made memories that I will never forget. I climbed mountains that part of me will forever stand atop. I walked paths that part of me will always linger. My time here hasn't been without challenges. Indeed there were times of frustration and soul-searching, but with a little bit of desert magic... no obstacle seemed too great. I leave here, with a renewed sense of purpose and a bit of that sunshine in my heart.

I must take a moment to thank my gracious hostess, Kate McKinnon, for affording me this amazing opportunity. Without her, this would not have come to be. I am grateful for her generosity and kindness and for being a true friend. She is truly an inspiration. Thank you for sharing your home, your work-bench, your cats, and your friendship.

I also must thank Dustin, Kate's new roommate, for putting up with me for the last leg of my adventure here. Although we did not see each other very much, as I was a creature of the night and slave to deadlines, I enjoyed our times together.

Although I am looking forward to going home (it has been a long time since I've been there), I do so with a heavy heart. Tucson is such a beautiful place, filled with so many wonderful and creative people. I will miss everyone who I have gotten to know over these past three months. I most certainly will miss the desert magic, the web of energy that connects all things here... from the Copper's Hawk soaring above to the dusty rabbit below, from the feathered clouds up high to the spiky cacti all around.... I will miss this place.