My husband retired this year and we moved from Minnesota to Arizona. The main reason for our move was family. I was born and raised in Phoenix, and Frank's family moved there when he was a teenager. All of my family still lives in the Phoenix area. At the time of our move, our son and his lady lived in Flagstaff. Frank and I don't like the heat/desert environment of Phoenix. We chose Paulden - two hour drive from my mom in Sun City.
 |
| The Orchard |
One of my favorite things to do in Minneapolis was garden. The spring/summer season in the cities was brief but glorious. After coming out of winter, the burst of sunshine and color renewed me. Frank on the other hand has a motto - "I don't play in the dirt." He headed off to the lake every chance he got. So we moved to Paulden, Arizona to farm. How I got him here is still a mystery. I think my son had a lot to do with it. We've bought a rambling house to share with him and his lady, each of us taking a wing. Our plan is to raise our own fruits and vegetables. The people who lived here before us did just that, or at least started it, but family matters took them to Washington. The place set empty for over a year.
 |
| The Garden |
We have a little work to do!
Luckily, my son has vision. I can tap into that vision - sort of. Frank is clueless and still not sure he'll "play in the dirt." Although I am encouraged. He bought a pair of knee high rubber boots for tromping in the orchard and garden.
 |
| The Blackberry Garden |
Clearing the land of tumbleweeds is the first order of business. A neighbor told me this has been an epic year for tumbleweeds. Oh goodie. Underneath those tumbleweeds are rows of dirt where the last tenants had veggies. And you can mostly see the rows of blackberries. We have twelve fruit trees, but they sure look sad. Am excited to see those first little nubs appear to indicate the neglect hasn't killed them.
 |
| Green is possible! |
Meanwhile, in front of the house some green has pushed up through the earth and started to flower. Spring could be around the corner! In spite of 28 degrees and a wailing wind today, I'm anxious to get my fingers in the mud. Once it warms up, we'll see if I can get Frank to come play in the dirt with me.
I had three releases in December from Melange Books. I hope you'll visit my web page to read excerpts and find the buy information.
www.brendawhiteside.com
