Random Thoughts About Tucson

I'm busy making lists of what we need to do to leave in just a couple of days. I also am making lists about Tucson.

What I'll Miss:
-the sunshine
-going for long walks around the neighborhood
-walking to the grocery store as well as other stores
-how easy it is to take out the garbage and recycling
-my neighbor friends
-the faster internet connection
-the quieter neighborhood
-picking oranges and lemons from our trees
-no stairs
-my digital harpsichord and organ
-reading a book outside in the sun
-dollar day at the movies
-seeing more of Larry
-did I say the sunshine?

Looking over my list, I see that (except for the sunshine and citrus fruit) most of the things I'll miss we could have in Bellevue once we sell our house and rent an apartment or condo.

Pleasant Little Surprises about Tucson:
-there is quite a cultural life here. In addition to opera, there are touring companies for chamber music, dance, and Broadway shows, just like in Seattle. Seattle has more going on and nicer venues, but Tucson is not a cultural wasteland.
-it is an island of blue in an otherwise red ocean politically unless the recession causes changes.
-lots of things cost less here. Gas prices are often the lowest in the country due to its proximity to a pipeline. It doesn't have to travel far from the source! Movies and food seem to cost a little
less also.
-except for some drivers, people don't seem to be in as much of a hurry. It has been easy to slow down and de-stress.
-Larry and I, for the most part, haven't gotten sick of each other while being under the same roof most of the time. That bodes well for his retirement.