Coming out of the fog

Well that was interesting. I'm finally on the other side of one of the worst illnesses and pain I have ever experienced in my life (yes, worse than surgery). After two trips to the Parker Indian Hospital (thank god for my native card), one week and a lot of tears I am on the mend from a horrible bout of strep throat. It's amazing how being sick will make you appreciate your health and your body. I want to cherish my body and nourish it with only the best...we'll see how long that lasts ;)

Cabin fever kicked in yesterday and I was feeling up to a quick adventure so my boyfriend and I rode south along Lake Havasu to explore the Parker Dam. It was a rare overcast day which doesn't make for the best pictures but it felt great to be outside exploring the desert!

Solo

Y'all, I am sore. Earlier today, I ventured out on a 6 mile solo hike. It was quite an experience to tromp around the desert hills by myself hoping coyotes wouldn't jump out and that I wouldn't lose my way on the nearly unmarked trail. But I made it! And it was stunning!























I drove to the trail head at Sara Park south of Lake Havasu, read the warnings for rattlesnakes (fantastic) and headed on my way.

There were several different trails to choose from, I followed the "blue" path to the top of the hills while enjoying a spectacular view of the valley and the lake I was headed to.

Not only was this hike exactly what I needed to fill my day but I'm trying to get back in the habit of exercising everyday and this was so much more fun than going for a jog! I was so sedentary in Portland with my office job that I'm really trying to make a commitment to work out ever day. Bonus: my pants might actually fit again. Anyone have any exercise motivation?

The Cliffs

Last night, we hopped on the motorcycle and rode north of Lake Havasu to a place known only as, "the cliffs". We made it just in time for a sunset hike to the Colorado river. Sunset is a magical time in the desert, I say it every night.

 

The desert inspires me so much. At sunset, the sky explodes in reds, yellows and purples. I'm in awe of the beauty here, it makes me want to paint, bead and write all day just to express everything I'm feeling. 

AZ

Arizona, thus far, has been quite nice. My typical knot of anxiety is decreasing and the hot sun on my skin feels so good. I joke that i am in early retirement. The highlight of the day is sunset and missing it is to be avoided, my boyfriend and I call each other for sunset like we would dinner, "quick, come outside, it's sunset!" I realize how lucky I am to have this freedom and I am not taking it for granted. Lord knows I worked and saved like crazy to have this time off.

With free days, Wojc and I have begun some yard work for his parents (we're staying in their vacation home.) You know you're in the country when removing a stump is the excitement for the day. But damn, we worked for days on that stump. Success. Yes, I realize I'm thrilling you right now.

Flight

Time in my hometown quickly drew to a close. I spent my last days with my good friend Lena, mushroom picking and hiking and finalizing travel preparation. I was able to squeeze in a visit to the dentist and doctor for prescriptions and immunizations....totally free! Thank you, United Indian Health Services!

Gratuitous self-portrait

After packing (for the next several months!), my mom and I left bright and early for the airport. Flying in and out of Port Orford is quite a process. The airport's over an hour away and only allows the tiny turbo prop airplanes. The airport is right next to the ocean which makes for a scenic (and scary) flight. For reference, here is an old picture of me standing in front of Crescent City airport.

Glorified Greyhound Station 

Unfortunately, in the past few years I've developed a fear of flying. Considering my love of travel, this is unacceptable. Flying in a tiny plane doesn't really help matters, you really feel every bump and hear the roar of the engine. I have quite the complex method of making flying more tolerable that includes Xanax, downloaded shows and knitting. Yes, call me crazy.

Las Vegas airport

Finally, 14 hours later, a drive, two layovers and a four hour bus ride I finally made it to Arizona! It's hot and bright and beautiful. I love this place.

Mohave