We are moving to Phoenix.
We are not retiring, we are not snowbirds. So why do I want to live in Phoenix? I always gave Santa Fe, Albuquerque, and Taos more value. 
Until I visited in Phoenix. Yep, it’s big and sprawly. Hot and dry. But it has a huge art and writing community that is open and welcoming. I taught one of my journal writing courses and people showed up and loved it. I like the people. I like that Arizona has mountains and desert and is a great place for motorcycle riding.
In short, I’m a city person. I thought I was a country person and lived in the country for years. But it turns out I like writing in cafes, eating different kinds of food in a small radius, not spending 45 minutes driving if I forgot the milk.
I tried Albuquerque, and I couldn’t take the wind. The wind blows non-stop there. I’ve heard of settler women who were driven crazy by the wind on the Great Plains, and I understand why. Taos and Santa Fe were too high up for me. Price-wise and topographically. I was exhausted by 10 a.m. People told me I’d get over it in 24 hours, but a week later I needed a nap at lunch.
My husband and I both own our own businesses, so we will have to start over with Phoenix clients. It will be hard work and no doubt scary.
But I’m a writer and a coach, so I thought it might be interesting to keep track of what this is like. If you’ve ever done anything challenging, new, exciting, or scary, come along. See what happens. Tell me your point of view.
–Quinn McDonald is a writer and certified creativity coach. She is looking forward to the adventure and will take notes. (c) 2007 All rights reserved.
