Phoenix, A Photo Journal
I love a good city guide. Unfortunately, this isn’t a city guide. Think of this more as a photo journal, or maybe if you will, a few pages from a scrapbook. As I was putting together my thoughts from my time in Phoenix, I realized all that I learned and absorbed from this dry desert valley was more than I could put into words. From the otherworldly, foreign vegetation to the conversations with old and new friends, I felt like every day was full of muse, encouragement, and gentle challenges.
The retreat was held in this beautiful home designed by one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s students. The angles and light paired with the landscaping was truly a feast for the yes. Yet this was only, and I say that lightly, a backdrop for the real feast — the beautiful communion of nourishing conversations and delightful food.
On the left is Bryce Thompson Arboretum. I went there on two separate days and the experience was so different and incredible each time. Definitely worth visiting if you’re in Phoenix. On the right is me with giant saguaros at the Desert Botanical Garden. These cacti are HUGE! Who knew I could be that interested in researching about cacti!? But how wonderful are they? You see them thriving throughout the highways, seriously it’s just like oak trees in the East.
TEXTURES on TEXTURES on TEXTURES
I’ve seen Morgan Harper Nichols work from afar because who has not!? But to learn from her in person and listen to how she navigates creative sustainability was truly inspiring. She is so good at guarding her creative energy and refilling her tank with things that give her that energy. It shocked me and comforted me to hear her say that “it does not stop being scary when saying ‘no.’” But if you are always drained, then what do we have to share? Share from the overflow, friends. Nourish yourself with things that fill you up.
You’d feel like a millionaire being one of Carlisle and Zach’s guest. Their home is an oasis, a comfort, a luxury. And I still can’t stop thinking about that that scrumptious celery salad.
On the last day in Phoenix, as we were driving out to the Arboretum, we saw a rainbow and it was exquisite. On our way back, I was sitting in the back seat taking in all the scenery one last time, a double rainbow grew into existence before my eyes. It didn’t ask for permission. It radiated. It was sublime. Seeing that double rainbow, fade in and out, grow dim and vibrant, is a memory I will keep for a long time. If I could bottle it up and send it to you, I would. The desert wasn’t a place I ever thought was vibrant, but it sure was in January 2022.
I cannot wait to visit again.
If you want actual recommendations from my Phoenix trip, sign up for my newsletter! I’ll be sharing my favorite coffee shops, restaurants, hikes I visited.